The Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), often referred to as the Oscars of Watchmaking, returns this year, marking its 25th edition since the event first began in 2001.
This year, over 1,000 members of the GPHG Academy reviewed hundreds of timepieces from 184 brands. Out of those entries, only 90 made it to the finalist list—84 watches and 6 table clocks—competing across 15 categories, from Men’s Complication to Tourbillon. At the top stands the Aiguille d’Or, the most prestigious award, given to the piece that represents the pinnacle of horological achievement.
Last year, IWC Schaffhausen took home the trophy with the Portugieser Eternal Calendar, renowned for its moon phase accuracy that deviates by only one day every 45 million years. Naturally, expectations are high once again this year, with many anticipating that the next milestone in modern horology may come from some of the industry’s most established names.
Highlights from the Finalists
Among this year’s contenders, several major brands stood out with their distinct approaches. Audemars Piguet continues its exploration of contemporary design through the latest Royal Oak models, which is refined, elegant, yet still carrying the signature sporty DNA. It’s a clear statement that traditional craftsmanship and modern sensibilities can coexist seamlessly.
Bvlgari, meanwhile, maintains its dominance in the ultra-thin watchmaking category. After years of leading the field with the Octo Finissimo, the Roman maison once again proves that technical innovation can live harmoniously with minimal and elegant design.
Breguet and Chopard, on the other hand, reaffirm that the future of horology doesn’t always have to be futuristic. Breguet revisits its heritage through classical guilloché patterns and meticulous hand-finished techniques that have defined the maison since the 18th century. Chopard, through its L.U.C collection, highlights a continued commitment to precision and in-house craftsmanship, reminding the industry that true quality is built by skilled hands.
Franck Muller adds a distinctive touch among the finalists. Known for bold aesthetics and complex complications, the brand stands out with creations that are eccentric yet purposeful. In a field where many play it safe, Muller embraces individuality and expressive watchmaking without compromise.
The World Tour from Geneva to Dubai
As tradition goes, before the grand ceremony in Geneva, GPHG finalists embark on a world tour. The journey began in Shanghai in early October, coinciding with the Golden Week festivities. From there, the exhibition traveled to Istanbul before returning to Geneva, where the timepieces are displayed at the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire until mid-November. After the winners are announced on November 13, 2025, the collection will head to Dubai Watch Week as the tour’s final stop.
More than a showcase, this tour serves as a rare opportunity for the public to experience these masterpieces up close—pieces usually seen only behind boutique glass or in private collections. Visitors, from collectors and journalists to design students, get to witness how art and engineering converge in one small, precise object worn on the wrist.
Ahead of the 2025 GPHG Night
The award ceremony will take place at the Bâtiment des Forces Motrices in Geneva on November 13, 2025. As the lights dim and this year’s finest creations take the stage one by one, both collectors and watchmakers know that what’s at stake is more than a trophy. It’s also recognition from the global horological community.
After twenty-five years, GPHG remains one of the most respected benchmarks in the industry. And for many, that’s exactly why the world still waits for every second of it.
