The Show Must Go On

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The Show Must Go On - Editorial
2 minutes read
Metaphorically anyway, if not literally…

It’s not the end of the world, even though I’ve read some disappointingly alarmist articles out there, implying that very thing. Yes, the major watch exhibition of Geneva, Watches&Wonders (formerly the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie) will not take place this year. 

I support the decision of the salon organisers, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie fully. It was a difficult choice to make, but it had to be done. And so far, everyone I’ve spoken to whose opinion would really count — brand representatives, retailers, some or the more serious and senior journalists — they all understand this decision too. This is one of those times we need to stick together and support each other, and I’m glad that this is what I’m observing, for the most part.

As I’m writing this, the Swiss federal authorities have prohibited all gatherings of over a thousand people. This includes, sadly, the Geneva International Motor Show, which was originally scheduled to open its doors on 5 March. 

Baselworld will forgo its 2020 edition and resume in 2021, far earlier in the year than expected. Again, it must not have been an easy choice. The unique confluence of factors, public health and safety, the period of transition that Baselworld has been experiencing in the last few years, the apparent splintering of the old tradeshow format… I would have been surprised to hear of any other outcome.

What does this mean for you, our beloved readers? 

Practically, not that much. Stay safe, wash your hands, avoid overly crowded places and cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. And please don’t put your hand back on the bus support poles. I’ve seen people do that. I saw someone do it just this morning. Seriously, don’t do that.

Nevertheless, the show must go on, as they say. Some form of it, in any case. When crises cannot be averted, they must be navigated as best as we can. Some of our more foresighted partners have already snapped into Plan B mode, proposing alternative solutions to the centralised exhibitions. So it is here at WorldTempus as well. We have a plan, and that plan revolves around you, around remaining the premier site for horological information. Over the next few weeks, when strong, facts-based reporting and support for the watch industry is more necessary than ever, we’ll be here, visiting the brands you love, bringing you the news you want. Viruses can be stopped, and they will be stopped, at some point. But time goes on. And, so must we.

Stay tuned to WorldTempus. And wash your hands.