Join host Faye Soteri and her colleague Mark Toulson as they share their firsthand experiences at Watches & Wonders 2025 in Geneva. In this lively episode, the duo dives into the fair’s record-breaking energy, innovative launches—from Ulysse Nardin’s ultralight Diver Air to Rolex’s game-changing Land Dweller—and engaging conversations with industry insiders, all while celebrating the legacy and forward-thinking spirit of the horological world.
Takeaways
-Record-Breaking Vibe: Over 55,000 visitors, rising retailer and press participation signal a robust, optimistic energy at the fair despite global challenges.
- Innovative Movements: A focus on “inside out” themes where brands push the limits—Ulysse Nardin’s ultra-light Diver Air (90-hour reserve, 52 grams, eco credentials) and Rolex’s breakthrough 7135 movement with its Dynapulse escapement stand out.
-Strategic Launches: With brands like Rolex trimming their SKU count to 60, there's a clear move toward fewer, more impactful releases that let each piece shine.
-Heritage & Revival: From TAG Heuer’s Formula 1 reintroduction to Chopard’s Alpine Eagle revival, vintage influences blend seamlessly with modern technology and aesthetics.
-Design Trends: Evolving aesthetics with smaller case sizes, natural stone and ceramic dials, and a move toward gender-neutral designs are redefining modern watchmaking.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Watch World02:52 Watches and Wonders 2025 Overview06:55 Trends in Watchmaking08:31 Highlighting Ulysse Nardin's Diver Air15:01 Rolex Land Dweller Movement19:01 Rolex's Future-Proofing Strategy24:18 Grand Seiko's Innovations30:05 Breitling's New Top Time B3132:06 Refined Launches and Brand Strategies37:38 Celebrating Heritage: TAG Heuer and Formula 141:43 Chopard's Elegant Revival and Vintage Inspirations46:05 The Evolution of Watch Sizes and Designs54:52 Highlights of the Fair: Standout Watches and Moments
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Credits:
Host:
LinkedIn: Faye Soteri
Production:
Keenlii
Producer:
LinkedIn: Barry Keegan
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About Watch World with Faye Soteri:
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.