Vietnam to Host Prestigious Watch Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) Exhibition for the First Time
Ho Chi Minh City will soon become the center of attention for watch enthusiasts as it prepares to host the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) Exhibition. This marks the first time Vietnam has been chosen as a venue for this esteemed event, often referred to as the “Oscars” of the watchmaking industry.
The exhibition, organized in collaboration with luxury watch retailer The Hour Glass, is scheduled to take place on October 10th and 11th at the historic Saigon Opera House. This iconic venue, known for its Greek-Roman architecture, will serve as the backdrop for displaying the nominated timepieces.
Vietnam’s inclusion in the GPHG Exhibition circuit places it alongside major global cities such as New York, Geneva, and Bucharest. It also distinguishes Ho Chi Minh City as the sole Southeast Asian host this year, following Kuala Lumpur’s participation in 2023.
Tran Thanh Hai, General Manager of The Hour Glass Vietnam, emphasized the significance of the event: “Selecting Ho Chi Minh City reaffirms the city’s importance in the watchmaking world, aligning with The Hour Glass’ mission to advance watch culture and offer enthusiasts access to extraordinary watches.”
The GPHG, established in 2001, is a non-profit foundation dedicated to celebrating and promoting the art of watchmaking worldwide. The 24th edition of the awards ceremony will take place on November 13th at the Théâtre du Léman in Geneva, Switzerland.
This year’s GPHG features 90 nominated watches, with pre-selected nominations to be announced on August 27th. The GPHG Academy, comprising 970 members from various sectors of the watch industry, is responsible for selecting eligible models and determining the winners.
The exhibition in Ho Chi Minh City follows the Hong Kong leg, which runs from September 28th to 30th. After Vietnam, the exhibition will continue its global tour, stopping in New York, Geneva, and Bucharest.
For watch enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, the GPHG Exhibition at the Saigon Opera House presents a unique opportunity to view some of the world’s most exceptional timepieces in a setting that blends historical architecture with horological innovation.
As Vietnam takes its place on the international stage of haute horlogerie, this event not only showcases the country’s growing importance in the luxury watch market but also offers a glimpse into the intricate world of high-end watchmaking for local audiences.
For more information, visit TheHourGlass.com and GPHG.org.
