The highly anticipated 2025 edition of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) world tour kicked off yesterday in Shanghai, with the iconic Bund 33 serving as a stunning backdrop for the exhibition’s launch. Running until October 8, the showcase features 84 nominated watches and six mechanical clocks vying for top honors this year.
In collaboration with Hantang Culture, the event showcases over 50 prestigious brands, presenting a curated display that pays homage to the Chinese cyclical understanding of time. This year’s exhibition is not just a highlight of watchmaking artistry but also commemorates 75 years of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland.
“For more than two decades, Hantang Culture has evolved alongside the fine watchmaking industry,” remarked Jessica Yu, Founder and President of Hantang Culture. Hosting the GPHG in Shanghai, she described it as both a “cultural rediscovery” and “a powerful statement of renewed confidence within the industry.”
Raymond Loretan, President of the GPHG Foundation, emphasized the significance of China as a key player in the global watch market. “Launching our world tour in Shanghai holds special importance,” he stated, expressing gratitude to Hantang Culture for bridging the worlds of Swiss watchmaking and Chinese time concepts.
Following its Shanghai debut, the exhibition will make its way to Istanbul for the first time from October 15 to 20. Afterward, it will transition to Geneva’s Musée d’Art et d’Histoire from October 29 to November 16. The prestigious awards ceremony is set for November 13 in Geneva, marking the 25th iteration of the GPHG and will be broadcast live on gphg.org at 6 p.m. CET. The winning timepieces will then be showcased at Dubai Watch Week from November 19 to 23.
This year’s GPHG spotlights 90 nominated creations competing for 20 awards, including the coveted “Aiguille d’Or” Grand Prix. The exhibition not only highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of contemporary horology but also serves as a fascinating cultural bridge spanning both East and West—who knew time could be such an art form?
What is the significance of the GPHG world tour starting in Shanghai?
The tour’s Shanghai launch highlights China’s dynamic market and its growing influence in the global watch industry, marking a cultural exchange between Swiss craftsmanship and Chinese perspectives.
How many nominated pieces are featured in this year’s GPHG?
This year, the GPHG has gathered 90 nominated timepieces competing for 20 prestigious awards.
When will the awards ceremony take place, and where?
The awards ceremony will be held in Geneva on November 13, coinciding with the 25th edition of the GPHG, and will be broadcast live for global watch enthusiasts to tune in.
