GPHG Revises Competition Categories Ahead of 2026 Ceremony
The Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, often referred to as the watch industry’s equivalent of the Oscars, has announced a series of category changes ahead of its 26th ceremony, scheduled for 7 November 2026.
Among the most notable updates is the removal of separate men’s and women’s watch categories, alongside revisions to jury structure and competition rules.
Essential and Complication Categories Replace Gender Divisions
The previous separation between men’s and women’s watches has been removed from the GPHG competition structure. In their place, the organisation has introduced the new Essential and Complication categories.
The Essential category will include watches displaying one or more of the following indications: hours, minutes, seconds, date, power reserve indication and moon phase display. Both digital and retrograde displays will be permitted. Watches entered into this category must not feature gemstone setting.
Separate Gemset Category Added
Alongside the existing Jewellery Watch category, GPHG has introduced a separate Gemset category.
This section is intended for watches that otherwise qualify for the Essential category but include gemstone setting with a total weight of up to six carats.
Unique Pieces Limited to Selected Categories
To ensure greater consistency across the competition, watches produced as unique pieces will now only be eligible for the Jewellery Watch and Mechanical Art Objects categories.
Updated Rules for the Iconic Watch Category
The rules surrounding the Iconic Watch category have also been revised. The category will now accept watches released during the current year, including models from brands that are not officially participating in the competition.
To qualify, a watch must represent a contemporary interpretation of a legendary model that has influenced the watch industry for more than 20 years.
Broader Scope for the Special Jury Prize
The Special Jury Prize category has also been expanded. In addition to recognising individuals and organisations, the award may now also honour brands that have played a fundamental role in advancing watchmaking or demonstrated exemplary approaches to ethics and sustainability.
Importantly, both participating and non-participating brands remain eligible for the prize.
Reduced Jury Size for 2026
The jury itself will also become smaller. Instead of 30 members, the 2026 GPHG jury will consist of 24 people.
The panel will include the CEO of the previous year’s winning company, 11 members selected by the jury president in agreement with the GPHG foundation, and 11 members of the GPHG Academy chosen by lottery.
This year’s jury president will be Wei Koh, founder of Revolution magazine.
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