2024 Watches and Wonders

[fsprow]

This was only my second time and I’d be very interested to hear from others who were there, but here are my main observations.

Interest in watches and overall feelings about the markets going forward are very strong.

All the manufacturers, including Rolex, Patek etc. are clearly emphasizing their most expensive lines and modifying them to appeal to very high end customers. Very little use of stainless steel, extensive use of complex dials, gemstones and ultra high finishing are evident.

As regarding Rolex, I find that I was already losing my interest, but that was amplified by what I saw there. Again, they are very interested in moving upscale rather than emphasizing stainless sports watches - while their fine finishing must be much improved if they’re going to compete in that arena.

Finally, Geneva is really expensive!

[Rockeater]

Thanks for sharing the reflections. Forgive the stoopid question, but do any of the manufacturers actually sell watches during the W&W event?

[fsprow]

Originally Posted by Rockeater

Thanks for sharing the reflections. Forgive the stoopid question, but do any of the manufacturers actually sell watches during the W&W event?

I believe the smaller manufacturers do, the larger ones defer to their dealer network. There might be exceptions made if Taylor Swift showed up !!

[Joearch]

OP, thx for the report. Exhibition fairs often feature the more exotic designs. Indication of the design thinking. Fashion shows are the extreme example. I’m guessing Rolex will always sell quite a few SS subs, GMT’s OP’s etc. i did wonder if the new WG Daytona’s with the jeweled bezels are an indicator of future focus.

[PT_91]

Originally Posted by fsprow

I believe the smaller manufacturers do, the larger ones defer to their dealer network. There might be exceptions made if Taylor Swift showed up !!

You mean Gisele B., who was actually there!

[fsprow]

Originally Posted by PT_91

You mean Gisele B., who was actually there!

That’s a big big disappointment since she never invited me to have a drink.

[alphadweller]

Yep, I like the gold VC Overseas three hander with green dial, but at 70k, it's more than what I want to spend on a watch .
I have a gold dress piece, but have no intention of adding another PM watch. I like steel.

[TudorDXB]

Originally Posted by alphadweller

Yep, I like the gold VC Overseas three hander with green dial, but at 70k, it's more than what I want to spend on a watch .
I have a gold dress piece, but have no intention of adding another PM watch. I like steel.

I bet they release the VC Overseas three hander green dial in SS next year

[Bazil]

I would love to have gone, seen plenty videos on it, Jenni Elle, Official Watches and numerous others certainly made it look good ..
At least it’s close to the airport ..
And yes, Geneva is very expensive city but I do enjoy going there ..