Hands On Horology 2026 Welcomes 900+ Collectors For Sold-Out London Showcase
There is something uniquely satisfying about experiencing a watch in the metal, and that philosophy continues to define Hands On Horology.
Returning to Protein Studios in Shoreditch on Saturday 13 June, the second edition of London’s enthusiast-led watch exhibition welcomed more than 900 collectors across two sold-out sessions. With over 50 exhibiting brands, from established manufacturers to emerging independents, the event once again demonstrated why Hands On Horology has quickly become one of the UK’s most anticipated dates in the horological calendar.
Designed around genuine interaction rather than display cabinets, the exhibition gave visitors the opportunity to handle watches, meet the people behind the brands and discover pieces they may previously have only encountered online. Alongside the impressive line-up of exhibitors, the event featured a number of highlights throughout the day.
A charity silent auction showcased two unique watches hand-painted by renowned dial artist Chris Alexander, better known as The Dial Artist (below), raising more than £1,600 for Mind and The Felix Project. The fundraising campaign also provided 2,310 meals for people experiencing food insecurity across London.
The popular Wrist Shot Competition, sponsored by echo/neutra, returned with hundreds of attendee photographs displayed throughout the day on a large LED screen, with two winners each receiving an echo/neutra timepiece.
Priority Pass holders also enjoyed exclusive live dial-painting sessions with The Dial Artist. Twenty-four collectors left with individually hand-painted dials, while every Priority Pass guest received an official event tote and a limited-edition WatchGecko x Hands On Horology strap, replacing the traditional paper wristband with a wearable souvenir.
Industry Approval
The response from exhibiting brands was overwhelmingly positive, with every surveyed exhibitor expressing an intention to return, or seriously consider returning, for the 2027 edition.
“Hands On Horology is by far the ultimate show for independent watch brands in London, bringing the best of the watch industry in front of watch aficionados and collectors. The best London show in years.” Ball Watch Company
“Being part of this year’s Hands On Horology felt like more than just an event—it was a meaningful exchange of ideas, craft and community, and a real privilege to share in that space.” Studio Underd0g
“Great event – very well organised, attended by true watch lovers.” Claudia Ferro, Herbelin
Impressive Numbers
- 900+ attendees across two sessions
- 50+ exhibiting brands, including 16 UK debuts
- £1,600+ raised for Mind and The Felix Project
- 2,310 meals donated via The Felix Project
- 24 bespoke hand-painted dials created by The Dial Artist
- Hundreds of Wrist Shot Competition entries displayed live
- 100% of surveyed exhibitors expressed intent to return or consider returning in 2027
“After a standout inaugural show, the pressure was on for 2026, but by every metric this year was an even greater success. Hands On Horology was always designed as a place to discover and interact with brands, watches, and like-minded collectors in an authentic way, and that is what we will keep building on year after year.” Tom Pettit, Co-Founder, Hands On Horology
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