VICENZAORO Unveils VO’Clock Privé: The Premier Contemporary Watch Lounge Experience

Vicenza, Italy – February 3rd, 2022 – Get ready to mark your calendars! From March 18th to 20th, 2022, the world of haute horlogerie converges at the Vicenza Expo Centre for the inaugural VO’Clock Privé. Presented by Vicenzaoro and meticulously organized by IEG – Italian Exhibition Group, this groundbreaking new format is set to redefine contemporary watch gatherings. Designed as an exclusive yet accessible hub, VO’Clock Privé offers an unparalleled platform for industry leaders, media professionals, passionate collectors, and discerning enthusiasts to connect, discover, and engage with the finest timepieces.

This dedicated three-day event, strategically aligned with the prestigious Vicenzaoro jewellery exhibition (March 17th-21st, 2022), promises a vibrant fusion of innovation, education, and networking. While the initial days cater to trade and media, the excitement opens its doors to the general public on Saturday, March 19th, and Sunday, March 20th, offering everyone a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the intricate beauty of watchmaking.

A stellar lineup of renowned brands has already confirmed their presence, signaling the event’s immediate significance. Attendees will have the chance to explore the latest collections and iconic creations from distinguished names such as Zenith, Girard-Perregaux, Eberhard & Co., Corum, Perrelet, Vincent Calabrese, Locman Italy, Junghans, Wyler Vetta, and Timex. This diverse ensemble represents the pinnacle of watch design, mechanical ingenuity, and timeless elegance, making VO’Clock Privé an unmissable destination for anyone with a passion for horology.

A Thriving Era for Horology: The Economic Landscape

The contemporary watchmaking industry is currently experiencing a veritable golden age, marked by unprecedented economic growth and surging global interest. Following a period of significant evolution, the sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and innovation, culminating in record-breaking performances. The year 2021, in particular, stood out as a landmark period, showcasing a robust and decisive upswing in Swiss watch exports – a crucial barometer for the entire industry.

Statistical data from October 2021 painted a vivid picture of this resurgence, with Swiss timepiece exports soaring to an impressive CHF 2.1 billion (approximately €2 billion at the prevailing exchange rate). This figure not only represented a substantial 4.8% increase compared to the same month in pre-pandemic 2019 but also marked the highest monthly export total recorded in seven years. Industry analysts and experts are confident that the overall export figures for 2021 will comfortably surpass those of 2014, previously hailed as the industry’s zenith. This powerful recovery underscores a renewed global appetite for luxury watches, driven by a blend of investment appeal, a desire for tangible craftsmanship, and the timeless allure of mechanical artistry.

This buoyant market environment provides the perfect backdrop for VO’Clock Privé. As consumers and collectors increasingly seek authentic experiences and direct engagement with brands, events like this become indispensable. They serve not just as marketplaces but as cultural touchstones, celebrating the heritage and future of an industry that continues to captivate hearts and minds worldwide. The strong performance of the watch sector reinforces the strategic timing and importance of a dedicated event like VO’Clock Privé, offering a unique meeting point for all stakeholders in this flourishing ecosystem.

An Immersive Journey into Horological Excellence

VO’Clock Privé is meticulously designed to offer more than just a showcase; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of contemporary watchmaking. Housed within the elegant lounges on the first floor foyer of the Vicenza Expo Centre, the event provides a refined and intimate setting. This exclusive environment is thoughtfully curated to foster meaningful interactions between watch connoisseurs, seasoned journalists, industry traders, and the visionary brands themselves. Attendees will not only have the unique privilege to meet with brand representatives but also to directly engage with the exquisite timepieces.

Imagine the opportunity to admire the intricate details, feel the weight of precision engineering, and even touch the latest innovations from both established luxury giants and groundbreaking independent ateliers. VO’Clock Privé promises a sensory experience where the artistry and technical mastery of watchmaking come to life. Beyond mere display, the event encourages dialogue, allowing enthusiasts to delve into the stories behind the watches, understand the philosophy of their creators, and gain insights directly from the experts.

Meet the Visionaries: A Curated Selection of Participating Brands

The confirmed lineup for VO’Clock Privé represents a magnificent cross-section of the global watch industry, from historic maisons to innovative independents, each bringing their unique heritage and vision to Vicenza. This carefully selected roster ensures a rich and diverse offering for every taste and interest:

