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The 2026 edition of Watches & Wonders Geneva 2026 came to an end with historic figures and confirmed the current strength of the global watch industry. For one week, Geneva once again brought together brands, collectors, specialized media, retailers, and clients from different markets at the most important event on the annual calendar.
According to the organizers, the salon welcomed nearly 60,000 unique visitors, with 25,000 tickets sold during the public days. It also hosted 1,750 accredited journalists and more than 6,000 retailers. Beyond the fairgrounds, the city itself played a major role, with thousands of people attending side events, concerts, presentations, and special activities throughout the week.
International visibility also grew significantly. The event reached close to 900 million people across media and social platforms, driven by major launches, broad global coverage, and the presence of well-known names such as Roger Federer, Jannik Sinner, George Russell, and Patrick Dempsey.
From a watchmaking perspective, several themes stood out this year. There was a clear presence of smaller cases, ultra-thin watches, skeletonized movements, and references inspired by classic design. Many brands also leaned toward more versatile pieces, moving away from traditional men’s and women’s categories. Color played a stronger role across collections, while titanium, steel, and ceramic remained among the most prominent materials.
Among complications, chronographs and perpetual calendars held a central place. The tourbillon kept its usual appeal, while métiers d’art once again featured prominently in several presentations.
Another notable point was how far the event now extends beyond the salon itself. Watches and Wonders is no longer limited to the exhibition halls. It is now experienced across the city, through boutiques, cultural spaces, and activations designed to introduce watchmaking to new audiences.
For WA Magazine, being present once again meant following the launches closely, meeting with brands, and seeing firsthand where the industry is heading. The fair is over, but many of the releases unveiled this week will shape the watch conversation throughout the year.
