Time keeps on ticking
Despite the pandemic, Watches and Wonders 2021 was a resounding success. Let’s narrow down the best timepieces from the trade show
One of the biggest trade shows of the international jewelry and chronometer industry, Watches and Wonders, had just concluded. Formerly known as the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), the trade fair organized by the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH) adapted to the changing times by going digital in 2020.
Because of COVID-19, two of the largest trade shows Baselworld and Watches and Wonders were forced to cancel their physical events last year. Considering how essential it is to see and feel the wrist-worn objets d’art, the disruption did not bid well for the luxury watch market. The former exhibition, in particular, was dealt with a huge blow with what was called the “Rolexit.” Eight Swiss brands, including Rolex, parted with MCH Groups’ exhibition and joined FHH instead.
Back to the present, Watches and Wonders 2021 was a huge hit with its dual celebration of online and physical editions this month. As it had ceremoniously done since 1991, the gathering connected enthusiasts, connoisseurs, collectors, experts, and leading names and brands in the world of luxury timepieces. The online component was recorded in Geneva and streamed on the official website watchesandwonders.com beginning early April. One can visit the site to view the digital presentations and catalogs any time.
Overall, nearly 400 new releases were unveiled online, 500 press conferences were conducted, and 300 presentations to retailers and some 600 one-to-one appointments were made in over 20 languages.
Meanwhile, the in-person observance took place at the West Bund Art Center in Shanghai. Strictly following health and safety measures, 19 brands participated in the exhibition where participants got to enjoy the unveiling of new creations, workbench demonstrations, talks, interactive experiences, and other innovations in the luxury watch market.
With horology experts and media practitioners coming up with their lists of the hottest watches from the trade fair, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle collated the top three timepieces that appeared several times among various recommendations.
Slim d’Hermès C’est la Fête
Whatever Hermès comes up with turns out to be a headturner or a conversation piece or, at the very least, a wait list-worthy hot item. Time to this luxury leather goods purveyor is at once serious business, sacred concept, and a playful piece of art. Its timepieces have won lavish praise. Among the offerings of the storied French house at this month’s Watch and Wonders, which included the Faubourg Polka and the Arceau Pocket Aaaaargh, was its white gold-framed Slim d’Hermès C’est la Fête watch.
Created by longtime Hermès designer Philippe Apeloig, it is a humorous reinterpretation in blue and bronze/russet tones of the whimsical and mischievous universe of the C’est la Fête silk scarf designed by Japanese designer and illustrator Daiske Nomura.
Other than a showcase of time, the watch is an expression of Hermès expertise, a testament to the skillful workmanship of the house’s enamellers and engravers, and a demonstration of its longstanding commitment to craft and métiers d’art. The miniature paillonné artistry revealed in the Slim d’Hermès C’est la Fête watch is a study in rigorous discipline and subtle balance, perfect for those who want to spend their time with a little magic and a lot of whimsy.
A gentleman’s choice of timepiece says as much about him as does his Saville Row suit. —Ian Fleming