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In a significant move to combat the increasing incidents of luxury theft, luxury conglomerate Richemont has launched Enquirus, a global digital platform designed to help the fine watch and jewellery industry tackle this pressing issue.
It is designed to serve as a neutral hub for various industry stakeholders, including manufacturers, law enforcement, insurance companies, and customers, providing a secure space to upload, search, and share information about stolen luxury items. By providing free access to customers and industry partners, Enquirus aims to diminish the viability of selling stolen items, thereby reducing theft incentives.
LVMH Group brands like Bulgari are also partnering this worldwide effort (Credit: Bulgari)
Jerome Lambert, CEO of Richemont, emphasised the platform’s role in fostering collaboration across borders. “This reliable solution brings together multiple stakeholders to serve customers and the entire industry, by facilitating borderless cooperation between police forces and insurance partners,” he stated.
Richemont’s chief transformation officer Frank Vivier also highlighted the customer-focused nature of Enquirus. “We have developed it to help our customers protect their valuable possessions and we aim to onboard as many industry players as possible,” noted Vivier, who added that the goal is to establish Enquirus as the largest international database of lost and stolen luxury items, with the participation of police departments from major cities worldwide.
The operation of Enquirus is straightforward and user-friendly. Individuals can register their luxury items through individual or business accounts, document their collections in a secure digital vault, and report lost or stolen items. This centralised database aids in the quick reconnection of customers with their possessions globally, increasing the likelihood of recovery. Additionally, potential buyers in the pre-owned market can verify the legitimacy of items before purchase.
In addition to watches, individuals could also report lost or stolen jewellery items (Credit: Chopard/Patrick Csajko)
Enquirus is already supported by over 175 luxury watch brands and many leading jewellery houses like Bulgari, Chopard and Tiffany & Co., making it easier for clients to register their collections. A quick glance at the brand catalogue on the website shows the involvement of the world’s most esteemed brands, including Rolex, Chanel, Hermes, Patek Philippe, and all of Richemont’s watch and jewellery maisons like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. Also included are brands from LVMH and Gucci, as well as small independent labels. To date, the platform boasts registrations of over 28,000 lost or stolen items.
The platform has garnered support from key law enforcement agencies including the Departement de Surete Territoriale in Paris and the Geneva Police Service des Bijoux. Furthermore, Enquirus has received the “Secured by Design” accreditation from the UK Police Service, recognising its contribution to reducing crime and enhancing safety.
Insurance giants like LMG Jewellery and Zurich Insurance Group, along with Bonhams, a prestigious international auctioneer, are also collaborating with Enquirus, underscoring its industry-wide acceptance and potential impact. As additional police departments around the world join, Enquirus is set to become an indispensable tool in the global fight against luxury theft.
