The second annual Watch Week Aspen will include more educational talks than last year’s event, new timepiece reveals, outdoor activities, and even more opportunities for watch lovers to meet and talk about their collections.
The Aug. 7–10 event in the Rocky Mountains resort town allows lovers of horology to connect, learn, and enjoy time together in one of the most beautiful places in the country, says Elizabeth Smith, managing director of Aspen’s Oliver Smith Jeweler and founder of Watch Week Aspen, which Oliver Smith sponsors in partnership with the Aspen Chamber Resort Association.
“Watch Week Aspen was created for passionate watch collectors, but we also wanted it to be welcoming to partners and friends who may not be as immersed in the watch world,” Smith says. “Aspen offers something for everyone—beautiful summer weather, outdoor adventure, and a vibrant community.”
Socializing proved one of the most popular aspects of the first Watch Week Aspen in 2024.
This sophomore effort is larger than last year’s inaugural Watch Week Aspen, as the number of exhibiting watch brands, local retail partners, and activations have all grown, Smith says. Renowned climber Jimmy Chin and former U.S. Olympian Alex Ferriera are among the notable guests who will lead athletic activities.
Watch brands and retailers scheduled to attend include A. Lange & Söhne, Arnold & Son, Audemars Piguet, Avi & Co., Betteridge, Bremont, Gerald Charles, Glashütte Original, H. Moser & Cie, IWC, Meridian Jewelers, Moritz Grossmann, Norqain, Oliver Smith Jeweler, Omega, and Zenith.
The watchmakers helped organizers determine some of the events and expert-led discussions that will occur during Watch Week Aspen, Smith says. Charles Langois, president of A. Lange & Söhne Americas, will be attending for the first time and meeting collectors at the local A. Lange store. Omega is also making its Watch Week debut within its new Aspen boutique.
“I am excited to see brands stepping up in a big way this year. Bremont will be hosting a guided hike led by their ambassador, Jimmy Chin, on Friday morning. Their CEO, Davide Cerrato, will also be joining our Saturday panel discussion,” says Smith.
Watch Week Aspen founder Elizabeth Smith is the managing director at Oliver Smith Jewelers in downtown Aspen.
Attendance at and feedback from Watch Week Aspen’s first year exceeded organizers’ expectations, and they decided to expand on what people enjoyed the most for the 2025 event, she adds.
“We surveyed both brand partners and attendees to learn what they wanted more of, and one theme came through loud and clear: more shared experiences,” says Smith. “This year, we’ve added more group events open to all attendees. Each day offers opportunities to connect, whether it’s our Thursday welcome party, Friday night’s collectors’ party and dinner, or the return of our speaker series on Saturday.”
Watch Week Aspen is free and open to the public, but Smith recommends watch lovers register for events and hosted excursions to ensure they have a spot. In addition to the happenings in Aspen’s downtown, Watch Week includes outdoor activities such as pickleball meet-ups and hikes in the surrounding region.
Overall, Watch Week Aspen is about celebrating the watch community, Smith notes.
“The fascination with watches shows no signs of slowing,” she says. “Some collectors are drawn to the incredible craftsmanship and horological innovation; others connect with the story behind a brand or appreciate aligning themselves with a legacy. And for many, it is the sense of community—connecting with others who share the same passion.”
Top: Watch collectors show off their favorite timepieces at the 2024 Watch Week Aspen. (Photos courtesy of Watch Week Aspen)