Stepping off the plane in Geneva always brings a rush of excitement. The air carries a certain crispness, mingling with the anticipation of what’s to come. This year’s trip to Watches & Wonders 2024 was no different. For anyone passionate about horology, this event is a pilgrimage—a rare chance to see the future of watchmaking unfold.
The halls of Palexpo buzzed with energy as enthusiasts, collectors, and industry insiders converged, all eager to explore the latest innovations in luxury timepieces. It’s a unique feeling to be surrounded by such reverence for craftsmanship, and from the moment we stepped in, it was clear that 2024 would be a good year.
One the first timepieces that captured my attention, the IWC Portugieser Automatic 40 stood out effortlessly. It represents a direct lineage to the original 1939 Reference 325, with its iconic timeless design. The reworked case, featuring double box-glass sapphire crystals, adds a fresh sophistication to its heritage and fits comfortably on the wrist. The way it balanced simplicity with precision—the clean dial paired with the intricacies of the movement created a beautiful harmony of tradition and modern elegance.
There’s a moment when a watch transcends its role as a timepiece and becomes a testament to human craftsmanship—and the Vacheron Constantin Berkley Grand Complication is exactly that. With 63 complications, including a Chinese perpetual calendar, a celestial sky chart, and a triple-axis tourbillon, this masterpiece is a fusion of horological genius and artistic precision. It’s not just about keeping time—it’s about capturing the universe in mechanical form, crafted over 11 years.
In contrast, Hublot’s BIG BANG Integrated Time Only King Gold demanded attention with its bold style and technical prowess. Hublot has never been one to shy away from making a statement, and this piece is no exception. I appreciate that it’s 38mm—it feels more comfortable and understated compared to the larger Big Bang models that are usually too big for my wrist and personal preference. The integration of gold with the rugged, almost industrial design of the Big Bang line created a striking balance between opulence and toughness. It’s a watch that commands presence.
While the big names always draw crowds, one of the more intimate and rewarding parts of the trip was our time at Beau Rivage, where we spent an afternoon with independent watchmakers. Here, the focus shifts from the grand to the personal, and nothing encapsulated this better than our hands-on experience with the De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain. Its dial, achieved through the thermal oxidation of metals, plays with color in a way that feels almost otherworldly, as if the hues themselves are alive.
Beyond the watches, this event is always about connections—meeting up with old friends, exchanging insights, and discussing the latest trends with colleagues. The conversations often veer beyond watches, touching on shared passions, future collaborations, and the ever-evolving landscape of the industry.
As we left Geneva, I couldn’t help but reflect on how Watches & Wonders is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of artistry, a glimpse into the future, and a reminder of why we love this craft. Every watch tells a story, and every trip to Geneva adds another chapter to our own.
