Three Key Watch Trends, As Reported From Sihh in Geneva

As we mentioned last week, the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) is taking place in Geneva this week — with more than 30 brands showing at this spectacular by-invitation-only exhibition. The show opened officially on Monday, and is in full swing, but here we bring you an insider's look at three key trends stealing the limelight thus far, and that we can expect to see coming into the market later this summer.

Chronographs and chic, sporty watches. There is a renewed interest in split-second timing this year, and many brands are unveiling sporty, chic chronographs that can measure distances or speeds related to one or multiple events. Generally, chronographs have two pushers to operate their time-tracking functions, but we are seeing some wonderful new Monopusher (single pusher) chronographs coming to fruition that are sure to offer a sleeker appeal in a nice contrast to the bulkier, bolder sport watch.

Vintage inspirations and anniversary collections. You just can't get away from the retro styling and vintage inspirations we are seeing at this exhibition — nor would you want to. In fact, the vintage accents run the gamut from 20th century hands and stylized numerals, to silver and parchment dial colors that recall the early 1900s. Some brands are even implementing historic logos on their dials as a nod to their rich past. This year also seems to be an important one for many watch brands, some celebrating 10 years, and other celebrating centuries. Additionally, some brands are paying homage to particular lines or collections that have anniversaries in 2018.

Women's watches. We have been talking about the women's watch market as a growing segment for at least a decade now. Every year, we witness more brands unveiling timepieces geared for women — and often including automatic and mechanical movements, as well as coveted complications. Moonphase and calendar watches remain a favorite for women, but this year we are witnessing a few more complexities, including tourbillons and repeaters. Make no mistake, though, there are still a grand number of women's decorative watches — sporting three-hands and diamonds or other designs — making their way to the forefront. And, for women, color will be key this year.

We will bring you more in-depth news and product reports from the brands after the show concludes.