The Stats Tell the Story of Baselworld 2015
This year’s show is over but some interesting numbers have emerged from Baselworld 2015. The number of buyers was down by 3% while the number of media representatives was up by 7.5% from 2014. Maybe that’s why the current crop of new watches are getting so much press but the uncertainty about the Swiss franc may have dampened the enthusiasm of potential buyers.
1,500 watch and jewelry brands were on hand to display their offerings for the 150,000 guests from more than 100 countries as well as the 4,300 representatives of the media. A total of 219 watch brands showed off their wares this year but merely a dozen presented smartwatches or revealed plans for wearable devices. That number is certain to go up next year but it’s too soon to guess how many makers of Swiss watches will try to create their own takes on the latest style.
4 Hot Trends
After perusing the hundreds of fine timepieces introduced over the last few days, Australia’s Sydney Morning Herald zeroed in on four hot trends coming out of Baselworld 2015. Let’s see if any or all of these appeal to buyers this year.
New materials
In addition to the usual gold, platinum and stainless steel, watchmakers have been experimenting with alloys, ceramics and finishes that make their new models stand out from the pack. Some are proprietary formulas that are unique to one brand.
Blue and brown
Black is always a classic favorite but some watchmakers are mixing things up by injecting more blue and brown dials into the mix.
Traditional watches get smarter
It’s a sure thing that the makers of fine Swiss timepieces will find ways to cash in on the smartwatch trend but what’s not so certain is what they plan to do with it. Some seem to be hedging their bets by adding digital features to traditional watches while TAG Heuer is going all-out by partnering with Google and Intel to create a new Android smartwatch aimed at offering the Apple Watch some needed competition for the high-end market.
Modern takes on vintage looks
“Mad Men” may be ending but the 50s are back for watchmakers like Zenith and TAG Heuer that are bringing out new versions of their classic timepieces. These watches get back to the basics with slim lines, open dials and simple color schemes. With their cool exteriors and modern interiors, these new classics truly have the best of both worlds.
Pelé and Hublot Launch New Big Bang Unico Watch
Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe and soccer legend Pelé traveled to Guangzhou, China, to introduce the first limited edition of the Big Bang Unico Bi-retrograde Chronograph. This watch was named the official timepiece of the Guangzhou Evergrande Taobao Football Club and the famous footballer showed the young players a few new moves. Hublot is bringing attention to the youthful players who are reviving the sport in China.
