Tad Kozh Launches New Prize for Emerging Watchmaking Talent
A new initiative aimed at supporting young watchmakers has been announced with the launch of Tad Kozh, a non profit organisation dedicated to encouraging emerging talent and preserving traditional watchmaking crafts. The project was founded by Alix and Baudouin Van Es.
Supporting the next generation of watchmakers has become an increasingly important topic within the industry, particularly as many traditional decorative and finishing techniques risk becoming less common. The Tad Kozh initiative seeks to address this challenge through both a competition for young artisans and a programme dedicated to producing limited watch series celebrating traditional crafts.
A Competition for Young Watchmakers
At the heart of the initiative is the Tad Kozh Prize, a competition open to watchmakers aged between 18 and 35. Applicants are encouraged to hold a watchmaking diploma, although self taught candidates may also participate if they can present a strong portfolio of work.
Participants are required to submit a detailed project proposal outlining the concept of their watch as well as the finishing and decorative techniques they intend to use in its creation.
In September, the authors of the selected projects will be invited to Switzerland to take part in a one day practical examination. Their technical abilities will be evaluated by a jury composed of well known figures from the watch industry and specialist watch experts, including Alex Ghotbi, Roy Davidoff, Guillaume Tetu, Hervé Schluchter, Luc Monnet and Emilien Revershon.
Following this stage, two winners will be selected.
Mentorship and Workshop Experience
Each laureate will receive a two week practical placement in the workshop of watchmaker Luc Monnet. The programme will also include mentorship from respected figures in the industry.
Jean François Mojon will provide technical guidance, while Pietro Tomajer will oversee the strategic and business aspects of the mentorship programme.
Limited Editions Celebrating Watchmaking Crafts
Alongside the competition, the Tad Kozh project also plans to develop limited watch series dedicated to specific traditional crafts.
Each year the organisation intends to produce two models in editions of between five and ten pieces. These watches are expected to be created by the competition winners in collaboration with established master watchmakers and offered to collectors through a subscription based model.
The first releases are already planned. Two models are scheduled for 2026, highlighting the techniques of micro mosaic and cloisonné enamel. A further model featuring feather marquetry decoration is planned for early 2027.
Applications for the inaugural Tad Kozh Prize will remain open until 15 July 2026, with further information available on the organisation’s official website.
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