ustainability is the theme of the Watch Forum 2022 by Watches and Culture, a division of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie which promotes the artistic and cultural value of the watch as a demonstration of excellence.

Through this one-day event, held this September 13 at Maison de la Paix in Geneva, Watches and Culture continues its annual programme which includes numerous initiatives on this theme. Already rising on the watch industry agenda, sustainability reflects the similarities between a responsible approach and crafting objects that last a lifetime: the purpose of mechanical watchmaking and art mechanics, now recognised by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

“By hosting the Watch Forum, Watches and Culture is fulfilling its role to bring the industry together and debate questions of importance both now and for the future, such as sustainable development. Net Zero production, traceability across supply chains, impacts on biodiversity and the development of recycled materials and a circular economy are just some of the topics the watch industry needs to address… not forgetting the social issues of equality and inclusion. The answers to these questions will be decisive for the profession’s future,” says Pascal Ravessoud, Director of External Affairs at the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie.

The firm conviction that the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the transition towards a sustainable industry can only happen through collaboration is at the heart of the Watch Forum. The Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 illustrates this belief. In October 2021 Cartier, representing the Richemont group, and Kering announced their commitment to common goals for the climate, natural resources and inclusiveness. Confirmation of this project’s importance, Cyrille Vigneron, President and CEO of Cartier, and Marie-Claire Daveu, Chief Sustainability and Institutional Affairs Officer at Kering, will be on-stage at the Watch Forum.

The Watch Forum is an invitation-only event reserved for eminent specialists, representatives of NGOs and international institutions, as well as leading figures in the industry: CEOs and members of the executive committees of Watches and Culture partner-brands. Its purpose is to promote positive emulation and engage all stakeholders in a more sustainable industry. This year’s edition will also be the opportunity for Watches and Culture to present its Meaningful Watch Movement, which accompanies and supports brands on their journey towards sustainability.

Whether it’s sustainability, innovation, heritage or industry, each year Watches and Culture will develop a theme through the Watch Forum, articles and content rolled out at Watches and Wonders Geneva.