Several employees at some of today’s top Swiss watchmakers are or have at one point been courted by some of technology’s biggest players. Apple, Samsung, and Google have all shown interest in poaching folks from companies such as Swatch and LVHM, but the tech giants have thus far been unsuccessful in their pursuits. Apple has reportedly been particularly active in attempting to lure employees toward Silicon Valley, though the Cupertino company’s advances have so far been rebuffed.
Apple allegedly is trying to tap Swiss watchmakers for their technical and metallurgy expertise as the company works to brings its rumored iWatch to the market, reports the Financial Times. Though Apple is reaching out to several companies, most are not willing to work with the Cupertino company. Swatch chief executive officer Nick Hayek confirmed the watchmaker has talked to several companies about their wearable products, but he is not interested in forging a partnership with any group. “We have been in discussions – not ever initiated by us – with practically all players in smart wearables up until today,” Swatch chief executive Nick Hayek told the Financial Times. “However, we see no reason why we should enter into any partnership agreement.”
