Are you already on holiday? I finally am. After three busy months, during which we put five publications on the newsstands (the October, November and December/January issues of L'Orologio and the two annual issues, L'Orologio Yearbook and L'Orologio Almanac), I am finally catching my breath, but not before taking stock of this 2022.
I believe that the year that is drawing to a close has been an effervescent one, for the novelties of the more established names and for the blossoming of new names that have their say. Independents are gaining ground, but without taking market share away from the big brands, thus testifying to the growing interest in watchmaking in general.
Investments in research and development have given rise to watches such as the Rolex DeepSea Challenge, waterproof to a depth of 11,000 metres; to no fewer than two subtlety records, with Bulgari and Richard Mille battling it out to the tune of tenths of a millimetre; and to a world first by Omega, namely a Speedmaster with an audible chronograph time repeater. And just to name a few.
As far as we are concerned, we have experienced 2022 in close contact with our readers, thanks to intense activity on social networks, the resumption of trips and events with L'Orologio Club, and important partnerships. Like the one with Vicenzaoro, which is working with determination to grow two events in Italy dedicated to watchmaking, open to the public: VO'Clock and VO Vintage. Or like the one with the auction-event The One, organised by Jacopo Spangaro (Orologeria Spangaro di Udine) in collaboration with Cambi Casa d'Aste. An initiative that launched a new format for auction sales: a three-day event among vineyards, wineries and vintage cars, culminating in an auction full of interesting pieces even for first-time collectors.
The sector is in turmoil and L'Orologio, which celebrated its first 30 years on the newsstands in October, is among the protagonists of this exciting moment for everyone.
Now, can you imagine what awaits us next year?
Meanwhile... Happy holidays and see you in 2023!
Dody Giussani
