Horology Forum

A key issue facing the watch sector is how best to preserve the in-depth knowledge in horological movements and other vital areas of expertise within this traditional industry. In 2012, Greubel Forsey and Philippe Dufour launched a program that preserves the art of watchmaking for the next generation. This panel highlights the need for knowledge transfer and innovation among future watchmakers.

Moderated by Marc André Deschoux, Founder, Watches TV

Confirmed Speakers

Philippe Dufour, Independent Watchmaker
Stephen Forsey, Co-Founder, Greubel Forsey

How has technology impacted innovation and design in the watch industry? Is watchmaking still heavily dependent on traditional means (hand-made) or is the industry shifting toward automated manufacturing? How has the use of innovative materials and elements driven new demand and appreciation for timepieces?

Moderated by Ian Skellern, Technical Editor, Quill & Pad

Confirmed Speakers
Jean-Marc Wiederrecht, Owner and CEO of Agenhor
Marc Andre Deshoux, Founder, Watches TV
Vincent Perriard, CEO, HYT

Increasingly, auctions provide the opportunity to source rare, difficult-to-find watches from some of the world’s most discerning collectors. Join this panel to learn more about watch provenance, how to benefit from the expertise of auction houses, and the particulars of buying watches through the secondary market.

Moderated by Aurel Bacs, President, Bacs & Russo, and President of the Jury, Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève

Confirmed Speakers
Auro Montanari, Watch Collector, Author & Publisher, and Advisor at Phillips
Claude Sfeir, Expert and watch collector
William Rohr, Managing Director, Timezone.com Managing Director Consultant, Bonhams Auctioneers

How does the rapidly developing social media sector affect brands, sales and marketing, especially in the watch industry? In this panel, we explore the influence of social and digital media and its impact on the global luxury retail industry.

Moderated by Alexander Friedman, Co-Founder, Watchonista

Confirmed Speakers
Christophe Nicasie, CBDO, Seddiqi Holding
Maximilian Busser, Owner & Creative Director, MB&F
Roberto Mararo, CEO and Designer, Mararo
Su Jia Xian, Founder, SJX

Back in 1996, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard, founded Chopard Manufacture in Fleurier, realizing his vision of a vertically integrated company. Today, Chopard Manufacture is indeed capable of making watches from the conception to the finished models. The mastery of the numerous professions involved throughout the process of development and production along with the resulting high level of vertical integration, fully entitles Chopard to the rare and enviable status of a genuine manufacture.

Moderated by Sandra Lane, Founder & Editorial Director, àMano
For:
Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard

9:00 to 10:00 - Registration

Family businesses have been at the heart of the watch industry for centuries. We explore the brands that have made major contributions to the watch industry through their legacy, heritage and the art of building their brands.

Moderated by by Aurel Bacs, President, Bacs & Russo, and President of the Jury, Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève

Confirmed Speakers
Edouard Meylan, CEO, H. Moser & CIE
Pascal Raffy, President, Bovet Fleurier

In a very tough and traditional market, brands can easily lose their identity and purpose. Jean-Claude Biver is a man whose vision and passion has transformed brands into some of the most globally recognized names. Join this panel to hear his personal and professional insights as one of the watch sector’s most respected leaders.

Moderated by Eileen Wallis, Managing Partner, The Portsmouth Group
For:
Jean-Claude Biver, President, LVMH Watch Division
Chairman of Board, Hublot
CEO Tag Heuer

Every rebel has a story – especially in watchmaking. These are the stories of their daring adventures, of their creativity and breaking centuries of tradition. Learn how independent watchmakers have created a niche and earned their reputation as the rebels of horology.

Confirmed Speakers
Edouard Meylan, CEO, H. Moser & CIE
Felix Baumgartner, Co-Founder and master watchmaker
Maximilian Busser, Owner & Creative Director, MB&F
Vincent Perriard, CEO, HYT

Throughout the history of watchmaking, there have been many famous collectors, including royalty, dignitaries and celebrities. This panel explores the most celebrated collectors over the past 100 years, their preferences, and how their tastes have helped evolve the watch industry into the present day.