Chrono24 focuses on the US as it appoints new CEO

Pre-owned watch marketplace Chrono24 has announced the appointment of José Gaztelu as its new chief executive officer (CEO).

Gaztelu only joined the company less than a year ago to become its chief growth officer, but became the de facto head from September after the departure of previous CEO Carsten Keller.

“José has demonstrated exceptional leadership since joining Chrono24,” said the chairman of the company’s board, Tobias Hartmann. “He immersed himself in the business with remarkable speed and moved quickly from understanding the company to shaping its direction. This appointment formalizes what has already been working,” he continued.

Speaking of his own appointment, Gaztelu said: “Chrono24 is uniquely positioned in the luxury watch market, combining the world’s largest selection with deep expertise and a passionate global community. 

“I am honored by the trust the board has placed in me. Together with an outstanding team, we will continue to strengthen Chrono24 as the destination for luxury watches, deepen trust for buyers and sellers, and unlock the significant growth potential ahead of us, particularly in the US.”

Gaztelu has a number of varied senior executive positions on his resume, including at Nextdoor, Domestika, Houzz, Zalora, and McKinsey & Company.

In a company statement, Chrono24 insisted that its “strategic direction remains unchanged.”