The prestigious Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) has once again brought together the crème de la crème of the watchmaking world to celebrate watchmaking excellence last thursday. The GPHG 2023 awards ceremony proved to be a spectacular showcase of horological mastery, with timepieces from renowned brands competing for recognition in various categories. Let’s dive into the highlights of the event and unveil the exceptional winners who have left an indelible mark on the world of haute horlogerie.
AIGUILLE D’OR – GRAND PRIX
The Aiguille d’Or or Golden Hand, is the most coveted award at the GPHG, representing the best overall watch of the year. In 2023, the Aiguille d’Or was awarded to Audemars Piguet for their Code 11.59 Universelle RD#4.
MEN’S & LADIES’ COMPLICATION
In the Men’s Complication category, the winner was Voutilainen with their remarkable World Timer. This timepiece impressed the jury with its intricate complications, showcasing the brand’s dedication to pushing the limits of what a mechanical watch can achieve.
The Ladies’ Complication category celebrated the fusion of elegance and technical prowess. Dior emerged victorious with their stunning Grand Soir Automate Etoile de Monsieur Dior, a testament to the growing trend of creating complication watches that cater specifically to the discerning tastes of women. It’s an opportunity to recognize Dior watchmaking, something that might not happen otherwise.
Lan Cittadini, Jewellery & Timepeaces Global Diretor of Dior.
François Bennahmias, CEO of Audemars Piaget.
Juan Ciola, CEO of Tudor.
ICONIC CATEGORY
Recognizing watches that have become true icons in the industry, the Iconic category honored Ulysse Nardin for their enduring Freak One. This timepiece has not only stood the test of time but has also significantly influenced the design and functionality of watches in its genre. “We’re not masters of marketing, but we know how to make watches, the Freak is a UFO.“ said Patrick Pruniaux, Ulysse Nardin CEO, when accepting this award.
CHRONOGRAPH CATEGORY
Precision and functionality took center stage in the Chronograph category, where Petermann Bédat triumphed with their Chronograph Rattrapante. This timepiece demonstrated superior chronograph capabilities, combined with an aesthetic appeal that captured the essence of speed and precision.
SPORTS CATEGORY
The GPHG introduced a fresh category in 2023, namely “Sports.” Securing the inaugural victory in this category was the Tudor Pelagos 39, standing out for its widespread commercial attractiveness.
The GPHG 2023 awards ceremony was a resounding success, underscoring the continued excellence within the watchmaking industry. The winners in each category demonstrated the diverse and evolving nature of haute horlogerie, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to pushing boundaries and creating timepieces that are both timeless and groundbreaking.
Here are the rest of the timepieces and watchmakers that took home a GPHG award this year:
Artistic Crafts: Piaget Altiplano Métiers d’Art – Undulata
Challenge: Raymond Weil Millésime Automatic
Petite Aiguille: Christopher Ward Bel Canto
Jewelry: Bvlgari Serpenti Cleopatra
Calendar & Astromony: Bovet 1822 Récital 20 Astérium
Tourbillon: Laurent Ferrier Grand Sport Tourbillon
Mechanical Exception: Hautlence Sphere Series 1
Mechanical Clock: L’Epée 1839 Time Fast II Chrome
Chronometry: Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre FB 3SPC
Best Young Student: Killian Douglas
Special Jury Price: Svend Andersen and Vincent Calabrese
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Photos: ©GPHG