World Watch Day: Watchmaking is World Cultural Heritage
April 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., Watches & Wonders, Auditorium
It’s official: Watchmaking finally has its own international holiday. On April 7, 2025, the “World Watch Day” was officially announced at Watches & Wonders in Geneva, to be held annually on October 10. The first edition is scheduled for October 10, 2025.
The 12th Art in the Spotlight
The official announcement took place during a special panel discussion in the main auditorium of the salon, focusing on watchmaking and UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For many, this initiative came as no surprise, as horological and mechanical arts have been recognized by UNESCO as part of cultural heritage since 2020.
Judikael Hirel, Journalist, Le Figaro: “Watchmaking deserves a day of its own – and now, with the official launch of World Watch Day, it has one. Back in 2020, mechanical arts and watchmaking from the Franco-Swiss Jura Arc were inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Given how many causes already have a global day, it’s only right that watchmaking – so rich in history, craft, and economic value – finally be honored as well. Each year on October 10, may the joyful 10:10 smile of watch hands shine across the world.”
The Symbolism Behind the Date
The choice of October 10 is no coincidence. The date reflects the traditional display of 10:10 on watch dials, which is regarded in the industry as a symbol of balance, beauty, and joy in timekeeping. This time has been used for decades in product photography and advertising, as the hand position creates a balanced, positive “smile” on the dial.
A Worldwide Celebration of Watchmaking
World Watch Day will be organized as a global livestream, following time zones from East to West. Media outlets, associations, collectors’ clubs, and content creators from around the world will contribute to this day. All dimensions of watchmaking will be highlighted – from culture and science to economics and sports, from traditional craftsmanship to contemporary art.
A Joint Initiative
To coordinate this global celebration, a non-profit organization has been established, uniting leading voices in the watchmaking industry. The founding members include the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, the Foundation of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, the Watch Library Foundation, the Horopedia Foundation, the Horological Society of New York, Europa Star, Le Figaro, Hantang Culture, and Arc Horloger.
The initiative is designed to be open and inviting: alongside the official livestream, local and independent events can also take place on October 10 to celebrate the art and culture of timekeeping.
Participation for Professionals and Enthusiasts
Watchmakers and enthusiasts are invited to register for a webinar on May 5, 2025, where the goals and structure of the first World Watch Day will be presented. Interested parties can register at www.worldwatchday.org/en/webinar-registration for one of the two times (10:00 a.m. or 4:00 p.m. CET).
A Milestone for Watchmaking
World Watch Day marks an important moment in the history of watchmaking. It honors not only the centuries-old tradition but also emphasizes the continuing relevance and cultural significance of this craft in the digital age. The founders hope that this day will help spread awareness of the art of watchmaking and inspire future generations.
For watch enthusiasts and the industry itself, this new international day offers a welcome opportunity to celebrate the shared passion for timepieces and honor the rich tradition of watchmaking.
