UBS and Hodinkee Unite for Icons of Time: A Celebration of Horological Craftsmanship
UBS, a global leader in wealth management, has once again joined forces with Hodinkee, a prominent luxury watch media and retail platform, to present the latest iteration of the UBS House of Craft. This year’s theme, “Icons of Time,” will take place in New York City, showcasing the intricate world of heritage craftsmanship in watchmaking. The event is set to kick off with an exclusive cocktail gathering for UBS clients on Wednesday, followed by public access on October 9-10.
A Deep Dive into Heritage Craftsmanship
The UBS House of Craft initiative has previously explored various realms of luxury, including vintage automobiles, fine wines, art, haute couture, and, of course, luxury watches. This year, the focus on horology aims to connect enthusiasts, collectors, and industry executives, providing an immersive experience that highlights the technical prowess and artistry behind mechanical watches.
Sven Schaefer, UBS’s head of group brand activation, sponsorship, and events, emphasized the importance of craftsmanship in a statement: “For us at UBS, we believe craft is more than a skill – it’s a mindset defined by precision, excellence, and enduring value.” He noted that watchmaking serves as a powerful expression of these principles, where every detail reflects a blend of heritage and innovation. The collaboration with Hodinkee, led by founder Benjamin Clymer, aims to celebrate horology as a vital connector of culture, community, and legacy.
The Evolution of Hodinkee
Founded in 2008 by Benjamin Clymer as a modest watch blog, Hodinkee has transformed into a digital authority on horology. The platform combines insightful editorial storytelling with curated commerce, gaining significant traction in the luxury watch market. In 2020, Hodinkee received backing from LVMH Luxury Ventures, and in 2024, it was acquired by Watches of Switzerland, further solidifying its position in the industry.
Clymer’s extensive connections within the watch community have positioned him well to curate this year’s exhibition. “In many ways, we’ve been curating for almost 20 years now, but I think this is the first time we’re doing it in such a public macro-level way,” he remarked. The event aims to cater not only to seasoned collectors but also to newcomers eager to learn about the world of timepieces.
Curating the Icons of Time
The exhibition will feature a carefully selected collection of 12 iconic watches, including the F.P. Journe Chronomètre à Résonance, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, Patek Philippe Calatrava, Cartier Crash, and a G-Shock DW6900. Clymer explained that the goal of this curation is to tell compelling stories that resonate with both seasoned enthusiasts and those who may be less familiar with the intricacies of watchmaking.
Notably, the event is not brand-sponsored, allowing for a more organic and authentic experience. Clymer emphasized that this independence enhances the event’s special nature, making it a true celebration of horological craftsmanship.
Engaging Talks and Public Events
The launch event will feature discussions with notable figures, including ESPN’s Gary Striewski and filmmaker Spike Lee, both of whom are avid watch collectors. Following the public portion, a second invite-only preview will include a conversation between Clymer and Tony Fadell, a former senior executive at Apple and founder of Nest Labs. Clymer noted the diverse backgrounds of the speakers, stating, “Last year we had a lot of people that have been around watches for a long time, but with Spike and Tony, they come from completely different worlds.”
The public events will be free and will include on-site demonstrations that capture the energy and precision of horological craft. Attendees can look forward to activities featuring artisans from Jaeger-LeCoultre and Maison Alcée, live podcasts, and discussions, including one titled “The Medium Shapes the Message,” featuring Hodinkee magazine’s Malaika Crawford and I-D magazine editor-in-chief Thom Bettridge.
The Resilience of the U.S. Luxury Watch Market
The Icons of Time event underscores the resilience of the U.S. luxury watch market, which has remained steady despite challenges such as a post-pandemic correction, declining resale prices, and a recent 39% tariff on Swiss imports. This resilience highlights the enduring demand for mechanical craftsmanship and established heritage brands.
Clymer pointed out a growing interest in luxury watches from individuals who may not have been involved in the category a decade ago. He cited the influence of pop culture and social media, mentioning figures like Mark Zuckerberg, who frequently showcases high-value timepieces. “We’re seeing a lot of the bigger brands really focus their attention away from Asia and Europe and into the U.S.,” he noted, emphasizing the untapped potential of the American market.
Conclusion
The UBS House of Craft’s Icons of Time event promises to be a significant gathering for watch enthusiasts, collectors, and industry leaders alike. By celebrating the artistry and heritage of horology, UBS and Hodinkee aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that defines luxury watches. As the U.S. market continues to evolve, events like these not only highlight the enduring allure of mechanical timepieces but also pave the way for a new generation of collectors and aficionados.
