Well, it happened. Just as I predicted in my article last week – Watches & Wonders Geneva has been cancelled for this year due to the COVID-19 virus.
While I am sad about the fact that I will not be able to see the novelties from the Richemont Group and other brands this year, I am well aware of the fact that the safety of attendees is important. It is a good decision to take despite it being a hard one.
I have heard that some brands have started to make alternative arrangements, with tightly controlled and small scale events that will be done locally in the various countries.
No word yet on whether Baselworld will follow suit. But as I said before, I think that it is only a matter of time and probably the most responsible thing to do.
See below for the full press release:
27th Feb 2020
Watches & Wonders Geneva cancels its upcoming edition initially planned from April 25th to 29th 2020
In view of the latest developments concerning the worldwide spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, it is the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie’s duty, as organizer of Watches & Wonders Geneva, to anticipate the potential risks that travels and important international gatherings could entail.
Therefore, in order to protect the health and wellbeing of all our guests, press, partners and teams, the decision has been taken to cancel the upcoming edition of Watches & Wonders Geneva (formerly known as the SIHH) and its ‘In the City’ program, initially due to take place in Geneva from April 25th to 29th 2020.
The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie understands the disappointment this year’s cancelation may cause, and remains at the disposal of its partners and guests for any queries they may have.
The FHH is already working on the organization of 2021 edition of Watches & Wonders Geneva.
