Why We Need Watches and Wonders
Watches and Wonders 2023 is in full swing in Geneva, Switzerland, and leading up to the event, I heard arguments for and against the importance of the Watches and Wonders and similar shows. Events like these are essential, especially for newer watch enthusiasts. My list of reasons why the show is imperative is subjective, but if considered, it provides insight into why these brand showcases matter and provide value. Often the value is less in the timepieces showcased and more in what occurs inside and outside the event.
According to the Watches and Wonders website, forty-eight brands are currently exhibiting in Geneva. That is a large group of brands, most entry-level luxury and above, putting out some of their best and newest wares. If one attends the event, the ability to handle what these brands offer is a return on investment for some planning and travel on the enthusiast’s part. The first day of the event is for the “industry,” but the other two days are open to the public. It sounds like two days of experiencing some awesome watch stuff.
Like anything in life, opportunities are what you make of them. The chance to network at an event like Watches and Wonders cannot be overstated between the brands presenting, media and content creators, and fellow enthusiasts attending. Even those of us not attending will benefit from the networking in our absence. We will benefit from creators and the like producing content around the event for quite a while after it concludes. From lists to likes and dislikes, hot takes, etc., some of our favorite personalities will network and give us the stuff to read, view, and listen to for months.
We have touched on the byproducts of various trade shows, etc., but my favorite part of any show is the trends that get a jump start. Metals, colorways, movements, you name it, something will capture the imagination of the watch enthusiast space and fan out amongst other brands. Some of the “takes” will be to my taste, and some will not. Ultimately, that is not the point. I enjoy that some of the risks the exhibiting brand attempt can influence the rest of the market. For a newer watch enthusiast, it is crucial to know where influences originate.
I have yet to have the opportunity to attend Watches and Wonders. Still, I attended WindUp NYC in 2022, significantly expanding my understanding of the watch industry and enthusiast space. While it is not in the books for everyone to attend physically, it is essential to understand the overall importance of these events to the industry and the hobby we love. They allow watch brands to showcase new items, us to interact, and ultimately chew the fat about what was released at the show. Lastly, they can influence what we will see from other brands. For me, these reasons equal a net plus.
