Gérard Paul Philippe Wertheimer (born April 17, 1951) is a French billionaire businessman who co-owns the luxury fashion brand Chanel with his brother, Alain. The Wertheimer brothers inherited the company from their grandfather, Pierre Wertheimer, who had partnered with Coco Chanel in the 1920s. Gérard and Alain Wertheimer's joint ownership of Chanel is a significant part of their wealth.
Born | 17 April 1951 Paris, France |
Education | University of Paris |
Spouse | Valérie Picavet |
Children | 2 |
Known for | Co-owner of Chanel |
Relatives |
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As of December 2024, Gérard Wertheimer's estimated net worth is $41.4 billion according to Forbes. His wealth stems primarily from his stake in Chanel, one of the most iconic and valuable luxury brands globally. Despite their immense wealth, the Wertheimers maintain a low public profile, and little is known about their personal lives, which they prefer to keep private.
Biography
Gérard Wertheimer was born on April 17, 1951, into a prominent Jewish family in France. He is the son of Jacques Wertheimer and Eliane Fischer. His grandfather, Pierre Wertheimer, co-founded the luxury fashion house Chanel alongside Coco Chanel, establishing a legacy in the high-fashion industry.
While Chanel is primarily managed by his brother, Alain Wertheimer, Gérard plays a significant role as a co-owner. Under their leadership, Chanel has expanded its portfolio, acquiring brands such as Eres Lingerie, Tanner Krolle saddles and leather goods, and Holland & Holland, a British gunsmith.
The Wertheimer brothers have also invested significantly in the wine industry. They own prestigious French vineyards, including Château Rauzan-Ségla in Margaux and Château Canon in Saint-Émilion, both renowned for producing high-quality wines that have earned critical acclaim.
Both Gérard and Alain are passionate equestrians and oversee a thoroughbred horse racing stable, known as La Presle Farm or Wertheimer Farm in the United States and as Wertheimer et Frère in France. Their racing operations have achieved notable success on both continents.
Business Ventures
Gérard and his brother Alain Wertheimer inherited the Chanel empire, with Alain serving as the primary leader overseeing the acquisition of several non-Chanel brands, including Eres Lingerie, Tanner Krolle saddles and leather goods, and Holland & Holland, a British gunsmith.
Vineyards and Wine Production
The Wertheimer brothers are based in France and own prestigious vineyards, including Château Rauzan-Ségla in Margaux and Château Canon in Saint-Émilion, both highly regarded by wine connoisseurs.
Equestrian Pursuits
Additionally, the brothers share a deep passion for equestrian pursuits and inherited a renowned thoroughbred horse racing operation. They continue to manage it under the names La Presle Farm and Wertheimer et Frère, competing in both the United States and France.
Equestrian Interests
Both brothers are passionate equestrians and inherited a significant thoroughbred horse racing stable. They manage their racing operations under the names La Presle Farm in the United States and Wertheimer et Frère in France, where they continue to compete in high-profile horse racing events.
Personal Life
Gérard Wertheimer is married to Valérie Wertheimer (née Picavet), a former nurse. The couple has two children, Olivia Wertheimer and David Wertheimer. David married Togzhan Isbazarova in 2016. Gérard and his wife divide their time between New York City and Switzerland.
Wertheimer is known for his passion for golf, although he has faced controversy for alleged cheating incidents on the course. Valérie, meanwhile, is actively involved in charitable work, particularly in child protection initiatives.
The Wertheimer brothers own several prestigious vineyards in France and Napa Valley, California. Their substantial family wealth is managed through Mousse Partners, the Wertheimer family office.
References
- (No date) Namuwiki:main door - namuwiki. Available at: https://en.namu.wiki/w/나무위키:대문 (Accessed: 10 January 2025).
- Der Reichste Mann der Schweiz: Gérard Wertheimer (no date) watson.ch. Available at: https://www.watson.ch/schweiz/frankreich/960467605-der-reichste-mann-der-schweiz-gerard-wertheimer (Accessed: 10 January 2025).
- Gerard Wertheimer biography (age, career, Net Worth, & More) (2023) Elitebiographies. Available at: https://elitebiographies.com/biography/gerard-wertheimer/ (Accessed: 10 January 2025).