The rumors are true! In 2020, the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva (SIHH) will be held from April 26 to 29 in Geneva, followed immediately by Baselworld from 30 April to May 5 about 158 miles away in Basel. This places the two most important watch trade fairs back to back on the calendar, meaning both can be covered in one trip to Switzerland. The much-anticipated consolidation had been repeatedly requested by various retailers in the industry, and it represents a solution to declining exhibitor participation in both fairs. The Swatch Group, Baselworld’s largest exhibitor with 16 brands, pulled out of Baselworld for 2019. No word on whether or not it will return, following the consolidation of the two show dates. The two shows’ calendars have been synchronized until 2024.
The SIHH, dominated by Richemont brands including Cartier, Vacheron Constantin, Piaget and Jaeger-LeCoultre, was held in April when it first began in 1990, in an effort to coincide with Baselworld, but a few years later it was moved to January, and it has taken place then ever since. This arrangement meant that professionals in the industry, including press, retailers and other buyers had to travel to Switzerland twice a year to trade shows to see the new introductions from the major brands. Some journalists covering the show, however, appreciated having a break between the two shows.
Fabienne Lupo, president and managing director of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, which organizes SIHH, commented: “Our two events have always been different, yet complementary. Resyncing with Baselworld will further confirm Switzerland as the foremost destination for watchmaking in the world. This is something we welcome wholeheartedly, as it is in the interests of all.”
Michel Loris-Melikoff, managing director of Baselworld commented on the merging of dates: “We have sought dialogue with the SIHH, and together we have found a solution that benefits visitors, the media and the entire watchmaking industry. This partnership between the two most prominent exhibitions in the industry represents a major breakthrough for the future.”
