Historical Treasures in Fine Watchmaking Premiere in Munich

Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie

The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie opens their first special exhibition in Germany

Munich/Geneva, October 31, 2008

Beginning today, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH), the foundation for the promotion of Fine Watchmaking, will be presenting its first special exhibition in Germany, “The World of Complication Watches”, at the MUNICHTIME 2008 watch exhibition. Visitors will be able to explore the fascinating world of complication watches – some of them counting amongst the most intricate works of their time – at the Aktionsforum Praterinsel in Munich from October 31st to November 2nd, 2008.

The FHH will be presenting around 65 historical wristwatches and pocketwatches in special acknowledgement of Southern Germany’s watchmaking tradition. The unique exhibit pieces originated from top companies in Fine Watchmaking as well as Swiss museums, including the Musée international d’horlogerie, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Musée de l’horlogerie et de l’émaillerie, Geneva, Musée d’art et d’histoire de la ville de Genève, Musée d’horlogerie, Le Locle, Château-des-Monts as well as the Clock and Watch Museum Beyer Zurich. The historical portion of the exhibit will feature 24 additional pieces presented by FHH partner companies.

After appearing in Beijing, Rome, and Paris, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie will be presenting its first exhibition on German soil: “The World of Complication Watches” makes the world of unique, handcrafted artistry and European cultural heritage accessible to visitors. Alongside models with special indicators for the phases of the moon, the seasons, or – for astrology lovers – the signs of the zodiac, there are also watches with acoustic signals that strike upon the hour like a church clock, or watches that play melodies like a music box. “The world of watches is a true cosmos of inventions,” says Nicolas de Quatrebarbes, the FHH representative to Germany. “We’re proud to have the privilege of presenting this European cultural treasure to the German public for the first time at this comprehensive show – and are looking forward to the visitors’ response and interest.”