Vietnam had the honour of hosting one of the most important events in the watch industry - the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) 2024 Exhibition. The event took place at the iconic Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, capturing the attention of both watch enthusiasts and cultural aficionados.

The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, illuminated in red on October 8, 2024, took centre stage as it welcomed the grand launch of the GPHG 2024 Exhibition. Preceding the GPHG awards ceremony scheduled for November 13 at the Théâtre du Léman in Geneva, 90 officially nominated watches were displayed in Ho Chi Minh City as part of GPHG's world tour. Organised by The Hour Glass, the exhibition was open to the public from October 9 to 10.

The significance of this first-ever event in Vietnam was underscored by the presence of Mr. Raymond Loretan, President of GPHG, and Ms. Carine Maillard, Director of GPHG. Speaking at the event, Mr. Loretan shared heartfelt words about the event's meaning, emphasising GPHG's mission to promote watch culture in Vietnam:

From the organising partners, Mr. Michael Tay - Group Managing Director of The Hour Glass Limited, Mr. Narun Thamavaranukup - Managing Director of PMT The Hour Glass, and Mr. Tran Thanh Hai - General Manager of The Hour Glass Vietnam were also present at the event. Sharing their pride in bringing GPHG to Ho Chi Minh City, while emphasising the great potential of the Vietnamese market, Mr. Tran Thanh Hai stated:

Watch enthusiasts in the region are presented with an opportunity to appreciate the finest examples of modern watchmaking. Visitors can appreciate all the nominees selected from 15 watch categories, including Men's and Ladies', Men's & Ladies' Complications, Iconic, Tourbillon, Calendar & Astronomy, Mechanical Exception, Time Only, Chronograph, Sports, Jewellery, Artistic Crafts, Challenge, and Petite Aiguille. Each category showcases outstanding timekeepers, providing viewers with a comprehensive view of the diversity and creativity in the watch industry.

The team at The Hour Glass Vietnam designed a unique exhibition space which celebrated the 90 nominated watches while showcasing Vietnam's rich cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from symbolic elements such as conical hats and meandering rivers, the design seamlessly blended modern aesthetics with distinctly Vietnamese influences. Every display was thoughtfully crafted to create the perfect setting to highlight and narrate the story behind each watch.

In addition to the unique watch display areas, the event offered engaging interactive experiences, including a photo booth activity and the opportunity to take pictures with a replica of the iconic GPHG trophy. Guests were also treated to a special musical performance by celebrated singer Phuong Vy. Accompanied by a classical orchestra, she brilliantly performed two songs, "Hello Vietnam" and "La Vie en Rose," providing guests with an unforgettable musical experience.

The grand launch of the GPHG 2024 exhibition in Ho Chi Minh City unfolded in a refined atmosphere, capturing the attention of watch connoisseurs and cultural enthusiasts alike. With its exceptional combination of watchmaking craftsmanship, modern technology, and Vietnamese cultural influences, the GPHG 2024 exhibition stood out as a must-see event for horology lovers. It celebrated both innovation and tradition in watchmaking, while providing guests with a closer understanding of excellence in this renowned industry.