In the latter half of 2024, the horological world witnesses a symphony of elegance and precision as two major watch fairs grace the cities of Geneva and Shanghai. These exhibitions, which have become increasingly fervent yearly events, offer a glimpse into the artistry and innovation of the watchmaking realm.
Geneva’s Transformation into a Horological Haven
The Geneva Watch Festival, originally ignited by the collaborative efforts of renowned brands like Breitling, Bvlgari, DE BETHUNE, Girard-Perregaux, H. Moser & Cie, and MB&F, has metamorphosed the city into a grand showroom for luxury timepieces. This year’s festival has seen an impressive increase from 39 to 52 participating brands, unveiling over 100 timepieces for the first time. The festival’s dual approach combines a central exhibition space with private showcases at boutiques and hotels, fostering intimate interactions between watch aficionados and the prestigious brands.
Authored by Bryan Lee and Catherine Chi, with contributions from various esteemed brands, this report delves into the heart of these international exhibitions held in Geneva and Shanghai. It presents an A-Z guide to the brands and their latest creations, spotlighting novelties unveiled for the first time in the second half of the year.
ARMIN STROM’s Timekeeping Innovation
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the independent watchmaker ARMIN STROM introduces the Dual Time GMT Resonance watch. This timepiece features the brand’s proprietary dual escapement system, allowing for two distinct time zones displayed on twin dials. The watch’s structure, including the escapement systems, power reserve barrels, and blue dials finished with grenage texture, are arranged symmetrically, creating a harmonious contrast. The 18K white gold case, measuring an optimal 39 millimeters, ensures a comfortable and unisex fit. ARMIN STROM’s resonance technology, distinct from traditional watchmaking techniques, employs a patented “clutch spring” system that synchronizes the movements of the two balance wheels, enhancing the watch’s resistance to disturbances and significantly improving its timing consistency and accuracy.
Arnold & Son’s Celestial Craftsmanship
Arnold & Son’s moon phase watches capture the celestial body’s essence on the wrist with their expansive moon phase displays. The latest Perpetual Moon 38 Gold models, available in blue aventurine or cliff grey sunburst dials, are limited editions that exude elegance. The meticulously crafted moon, whether in hand-engraved relief, diamond-set, or mother-of-pearl, showcases realistic textures that bring the lunar surface to life. The dial’s design, with a large moon phase at ten to two o’clock, is complemented by a backdrop of mother-of-pearl stars, creating a captivating contrast of light and shadow.
BVLGARI’s Time-Music Confluence
During the watch fair, Bvlgari introduced its Octo Roma Grande Sonnerie Tourbillon, Octo Roma Carillon Tourbillon, and Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater Carbon watches. These masterpieces resonate with the soul-stirring melodies of time, crafted in collaboration with the 34-year-old conductor Lorenzo Viotti. The Octo Roma watches, with their innovative open-worked dials and the complex BVL 800 movement, perform a unique auditory experience. These watches not only tell time but also play melodies composed by Viotti, marking them as some of Bvlgari’s most intricate creations to date.
