At the virtual 2020 GPHG , Greubel Forsey won the Men ’ s Complication prize for its Hand Made 1 .
Nancy Olson Managing Editor | nancy @ isochronmedia . com
CONSTANT CHANGE
T he COVID-19 pandemic has led to so many changes — both personal and professional — during the past several months . In the business world , transitions are occurring in the blink of an eye , often with further adjustments rapidly implemented as new health or logistical information becomes available .
In the world of fine watches , we ’ ve seen many changes since last spring , not the least of which is in the realm of trade shows . About this time each year , I ’ d be looking forward to the jewelry and watch events in Switzerland , but this year will be much different .
We ’ d already witnessed the demise of Baselworld earlier this year . And now , amidst the ongoing health crisis , Watches and Wonders Geneva announced its plans to host an all-digital version of the 2021 salon originally slated for April 7 to 13 at Palexpo in Geneva . The digital edition , hosting more than thirty brands highlighting their newest creations , will be held on the same dates .
“ Designed to encourage communication and facilitate networking , this interactive experience will enable professionals — media , retailers and exhibiting brands ’ clients — to discover the new releases for 2021 and other watchmaking wonders ,” says a Watches and Wonders spokesperson . “ Additional services and features will be introduced , including live chats and streaming , so that the event can be enjoyed all over the world .”
The organization is looking forward to 2022 , and plans to once again host an in-person Watches and Wonders event . Visit watchesandwonders . com for more info . And in another pandemic-driven move , this year ’ s 2020 Grand Prix d ’ Horlogerie de Genève ( GPHG ), held on November 12 at the Théâtre du Léman in Geneva , smartly included masks , distancing and mostly virtual participation . But this didn ’ t take the shine off the annual awards ceremony , often called “ The Oscars of Watchmaking .” With a measure of comfortable familiarity ( in unfamiliar times ), watchmaking excellence was once again recognized by the jury , which bestowed 19 prizes . The “ Aiguille d ’ Or ” Grand Prix was awarded to Piaget for the Altiplano Ultimate Concept watch , and the Special Jury Prize went to Antoine Simonin . For a complete list , visit gphg . org .
It ’ s impossible to predict what the future holds , and it will take a while , if ever , for life as we know it to return . In the meantime , continue to enjoy those things that give you pleasure in whatever manner they are available — watches included — and remember that the only constant in life is change .
8 | INTERNATIONAL WATCH | WINTER 2021