Geneva recently played host to the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), a prestigious event often called the “Oscars of Watchmaking.” This annual gathering sees the who’s who of the luxury watch world voting on the standout timepieces of the year. For 2024, the winners were a testament to both technical brilliance and the kind of creative flair one expects in this high-stakes industry.
The top honor, the Aiguille d’Or, went to IWC Schaffhausen’s Portugieser Eternal Calendar. This watch is not just a testament to craftsmanship but a marvel in longevity, boasting a moonphase accurate for 45 million years and calendar indications that will remain precise until 3999. It was a showstopper at the Watches & Wonders event earlier this year, cementing its place as a favorite among enthusiasts.
Adding a touch of opulence to the list of winners, the Piaget Polo 79 made waves. Reviving a classic design, this iconic piece is forged from 200 grams of yellow gold. Although it nods to history, the Polo 79 is all about contemporary elegance, showcasing Piaget’s knack for blending the old with the new.
Chopard’s offerings also caught eyes, with the L.U.C Qualité Fleurier winning the Eco-Innovation prize. Made with 80% recycled Lucent steel, it reflects Chopard’s commitment to sustainable luxury. This watch proves that style and environmental consciousness can go hand in hand, a vital message in today’s industry.
The Audacity prize went to Berneron’s Mirage Sienna, a piece more akin to an art installation than a typical wristwatch. With its asymmetrical case and dial, it seems to draw inspiration from Salvador Dalí rather than traditional horology. It’s the kind of bold move that keeps the watch industry vibrant and unpredictable.
Not to be overlooked, the Daniel Roth Tourbillon Souscription captured the Tourbillon Watch Prize, a category known for highlighting the craft’s intricacies. Equally enchanting was the Rémy Cools Tourbillon Atelier, which received the Horological Revelation prize, celebrating fresh perspectives in watch design.
These awards not only put the spotlight on luxury watchmakers but also push the boundaries of what’s possible in horology. Each piece on the winner’s list carries a story of innovation and passion, resonating with collectors and enthusiasts across the globe.
While the buzz in Geneva is palpable, it remains to be seen how many of these award-winning creations will find their way into Middle Eastern markets. The region, known for its love of luxury and innovation, certainly seems like a fertile ground for these masterpieces. Yet, for now, enthusiasts in the Middle East will have to keep their eyes peeled for when these watches might make an appearance closer to home.