The Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève is the watch worlds Oscar. Every year the best watches are selected in many different categories, and a first place or even a nomination can be regarded as a honour and commercially very interesting event. Watch buyers love winners.
As a member of the GPHG Academy I had the opportunity to give my votes in all categories, and together with my fellow members votes this first round led to the nominee list, which can be found on the GPHG website. Going through the voting process is a remarkable horological journey, as the range of nominees is widespread, from start-up micro brands to established high complications and haute joaillerie. I must admit that I met new models and even brands that I wasn’t aware of.
Based on the nominated timepieces I selected 5 watches that sparked my interest and desire. Here they are:
Daniel Roth Tourbillon Souscription
I would potentially sell my house for this stunner. Daniel Roth is one of the first independent watchmakers of the modern age, and in the 1990’s his landmark case shape and traditional watchmaking skills brought him to fame. After the take-over by Bulgari the magic left the brand slowly but surely, until last year, when a remake of the original Tourbillon was announced. An amazing watch, that will be made in a series of 20 at CHF 140,000 each.
Berneron Mirage Sienna
Spaceone Tellurium
I had the pleasure of trying the SpaceOne Tellurium already earlier this year, and this futuristic looking titanium astronomical watch is the brainchild of French watchmaker Theo Auffret and entrepreneur Guillaime Laidet. The tellerium is build on a Soprod P024 movement and delivers a great view under the domed sapphire crystal. A highly innovative watch for a very attractive price: only CHF 2,900…
Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Split Seconds Chronograph
The revival of Parmigiani since 2020 has not gone un-noted. Under the helm of CEO Guido Terreni the brand launched the Tonda PF and managed to create a great, well-balanced design language. With the relaunch of the Topic range the next step was taken. The original Toric from the 1990’s is one of my all-time favourite designs. These fresh 2024 looks, with the addition of my favourite complication the split-second chronograph, made it impossible to ignore this piece for my Top 5.
Furlan Marri Perpetual One
Last and certainly not least, the Furlan Marri Perpetual One completes my Top 5. Last year the young brand launched the one-off perpetual calendar for Only Watch, and I was eagerly waiting for the regular model. Here it is: A patented perpetual calendar complication that stands out in simplicity, as it consists of only 21 components. Combined with the beautiful looks and the (slightly) below CHF 10,000 price tag this watch is a winner. And my favorite.
