JCK Las Vegas & its sister show Luxury, which would have taken place at the end of May were it not for Covid-19, opens tomorrow, August 11, as a global virtual exhibition and education forum.
EXHIBITIONS
A total of 17 brands are taking part in the event, which runs until Saturday 29 August, and will be exhibiting to press and clients in boutiques and hotels across downtown Geneva on a by-appointment-only basis.
Jewellers have reacted with indifference to news that Baselworld's organiser, MCH Group, will launch a new show in Basel called HourUniverse in April next year.
Fabienne Lupo, who has spent 15 years at the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie and been the face of the rebranded Watches & Wonders Geneva, has been replaced with Richemont's Head of Specialist Watchmakers Emmanuel Perrin.
Hopes that the Swiss watch industry would pull together next year for a single mega show in Geneva look likely to be dashed.
It will be the first time brands have gathered under the Watches & Wonders banner since February 2019.
Time is running out for any alternative rescue plan, MCH Group admits.
Baselworld's organiser has confirmed it is consulting on a new name, location and format for its annual watch and jewellery fair.
Team behind Baselworld has not given up on creating a brand new show for up to 600 exhibitors.