Each year, the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie embarks on its quest to identify the finest luxury timepiece on the market, with the 2024 winner set to be crowned at the Théâtre du Léman in Geneva this November. Known as the ‘Oscars of Horology’, this event celebrates the artistry and remarkable craftsmanship of all 90 watches in contention for this prestigious accolade.
During the academy’s 24th official ceremony, a total of 20 prizes will be awarded, including the renowned ‘Grand Prix of the Golden Needle’ honour, recognising the most distinguished timepiece among the competition.
With 15 categories—ranging from women’s best-in-class and iconic timepiece to mechanical exception—the shortlisted watches represent the pinnacle of horological achievement. A jury of industry experts will gather behind closed doors ahead of the ceremony to make these critical decisions, evaluating each piece meticulously.
This year’s ‘Golden Needle’ winner will join an elite legacy, including last year’s champion, Audemars Piguet’s Ultra Complication Universelle. This extraordinary wristwatch, with its 1,100 intricate components encased in 18-carat gold, set a new standard as the first self-winding timepiece to secure the prize, tracking moon phases, days, and even split seconds.
In addition to the ceremony on 13th November in Geneva, a unique exhibition tour showcases the final lineup of timepieces to the public and watch enthusiasts alike. With notable names like Chopard, Fabergé, and Piaget on display, this year’s exhibition began in Hong Kong and will conclude after the ceremony in Bucharest at the end of November.
A Closer Look at the Standout Nominees
Women’s Category: Fabergé Colours of Love
An ode to the iconic Fabergé egg, this watch captures a legacy that continues to captivate new generations. Competing in the women’s timepiece category, its extraordinary gemstones and artistic design put it in league with creations by Hermès, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Chopard.
Iconic Category: Piaget Polo 79
Carved from a single piece of 18-carat gold, this ultra-thin watch celebrates Piaget’s 150-year heritage. Originally launched in 1979, the Polo has been reimagined with a transparent crystal base, showcasing its self-winding calibre—a timeless icon of horological innovation.
Calendar and Astronomy Category: Laurent Ferrier Classic Moon Silver
A first for Laurent Ferrier, this timepiece combines traditional watchmaking with lunar science, displaying the marvel of a moon phase calendar on a calf-leather strap bearing the brand’s hallmark.
Mechanical Exception Category: Bovet 1882 Récital 28 Prowess 1
Valued at an impressive £570,000, the Récital 28 Prowess 1 solves the challenge of daylight saving time across 24 time zones. This pioneering marvel, available only in limited quantities, is the result of over five years of mechanical innovation.
Jewellery Category: Chopard Laguna High Jewellery Secret Watch
A masterpiece of jewellery, this watch dazzles with diamonds, pink sapphires, and a mother of pearl at its heart. Over 1,000 hours of meticulous work have gone into its creation, with the hidden timepiece adding an air of mystery.
This year’s nominees showcase an unparalleled level of innovation.
Alongside the main awards, the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie will honour industry contributions with special commendations, including prizes for creative audacity, best young brand, and a special Jury Prize for an individual’s impact on the world of watchmaking.
With competition of this calibre, predicting the next ‘Golden Needle’ recipient is a thrilling challenge.
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