Zenith: Renowned for its legendary El Primero chronograph movement and its pioneering spirit in high-frequency precision, Zenith continues to push the boundaries of mechanical watchmaking.
Girard-Perregaux: With over two centuries of continuous watchmaking, this prestigious manufacture is celebrated for its exquisite complications and iconic designs, including the revolutionary Three Gold Bridges.
Eberhard & Co.: A Swiss brand with a strong Italian connection, Eberhard & Co. is cherished for its robust chronographs and elegant, timeless designs that blend tradition with contemporary appeal.
Corum: Known for its distinctive and often audacious designs, Corum consistently challenges conventional watch aesthetics, creating iconic pieces like the Admiral and the Bubble.
Perrelet: Credited with the invention of the automatic watch, Perrelet proudly carries on a legacy of innovation, showcasing sophisticated movements and elegant aesthetics.
Vincent Calabrese: A true master of independent watchmaking, Vincent Calabrese is celebrated for his unique and often whimsical mechanical creations that defy traditional norms.
Locman Italy: Blending Italian flair with Swiss precision, Locman Italy crafts watches known for their distinctive designs, vibrant colors, and innovative materials.
Junghans: A German brand steeped in a tradition of precision and design excellence, Junghans is famous for its Bauhaus-inspired Max Bill collection and its Meister line.
Wyler Vetta: With a heritage rooted in Swiss quality and Italian style, Wyler Vetta offers watches that combine classic elegance with contemporary sophistication.
Timex: A globally recognized brand, Timex brings its legacy of accessible yet innovative timekeeping, showcasing its latest collections and enduring classics.

This exceptional gathering of brands underscores VO’Clock Privé’s commitment to presenting a holistic view of the watch market, catering to collectors seeking rare pieces, enthusiasts eager to learn, and industry professionals looking for the next big trend.

An Unparalleled Educational & Networking Opportunity

VO’Clock Privé is not solely about showcasing exquisite timepieces; it is equally dedicated to fostering knowledge, skill, and community within the horological world. The event features a comprehensive program of training sessions, expert talks, and networking opportunities designed to engage and enlighten both seasoned professionals and curious newcomers.

Masterclasses and Hands-on Workshops: Elevating Horological Understanding

For those eager to deepen their understanding of watchmaking’s intricate mechanics, VO’Clock Privé offers invaluable educational pathways:

Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH) Masterclasses: In collaboration with the globally respected FHH, two highly anticipated sessions will be conducted. These masterclasses are designed to unlock the secrets of high horology’s most captivating mechanisms. Attendees will gain profound insights into the complex world of chronography, the mesmerizing rotation of the tourbillon, and the ingenious engineering behind the perpetual calendar. These sessions provide a rare chance to learn from the best, enhancing appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship involved.
CAPAC Watchmaking School Workshops: Aspiring watchmakers and curious enthusiasts can participate in practical sessions led by expert trainers from Milan’s prestigious CAPAC watchmaking school. These hands-on workshops offer a fundamental introduction to mechanical watchmaking, providing participants with the unique opportunity to acquire basic skills in assembling and dismantling a mechanical movement directly in the classroom. This direct, tactile experience is invaluable for understanding the core principles that drive these miniature marvels.

These educational initiatives underscore VO’Clock Privé’s commitment to nurturing talent and expanding the collective knowledge base of the watch community. They represent a significant draw for anyone looking to move beyond simple admiration to a deeper, more informed appreciation of horological artistry.

Engaging Talks and Community Building

Beyond the classroom, VO’Clock Privé fosters a dynamic environment for exchange and discussion:

Brand Meetings: The event facilitates direct engagement between enthusiasts, partners, and the participating brands through dedicated meetings. These sessions allow for intimate discussions, Q&A opportunities, and the chance to understand brand philosophies and future directions.
Expert Talks: A comprehensive program of in-depth talks featuring prominent names and thought leaders from the watchmaking sector will be hosted in a special lounge. These captivating discussions, open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, will delve into various facets of the industry – from market trends and technological advancements to the cultural significance of timepieces. Expect stimulating debates, valuable insights, and inspiring narratives from the very people shaping the future of horology.

VO’Clock Privé thus emerges as a vital forum for intellectual engagement, skill development, and robust community building, ensuring that every attendee leaves not just with new discoveries but also with a richer understanding and deeper connection to the world of watches.

About Italian Exhibition Group (IEG): A Leader in Global Exhibitions

The successful orchestration of an event as ambitious and specialized as VO’Clock Privé is a testament to the expertise and vision of its organizer, Italian Exhibition Group S.p.A. (IEG). As a joint-stock company proudly listed on Euronext Milan – the regulated market overseen by Borsa Italiana S.p.A. – IEG stands as a formidable force in the international exhibition and conference landscape.

With its state-of-the-art facilities located in the strategic Italian cities of Rimini and Vicenza, IEG has consistently achieved national leadership in the organization of trade shows and conferences across a diverse array of sectors. Their deep understanding of market dynamics, meticulous planning, and unparalleled execution capabilities have solidified their reputation as a premier event organizer.

Beyond its strong domestic presence, Italian Exhibition Group has significantly expanded its global footprint, strategically positioning itself among the top European operators in the sector. This international growth has been propelled by a series of successful joint ventures and collaborations with both global and local organizers in key markets worldwide. IEG’s influence now extends across continents, with notable activities and partnerships in the United States, the United Arab Emirates, China, Mexico, and India, among other dynamic regions.

This expansive international network and robust organizational capability ensure that events like Vicenzaoro and its innovative extension, VO’Clock Privé, are executed to the highest global standards. IEG’s commitment to fostering industry growth, facilitating business connections, and creating memorable experiences for exhibitors and attendees alike is evident in every detail of their operations. Their role as a catalyst for economic and cultural exchange positions them as an indispensable partner for industries looking to connect, innovate, and thrive on a global stage.