Geneva Watch Days 2023: Watchmaking Titans Converge for an Unforgettable Inaugural Day

The inauguration of the Geneva Watch Days, which unfolded at the Rotonde du Mont Blanc, proved to be an unforgettable affair. In attendance were the CEOs representing the 39 participating brands and the official partners of the salon. Accompanying them was Delphine Bachmann, Councilor of State of the Canton of Geneva, responsible for the Department of the Economy and Employment, flagging off the commencement of the festivities. 

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This year's celebration promises an even greater array of activities, compared with the previous editions. The pavilion will host a series of engaging events, including CEO breakfasts, discussion symposiums, and a host of press conferences. Notably, a space, curated by Horopedia and the Ecole d’Horlogerie, will be dedicated to the art and craft of watchmaking.

Aligned with the values of the Geneva Watch Days, an auction to support deserving students at the Ecole d’Horlogerie de Genève, lacking parental backing, will be organised during the official dinner. This benevolent cause resonates deeply with all members and partners of the salon. 

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Throughout the event, the pavilion will remain accessible to the public each afternoon, with a special day set for Saturday, September 2, hosted by the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie and the Watch Library. 

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At the launch event, the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) unveiled a curated selection of 90 timepieces, meticulously chosen by the GPHG Academy, a distinguished body consisting of 847 individuals. These timepieces will compete across the 15 categories of the 2023 edition. From this assortment, the jury and the GPHG Academy will ultimately identify the recipients of 20 awards, including the prestigious Aiguille d'Or. The finale will take place on November 9, with the grand revelation at the official ceremony that will be held at Geneva's Théâtre du Léman. Significantly, 19 of these exceptional creations come from brands participating in the Geneva Watch Days.

On the inaugural day, the audience was treated to a captivating programme. Watchmaker Konstanin Chaykin, in collaboration with Ineichen Auctioneers, revealed an extraordinary collection of timepieces and sketches ― indeed, it was an event of monumental significance. The collectors and enthusiasts in attendance were presented with 15 exclusive lots. Following this, an insightful Symposium on Watch Industry’s Greatest Brand Builders took place, featuring guests, including Georges Kern, Jean-Christophe Babin, Jean-Claude Biver, and Max Busser. Wei Koh and Oliver Muller were the moderators. The day reached its crescendo with the Ribbon Cutting and Official Inauguration Cocktail. Delphine Bachman, Minister for Economic Affairs and Employment, and Carine Maillard, Director of the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève Foundation, along with the CEOs and partners, graced the occasion.

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With the inaugural day setting the bar high, the fourth edition of the Geneva Watch Days promises to bolster innovation and tradition. Watch this space for all the latest updates!

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