The Show closed its doors on Monday, April 15, 2024 on a very positive note. Beyond the ever-increasing number of visitors, ticket sales and exhibitors, the event highlighted the unity of an industry driven by the same spirit of sharing, excellence and expertise. The opening of the show to the public and the extension to the city center were key factors in its success.
The Watches and Wonders show in Geneva closed its doors on April 15, 2024, marking one of the most dynamic and participatory editions in the event's history. In addition to growing attendance, with tickets sold and the number of exhibitors on the rise, the event shined in its ability to unite an entire industry under the values of sharing, excellence and expertise.
This year, the show welcomed more than 49,000 visitors, registering a 14 percent increase over 2023. The number includes 5,700 retailers and 1,500 journalists, who were able to explore the new products offered by the 54 watch brands present, spread over two levels. Programmable events, such as product presentations, guided tours and workshops, sold out from the first day, demonstrating lively and consistent interest.
The event's popularity was further underscored by the presence of celebrities such as Gisele Bündchen, Coco Gauff, and Kylian Mbappé, whose moments at the show went viral on social media, contributing to an impressive media coverage estimated at more than 600 million. The success was not limited to media visibility; trade also showed signs of vitality, with a 25 percent increase in appointments with retailers and significant growth in orders placed by end customers. The hashtag #watchesandwonders2024 dominated social media, reflecting the public's enthusiasm and interaction with the event.
On the design and trends front, the show clearly outlined future directions for watchmaking: from a return to more classic, unisex designs, the use of bright colors and interchangeable bracelets, to the continued exploration of grand complications and the integration of watchmaking engineering and the decorative arts.
Watches and Wonders extended its influence beyond the confines of the show, with activities involving the entire city of Geneva, including an evening party that saw the boutiques stay open late and a concert by Lost Frequencies that transformed the quayside into an outdoor festival. This year's event not only set a record for attendance but also strengthened its role as a leading platform for innovation in the watch industry, continuing to attract and inspire a new generation of enthusiasts, with 25 percent of tickets sold to young people under 25.
In conclusion, Watches and Wonders Geneva 2024 proved to be much more than just a watch fair; it is a meeting point for the celebration of the art of watchmaking, a place where tradition and innovation meet to define the future of time.
