The Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, or GPHG, is the year’s biggest award show centered around the watch industry. Juried by watchmakers, industry veterans, and journalists alike, select winners from the nominees, not entirely unlike the Oscars, every November. This year’s selections have been released, and there’s an impressive breadth of watches from all manner of manufacture, large and small. Here are some of our favorites.
Chanel J12 Caliber 12.1
The Chanel J12 is something of a modern icon. Not only is the design instantly recognizable, they were the first to kick off the ceramic trend we see prevailing today. The latest iteration of the J12 carries familiar exterior packaging, but features a serious bit of watchmaking inside with the caliber 12.1. The movement comes courtesy of Kenissi, who Chanel owns a partial stake in (as they do F.P. Journe, FYI), and elevates the J12 to new heights. The J12 has been nominated in the “Ladies” category.
TAG Heuer Monaco Eighties
TAG Heuer is celebrating 50 years of the Monaco this year, releasing decade themed variants on the famous square cased watch throughout the year. We’ve discussed these watches right here, but the ‘80s features a stunning red(ish) dial that caught the attention of the GPHG, who nominated it in the “Iconic” category.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Salmon
We’ve talked a lot about the Royal Oak around here, from its storied history to its modern incarnations. The “Jumbo” is the direct lineage to the original A series models, and Audemars Piguet has given it a salmon dial this year, something they’ve been known to do, from time to time. It’s the same stunning package as the regular 15202, and yes, just as hard to get. The Salmon dial Royal Oak is nominated in the “Iconic” category.
Hermès Arceau L’heure de la lune
This wholly unique take on a moonphase was widely viewed as one of the best releases at this year’s Baselworld. The dial features offset, full moon depictions that move in and out of view behind isolated sub dials that display the time and date. Color, finish, and texture are on point. The Hermès is nominated in the “Calendar and Astronomy” category.
Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Automatic
The newest entry to Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo collection is an automatic chronograph with GMT function. It happens to be the world’s thinnest, which earns it an easy spot among the finalists in the “Chronograph” category.
IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Spitfire
IWC stepped back to their roots with the latest Spitfire watches, particularly with this Chronograph. It’s got old school charm, a bronze case, and a new IWC built movement inside. All this paired with a reasonable price point of $6,000 and this one is a strong contender in the “Petite Aiguille” category.
The Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève takes place on November 7th at the Théâtre du Léman in Geneva. See the full list of finalists right here.
