For its third edition on September 19, 20, and 21, 2025, the Festival Suisse de l’Horlogerie, a highly cultural event, will take place in Yverdon-les-Bains at an exceptional facility whose reputation extends beyond Switzerland’s borders: the Grand Hôtel des Bains.
A Shaniah Asha Gibson’s sélection / @TRP, Cabinet d’écritures et d’influence
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Prestigious guests
In this architectural icon, history is not frozen inside the walls: it lives on in the gestures and expertise that bring watchmaking creations to life. The Festival Suisse de l’Horlogerie shines a spotlight on these artisans, independent brands, and crafts that, sometimes in the shadows, shape the beauty of time.
This year, a prestigious guest will enhance the celebration: The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, together with one of its experts, will present cultural and historical contents on major themes of watchmaking savoir-faire, reflecting its richness and complexit
Highlights of the 3rd edition
Friday, September 19 – Youth Day: A special day dedicated to students, to convey a passion for the watchmaking craft and perhaps inspire new vocations. Workshops, meetings, and discussions will offer them a unique immersion into a world where tradition and innovation come together.
Sunday, September 21 – The Watch Exchange: this day is dedicated to exceptional pieces, where collectors, enthusiasts, and curious visitors can discover and discuss rare horological treasures.
The FHS, more than an event: a cross-generational experience, a bridge between tradition and creativity
The Métiers d’Art Villa
An elegant Belle Époque annex of the Grand Hôtel des Bains—celebrates the excellence of jewellery craftsmanship with immersive workshops: a gouache jewellery class led by Estelle Lagarde, the art of designing your own Swiza knife with Initium, and a fascinating demonstration by gem cutter Anke Gafner revealing the secrets of cabochon and gemstone cutting. A lively encounter with the passion and ingenuity of artisan creators.
An event where heritage comes to life
Each exhibitor, each artisan, each demonstration tells a story, sometimes under threat, but always precious.
- The Grand Hôtel des Bains d’Yverdon – An heritage institution and exceptional partner, whose team and architecture enhance the festival experience for attendees and showcase all the brands and works on display.
- Mathys Pro – An expert in scenography and logistics, he uses all his know-how to transform each booth into a tailor-made showcase.
- Volunteers – Passionate and discreet, they work to preserve and pass on one of the world’s richest watchmaking heritages, promoting rare crafts such as the last chain maker in Switzerland, grand feu enameling, and hand engraving.
- Independent watch brands – Bold designers and visionary watchmakers who defend their art and identity, sometimes alone. This festival is their unique showcase in the heart of French- speaking Switzerland.
- Les Amis du MIH – Loyal partners of the International Watchmaking Museum, guardians of the memory and expertise that shape Swiss identity.
- The Cultural Department of the Canton of Vaud – Institutional support committed to helping artisans who perpetuate ancestral skills, an essential link in the chain of transmission.
- The Métiers d’Art Villa – Natural allies of watchmaking, they enhance the festival with the finesse of their crafts: gem setting, engraving, enameling… a perfect alchemy between art and precision with workshops and demonstrations.
The International Watchmaking Museum (MIH) in La Chaux-de-Fonds is much more than an exhibition space: it is the living memory of watchmaking science and art. Since its creation, it has preserved, studied, and passed on an exceptional heritage spanning several centuries of Swiss and international ingenuity and expertise.
Alongside it, the Association des Amis MIH (MIH Friends) plays an essential role. Bringing together enthusiasts, patrons, and all those who appreciate this remarkable heritage, the association has been committed since 1980 to supporting the museum’s projects, contributing to the enrichment of its collections, and promoting the transmission of the culture of time to the general public.
Its presence at the Festival Suisse de l’Horlogerie is no coincidence: it symbolizes the continuity between history and current creation. Thanks to its efforts, watchmaking does not merely survive in display cases, but continues to inspire, educate, and pass on knowledge.
