My first Dubai Watch Week came like fresh rain after a dry spell. Finally together again: manufacturers, watchmakers, journalists, collectors, enthusiasts. Together, for an event that has been described by some colleagues as 'the greatest show ever'.
And its greatness, incredible to say (or maybe not?), is in not being a commercial event.
What the Seddiqi family had in mind when they created Dubai Watch Week six years ago was to bring the watchmaking experience to the Emirates: the kind that customers of the Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons chain of flagship stores and boutiques could only get an up-close look at by visiting the watch manufacturers. Hind Seddiqi - the managing director of Watch Week - and his family have set themselves the goal of creating an event in which the watch culture is the sole protagonist.
The aim is to involve, educate and entertain. The exhibition of the new models almost plays the central role played by forums, lectures, debates and workshops, which are open to all.
My impression is that there is much to learn from this biennial event that started quietly and has become, for the entire sector, 'the place to be'. So much so that this year there were almost 50 brands present, including big names such as Audemars Piguet, Breitling, Bulgari, Chopard, Hublot and Rolex, and small independent brands, from the best known MB&F to the emerging Rexhep Rexhepi. All present at Dubai Watch Week 2021 with a strong desire to meet again and to network, to rediscover themselves, after two dark years, as true protagonists of this sector.
Meditate people, meditate...
