Geneva Watch Days is one of the most prominent annual watch events, created in 2020 by a coalition of luxury watch brands like Breitling, Bulgari, MB&F H. Moser & Cie and Girard-Perregaux after the dissolution of Baselworld. Unlike conventional trade shows, it offers a more flexible and intimate format, where enthusiasts, collectors and journalists can interact closely with brands. This year’s edition ran from August 29 to September 1, bringing together over 40 brands, from iconic names to rising independents. Here are some of the releases that caught our eye!
Laurent Ferrier Serie Atèlier VI
The Serie Atèlier VI by Laurent Ferrier is a classic beauty, featuring a smooth opaline dial and the brand’s signature micro-rotor movement. Its understated elegance lies in its focus on a clean, minimalist design that pays homage to traditional watchmaking while incorporating contemporary elements like a polished steel case.
Girard-Perregaux Three Bridges Tourbillon
Girard-Perregaux presents the Three Bridges Tourbillon, a masterclass in architectural design. The watch features the iconic design of three bridges which was released in 1867, almost 160 years ago. Made of sapphire, the design allows light to penetrate the dial and reveal its intricate mechanics. This timepiece is the epitome of art and engineering, with a hand-finished tourbillon carriage that is lightweight yet robust.
Alpina Extreme Skeleton
Alpina’s Extreme Skeleton is crafted for the adventurer, with its skeletonised dial exposing the finely tuned automatic movement. The rugged design is complemented by a PVD-coated case to withstand the harshest conditions. The red accents on the hands and markers enhance readability and add a bold flair to the overall design.
Armin Strom Dual Time GMT
The Dual Time GMT by Armin Strom caters to world travellers with a unique combination of dual time zones and a power reserve indicator. The intricate movement is visible through the open-worked dial, highlighting the watch’s high level of craftsmanship. The model blends functionality and aesthetics, showcasing a sleek case and hand-polished bridges.
Bulgari Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater Carbon
Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater Carbon pushes the limits of ultra-thin watchmaking. It features a lightweight carbon fibre case and a titanium dial that enhances the acoustic properties of the minute repeater. The design maintains a balance between modern materials and traditional horological complications.
Breitling Super Chronomat, Navitimer, and Premier
Celebrating its 140th anniversary, the brand has presented a brand-new movement caliber B19. Breitling brings three iconic models to the forefront this year. The Super Chronomat is rugged and versatile, featuring a ceramic bezel and chronograph function. The Navitimer remains a pilot’s favourite, retaining its distinctive slide rule bezel. The Premier collection offers a refined look with vintage-inspired dials and sleek cases, catering to those who appreciate classic design elements with a modern twist.
Spotlight on Independent Brands
Independent brands made a strong statement this year. Czapek’s Antarctique S combines a sporty look with fine watchmaking, featuring an in-house automatic calibre with a 60-hour power reserve. De Bethune introduces the DB28 XP Meteorite, a limited edition of only 10 pieces that continues the cosmic themes, which have been explored through its timepieces in recent years. Furlan Marri made their presence felt with the Chronograph Sector, inspired by vintage timepieces and featuring a hand-wound mechanical movement. These brands continue to redefine the norms of traditional watchmaking, blending unique materials and innovative designs.
