The highly anticipated Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025 officially opened its doors at Palexpo-Geneva on 1st of April. The inauguration ceremony gathered key figures from Switzerland’s political, economic, and horological spheres, including Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin and the CEOs of all 60 exhibiting brands.
Councillor Parmelin, head of the Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research, emphasized the strength of Switzerland’s dual education system, calling it a cornerstone of the nation’s competitiveness. “It benefits directly the watchmaking industry, that combines tradition and spirit of innovation,” he remarked, stressing the importance of evolving professional training to sustain the country's role as a leader in innovation.
Councillor Parmelin, head of the Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research, emphasized the strength of Switzerland’s dual education system, calling it a cornerstone of the nation’s competitiveness. “It benefits directly the watchmaking industry, that combines tradition and spirit of innovation,” he remarked, stressing the importance of evolving professional training to sustain the country's role as a leader in innovation.
Cyrille Vigneron, President of the Watches and Wonders Geneva Foundation, echoed this sentiment, underlining the industry’s passion and commitment to excellence. “We believe that our passion for the extraordinary should be shared as broadly as possible,” he stated. “The salon is a wonderful expression of that passion, by revealing the vibrant living tradition of watchmaking.”
The event also featured a contemporary artistic touch with an AI-powered installation by Stéphane Galienni, co-founder of Balistik Art, highlighting the growing synergy between artificial intelligence, creativity, and culture.
The ceremony concluded with a symbolic ribbon-cutting, uniting official dignitaries and brand leaders in a shared celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and the timeless allure of fine watchmaking.
The ceremony concluded with a symbolic ribbon-cutting, uniting official dignitaries and brand leaders in a shared celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and the timeless allure of fine watchmaking.
watchesandwonders.com
