The new GPHG category list will no longer feature separate distinctions for men's and women's watches.
Information has emerged about changes in the categories of the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), also known as the watch Oscars. The 26th GPHG ceremony will take place on November 7, and here's what watch enthusiasts can expect.
The category list has removed the division between men's and women's watches. Instead, the GPHG awards now feature the Essential and Complication categories. The first includes watches displaying one or more of the following features: hours, minutes, seconds, date (day of the month), power reserve indicator, and moon phase indicator. Indications can be digital or retrograde. Watches without gemstone embellishments are eligible for this category.
In addition to the "Jewelry Watches" category, a separate Gemset category has been introduced. It includes models suitable for the Essential category but adorned with gemstones weighing up to 6 carats.
To ensure consistency within the competition, models released as single pieces will now only be submitted in the "Jewelry Watches" and "Mechanical Exception" categories.
The "Iconic Watch" category allows entry for all watches released during the year, including those from brands not officially participating in the competition. The condition for entry: the watch must be a modern interpretation of a legendary model that has influenced the watch industry for over 20 years.
The Special Jury Prize will now recognize not only individuals and organizations but also brands that have played a fundamental role in advancing horology or demonstrated exemplary ethics and sustainability. Importantly, this prize can be awarded to both participating and non-participating brands.
Instead of the previous 30, this year's GPHG winners will be selected by a jury of 24. The jury includes the CEO of last year's winning company, 11 people chosen by the jury chair in agreement with the GPHG foundation, and 11 members of the GPHG Academy selected by drawing lots. This year's jury chair is Wei Koh, founder of the magazine Revolution.