Justine Offredi

While the Swiss watch market has shifted toward hyper-luxury, with Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet capturing the lion’s share of value, brands positioned in the “affordable” price range—under 3,000 Swiss francs—must redouble their efforts to survive. Nevertheless, at Watches and Wonders Geneva, they are taking the opportunity to reaffirm their legitimacy.

Since April 14, the 65 watchmakers gathered at the Watches and Wonders Geneva show have been unveiling their new releases. In this race for innovation, which ones are making a lasting impression in an increasingly competitive industry? The editorial team at Luxury Tribune presents an early selection.

This Tuesday, the international press and industry professionals gathered at Palexpo in Geneva for the latest edition of Watches and Wonders Geneva, which runs through April 20. An event eagerly anticipated by an industry facing an unprecedented crisis.

By 2030, 74% of the global workforce will consist of GenZ and Millennials. Concerned with a better work–life balance, professionals under thirty also place great importance on financial security. Far from rejecting big careers, many still dream of a stable job in the luxury industry, particularly in France. Behind the clichés of an impatient and disengaged generation, the reality is quite different.

Until now present in Switzerland through twenty-four retail corners inside Manor department stores (Maus Frères group), LVMH’s flagship beauty brand has just opened its very first Swiss flagship store in the heart of Geneva. Catherine Spindler made the trip for the occasion and gave an interview to Luxury Tribune.

Less than two years after its relaunch by Patrik Hoffmann, the historic Le Locle-based brand is making its debut among the industry’s leading names at Watches and Wonders Geneva. Driven by a rapidly growing Indian market, a history spanning several centuries, and a B2B model, Favre Leuba remains on course despite the geopolitical and economic tensions weighing on the sector.

Under the leadership of Ilaria Resta, CEO of Audemars Piguet, this watchmaking method—which enjoyed its golden age during the 19th century—is being brought back into the spotlight. At Watches and Wonders Geneva on Tuesday, the brand exclusively unveiled its three new timepieces from the “Atelier des Etablisseurs” project.

A haven for American billionaires, a real estate powerhouse, and a leading cultural and sporting destination, Miami now brings together all the growth drivers for luxury. Having welcomed over 28 million visitors in 2024 and preparing to generate $1.3 billion in economic impact from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the city is attracting private capital, wealthy individuals, and Swiss watch brands alike—from the Design District to the ultra-secure enclaves of Indian Creek.

Over the decades, Switzerland has established itself as a global benchmark in private education. Intended for the world’s wealthiest families, around fifteen private boarding schools charge some of the highest tuition fees in the world. But beyond academic excellence, what are these families really seeking?

As the women’s ski cross events of the Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics are about to begin in the Valtellina cluster at the Livigno Snow Park, Fanny Smith — the Swiss champion and already a two-time Olympic bronze medalist — is focused on one single goal: approaching the competition as serenely as possible. As flag bearer at the opening ceremony in Livigno, the Omega ambassador is already dreaming of another medal.

Amid pressure on margins, currency fluctuations, and reliance on wholesale, Oris is championing a model based on volume and perceived value. We spoke with Rolf Studer, the brand’s CEO, ahead of Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026.

While the high-end segment now captures most of the value in watchmaking, the Geneva-based manufacture Frédérique Constant—owned by Citizen group since 2016—continues to pursue a strategy of ultra-competitive pricing. A demanding positioning that raises questions about the model’s profitability. Interview with its CEO, Niels Eggerding.

This year, Hong Kong’s culinary scene broke its own record with one additional starred restaurant, bringing the total to 77 establishments and reflecting the rising quality of local cuisine. Seven restaurants retain three stars, while one of Anne-Sophie Pic’s restaurants has earned a second star.

On April 24, French media Business Book GP published its analysis of the 2025 season. In addition to the arrival of Cadillac, valued at more than $450 million, the report reveals a sharp increase in salaries across the eleven teams, totaling €448.2 million. At the same time, the FIA’s stricter rules are causing controversy in the paddocks.

In Australia, the market for animal-wellbeing services has accelerated significantly since the end of the pandemic (+30% since 2021). Moving far beyond simple “pet-sitting,” owners are now turning to daycare centers and hotels that meet luxury standards. For their animals, some are willing to spend several hundred dollars per day. A form of luxury that is quickly becoming the norm in many Australian households.