Rexhep Rexhepi wins top prize at 26th Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève

The 26th edition of the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), often referred to as the “Oscars of Watchmaking,” concluded on November 7. In a result that surprised many in the industry, the highest distinction, the Aiguille d'Or, was awarded to independent watchmaker Rexhep Rexhepi for his Akrivia Chronograph Flyback.

The award marks a significant moment for independent artisans, as the prize went to a small Geneva-based workshop rather than a century-old luxury house or a major conglomerate. The jury praised the Akrivia piece for its in-house mechanics and artisanal execution.

Other notable winners from the ceremony include:

• Special Jury Prize: Patek Philippe for the Watch Art Grand Exhibition. • Iconic Watch Prize: Audemars Piguet for the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-thin Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph RD#5 “150th Anniversary”. • Chronometry Watch Prize: Ferdinand Berthoud for the Naissance d'une Montre 3. • Audacity Prize: Konstantin Chaykin for the ThinKing Mystery. • Complication Watch Prize: Mathieu Cleguer for the Inspiration One.

A total of 20 prizes were presented across various categories, highlighting achievements in mechanics, aesthetics, and horological innovation.