Mondaine has reacted to the news that Apple copied its railway clock design by stating that it hopes to settle the licensing issues to work with Apple in the future.
The issue of copyright of the clock design came about when Apple launched its IOS6 system on September 19. Federal Swiss Railways operator SBB approached Apple regarding its use, as SBB holds the copyright for the design created by Hans Hilfiker in 1944 on behalf of railway operator.
Mondaine has, since 1986, held the long-term exclusive worldwide license from SBB to produce, distribute and market watches and clocks based on the iconic design.
Andre Bernheim, co-owner of the family owned Mondaine manufactory, said: “The app is pretty much identical to the Mondaine watches and clocks, a design for which we hold the worldwide and exclusive license from the Federal Swiss Railway authorities, SBB.
“On the one hand we are incredibly proud that Apple, a brand with global recognition has selected this very specific design and hope on the other hand, that the copyright and our license issue will be settled soon so that Apple, SBB and Mondaine can work together in the future.”
Bernheim added that Mondaine has made the Swiss railway clock design “internationally accessible and desirable” to consumers at an affordable price, raising awareness through its global marketing campaigns and championing its heritage with clock installations around the world.
“The brand’s association with Apple is certainly a great opportunity for us to communicate with global consumers who would want to purchase the physical watch and clock as featured on their iPad,” he added.
At present it is believed the brand and SBB’s lawyers are in talks with Apple about the issue.
