Corum Chairman Severin Wunderman Dies At 70

Severin Wunderman, Chairman of Montres Corum SA, passed away in his home in Nice, France on Wednesday.  He was 69.

Wunderman, a legendary figure in the watchmaking industry, purchased the Corum brand from Jean-Rene Banwart in 1999.  Prior to the acquisition of Corum, Wunderman was known as the man who had singlehandedly transformed Gucci watches into a global success story.  Among the highly successful concepts inaugurated by Wunderman during his Gucci years was the setting of diamonds into stainless steel, a combination which had previously been unheard of.  

Severin Wunderman's famously daring sense of creativity and a perception for emerging trends carried over in his stewardship of Corum, which saw the introduction of such notable creations as the fashionable Bubble watch, which could be immediately recognized by its unmistakable domed sapphire crystal and colorful dial designs, many of which were notable for their provocative or slightly morbid content.  Key lines which had established Corum's reputation over the years, including the Admiral's Cup Collection, the Golden Bridge, and Romulus were also effectively invigorated with new variations and watchmaking complications.  

Severin Wunderman is survived by his four children, and grandchildren.  His son Michael Wunderman, is currently the president of Corum USA.  

In honor of Severin Wunderman, Corum's offices will be closed until next week.  A memorial service is planned for Wednesday, July 2.