Five major watch brands jointly announced that they won’t be participating in the Baselworld trade show in 2021.
Instead, Rolex, its sister brand Tudor, Patek Philippe, Chanel and Chopard are planning their own show with the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie.
The announcement, distributed by Rolex, follows controversy over refunds for Baselworld 2020, which was canceled due to the COVID-19 crisis, SJX reports.
The new show would be held in April 2021 at the Geneva Palexpo with Watches & Wonders Geneva. The event has not yet been named.
Rolex CEO Jean-Frederic Dufour said in the announcement: “We have taken part in Baselworld since 1939. Unfortunately, given the way the event has evolved and the recent decisions made by MCH Group, and in spite of the great attachment we had to this watch show, we have decided to withdraw. Following discussions initiated by Rolex, it seemed only natural to create a new event with partners that share our vision and our endless, unwavering support for the Swiss watchmaking sector. This will allow us to present our new watches in line with our needs and expectations, to join forces and better defend the interests of the industry.”
