There have been a slew of high-profile events that have been facing cancellations amid fears of the COVID-19 coronavirus. During Milan Fashion Week, Giorgio Armani live-streamed his Fall/Winter ’20 show as it took place indoors due to concerns over the virus outbreak. The fast-growing list is only increasing as another major event has announced its cancellation due to the worldwide spread.
Watches & Wonders — formerly known as the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) — was supposed to be the first under the brand’s new concept and now, has cancelled its 2020 edition slated for April 25-29 in Geneva.
The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, the show’s organizer, made an announcement earlier today. A post was also shared via social media: “In view of the latest developments concerning the worldwide spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, it is the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie’s duty, as organizer of Watches & Wonders Geneva, to anticipate the potential risks that travels and important international gatherings could entail. Therefore, in order to protect the health and wellbeing of all our guests, press, partners and teams, the decision has been taken to cancel the upcoming edition of Watches & Wonders Geneva (formerly known as the SIHH) and its ‘In the City’ program, initially due to take place in Geneva from April 25th to 29th 2020.”
Watches & Wonders was introduced to incorporate the rich watch history of the city, as well as invite the general public for not just the trade, but the show too, which was set to include a total of 31 watch brands.
Whilst no further information has been released as to whether the fair will prepare for another exhibit later in the year or debut in 2021, continue to watch this space.
Now, go inside Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Manufacture.
