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What to Watch - Spring 2020
The two biggest Swiss watch fairs, Baselworld and Watches & Wonders Geneva (formerly known as the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie), are undergoing a refresh to attract younger audiences that are fond of fine watches, but who also seek “experiences.” These two annual gatherings, which used to take place in January and March, will now be held for the very first time in succession in spring 2020.
To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) will be completely transformed with a new concept, a new name, and new event dates. Now known as Watches & Wonders Geneva, the event will take place in April instead of in January. The location remains the same, so industry professionals, media, and privileged VIPs invited by exhibitors will still meet at Geneva’s Palexpo for the next edition of the event. The public is invited to explore a brand new experience in the heart of Geneva, named “In the City,” which will offer manufacturer visits, boutique activities, watch making initiation workshops, exhibitions, conferences, and industry meet-and-greet opportunities for watch fans and aficionados alike. Whether alone or with the family, this new concept makes watch-related experiences accessible for everyone.
In the spirit of being more open, experimental, interactive, and connected, the fair plans to offer a variety of activities and novel experiences. The hallways of many high-end stands and the Carré des Horlogers allow exhibitors to display both their gorgeous timepieces and their exceptional know-how. Launched last year, the LAB gives industry start-ups and exhibitors a forum for their latest technological developments, while the “Live” element of the fair offers the public an insider’s perspective of all the exciting activity taking place during the fair.
When Watches & Wonders Geneva closes its doors, Baselworld will open theirs, and as always, Baselworld surely has surprises in store. Many brands reveal their latest designs for the very first time during this exceptional event that makes Basel the watch capital of Switzerland for one week, with the 2020 edition running from April 30 to May 5. Here brands will feature their most innovative creations, along with the world’s most beautiful jewellery and precious stones, in an ode to mechanical engineering, craftsmanship, and ingenuity. Around 700 luxury brands in total will be expected to present their creations during Baselworld 2020. The 2019 edition of the event had some 80,000 visitors and 3,400 media representatives from all over the world in attendance, setting expectations high for the 2020 edition to come.
Watches & Wonders Geneva
Geneva, April 25-29, 2020
www.watchesandwonders.com
Baselworld
Basel, April 30-May 5, 2020
www.baselworld.com
