Time in New York: Dubai Watch Week Takes Horology Forum to America

But what was new to Horology Forum this time around was a debate concept labeled as “ClickClock.” These also happened on both days with the first of the two titled, “Do a Double Take” and pitting Fiona Krüger against Tim Mosso from Watchbox to argue whether it’s a smart move for a brand to “keeo it in the family” or if it would be better for them to look to outside help. The second debate which occurred on Sunday saw the likes of Bertrand Meylan (H. Moser & Hautlence) go toe-to-toe against Jon Ferrer of Brew Watches. The debate was titled, “Do or Do Not Resuscitate?” and the two battled about whether it was smarter to revive an older brand that had died our or start fresh with something brand new. Both debates, I am proud to say, were moderated by Yours Truly, and all four debaters brought their A-game to their respective podiums.

There was a panel that discussed the luxury market and how luxury is defined today as well as a panel delving deeply into the world of NFT’s and crypto. All in all, there was something for everyone, and that was proven by the amount of watch enthusiast attendees not just from New York, but from all over the United States. I spoke to two guys who’d flown in from Texas because they’d been following the Dubai Watch Week Instagram for years and really wanted to see what it was all about.

At the end of the day, the two greatest things about any event held by Dubai Watch Week are that (1) the events are inclusive. They do not judge anyone or exclude anyone. If you were a Timex, you’re welcome. If you don’t even own a watch but want to learn about watches, you’re also welcome. And (2) the events are always free. FREE. As in, their sole purpose is to continue to educate people about the beauty of watchmaking and the stories behind the watches and they don’t want people to have to pay for that knowledge. This is the most remarkable aspect of Horology Forum to me: it is likely the most genuine and honest watch event happening in the world today. And for the sake of the watchmaking world, I truly hope we never see the end of it.