Carnault’s luxury electronic cigarette revolution gains momentum

Tobias Kaiser, founder of Carnault, sought to enhance the smoking experience by designing an electronic cigarette that retains the "magic" of traditional smoking. While studying physics at ETH Zurich, he initially wanted to switch from tobacco to electronic cigarettes, only to find a market “lacking well-crafted and seriously beautiful” options. In close collaboration with renowned suppliers from the luxury goods, watchmaking, and automotive industries, the Carnault team developed technology that harnesses the full potential of liquid aerosolization.

The result is a high-end, modular, and sustainable alternative to traditional cigarettes—maintaining their size, aesthetic appeal, and premium feel. "Our primary focus is on preserving the lifestyle and elegance of smoking as perceived by tobacco smokers," explained Mathias Kaiser, co-founder of Carnault. "Our products, available with or without nicotine, explicitly avoid synthetic flavors, instead using compositions of up to 70 naturally extracted flavors." Additionally, the company is working with an ETH spin-off to develop a novel battery cell, to further exceed the state-of-the-art, he added.

Meticulously crafted from exquisite woods—Birch Burl, Grenadilla, Yew Burl—and enveloped in luxurious, supple Italian leather, Carnault makes a bold statement of refined taste. Their innovative design has secured five international patents, enabling both the compact size and battery interchangeability. This positions Carnault as the market authority in the luxury niche. Since its founding in 2018, the company has gained traction among an illustrious clientele, including international artists and actors.

Ambitious growth strategy
With more than 500 prototypes sold, Carnault has continually refined and enhanced its products and is now set to scale production and expand sales channels. Alongside its e-commerce platform and flagship store in Basel, Carnault has established a network of highly experienced suppliers and service providers. Recent strategic partnerships include collaborations with Roomers Hotels in Germany and another luxury group in Milan, with several exclusive partnerships in the pipeline.

"Additionally, our product can soon be witnessed in a Netflix production and various television programs," revealed Mathias Kaiser. With a team of eight employees, the company’s immediate focus is now on European expansion, though, an entry into the Middle Eastern market is planned for later this year.

Over the past seven years, investors have contributed more than CHF 6.5 million to Carnault—including the latest funding from Gekko Capital Partners. This total also includes CHF 3.5 million raised through a token sale with over 100 private investors. Since 2022, the company has been issuing tokenized shares via Aktionariat, a Zurich-based tokenization platform. Currently, Carnault is raising funds for its next CHF 5.5 million investment round.

(RAN)