Baselworld vs. SIHH vs. Watches & Wonders vs.

[kronomentro]

Does anyone on this forum from the US attend watch collector/enthusiast events?

It seems the large conventions in Switzerland are not convenient for many of us humble smaller time collectors.

The classic car world has Concours which happen all over the country and are generally very good including the d'Elegance/Pebble Beach.

Are there similar events for watches/horology that arent just for dealers/retailers?

[Rickn]

I was thinking about attending Basel, but it is cold there. Honestly, after looking at pics on instagram, I’d rather just go to Miami for watches and wonders next year and actually handle the new SIHH watches a few weeks after they come out.
I could see that becoming an annual trip. Warm weather, sun and watches

[tyler1980]

Patek just had an exhibition in NY. Did you go? IMO that would have been the one to go to.

[kronomentro]

Unfortunately I was unable to attend the Patek exhibition in NYC although my wife went. too bad b/c I hear it was prob a once in a decade or two event. I suppose I was curious about more regular events analogous to the concours. Rickn, agree watches & wonders appears to be that with sun, cars and watches. Although because its held before Baselworld-no Patek presence!

[goog53]

I have been told Basel is a bit of a waste of time unless invited by your AD and you get a private viewing of pieces. Otherwise you are just a random spectator looking outside booths at the glass display cases. Is this an accurate representation for those who have just attended as general visitors?