With the support of Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, claimed to be the only globally recognized independent international awards for excellence in watchmaking, the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Geneve (GPHG) opened at Cuadro Fine Art Gallery, DIFC. The exhibition, which is now open to the public, will run till Oct. 24.

Carlo Lamprecht, president of GPHG Foundation, said: “This will be our first time bringing these exquisite timepieces to the Middle East and it is a pleasure to showcase this year’s edition of an event that has been dubbed the watch industry ‘Oscars’ by many, and offer the opportunity to experience the watches that have been pre-selected by the distinguished jury of this 13th Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix. I would also like to extend my gratitude to Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons who have been a tremendous support in bringing the exhibit to Dubai — a destination that is undoubtedly one of the world’s most prestigious capitals and a luxury tourist destination that is on the verge of becoming one of the world’s leading hubs in the field of finance and international trade.”

Abdul Hamied Seddiqi, vice chairman of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, and jury member at the 2011 GPHG awards, said: “This exhibition is a milestone for the watch industry of the Middle East and serves as a reminder of the growing importance of Dubai as a pivotal tour de force within the region. To have the GPHG in Dubai is a great honor and a positive sign of great things to come.

Shortlisted from more than 200 nominees, 69 watches are on display, vying for the top spot in 10 categories, including innovative and complicated watches. This is the first time that the GPHG exhibition will be coming to the Middle East, as part of its international tour.