BRITISH WATCHMAKERS’ DAY
In our latest episode, Watch World analyst Mark Toulson and I unpack everything we saw at British Watchmakers’ Day in London.
British Watchmakers Day: A Breath of Fresh Air in Horology
Episode 3 of Watch World with Faye
The world of horology can sometimes feel a bit…stuffy. Let's be honest. Trade fairs, with their hushed tones and carefully orchestrated presentations, can leave you feeling more like a spectator than a participant. But then there's the British Watchmakers Day, a breath of fresh air that reminds us why we fell in love with watches in the first place.
In this episode, I sat down with my trusty co-host, Mark Toulson, to dissect our experience at the recent British Watchmakers Day. And let me tell you, it was a breath of fresh air.
A Celebration, Not a Trade Show
Forget the polished booths and champagne receptions. This was a celebration of British watchmaking, a gathering of passionate individuals who are shaping the future of the industry. As Mark aptly put it, it was "what it says on the tin." Forty brands, a sold-out venue, and a queue around the block before the doors even opened. That's not just enthusiasm; that's a movement.
The Power of Community
What struck me most was the sense of community. Not just among the attendees, but among the brands themselves. There was a camaraderie, a genuine support for one another that you rarely see in the cutthroat world of high-end horology. These weren't competitors; they were collaborators.
And the best part? You could actually talk to the people behind the brands. No PR gatekeepers, no carefully crafted talking points. Just genuine conversations with the watchmakers and designers who are pouring their hearts into their creations. As Mark pointed out, "You can go speak to Ian Elliott at Elliott Brown Watches or Mike France at Christopher Ward." That's an experience you won't get at Watches and Wonders.
Innovation and Irreverence
While the Swiss giants are busy perfecting their grand complications, the British watchmakers are embracing innovation and a healthy dose of irreverence. From Christopher Ward's "Mission to Maidenhead" moonphase with the marketing behind it “Oh…Mega” to Detrash's sustainable timepieces, these brands are pushing boundaries and having fun while they're at it.
And let's talk about the watches themselves. There was something for everyone, from affordable tool watches to high-end masterpieces. We saw everything from the Anoma's sculptural designs to Duckworth Prestex's Union Jack-inspired cushion case. And of course, the collaborations, like the Studio Underdog x Fears 'Gimlet', which showcased thoughtful design and a compelling partnership
Looking Ahead
As we gear up for Watches and Wonders next month, we can't help but wonder what the industry's future holds. Will Swiss brands embrace a more playful approach? Will we see a resurgence of case shapes? Only time will tell.
But one thing's for sure: the British watchmaking scene is alive and well, and it's shaking things up in the best possible way.
Final Thoughts
British Watchmakers Day was a reminder that watches are more than just timekeeping devices; they're stories, they're passions, and they're a community. And sometimes, a little irreverence is just what the doctor ordered.
Tune in to this episode to hear more about our experience and to get Mark's expert insights on the brands and trends that caught our eye. And don't forget to follow us on TikTok for more behind-the-scenes content and watch-related shenanigans!
What were your favourite moments from the British Watchmakers Day? Let us know on our social media channels.
Faye Soteri, Watch World with Faye, March 17, 2025
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