Geneva Watch Days concluded a remarkable week, setting new records with 39 participating brands and welcoming nearly 1,500 industry professionals. This included 600 media representatives and 300 retailers from across the globe. Converging on the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva for a series of launches, meetings, and dynamic discussions.
The heart of this horological gathering, the pavilion at the Rotonde du Mont Blanc, opened its doors to the public for four days. Attracting a staggering 8,000 visitors. They had the opportunity to admire the latest creations from the participating brands, showcased in 51 display cases organized around three compelling themes. Furthermore, 450 individuals had the privilege of participating in guided tours led by three expert guides.
Symposiums and Engaging Discussions
One of the highlights of Geneva Watch Days was the opportunity for students, collectors, and business executives to engage directly with the CEOs of the participating brands during three informal breakfast sessions.
Moreover, the event demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility through a charity auction held on August 30. This auction was a collaborative effort between Geneva Watch Days and Phillips in association with Bacs & Russo. Raised CHF 110,000 dedicated to supporting deserving students facing economic challenges at the Ecole d’Horlogerie de Genève.
Acknowledgement of Key Partners
Antoine Pin, President of the Geneva Watch Days Association and Director of Bulgari Watches, expressed his gratitude to the participating brands and partners. He recognized the pivotal role they played in the event’s resounding success. Pin acknowledged the support from the Republic and Canton of Geneva. In addition to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Geneva Tourism, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, Horopedia. Including, the Ecole d’Horlogerie de Genève, the Watch Library, Worldtempus, GMT magazine, and Revolution magazine.
Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling, shared his enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing its role as a cultural moment. Moreover, a unifying platform, and a space for dialog within the watchmaking industry.
Patrick Pruniaux, CEO of Girard Perregaux and Ulysse Nardin, echoed this sentiment, praising the event’s informal yet professional atmosphere. He reaffirmed the commitment of his brands as founding members and contributors to the event’s ongoing success.
Maximilian Büsser, founder and director of MB&F, emphasized the unique joy of launching exquisite mechanical creations against the backdrop of Geneva’s iconic Jet d’eau. He underscored the importance of sharing perspectives and ideas with industry professionals. Moreover, the wider public in a world increasingly dominated by digital technology.
Industry Leaders Reflect on the Event
With the resounding success of the 2023 edition, Geneva Watch Days is now poised for its fifth edition in 2024. Meanwhile, solidifies its position as a crucial event on the horological calendar.
The 2023 event featured an impressive lineup of participating brands. Including Alpina, Angelus, Armin Strom, Arnold & Son, Artime, Bausele, Bianchet, Breitling, Bulgari, Byrne, Konstantin Chaykin, Claude Meylan, Corum, Czapek & Cie, De Bethune, Doxa, Frédérique Constant Group, Girard Perregaux, Greubel Forsey, Hautlence, HYT, Jacob and Co, Krayon, Laurent Ferrier, Louis Erard, Massena Lab, Maurice Lacroix, MB&F, H. Moser & Cie., Oris, Perrelet, Phillips in association with Bacs & Russo, Raketa, Reservoir, Ressence, Singer, Trilobe, Ulysse Nardin, and Urwerk.