The world of luxury watches will soon have a new moment on the international calendar. On October 10, 2025, the horology industry will celebrate World Watch Day for the very first time. This global initiative is designed to honor the beauty, craftsmanship, and long journey of the art of watchmaking.
Read more: Watches & Wonders 2025: Everything Watch Lovers Should Know
Why October 10, 2025?
The choice of this date is no coincidence. October 10 (10.10) reflects the most iconic hand position in watch photography and advertising. The 10:10 position—considered to represent perfect harmony, symmetry, balance, and even a “smile” on the dial—has long been a symbol of horological beauty.
By making it the official celebration date, World Watch Day connects this visual symbol with a global tribute to the world of watches.
A Collective Movement with a Clear Vision
World Watch Day is spearheaded by a non-profit association consisting of some of the most prominent names in the global horology ecosystem, including:
- Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG): The most prestigious award platform since 2001
- Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH): An educational and cultural institution that plays a key role in preserving horological values
- Watch Library Foundation: The world’s largest archive of horological literature
- Horopedia Foundation: An open-source digital encyclopedia built with contributions from industry veterans
- Horological Society of New York (HSNY): The oldest horological organization in the United States, founded in 1866
- Europa Star, Le Figaro, Hantang Culture, and Arc Horloger: Leading names in cultural and horological media
This diversity ensures that World Watch Day is not simply a marketing strategy, but an authentic initiative rooted in integrity, education, and horological heritage.
What You Can Look Forward To
Although the inaugural edition is still in preparation, a range of programs has already been announced. The celebration will take place across time zones—following the sun from East to West—and bring experiences that highlight different aspects of horology, including:
- Exhibitions and museum tours showcasing historic works
- Workshops and live watchmaking demonstrations from artisans
- Public lectures and panel discussions on mechanisms, history, and restoration
- Interactive digital broadcasts allowing global participation
- Open days at horology schools and manufactures for younger generations
From Shanghai, Istanbul, Geneva, to New York, major cities around the world will host events that connect collectors, enthusiasts, students, and professionals.
More Than Just a Horological Event
Since UNESCO recognized horology as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020, global appreciation for this craft has only grown stronger. World Watch Day stands as tangible proof that watches are not only instruments for measuring time, but also works of art, symbols of innovation, and bridges across generations.
Raymond Loretan, President of the GPHG, called this initiative a historic milestone, “It’s truly remarkable that only now we have a universal day dedicated to horology, considering its significance in humanity’s cultural heritage.”
Meanwhile, Jessica Yu, the founder of Hantang Culture added, “Eastern philosophy teaches us that time is the rhythm of the universe. World Watch Day is expected to inspire a renewed respect for time and the art of watchmaking in the modern era.”
World Watch Day is not just a new date in the horology calendar, but a moment of togetherness. For the first time, the global watch community will have one dedicated day to celebrate the collective dedication to the art and science of watchmaking.
With this celebration beginning on October 10, 2025, the world of luxury watches will have a new stage—a platform that unites innovation, heritage, and our shared passion for time.
So, how will you celebrate the very first World Watch Day?
