Recently, IWC appointed a new president for its North American subsidiary, Darin Rabb, who has come to the watch industry after a long stint at Nike. Revolution.Watch caught up with him in his office in New York for an exclusive interview.
What strengths do you bring to your role at IWC?
During my 21 years at Nike, I led marketing and the retail experience in 106 Nike doors, 7,500 partner doors, and key physical and digital wholesale locations in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, China, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. I’m excited to bring my experience and expertise to IWC Schaffhausen and connect with watch lovers across North America.
Are you a watch lover?
Absolutely. Working with timepieces, especially for a celebrated brand like IWC is a dream for me. I’m also a classic car lover, so I have a true passion for mechanical devices. I have a deep appreciation for Swiss design and manufacturing, and for the high-quality and intricate pieces we create. I love that our founder’s origins are in North America, making my role even more personal and meaningful.
What do you love about IWC?
I was drawn to the brand by not only the unmatched quality of the product, and the deep and authentic storytelling, but by our unique history. IWC is enriched with an entrepreneurial spirit that has led us to success not only in North America, but across the world. It is this same entrepreneurial spirit that will enable us to connect deeply with our current customers, but also allow us to develop relationships with those new to the brand and to watches.
There have been a number of changes at IWC, including the new manufacturing facility. Are you excited about the future with IWC?
Since its inception, IWC has always been a pioneer in the watch industry. The new Manufacturing Center combines IWC’s traditional craftsmanship with modern production methods and technology and showcases how the brand is poised to continue to influence the industry for decades to come.
How does the future look for IWC in the USA?
I am excited to take on this new position at IWC Schaffhausen and I have great confidence in the opportunity we have to grow the brand in North America. We have a strong product assortment, and beginning with our founder F.A. Jones, the American who founded the International Watch Company, we have a deep and rich story to tell.
