Meet Gabriele Guidi, head of design for Roberto Cavalli by Franck Muller watches
What does it mean to collaborate with a fashion icon?
Meet Gabriele Guidi, head of design for Roberto Cavalli by Franck Muller watches, who worked closely with the legend himself—sharing untold stories and unique insights!
For over 13 years, Gabriele has served as the Design Head for Roberto Cavalli by Franck Muller watches at TMS, having had the opportunity to collaborate directly with the renowned designer himself.
Starting with Roberto Cavalli himself
Gabriele’s journey with the brand began in 2011, when he worked alongside Roberto Cavalli in Florence. He describes Cavalli as a man of contrasts—wildly creative, yet grounded.
“Roberto was passionate about nature. I remember him showing me his safari photographs, explaining how his love for animals inspired his designs” says Gabriele.
“His Florentine atelier was filled with exotic animals and nature-inspired decor.”
One memorable meeting at Cavalli’s Milan apartment took an unexpected turn.
“We arrived in a rush, only to find Roberto in a panic—the glass of his huge aquarium had cracked. There we were, surrounded by flopping fish, trying to rescue them before diving into a design meeting,” Gabriele laughs.
“Working with Roberto taught me invaluable lessons about creativity, passion, and the importance of personal connections.“
P.S.: All the fish were saved!
Roberto Cavalli and Franck Muller: A Groundbreaking Co-Branding
Gabriele Guidi played a pivotal role in forging the iconic partnership between Roberto Cavalli and Franck Muller—an unprecedented collaboration in the watch industry at the time.
Signed in 2012, the co-branding agreement led to the creation, production, and distribution of Roberto Cavalli by Franck Muller timepieces. Their inaugural collection was unveiled in 2014 in Paris during Haute Couture Week.
Driven by a shared commitment to excellence, both brands envisioned a long-term collaboration. For ten years, each season brought a new collection of high-end timepieces for both men and women, blending Cavalli’s bold Italian style with Franck Muller’s technical mastery.
Design: connecting brand and market
Gabriele excels at blending creativity with commercial viability.
“My role has always been to interpret the brand’s DNA and translate it into something marketable. It’s about balancing the Cavalli ethos with the needs of the business.“
We’re proud to celebrate Gabriele Guidi, whose passion and expertise continue to bring the bold spirit of Roberto Cavalli to life in every timepiece he creates.
