What makes Geneva Watch Days unique is its open-door philosophy. Designed for the general public as much as for professionals, the event combines a relaxed atmosphere with interactive experiences—from quizzes and precision challenges to thought-provoking discussions on topics such as gender, the next generation of collectors, and even the nature of time itself, explored alongside astrophysicists. While 68 brands will be presenting their latest creations across Geneva's hotels and boutiques, the Pavilion and the Blue Box at the Rotonde du Mont-Blanc remain the event's vibrant hub, offering visitors an immersive introduction to one of Geneva's defining traditions.
1. Learn from Master watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin
Wednesday, September 2 | 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Watch Konstantin Chaykin—one of today's most inventive independent watchmakers—demonstrate his craft live. Best known for his playful Joker-inspired displays, Chaykin is equally admired for pushing the limits of ultra-thin watchmaking. In 2024, he unveiled the 1.65mm ThinKing concept, the world's thinnest watch, followed this year by its limited-edition production version, the ThinKing Mystery.
2. See how accurate your watch really is
Pavilion | Daily
Step into the world of precision timekeeping with the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). Throughout Geneva Watch Days, visitors can discover what it takes for a mechanical watch to remain accurate under real-world conditions.
Bring your own watch for testing, learn how magnetic fields affect an automatic movement, or cheer on well-known industry figures as they compete in the CaliberShip Challenge, where participants must regulate a movement against the clock. This year's competitors include Jean-Marc Pontroué (Breitling), Antoine Pin (De Bethune), Jonathan Birnbaum (Bulgari), and—yes—the author of this article, who will attempt to defend her 2025 title.
If you're curious, here are the regulation tips I shared before the competition.
3. Challenge yourself at the FHH Brunch & Quiz
Pavilion | Saturday, September 5 | 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Whether you join a team or simply watch from the sidelines, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie's annual brunch quiz is always one of the most entertaining events.
Expect plenty of laughter, spirited debates and surprising questions. Even seasoned collectors discover something new, making it a fun and informal way to expand your watchmaking knowledge in the educational spirit that defines the FHH.
4. Discover the Year's standout watches on a guided tour
Blue Box
Friday, September 4 & Saturday, September 5 | 2:00–4:00 p.m. (every 30 minutes)
Sunday, September 6 | 2:00–3:20 p.m. (every 40 minutes)
Short on time? Let an FHH expert guide you through the most significant launches of Geneva Watch Days. These concise themed tours offer an excellent overview of the year's standout timepieces and provide valuable insights into the trends shaping contemporary watchmaking.
You can also join Emmanuel's Picks, during which FHH Content Director Emmanuel Schneider shares his personal favorites from the exhibition. Sessions run from Thursday through Sunday, 10:30 to 11:00 a.m.
5. Inspire the next generation of watchmakers
Pavilion | Sunday, September 6 | 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Could your child be the next George Daniels? The International Museum of Horology in La Chaux-de-Fonds hopes to spark exactly that kind of curiosity through its Kids' Club.
Young visitors will discover the fascinating world of gears, springs and mechanical movements by exploring oversized movement components in a hands-on workshop designed especially for them. It may look like simple fun, but it could very well ignite a lifelong passion for watchmaking. And should that happen, Switzerland has no shortage of outstanding watchmaking schools!
Discover the full program for Geneva Watch Days.
FAQ:
Q: What are the Geneva Watch Days?
A: The Geneva Watch Days are a watchmaking event held in Geneva that brings together 68 brands from September 2 to 6 across boutiques, hotels, and a central venue at the Pavilion and the Blue Box, located on the Rotonde du Mont-Blanc. The 2026 edition features demonstrations, quizzes, and meetings with experts, all open to the public.
Q: Who is Konstantin Chaykin?
A: Konstantin Chaykin is a watchmaker renowned for his playful displays, such as the joker face featured on his creations, as well as for his expertise in ultra-thin watchmaking. He holds the record for the world's thinnest watch with the ThinKing, unveiled in 2024 at just 1.65 mm thick, followed this year by the ThinKing Mystery.
Q: What is the COSC?
A: The COSC, or Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute, is the Swiss organization responsible for certifying the accuracy of watches. During the Geneva Watch Days, it offers hands-on activities allowing visitors to test their own watches and understand the impact of magnetism on the performance of an automatic movement.
Q: What is the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie?
A: The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH) is an organization specializing in watchmaking education. It notably organizes the traditional Geneva Watch Days quiz, a friendly event where participants can test and expand their watchmaking knowledge as a team in a relaxed atmosphere.
