The Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) is a prestigious annual event that has become synonymous with excellence in the watchmaking industry. Established in 2001, it serves to recognize and celebrate remarkable achievements in horology, much like the “Oscars” do for the film industry.
Founding and Evolution: The GPHG was founded as a non-profit foundation aimed at promoting the art of watchmaking globally. Initially organized by the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry, it became a registered public interest organization in 2011. The foundation is overseen by the Canton and City of Geneva, and it has expanded its scope over the years to include a wide range of categories that reflect the diversity and complexity of contemporary watchmaking.
The 2024 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) recently concluded in Geneva, celebrating the finest achievements in watchmaking. This prestigious event recognized a variety of exceptional timepieces across multiple categories, culminating in the highly coveted Aiguille d’Or award.
Major Winners
Aiguille d’Or
Winner: IWC Schaffhausen, Portugieser Eternal Calendar
The Portugieser Eternal Calendar stands out for its remarkable technical achievement, featuring a perpetual calendar that remains accurate until the year 3999 and a moon phase that lasts for an astonishing 45 million years. This win highlights IWC’s commitment to innovation in horology, despite its established status as a mass-market brand.
Aiguille d’Or Winner: IWC Schaffhausen, Portugieser Eternal Calendar
Audacity Prize
Winner: Berneron, Mirage Sienna
Sylvain Berneron’s debut watch, the Mirage Sienna, has captured the attention of enthusiasts and critics alike. This innovative piece showcases Berneron’s unique vision and craftsmanship, marking a significant entry into the independent watchmaking scene.
Revelation Prize
Winner: Rémy Cools, Tourbillon Atelier
At just 27 years old, Rémy Cools has emerged as a prominent figure in independent watchmaking. His Tourbillon Atelier has been recognized for its exceptional design and craftsmanship, positioning him as a leading talent in the industry.
Special Jury Prize
Winner: Jean-Pierre Hagmann
The legendary Jean-Pierre Hagmann received this award as a recognition of his lifetime contributions to watchmaking. At 83 years old, Hagmann’s legacy includes crafting cases for some of the most prestigious brands in horology.
Sports Watch
Winner: Ming, 37.09 Bluefin
Ming’s 37.09 Bluefin redefines the dive watch genre with its modern aesthetics and technical excellence. This win solidifies Ming’s status as a serious contender in the luxury watch market.
Tourbillon
Winner: Daniel Roth, Tourbillon Souscription
Revived by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, this tourbillon showcases intricate design and high-quality craftsmanship, making it a standout in this category.
Calendar and Astronomy
Winner: Laurent Ferrier, Classic Moon Silver
This timepiece signifies Laurent Ferrier’s ongoing commitment to quality and innovation, featuring an elegant design combined with astronomical functions.
Men’s Watch
Winner: Voutilainen, KV20i Reversed
The KV20i Reversed takes a bold approach by showcasing movement components instead of a traditional dial, highlighting Voutilainen’s meticulous craftsmanship.
Men’s Watch Winner: Voutilainen, KV20i Reversed
Additional Winners of the GPHG 2024
In addition to the major awards, several other timepieces were recognized:
- Challenge Watch Prize: Otsuka Lotec, No.6
- Eco-innovation Prize: Chopard, L.U.C Qualité Fleurier
- Chronometry Prize: Bernhard Lederer, 3 Times Certified Observatory Chronometer
- Iconic Watch Prize: Piaget, Piaget Polo 79
- Mechanical Exception Watch Prize: Bovet 1822, Récital 28 Prowess 1
- Chronograph Watch Prize: Massena Lab, Chronograph Monopoussoir Sylvain Pinaud x Massena Lab
- Men’s Complication Watch Prize: De Bethune, DB Kind Of Grande Complication
- Time Only Watch Prize: H. Moser & Cie, Streamliner Small Seconds Blue Enamel
- Jewellery Watch Prize: Chopard, Laguna High-Jewellery Secret Watch
- Artistic Crafts Watch Prize: Van Cleef & Arpels, Lady Arpels Jour Enchanté
- Ladies’ Complication Watch Prize: Van Cleef & Arpels, Lady Arpels Brise d’Été
- Ladies’ Watch Prize: Van Cleef & Arpels, Lady Jour Nuit
- “Petite Aiguille” Watch Prize: Kudoke, 3 Salmon
The GPHG continues to serve as an essential platform for recognizing both established brands and emerging talents in the world of horology.