WristWatchWire

Charity Auction Set to Shine at Geneva Watch Days 2024

The horological world is gearing up for a philanthropic spectacle as the Geneva Watch Days event prepares to host its second annual charity auction. Scheduled for Sunday, September 1, 2024, at 5:00 pm, the event will unfold in the elegant setting of the main pavilion at the Rotonde du Mont-Blanc. This eagerly anticipated auction, a collaborative effort between Geneva Watch Days and Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, promises to be a highlight of the watchmaking calendar.

At the helm of this charitable endeavor will be the distinguished auctioneer Aurel Bacs, whose gavel will fall not on timepieces, but on an eclectic array of unique objects and experiences. The lots, generously donated by participating watch brands and event partners, span a diverse spectrum of desirable items. Bidders can vie for prized possessions such as sports memorabilia autographed by NBA stars, exquisitely crafted jewelry, miniature Formula 1 helmets, a coveted limited edition Fender Stratocaster guitar, and VIP tickets to top-tier football matches.

The auction’s beneficiary, the Pierre Amstutz Fund, holds particular significance in the watchmaking community. Named in honor of the former director of the Geneva School of Watchmaking, this non-profit organization plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of horological talent. The fund provides essential support to apprentices facing financial hardships, ensuring they can complete their training under optimal conditions. Moreover, it actively promotes the crafts of micromechanics and watchmaking, fosters cohesion within the school, and bridges the gap between alumni and current apprentices.

Antoine Pin, President of the Geneva Watch Days Association, underscored the industry’s commitment to preserving its legacy of craftsmanship. He stated, “The labour market in our industry is tight today: Finding a good watchmaker is sometimes a challenge. We felt it was important to make a concrete effort to ensure that this profession continues to exist and is enriched.”

Echoing this sentiment, Aurel Bacs expressed enthusiasm for the event’s potential impact: “Phillips, in Association with Bacs & Russo, is delighted and honoured to organise this auction on a voluntary basis for the second year in a row. This joint initiative illustrates the dedication of the watch community to the art of watchmaking. We look forward to joining the generosity of the participating brands and Geneva Watch Days partners in supporting the Geneva Watchmaking School. Aspiring watchmakers can thus embark on their first journey to excellence.”

The inaugural auction in 2023 set an impressive benchmark, raising 110,000 Swiss francs for the fund. With heightened anticipation and increased industry participation, organizers are optimistic about surpassing this figure in 2024.

Geneva Watch Days itself has experienced remarkable growth since its inception in 2020. Founded by six prestigious brands – Breitling, Bvlgari, De Bethune, Girard-Perregaux, H. Moser & Cie, and MB&F – the event has now expanded to include over 50 participating brands for the 2024 edition. This growth reflects the industry’s embrace of a more modern, collaborative approach to showcasing horological innovations.

Operating under the patronage of the State and City of Geneva, and with support from key industry bodies including the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services (CCIG), the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH), and the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), the event has established itself as a significant fixture in the watchmaking world. Its unique decentralized format allows brands the flexibility to exhibit their latest creations and iconic timepieces in various locations across Geneva, catering to both industry professionals and enthusiastic members of the public.

As the countdown to the auction begins, watch aficionados, industry insiders, and philanthropists alike are encouraged to register their interest through the Geneva Watch Days website. With its blend of horological passion and charitable purpose, the auction stands as a testament to the watch industry’s commitment to its future and its community.