This autumn will see the second edition of the TimeCrafters show, which will be open to the public at Park Avenue Armory from September 14th-15th.
In addition to presenting new and iconic models from the world’s finest watchmakers, TimeCrafters will also offer various demonstrations and watchmaking classes throughout the event. The show is organised by Editions Temps International, a leading European publisher of magazines in the international watch sector, with the aim of educating people about fine watchmaking and showcasing the latest designs from the world’s top watchmakers.
Among the world-renowned brands that will exhibit their newest cutting-edge timepieces at this year’s museum-like show are:
A. Lange & Söhne, Audemars Piguet, Baume & Mercier, Blancpain, Breguet, Bulgari, Chopard, De Bethune, Dior, Frederique Constant, Girard-Perregaux, Glashütte Original, Harry Winston, Hublot, Parmigiani, Omega, Oris, Ralph Lauren, Richard Mille, TAG Heuer and Zenith.
[Click on any highlighted brand above to see its Brand Index file.]
Brand executives and representatives will be on hand to discuss the newest inventions to this centuries-old craft and share technological advancements and behind-the-scenes information. Select brands plan to host special exhibits that showcase their iconic timepieces.
Additionally, there are several important exhibitions running during TimeCrafters. One such experience is an art-inspired exhibit of one of the most complete collections of Swatch watches in the world: “The Blum Collection.” This exceptional display will occupy 3,000 square feet and will showcase 293 Swatch watches from the 4,363-piece main collection, including prototypes, hybrids and variations that never made it to market. Most interesting are a number of artist-designed Swatch watches such as prototypes from American artist Keith Haring, and rare pieces created by artists Mimmo Paladino, Alfred Hofkunst and Sam Francis. The Blum Collection was assembled over many years by Swiss businessman Peter Blum and his wife Linda, passionate collectors of Swatch watches since the brand’s early days.
Sotheby’s will also present an exhibition of rare and beautiful haute diamonds from the Sotheby’s Diamonds Collection, reminding visitors about the exceptional relationship between jewelry and timepieces. This collection will feature exquisite and important diamonds in a host of magnificent shapes and dramatic settings. These gems of the earth are displayed in a painter’s palette of hues ranging from colorless to yellow, blue and pink. The exhibit has been exclusively curated for the TimeCrafters event.
The Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH will present an interactive traveling exhibition entitled Think Time – Think Swiss Excellence. The exhibition will provide insight into the multi-faceted nature of the Swiss watchmaking industry, both past and present. Various stations and panels will highlight the history, major innovations, technological advancements, training, materials, global reach and other views of today’s powerful Swiss watchmaking landscape.
Demonstrations by the world’s finest master artisans – including enamellers, engravers, gem setters and watchmakers – will also take place throughout the TimeCrafters event so attendees can witness the depth of craftsmanship that goes into the making of every detail of a luxury timepiece. For those who wish to delve into a more hands-on experience, several watchmaking courses, seminars, lectures and other participatory events will be offered.
Europa Star Magazine / www.watch-aficionado.com is a media partner of TimeCrafters, which is sponsored by Sotheby’s Auction House, Swiss Consulate, Swiss Tourism, and others.
Exhibition Details:
Address: Park Avenue Armory at 643 Park Avenue, New York City.
Press Preview: Thursday, September 13th at 5pm; followed by cocktails from 7-10pm.
Open to the Public: Friday, September 14th and Saturday, September 15th from 10am to 8pm.
Ticket Entry: No cost with preregistration until September 12th at 5pm
http://www.timecrafters.com/; $20 at the door.