In this episode of Independent Minds, we speak with David Meylan, founder of Olivier Meylan, a watch brand blending Swiss heritage with British design and craftsmanship.

David shares how he launched the brand during the pandemic, why British watchmaking is seeing renewed momentum, and what it takes to build an independent watch business in a category shaped by heritage, scarcity, and storytelling.

We explore what makes a watch feel luxurious, how Swiss movements and UK-based design shape Olivier Meylan’s positioning, and why limited editions, artist collaborations, and local identity matter in a competitive market.

David also reflects on pricing, brand-building, influence, and legacy, and explains why his long-term ambition is not just to sell watches, but to build something lasting for the next generation.

This episode is for founders, brand builders, watch enthusiasts, and anyone interested in craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and the future of British watchmaking.

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introducing David Meylan and Olivier Meylan
00:10 - Launching a watch brand during the pandemic
01:04 - Swiss watches made in the UK
01:46 - What “Swiss made” really means
02:22 - Why British watchmaking is booming
04:41 - Storytelling, hype, and scarcity in watch marketing
06:39 - Customisation, artist collaborations, and limited editions
07:30 - Is Olivier Meylan luxury or entry-level luxury?
08:24 - What makes a watch truly high-end?
10:24 - Price positioning and building an accessible luxury brand
12:11 - Brand values, celebrity access, and marketing strategy
15:24 - Organic endorsements and watch enthusiasts
17:07 - What has changed in the watch industry
19:07 - Scaling Olivier Meylan as an independent brand
20:04 - Building with a small team
20:38 - Creative inspiration and the Titan Moon collection
21:09 - Legacy, family, and passing something on
22:33 - Closing thoughts

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FOLLOW OLIVIER MEYLAN
Website
https://oliviermeylan.com/?srsltid=AfmBOor6JPG-Y0giI4uNC4bsWXbwE-tdCQV9FWv-psWK1mPOaTAjqvit

Instagram
Olivier Meylan Official

LinkedIn
David Meylan