On Her Watch: A Conversation With Suparna Mitra, CEO Titan Company Limited, Watches & Wearables
4 min read
Suparna Mitra’s association with Titan spans decades, and for her, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Joining the company in 1994, leaving briefly, and returning in 2000 before taking on her current role as the CEO of Watches and Wearables in 2006, Suparna describes her experience as a “dream run.” She elaborates, “Titan has a unique culture that is really one in a million. It inspires not just professional growth but also personal development. It’s a place where people are encouraged to be their best selves, and that ethos has been key to the company’s success.”
Reflecting on Titan’s origins, Suparna recalls its beginnings in the early 1980s, a time when India was on the cusp of economic transformation. “In fact, the journey began in this very hotel. Xerxes Desai, Bhaskar Bhatt, Vibha Rishi and a bunch of other people, they set up base at the Gulmohar suite here in West End and I think they were here for a few months and then that's where the blueprint was made of the company which was actually just watches at that point and much later we moved into proper offices. So the watches division has had a very interesting 40 years. In the 1990s, Titan became a symbol of aspiration for millions of Indians. It represented the hopes and desires of millions of Indians,” she explains. “While today watches have evolved from its beginning, they hold immense significance because that’s where Titan’s story began. Watches remain at the core of who we are.”
The journey, however, hasn’t been without challenges. From an unsuccessful European expansion to the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Titan has seen its share of hurdles. But Suparna remains steadfast in her belief in the timeless appeal of watches. Addressing common misconceptions, she says, “People often claim that watches are obsolete because of mobile phones or the rise of smartwatches. But watches are not just about telling time or being status symbols. They are deeply personal, reflecting one’s journey and individuality. That human connection ensures watches will never lose their charm.”
Titan’s watchmaking has evolved significantly over the years, with a focus on innovation in materials, movements, and designs. Recent highlights include the use of cutting-edge materials like carbon fiber and ceramic in the Titan Edge collection. “Our strategy has always been to cater to diverse demographics,” Suparna explains. “From automatics to the feminine Raga line and the ultra-slim Edge, we ensure there’s something for everyone. Innovation drives us, and we pay close attention to design stories and customer insights to stay relevant, especially to younger generations.”
On the global stage, Titan has been making waves. The brand’s nomination at the prestigious Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) stands as a testament to its craftsmanship and innovation. Suparna also mentions Titan’s growing presence at global events like the Watches and Wonders dinner. “This year, we’re unveiling a tourbillon watch, which is a pinnacle achievement for us. It’s a significant step in our journey toward excellence,” she reveals.
Discussing Titan’s retail footprint, Suparna shares that the company now operates over 1,200 stores, including nearly 700 Titan Worlds and around 90 Helios stores. Plans for expansion are already underway. “We’re developing Helios Luxe stores to create experiential spaces where watches are not just sold but celebrated,” she says. “These spaces will allow customers to engage with the stories behind each watch, adding an emotional connection to their purchases.”
Looking ahead, Titan is preparing to celebrate its legacy with a special limited-edition collection. “We’re recreating the iconic 1984 watch featuring the old Titan logo,” Suparna shares. “The collection will include highly exclusive pieces, such as the gold Slim Mechanical watch, which will be a collector’s delight.”
Marking another first for India, Titan launces the country’s first Flying Tourbillon watch, the Titan Tourbillon. Elaborating on the launch, Suparna says, “For four decades, Titan has been a beacon of innovation, art, and craftsmanship. We are proud of our diverse range of timepieces that cater to every taste and occasion. As we celebrate ‘40 Years of Joy’ with this limited-edition series, we are delighted to present the Titan Tourbillon. This magnificent watch, made in India is a testament of our horological prowess and our manufacturing and design capabilities.”
In a touching moment, Suparna recalls bidding farewell to Bhaskar Bhatt, Titan’s former CEO, who recently retired from the board. “It was an emotional gathering, full of laughter and tears. That moment reflected the familial culture of Titan- a company that truly values its people,” she says.
Ending on a personal note, Suparna reveals her choice of watch for the day—a classic Titan piece inspired by a 1990s design but updated with contemporary materials like rose gold and surgical steel. “Titan’s strength lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots,” she says with pride. Looking to the future, Suparna promises, “2025 will bring exciting developments. Our relentless pursuit of excellence ensures Titan remains a leader in the industry.”
