Did you know that this weekend there is the first of its kind: Vancouver Timepiece Show, running from April 25-27th, 2025 at the North Vancouver Pipe Shop. The inaugural show was last year in Toronto, September 2024 and it was well received.
The weekend promises to celebrate the artistry and innovation of fine timepieces with over 2,000 expected attendees over the three days. This Friday evening was the VIP launch and kick off, a more relaxed setting that offered us the opportunity to speak to some of the brands, many of which have travelled a long distance to be part of the show.
This was an invite-only event designed for creators and journalists with complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
As a novice, this was a great introduction to the world of independent watchmaking. We were able to take in the premium artistry of over 55 exceptional timepiece brands from around the world and talk directly with some of the brand reps, creators, makers, and owners.
As per the press release: “Founded in 2023, the Timepiece Show series unites outstanding independent watch brands in vibrant, welcoming venues, crafting unforgettable experiences for watch enthusiasts and industry leaders alike. Since its inception, the Timepiece Show has collaborated with brands and media partners from over 22 countries, reflecting its growing international appeal.”
The gallery includes watches from $400-500 on the low end and $20-30k on the high. Most are in the thousands range and are deemed accessible. If you see anything you like you are able to purchase it on the spot.
The following are a handful of the tables we stopped at and chatted with.
March Lab is a French brand based in LA inspired by the retro 70’s style. They are known for their trademark olive green hue and square-shaped face. I found it stylish with much swagger.
Formex are French made Swiss watches with a winding rotator to keep them on track, these mechanical watches need to be serviced regularly.
Christopher Ward is uniquely only sold online. They have done business for 20 years without a store, allowing them to cut out hard margins and offer a discount to their consumers as obtainable luxury.
Their brand new watch mechanics is a variation of their free sprung balance wheel. It ticks like a heartbeat and keeps the watch accurate, holding 144 hours of power.
Their orginal iconic piece features a song bird under the bezel and its alarm is a lovely chime.
5280 Watch Co. hand engraves silver face plates using a rose engine from 1914. A process that takes over 30 hours and results in a beautifully detailed work of art.
There were even Canadian brands such as José Cermeño from Montreal. A one man team who hand stitches leather for the face of each one of his hand made watches. His collection currently consists of three designs in red, black, and blue.
My greatest take away is that watches actually give you your time back, because they don’t do more than read the time. Whereas when you look at the time on your phone you end up doing more: chatting, updating your status, and looking at social media. Very profound.
In short if you love watches and wearable art, this one is for you. Designed for watch lovers and those who appreciate a time piece for more than just time telling. Come discover new brands and learn more about the latest advances in watch making. Purchase your ticket with the link below.
Date: April 25, 26 & 27, 2025
Time: Saturday, Sunday 10am – 5pm
Location: The Pipeshop, The Shipyards
115 Victory Ship Way North Vancouver, BC
https://www.timepieceshow.com/
