Porsche Design has welcomed global ambassador Orlando Bloom to help launch its new manufacturing headquarters in Switzerland. Bloom, a dedicated Porsche aficionado, previously customized his fifth Porsche – a 911 GT3 – with bespoke finishes in Stuttgart.

From First Paycheck to Brand Ambassador

Bloom’s connection with Porsche began with his first movie paycheck. “It all started with the first paycheck I got from making a movie,” he recalls. “I was like, ‘Okay, now I can go buy myself a sports car,’ so I got a 911S from 1973, which I still own.” This initial purchase sparked a tradition of acquiring a car or watch after completing each film.

Years later, this passion led to a collaboration with Porsche Design. “They said, ‘We really see your passion for the brand and we’d like to talk about working together,’” Bloom explained. The 48-year-old actor is now the brand’s ambassador for timepieces and eyewear.

Collaborations and Design Inspirations

Bloom describes the partnership as “really natural and authentic,” adding, “I’m a bit of a geek for the brand, and so it’s kind of like I’m living my boyhood dream.” He has already collaborated on a pair of sunglasses and a leather jacket inspired by Porsche car models.

He’s particularly proud of the leather jacket, noting, “It’s very beautiful leather. It has a hood because I wanted it to have a slightly street feel to it, and I wanted it to have a utility feel as well, so it’s reversible.”

A Lifelong Passion for Timepieces

Bloom’s appreciation for watches was instilled by his grandfather, a collector of Omega and other luxury brands. He remembers purchasing a Timex from a roadside vendor as a teenager, a far cry from his current collection of coveted models.

At the launch of the company’s watchmaking headquarters in Grenchen, Switzerland last month, Bloom wore the Chronograph 1 – 1975 Limited Edition, which was initially launched in July 2025. Porsche’s original Chronograph 1, introduced in 1972, was among the first to feature a black-coated steel case.

Porsche Design’s New Swiss Headquarters

The new 3,600-square-meter headquarters, formerly the site of Eterna, has been completely rebuilt to house 10 watchmaking stations, CNC machines, and advanced quality control systems. The facility aims to secure quality and engineering capabilities, rather than increase production volume.

Focus on Automotive Connection

“The majority—more than a third of our business—is sports correlated watches that are built on customer demand,” says CEO Rolf Bergmann. Eighty percent of Porsche Design Timepieces customers also own a Porsche vehicle.

The brand emphasizes a technical approach, utilizing materials like titanium and mirroring the colors and materials found in Porsche cars. Customers can even fully customize their watches to match their vehicles, choosing finishes in the “Fitting Lounge” and even driving their cars directly into the building for a personalized experience.

Future Designs and Continued Innovation

While Bloom hasn’t yet designed a watch with Porsche Design, he expresses enthusiasm for the possibility. “I’ve got some great ideas, so I’m definitely pitching them.” Porsche is currently launching the Chronograph 1 – All Titanium Numbered Edition, a limited series of 1,000 pieces annually, retailing for $8,250.

Bloom emphasizes the importance of good design, stating, “It’s good design, and I think good design gives you that feeling of safety.” He draws a parallel between the cockpit of a Porsche and the feeling of security and control offered by a well-designed timepiece.