GPHG 2024: An Evening of Horology Full of Stories, People, and Masterpieces

On November 13, 2024, the elite of horology gathered at the Théâtre du Léman in Geneva to honor the most outstanding watches of the year at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). The elegant Carole Bouquet, French actress and former Chanel No. 5 ambassador, hosted the event. With her charming and humorous style, she created a special atmosphere that made the evening unforgettable.

An Extraordinary Host: Carole Bouquet

Carole Bouquet opened the gala with an anecdote about her personal relationship with time and perfection, which made the audience smile and immediately created a familiar atmosphere. Throughout the evening, she skillfully played with the emotions and stories of the attending watchmakers and presenters, making the event feel lively and human. Her charming way of occasionally engaging with the watches and guests personally gave the ceremony a touch of intimacy and appreciation for the art of watchmaking.

The Highlights of the Evening

Aiguille d’Or Grand Prix: The evening’s top prize, the “Aiguille d’Or,” went to IWC for their iconic Perpetual Calendar. Chris Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC, received the trophy and spoke about how this perpetual calendar symbolizes consistency and an eternal connection to time. His words, that this watch would endure through generations, earned enthusiastic applause, and Carole Bouquet humorously remarked that this watch would surely be an “heirloom for eternity.”

 

 

Mechanical Exception Watch Prize: The “Récital 28 Prowess 1” by Bovet 1822 won in the mechanical exception watch category. President Pascal Raffy explained how Bovet has always maintained a poetic connection between technology and art, and that this watch is, for him, the ultimate piece of craftsmanship. Bouquet described the watch as “almost magical” and added that she could feel the mix of technology and poetry that Bovet had captured in this creation.

 

 

Men’s Watch Prize: The “KV20i Reversed” by Kari Voutilainen won the Men’s Watch category. Voutilainen, known for his traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail, spoke in his acceptance speech about the importance of authenticity and the responsibility to pass these traditions on to the younger generation. His words about the significance of time and quality touched the audience, and Carole Bouquet thanked him with an acknowledgment of his dedication to the art of watchmaking.

 

Petite Aiguille Watch Prize: In the “Petite Aiguille” category, Kudoke won with the “3 Salmon.” Founders Ev and Stefan Kudoke, whose down-to-earth personalities immediately won the hearts of the audience, accepted the prize in person. Stefan Kudoke joked that it was the watch itself that had shaped him – a moment that caused laughter. The closeness of the couple to their work and their team was palpable in every gesture, which was met with resounding applause.

 

Ladies’ Watch, Ladies’ Complication, and Artistic Crafts Watch Prizes: Van Cleef & Arpels swept several categories, including Ladies’ and Ladies’ Complication Watches as well as the Artistic Crafts prize. Eric de Rocquigny, Director of International Operations and Arts & Crafts, accepted the awards and described the fascination that nature and its mystique had on the design of these watches. “We wanted to capture the magic of the night and the vitality of the day,” he explained. Carole Bouquet underscored his words by admiring the poetic and fairy-tale quality of these timepieces.

An Emotional Highlight: Jean-Pierre Hagmann and His Tribute to Watchmaking

 

The Special Jury Prize went to Jean-Pierre Hagmann. His remarkable life as a legendary watchmaker, born in 1940 in Geneva, whose career resembles a Who’s Who of 20th-century horology, was celebrated. He worked with prestigious brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Gerald Genta, and Frank Müller. As a case maker, he contributed to the creation of some of the most important modern watches and embodies a bridge to a bygone era of craftsmanship before the CNC machine age. Though in his 80s and wanting to retire, fate had other plans. A young watchmaker, inspired by his skills, brought him back into the craft. Today, in his later years, he is rediscovered by a new generation of watchmakers who admire his expertise. People travel from around the world to see his work.

During the award ceremony, he was honored with the Special Jury Prize, and he expressed his gratitude. He emphasized the central role of cases in watchmaking, which is increasingly threatened by mass production. He shared his experiences in crafting some of the most complex pieces of the past 40 years, including works for brands like Patek Philippe and Bentley. He is perhaps the most legendary case maker, whose work has shaped horology over decades. In an emotional speech, he named several brands he had worked with throughout his career – names that inspired awe in the audience. With a smile, he remarked that he now has more memories than tools. These nostalgic words, along with Carole Bouquet’s respectful tribute to his life’s work, led to a standing ovation and moved many in the crowd.

An Evening Full of Emotions, Stories, and Vibrant Horology

The GPHG 2024 was not just an award ceremony, but a celebration of the stories and the people behind the watches. Carole Bouquet’s elegant and warm hosting helped make the awardees and the audience feel equally welcomed. Every awarded timepiece and every speech reminded us that horology is a fusion of craftsmanship, dedication, and time – a heritage passed down from generation to generation.

If you are looking for the complete list: Here you will find it.