Leonardo DiCaprio isn’t afraid of spending his $350 million net worth on causes he’s passionate about. Like his recent investment in Telmont, for example, which aims to improve the century-old Champagne house’s sustainability initiatives. Now, Leonardo DiCaprio has furthered these efforts by contributing to a CHF 2 million (AU$3.5 million) funding round for the environmentally-focused watch brand ID Genève.
For those unfamiliar with ID Genève, this Swiss-made luxury watchmaker is currently one of the market leaders in sustainable production methods. Perhaps the most unique difference between ID Genève and many other watchmakers is it uses a solar furnace in France’s Mont Louis to forge 100% recycled steel components.
“I am thrilled to be an investor in ID Genève, a brand that’s driving change in the luxury industry and beyond by consistently innovating and focusing on circular economy principles,” Leonardo DiCaprio expressed via statement.
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DiCaprio was spotted wearing the Circular S Sun Dial watch — which features a 41mm steel case that’s 9.65mm in thickness — as well as an eye-catching yellow dial guilloched with a 3D sunray finish. Powered by a workhorse ETA 2824 movement delivering 38 hours of power reserve, it’s available in one of two different recycled straps (CHF 4,380 / AU$7,650 RRP)).
While there are other Swiss watchmakers pushing toward being more environmentally friendly — namely Oris and Chopard among several others — ID Genève is one of the youngest brands forging such a path. Having secured backing from high-profile defacto ambassadors such as Leonardo DiCaprio, they’re well-placed to continue to innovate and experiment with different sustainable manufacturing techniques, hopefully making it easier for other watchmakers to follow suit in the years to come.
