Watch Lovers Need To Book Ahead For Geneva Watches & Wonders Starting Soon

(This article by Roberta Naas was first published on Forbes.com.)

 

As the much-touted annual Watches and Wonders Geneva (WWG) 2024 event draws near, horology aficionados worldwide are gearing up for an unforgettable experience. Taking place, as always, in Geneva, this year’s event promises an extravaganza of innovation, craftsmanship, conferences, and so much more. This year, there are three days open to the public, from April 13th to 15th, where can immerse themselves in the world of watchmaking.

The beginning of the exhibition, from April 9-12, is by invitation only to members of the watch industry, including brands, retailers and journalists. But when the open days start, collectors, watch lovers and others can indulge. With 54 esteemed brands showcasing their latest creations, from the renowned brands like Vacheron Constantin, Cartier, Rolex, Patek Philippe and more to the independents, visitors can expect an inclusive and exclusive experience. Guided tours offer an intimate exploration of each exhibitor’s booth and creations, providing insights into the artistry and craftsmanship behind every timepiece.

One of the highlights of the event is the immersive experience offered by “The LAB,” an interactive space dedicated to the future of watchmaking where innovation and education converge. There is also a dedicated photo exhibit this year called Timekeepers by Luc Debraine, which offers a journey through frozen moments in time.  For this event, Debraine focuses on clocks  that  have stopped so their silence can be conveyed.

To create the exhibit, he draws inspiration from his 20-year-long tour  around the world to photograph time in nature.  In his  photographs, he captures the essence of timepieces preserved amidst natural and man-made disasters. These pictures are designed to evoke a sense of reverence for the past.

Also, within the halls of the Pal Expo center, where elaborate booths are established and newest watches are on display, the fair organizers are offering guided tours to help streamline a visit. Via these tours in groups of 10 to 15 people, watch lovers can garner technical information and  interesting  stories about the brand and the new watches.  These tours require on-site registration.

Complementing the exhibition are a series of conferences aimed at enriching understanding of the watchmaking world. Discussion topics vary from insight into emerging trends to the rise of independent watchmakers, insights into starting a watch collection, understanding the human aspect of  watchmaking and more. Panerai is even bringing renowned explorer Mike Horn in as a keynote speaker to discuss his arctic adventures and his work with Panerai.

This year, too, in collaboration with WWG, Geneva itself becomes a canvas for celebrating the art of watchmaking. From April 9th to 13th, the city center comes alive with a myriad of events and activities open to all. Whether it is exploring the Watchmaking Village, attending city tours, or engaging in in-store activities. There are even watchmaking sessions for children and informational sessions about becoming a watchmaker. The city portion of the event culminates in a grand evening on April 11^th when the Quai Général Guisan sets the stage for a musical event.

For the comprehensive program and to make your plan and buy tickets, visit the Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 platform.

Other Watch Exhibitions Around Geneva

For those planning to head to Geneva, leave yourself enough time to explore the many other exhibitions taking place around the city independently from WWG 2024. More than 50 independent and creative brands from 10 countries will launch their novelties during the Time to Watches show, taking place from April 10-14^th at HEAD (Haute Ecole d’Art et de Design).  Franck Muller organizes the World Presentation of Haute Horlogerie. This annual event will be hosted at the magnificent Domaine du Grand Malagny from 9^th April to 13^th April 2024 and will showcase watches from Franck Muller and others. Additionally, a host of brands are showing new watches from their boutiques and galleries, at local showrooms and at many of the lake-side luxury hotels by appointment.