It is with consternation and great sadness that we have learned of the death of Mr Nicolas Hayek. On behalf of the staff of the FH, we offer our deepest sympathy to his family and loved ones.

The Swiss watch industry has lost one of its most ardent supporters, who showed unrelenting commitment to promoting the excellence of Swiss watchmaking. His death marks the loss not just of a key actor in the world of watchmaking but in a very real sense a leading Swiss personality, since his commitment and his aura were felt well beyond the confines of the watch industry.

We would also like to pay tribute to Mr Hayek for the interest he showed in our federation. He was attentive to our decisions and always ready to offer us advice. We were greatly struck by his quickness of mind and visionary outlook.

We would also like to mention his human qualities. Mr Hayek liked people and felt at ease in their company, hence also his extraordinary popularity. He could impart precise information with an admirable sense of humour.

Jean-Daniel Pasche
President of the FH