Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025 welcomed over 55 000 visitors throughout the week – a 12 per cent increase over last year – confirming its growing appeal as the world’s premier watchmaking event. Public days and the popular “In The City” programme drew impressive crowds, highlighting modern horology’s dynamic, inclusive spirit.
The numbers speak volumes: 6 000 retailer representatives (+5 per cent), 1 600 journalists (+7 per cent), and 23 000 public day ticket holders (+21 per cent) converged in Geneva, supported by 43 000 hotel room nights (+17 per cent) and 12 000 retail meetings (+21 per cent). The energy was palpable.
Cyrille Vigneron, President of the Watches and Wonders Geneva Foundation, commented: “Watches and Wonders has established itself not only as a must-attend inter-professional event but also as a platform for expression for the watchmaking maisons. The event gives each of them the opportunity to visually express their own universe, to see and wear beautiful creations, and to share a common passion. Media, medium and mediator.”
This spirit of expression was reflected in a wave of compelling new launches, from heritage tributes to standout updates to iconic collections. Women’s watches, particularly in the jewellery segment, took centre stage. Reduced case sizes, bold textures, vibrant colours, and the continued rise of skeletonised movements underscored the industry’s blend of elegance and technical prowess – setting new world records.
The star power was equally impressive, with Simone Ashley, Usain Bolt, Roger Federer, Carl Lewis and Hans Zimmer spotted on-site. Online, the #watchesandwonders2025 hashtag reached an estimated 700 million people, fuelled by content from exhibiting brands, influencers, and media.
The event also resonated deeply with younger audiences. Nearly 10 000 young people engaged with the craft through Salon visits, school excursions, vocational workshops, and SwissSkills 2025 qualifications – an inspiring glimpse into watchmaking’s future.
Finally, the “In The City” initiative transformed Geneva into a festive stage for horology. Sold-out workshops, school visits, and the buzzing Watchmaking Village culminated in Thursday night’s boutique activations and the Bon Entendeur concert, uniting crowds of all ages in celebration.
Watches and Wonders 2025 is a testament to Swiss watchmaking’s enduring allure and boundless momentum.