Horological Brilliance in the Financial Capital: GPHG 2026 World Tour Kicks Off in Mumbai
3 min read
Mumbai has officially become the epicenter of the global watchmaking universe. The prestigious Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) which is often hailed as the "Oscars of watchmaking", chose Mumbai as the grand launchpad for its highly anticipated 2026 World Tour. Organized in partnership with Ethos Limited, a leading champion of watch culture in India, the exclusive exhibition was hosted at the St. Regis Hotel in Mumbai from 28th September to October 1. To know about the nominated watches, click here.
A Showcase of Masterpiece Timepieces
For watch enthusiasts and collectors across the region, this event offered a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the pinnacle of horology up close. The exhibition featured 78 nominated watches handpicked by the esteemed GPHG Academy, representing the creative genius and craftsmanship of over 50 exceptional brands. These remarkable timepieces are actively contending for 19 coveted prizes, culminating in the ultimate "Aiguille d’Or" Grand Prix. Far beyond a traditional static exhibition, the event was designed as an immersive educational journey where visitors could dive deep into the world of horology through expert-led guided tours and hands-on workshops tailored for both seasoned collectors and curious novices. Reflecting on the exhibition floor, attendees were visibly mesmerized, with one long-time collector sharing, "Seeing the sheer mechanical wizardry of these nominated pieces in person rather than just through a catalog or screen is breathtaking, it completely changes your appreciation for independent watchmaking."
Perspectives from Industry Leaders
The collaboration marks a milestone moment for India's rapidly expanding luxury market. Mr. Yashovardhan Saboo, Founder & Chairman of Ethos Limited, shared his enthusiasm by stating that India has emerged as one of the world's most exciting and fast-growing markets for fine mechanical watches, boasting a passionate community of collectors. He emphasized that the exhibition serves as a wonderful opportunity to bring people closer to the remarkable creativity and savoir-faire behind fine watchmaking. Echoing this sentiment, Raymond Loretan, President of the GPHG Foundation, highlighted India's millennia-old cultural heritage and unique relationship with timekeeping, noting that kicking off the 2026 tour in Mumbai holds immense significance as they continue to build bridges between passionate enthusiasts worldwide. Capturing the mood among industry observers, a seasoned market analyst noted, "Having Ethos and GPHG invest this kind of energy in Mumbai validates what we've known for years: Indian connoisseurs possess a sophisticated palate and a deep emotional connection to high complications."
Following its spectacular opening in Mumbai, the GPHG 2026 World Tour will continue its international journey to several key cultural hubs. The exhibition will stop in Bangkok from October 15 to 18 in partnership with PMT The Hour Glass, before moving on to Geneva’s Musée d’Art et d’Histoire from October 29 to November 15. The tour will then head to London for a final showcase from November 18 to 23 at the Watches of Switzerland boutique in Knightsbridge. The journey culminates with the grand 26th GPHG Awards Ceremony on Saturday, November 7, in Geneva, where the winning timepieces will be revealed and broadcast live on the GPHG website. To know more about the GPHG jury for the year 2026, click here.
