Year-end often comes with exhaustion and a pressing need to recharge and reset. Debbie Hathway spoke to some high-profile businesspeople on why time is their luxury and how manage it to enjoy meaningful experiences and relationships.
Laurent Dordet, CEO of Hermès Horloger: “The most valuable aspect of time is carving out moments for oneself.”
Dordet says, “At Hermès, we believe that time is a precious commodity best spent on what genuinely matters. The most valuable aspect of time is carving out moments for oneself, free from the pressures of societal expectations or digital distractions. It’s about finding quiet moments to read, reflect, and connect with loved ones. In our philosophy, true luxury lies in time that feels suspended – a gift to savour without constraints. This approach aligns with our vision of time at Hermès, where each moment is an opportunity to enrich our lives and foster meaningful connections. As a CEO, switching off can be a challenge, but I find my peace by putting my phone in airplane mode, allowing myself to unwind and dedicate my time to family and friends.”
Edouard Meylan, CEO of H. Moser & Cie: “I’ve made a conscious effort to set boundaries”
He believes the luxury of time is rooted in the quality of the moments he shares with his family. “In the past, especially during the stressful early years at Moser, I found it challenging to disconnect from work. I’d return home, my mind still consumed by thoughts of the day, and my phone would often be my constant companion. As my children have grown, I’ve come to realise that this isn’t healthy. I’ve made a conscious effort to set boundaries between work and home life. It’s not just about how much time I spend with my family; it’s about being truly present when I’m with them.”
Carole Kasapi, Movements Director at TAG Heuer: “We all experience the same passing moments”
She says “unlike other measures we quantify, such as distance or weight, time is universal; everyone speaks the same language of seconds, minutes, and hours. It levels the playing field – rich or poor, we all experience the same passing moments. In my life, I find joy in the simple pleasures, particularly in my garden with my feline companion, Tourbillon. Even a mere 15 minutes tending to my plants allows me to unwind and reconnect with the world around me. Of course, living in La Chaux-de-Fonds presents its challenges with months of snow, but the joy my cat brings, with her playful spirit – she’s quite the little whirlwind – adds to my daily happiness.”
Niels Eggerding, CEO of Frederique Constant: “That’s luxury for me – safety”
Eggerding translates the luxury of time to enjoying what he does at work and relishing time with his family. “I enjoy spending time with family. We live in the mountains with a lake view, where I’m happy to see my kids playing and being safe. That’s a luxury for me – safety.”
Elie Bernheim, CEO of Raymond Weil: “I’ve come to appreciate the importance of simply enjoying life”
“I’m learning that taking the time to do nothing is just as valuable as being busy. I’m very intense and very passionate. I have a passion for many things, playing the piano, cooking, and enjoying fine wine and gastronomy. I realise now that I need to learn to stop and enjoy my life with my wife and three kids. These moments are precious, and I’ve come to appreciate the importance of simply enjoying life and creating memories together.”
William Trubridge, Montblanc ambassador and world champion freediver: “It’s about the ability to be present”
For Trubridge time is highly valued in preparation and recovery, ensuring his survival during his freediving exploits. “In today’s fast-paced world, having downtime to spend with my family and savour special moments has become my definition of luxury. It’s less about specific places or material possessions; it’s about the ability to be present and truly enjoy these moments without distractions or external pressures.”
It’s a constant quest for many of us; balancing the complexities of time and the beauty of life’s simple moments, learning to cherish each second and enjoy the little things that make life rich.
