Words cannot begin to express our sorrow and our sense of loss. The death of an exceptional person leaves an incredible void. It is with great sadness that we announce that last week, Marianne Hayek, wife of Swatch Group's founder Nicolas G. Hayek, passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her family. The funeral ceremony was private, including only members of the family.

All of us at Swatch Group carry the flame that she lit in our hearts. Marianne Hayek brightened the day with her radiant smile, her warm and discreet presence, her beautiful soul, her generosity, her gentleness, her lively and benevolent spirit, and her fine sense of humor. 

Some grief is very difficult to overcome but when the pain of our loss subsides, her memory will remain alive in us, and that will be a great source of comfort to all of us. The best way to pay tribute to her is to continue to live happily, if possible, with a smile on our lips and joy in our hearts. The employees of Swatch Group extend their deepest condolences to the family, to Nayla Hayek, President of the Group, Nick Hayek, CEO of Swatch Group, and Marc Hayek, CEO and President of Blancpain. Our most sincere thoughts are with the family at this time of sorrow and reflection. In our hearts, the memories are forever cherished.