Major changes have occurred in the world of horology as the 30th edition of Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), which is set to be held from the 25th to 29th April 2020 in Geneva, will be rebranded as Watches & Wonders moving forward.
With a new format, new name and new dates, the Foundation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH) hopes this new format will bring it new visitors to the show too.
This is quite a significant change since the shows nearly three-decade history as it had previously been the focal point of all things watches. However, recent editions have seen faltering attendance thus forcing it to transform into something new that would open itself up to new audiences and the community of watch collectors and enthusiasts.
Fabienne Lupo, the chairwoman and managing director of FHH said, “Because it’s about more than watches, we chose a name that conveys a sense of wonder, excellence, openness and discovery; a different way to experience watchmaking. Watches & Wonders becomes the focal point for the exceptional talent, creativity and infinite innovation of the world’s leading watch and jewellery maisons.”
This will also be the first time the event opens its doors “In the City”, invitest all types of visitors – not just professionals- to venues throughout Geneva which goes behind-the-scenes and showcases the fabulous expertise of the most prestigious names in watchmaking. FHH hopes that this will be a great chance for the public, young people in particular, to discover and experience watchmaking.
Apart from that, there will be a plethora of activities to satiate the thirst of the most hardened watch fan from exhibitions, walking tours, initiations to watchmaking and visits to manufacturers, along with boutique presentations to museum open houses, there is just so much inclusive and immersive events to enjoy.
Taking place at Palexpo, The Salon will continue to host some thirty of the most prestigious watch and jewellery maisons. Next year’s edition promises to be more outward-looking while offering a more experiential, interactive and connected experience. This is also where exhibitors will give exclusive previews of their new collections to professionals, journalists, VIP guests and other enthusiasts.
In addition, The Lab will showcase more of the latest technological innovations from the exhibiting maisons and from start-ups of interest to the industry. Lastly, The Live will offer access to international product launches and exclusive announcements.
Even with all these activities, it can’t hide the fact that more luxury brands are exiting these trade shows such as Audemars Piguet and Richard Mille.
Despite that, Watches & Wonders may just be a different animal as it seeks to be both a place for professionals to meet and the public to learn more about the wonders of watchmaking.
For more information about the show visit the official website.
