What started as a relatively small event in 2020 initiated by Bulgari, Breitling and several independent watch brands located in and around the Beau Rivage Hotel in Geneva, has developed into a significant watch event on the agenda. The Geneva Watch Days 2024, the fifth edition, opens on August 29 for 4 days and will have 52 participating brands in total.
The lean, decentralized approach of the event still remains and makes it so attractive. This is not a big congress centre with high security and long queues. At GWD the centre of Geneva is where the action takes place. With a central pavilion located next to the Beau Rivage as a hub, all brands choose their own locations to exhibit their novelties to press and collectors. The majority is located in the Beau Rivage hotel, the Fairmont and the Angleterre, all conveniently adjacent to each other. Other brands choose to activate their brand boutiques, and the combination of all makes it very attractive for watch fans to be in Geneva, as the whole city breathes horology. Some symposiums, parties, dinners and a charity auction by Phillips in cooperation with Bacs and Russo complete the picture.
What can we expect next week? Well, my mailbox is filled with press releases and announcements already, though a lot is under embargo. From what can be shared, I’ll pick some highlights.
Nivada Grenchen Depthmaster
Nivada Grenchen is an old name that is working on a considerable come-back. Now managed from Hong Kong the brand is offering great vintage-oriented watches at affordable prices. The Depthmaster model will be launched with a new grained midnight-blue dial. With a Soprod P024 movement this watch launches for 995 USD, a great proposition.
Favre-Leuba relaunch
Another name that breathes long-time history is Favre-Leuba. With a history that goes back to the 18th century the brand has had a bumpy ride, especially in the last 50 years. I remember the big, bulky Bivouac pieces from the early 2000’s, usually in bright colours. GWD marks the re-launch of the brand, and industry veteran Patrick Hoffmann is now the chairman. The drafts of what they show on Instagram look really good!
Amongst the 52 participating brands a lot of smaller, independent watch brands make their appearance. The decentralised set-up makes it financially and logistically easier to participate, resulting in a line-up that will sometimes surprise you with brands you don’t know. Brands like Alto, Bausele, Doxa, Genus, Micromilspec, Amida, Depancel and many more might not ring a bell immediately but will surprise us with innovative, high-quality product for (sometimes) attractive prices.
My suggestion is to follow your Instagram timeline closely in the next week, and should you have the opportunity to come to Geneva, make sure to visit the Geneva Watch Days website first to see what to do and where to go. Enjoy Horology!
