RIP Rolf Schynder, CEO and Owner of Ulysse Nardin

It is with great sadness for us to reveal that Rolf Schnyder, owner and CEO of Swiss watch brand, Ulysse Nardin, has unexpectedly passed away.

Since 1983, Mr. Schynder had been an active and prominent fixture for the Ulysse Nardin brand. He was a truly a visionary, and over the years contributing to numerous milestones not only for Ulysse Nardin, but also for the entire watch industry.

It’s hard to believe that when he purchased UN, the almost 100-year-old company had been having major financial struggles. However with Schnyder’s help, the brand was able to make a complete comeback thanks to the invention an (and now legendary) astronomical wristwatch, which was followed by the several other industry-changing timepieces.

In a 2005 article in WatchTime about Mr. Schnyder they described, “The joy that [he] derives from Ulysse Nardin is truly contagious.” And it was; he remained actively involved and passionate about Ulysse Nardin throughout the rest of his life. He was even present at the grand opening event for the brand’s first U.S. store in Boca Raton in February.

Haute Living has his family, friends, and the team at Ulysse Nardin in our thoughts. He may be gone, but Rolf Schnyder’s legacy will certainly live on.

RIP Mr. Schnyder , you will truly be missed.