Disney targets Hong Kong jeweler over trademark clash

Mohan Sinha
21 Jul 2025, 15:33 GMT+10

The Walt Disney Company has filed a federal lawsuit in Los Angeles against Hong Kong-based Red Earth Group, accusing it of trademark infringement over a jewelry line marketed under the name "Satéur"
The collection in question — the "Mickey 1928 Collection" — features rings, necklaces, and earrings that Disney claims are designed to mislead consumers into thinking they are official Disney merchandise
Disney argues that Red Earth is deliberately leveraging Mickey Mouse's iconic status and misleadingly using terms like “great for Disney enthusiasts” to trade on consumer recognition of Disney’s brand

LOS ANGELES, California: The Walt Disney Company has filed a federal lawsuit in Los Angeles against Hong Kong-based Red Earth Group, accusing it of trademark infringement over a jewelry line marketed under the name "Satéur."

The collection in question — the "Mickey 1928 Collection" — features rings, necklaces, and earrings that Disney claims are designed to mislead consumers into thinking they are official Disney merchandise.

Disney argues that Red Earth is deliberately leveraging Mickey Mouse's iconic status and misleadingly using terms like "great for Disney enthusiasts" to trade on consumer recognition of Disney's brand.

While the earliest version of Mickey Mouse from the 1928 short Steamboat Willie is now in the U.S. public domain, Disney retains trademark protection, which prevents unauthorized commercial use that implies brand association.

The lawsuit highlights a key legal distinction: copyright expiration does not eliminate trademark protection. Disney asserts that Red Earth's use of the name "Mickey 1928" and similar imagery is a "ruse" to exploit public domain confusion while infringing on Disney's trademarks.

The centerpiece of the disputed collection is a "Mickey 1928 Classique Ring" featuring a Steamboat Willie charm. Disney is seeking a court injunction to halt sales of the jewelry and monetary damages.

Disney said in a statement: "We remain committed to protecting our trademark rights and preventing consumer confusion caused by unauthorized use of Mickey Mouse and our other iconic characters."