Watchmaking, known as the Twelfth Art, is an extraordinary fusion of ingenuity and craftsmanship that continues to inspire fascination worldwide. Yet, until now, it has never had a universal day of recognition, despite its inscription on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2020.
Set to become an annual event, World Watch Day is more than a symbolic date. The choice of 10 October reflects the timeless 10:10 display on watch dials — a quiet emblem of balance, beauty, and joy in the world of horology. From East to West, the first edition will unfold online across time zones, weaving together contributions from media outlets, associations, collectors’ clubs, and creators. Discussions and features will span every dimension of watchmaking, from cultural heritage to contemporary design, encompassing science, sport, economics, and art.
To guide the initiative, a dedicated non-profit association has been founded, bringing together leading voices of the watch world, including the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, The Watch Library Foundation, Horopedia, Horological Society of New York, Hantang Culture, Europa Star, Le Figaro and Arc Horloger. Open and inclusive by design, the association invites anyone with a passion for horology to participate.
The founding members see the day as both a tribute and a call to action. “World Watch Day is more than just a date — it’s a tribute to everything that makes watchmaking extraordinary,” says Marc André Deschoux, founder of Horopedia. “It’s about the hands that shape each piece, the knowledge passed down from generation to generation, and the urgency we feel to preserve this legacy.”
Jessica Yu, founder and president of Hantang Culture, adds: “I’m deeply honoured to be one of the founding members of the World Watch Day initiative. The image of watch hands pointing to 10:10 is a perfect symbol of harmony and precision in horological craftsmanship. Eastern philosophy teaches us that time is not just a measurement — it is the rhythm of the universe.”
For Martine Depresle, co-founder and CEO of The Watch Library Foundation, the launch represents a milestone: “Watchmaking heritage is built on defining moments — turning points that accelerate history and deepen our passion for time. October 10, 2025, marks one such moment.”
On 10 October, the world will finally come together to honour the craft of time. Join the celebration at worldwatchday.org.
