Kate Spade New York watches will soon have a new global partner. Movado Group has signed a long-term licensing agreement to design, manufacture and distribute the fashion brand’s watches worldwide, with the first collections expected to launch in Spring 2027.
Founded in 1983, Movado Group is a US-based watch company that owns and manages several watch brands while also producing licensed timepieces for global fashion labels. Its portfolio includes Movado, Concord, Ebel and Olivia Burton, alongside licensed brands such as Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein and Lacoste.
The agreement makes Movado the exclusive global partner for Kate Spade’s watch category. The company will oversee product development, design, manufacturing, marketing and distribution following the end of Kate Spade’s previous watch licensing arrangement.
The Impression highlighted that the deal expands Movado’s fashion watch portfolio while giving Kate Spade a new partner for its timepiece business.
For Movado, the partnership adds another recognised fashion name to its licensing portfolio, which already includes brands such as Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein and Lacoste. The company also owns watch brands including Movado, Concord, Ebel and Olivia Burton.
Kate Spade’s watch business is part of its wider accessories category, which includes handbags, jewellery, footwear and ready-to-wear. Since its founding in 1993, the New York label has built its identity around colourful designs and a playful approach to fashion.
The deal comes as fashion watches continue to compete in a changing market shaped by the rise of smartwatches and shifting consumer habits. While traditional watchmaking remains focused on craftsmanship and heritage, fashion watches continue to appeal to consumers seeking design-focused accessories.
Licensing remains a common approach for fashion brands expanding into specialised categories. By working with experienced partners, brands can enter new product areas while relying on established manufacturing and distribution networks.
