For watch enthusiasts and industry professionals, attending international watch exhibitions is a perfect opportunity to explore the latest trends, experience unique watch models, and meet renowned brands. Here are some major watch exhibitions worldwide you should know about:
1. Watches & Wonders Geneva
Watches & Wonders Geneva is an international trade exhibition for the watch and jewelry industry, organized by the Geneva Watch & Wonders Foundation (WWGF). It features both offline events and a digital platform, first launched in April 2020.
Following the success of the inaugural Watches & Wonders Geneva in 2022, famous brands like Rolex, Richemont, and Patek Philippe collaborated to establish the Geneva Watch & Wonders Foundation (WWGF), a non-profit organization based in Geneva.
WWGF’s mission is to promote excellence in the global watchmaking industry by organizing both offline and online watch and jewelry exhibitions in Geneva and other international locations. The foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees, chaired by Jean-Frédéric Dufour, with Emmanuel Perrin as Vice-Chairman and Matthieu Humair as CEO. An Exhibition Committee has also been established, including representatives from participating Maison brands.
Event highlights:
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Attendees: Over 30,000 visitors and 1,500 journalists worldwide
Features new releases from luxury brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier
Timing: March or April annually
2. Baselworld
The Baselworld Watch and Jewelry Show is a major international trade fair for watches, jewelry, and gemstones, held annually in spring in Basel, Switzerland, at Messeplatz.
MCH Group, the parent company of Baselworld, has made strategic decisions to focus on new initiatives and growth opportunities while consolidating its existing portfolio, including programs like Art Basel. This decision followed thorough market analysis, discussions, and research into global consumer needs.
From 1917 to 2019, Baselworld played a crucial role in advancing the global watch, jewelry, and gemstone industry. Each year, it attracts participants from around the world, including manufacturers, buyers, traders, collectors, media, and enthusiasts.
Event highlights:
Location: Basel, Switzerland
Largest watch and jewelry exhibition worldwide
Over 1,500 brands from 45 countries
Known for luxury and exclusive watch brands
Timing: April annually
3. Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair
The Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair is an annual trade event for watches, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) in collaboration with the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association and the Hong Kong Federation of Industries.
The fair showcases both Hong Kong and international watch brands and provides a platform for market exchange. It lasts five days, usually in early September, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Highlights include the Brand Name Gallery, which features fashionable watches from top brands, and the Eternity Contest, highlighting the beauty and precision of high-end timepieces. Established in 1982, it is now one of the most important events in Hong Kong’s watch industry.
Event highlights:
Location: Hong Kong
Largest watch exhibition in Asia
Over 800 brands from 20 countries
Focus on affordable and quality watches
Timing: September annually
4. Inhorgenta Munich
Inhorgenta Munich is Europe’s leading trade fair for jewelry, watches, and gemstones, offering comprehensive insights into the most outstanding designs, latest trends, and notable innovations. It attracts jewelers, watch experts, retailers, manufacturers, media representatives, and industry influencers. Attendees can explore diverse collections, build business relationships, and gain in-depth industry knowledge.
Inhorgenta is also an international platform for emerging talents, young designers, and creative startups to showcase their work and foster professional development in the dynamic industry.
Event highlights:
Location: Munich, Germany
Second largest watch exhibition in Europe
Features traditional and modern watch brands
Timing: February annually
5. Other Watch Exhibitions Worldwide
In addition to the major exhibitions above, other notable watch events include:
Watches & Wonders Miami: Miami, USA
SalonQP: London, UK
The Wind Up Fair: Tokyo, Japan
Timexpo: Dubai, UAE
These events offer opportunities to discover unique watch models and connect with the global market.
Tips for Attending Watch Exhibitions
Exhibition schedules may change, so check official websites for updates.
Register in advance: Some exhibitions require prior registration.
Plan your visit: Identify the brands and watch models you want to see.
Bring business cards: Useful for networking with manufacturers and retailers.
Dress appropriately: Many exhibitions have professional dress codes.
Prepare financially: Exhibitions are ideal for purchasing watches, but prices can be high.
This overview provides essential information about global watch exhibitions.
Hi, this is a comment.
To get started with moderating, editing, and deleting comments, please visit the Comments screen in the dashboard.
Commenter avatars come from Gravatar.