Wrist shot as seen at a previous WatchTime New York.
As the waning days of summer bid their farewell, horology aficionados find themselves eagerly anticipating an array of forthcoming exhibitions and gatherings spanning the globe. From late August through the holiday season, a series of captivating events will immerse watch enthusiasts in the realm of intricate timepieces and timeless craftsmanship.
Geneva Watch Days: A Swiss Spectacle
In the latter part of summer, from August 29 to September 2, the enchanting aura of the annual Geneva Watch Days will envelop the city, extending its allure to designated hotel suites. Originating three years ago from the collaborative vision of eight premier watch brands – Breitling, Bulgari, De Bethune, Girard-Perregaux, H. Moser & Cie., MB&F, Ulysse Nardin, and Urwerk – this industry convergence offers a straightforward and accessible experience for all attendees. The event boasts a harmonious blend of open-to-all spaces and exclusive “by appointment only” showcases, granting visitors unfettered access to an array of novel and emergent timepieces.
Artistic rendering of the Jet Dean-Nuit — the 2023 logo for Geneva Watch Days.
Unified by the event’s founders and organized in partnership with the City of Geneva, the exhibition welcomes all watchmakers aspiring to spotlight their creations or host bespoke gatherings. With each passing year, the event has evolved into a much-anticipated affair, poised to exceed expectations once again. This edition is set to feature over 40 distinguished brands, including the renowned Phillips in association with the esteemed Bacs and Russo auction house.
The event’s core hub will be the Rotonde du Mont-Blanc pavilion, embellishing the shores of Lake Geneva. However, the watch extravaganza will extend its reach, encompassing open boutiques, sumptuous hotel suites, and various other captivating venues throughout the city. Enthusiasts seeking deeper insights into the world of fine watchmaking can partake in complimentary guided tours, enriching their appreciation of horological craftsmanship. For more information, please visit GWD.
WatchTime New York: Bridging Continents for Timekeeping Excellence
WatchTime New York 2023 will take place October 20-22 at Gotham Hall.
Come October, enthusiasts may traverse the seas and find themselves on American soil, ready to embark on an exceptional journey into horology. From October 20 to the 22nd, the venerable Gotham Hall in New York City will host the eighth installment of the revered WatchTime New York Show. A hallmark for watch collectors, this event necessitates pre-registration due to its immense popularity.
The festivities commence with a vibrant cocktail soirée and exclusive preview on October 20, setting the stage for two immersive days brimming with panel discussions, captivating demonstrations, and enlightening presentations. Attendees can opt for single-day tickets or embrace the full experience with multi-day passes.
In this edition, more than 30 distinguished brands will unveil their latest masterpieces, with esteemed Swiss and American luminaries engaging collectors and aficionados in compelling interactions. Among the distinguished exhibitors are names like Armin Strom, Arnold & Son, Bell & Ross, Blancpain, Bovet, Bremont, Chopard, Chronoswiss, Frederique Constant, Glashütte Original, Greubel Forsey, MB&F, Oris, Parmigiani Fleurier, Piaget, RGM, and an array of others. A comprehensive list of participants and registration details can be found here.
Dubai Watch Week: A Grand Horological Odyssey
Dubai Watch Week 2023 will take place November 16-20.
As November graces the calendar, intrepid watch enthusiasts are beckoned to the vibrant city of Dubai for the sixth iteration of the much-anticipated Dubai Watch Week. From November 16 to 20, the splendid ambiance of The Gate, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), will set the stage for an enthralling horological gathering. A biennial event that garners global attention, the 2021 edition attracted over 16,000 visitors, and this year promises to continue the tradition of excellence.
The platform serves as a distinguished stage for a myriad of watch brands to unveil their latest timekeeping marvels, with several unveiling exclusive Middle East limited editions. Beyond the visual spectacle of timepieces, a series of captivating panel discussions and presentations will enrich attendees’ understanding of horology. The event’s allure transcends horizons, offering culinary, cultural, and entertaining experiences that captivate the senses.
Open to the public and watch enthusiasts from around the world, the event is orchestrated by Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons. The week-long festivities encompass educational initiatives and immersive, hands-on opportunities, inviting participants to delve deeper into the realm of horological excellence. For more information, visit DWW.
(A version of this article by Roberta Naas first appeared on Forbes.com.)
