Hands On Horology Is A Triumph For Watch Collectors And Enthusiasts

Shoreditch once again became the beating heart of British watch collecting as Hands On Horology returned to London for its eagerly anticipated second edition.

What makes Hands On Horology so refreshing is its simplicity. Rather than placing watches behind glass or at arm’s length, the event encourages exactly what its name promises, getting hands on with the watches themselves. Hosted at Protein Studios in Shoreditch, this year’s gathering brought together more than 45 brands, collectors, journalists, and industry figures for a day dedicated to the shared passion of horology. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my discussions in the queue with collectors and enthusiasts who were keen to share their stories as to why they were wearing their particular watches. One such conversation revealed the reason why he purchased his Venezianico. He told me that he was on his Honeymoon in Venice and it seemed appropriate to mark the occasion with a watch from the magical city.

From the moment the doors opened, there was a tangible sense of excitement throughout the venue. Natural light flooded the industrial-chic space, providing the perfect backdrop for enthusiasts eager to discover the latest releases, revisit familiar favourites, and uncover hidden gems from independent brands.

One of the event’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Whether you are a seasoned collector with a safe full of mechanical masterpieces or someone purchasing their very first watch, Hands On Horology creates an environment where everyone feels welcome. Conversations flowed effortlessly between brand founders, watchmakers, collectors, and curious newcomers, reminding us that the watch community remains one of the most passionate and inclusive enthusiast groups anywhere.

I spent a considerable time speaking to the founders of the brands attending which is always a great joy. I also had interesting conversations with brand leaders, including Manuel Emch, who is the Managing Director of leading independent brand, Louis Erard. We spoke at length about the innovation that independent brands are bringing to watchmaking. They were showing a number of their iconic designs created in collaboration with leading designers and artists including Alain Silberstein and Konstantin Chaykin.

The opportunity to handle such a diverse range of timepieces proved irresistible. From established names like Christopher Ward to emerging independents namely Sartre Billard and innovative microbrands such as kollokium, visitors were encouraged to try on watches, compare designs, discuss movements, and gain a deeper understanding of the stories behind the brands. The experience felt less like a traditional exhibition and more like a gathering of friends united by a common obsession.

Adding to the atmosphere were the many interactive elements, like the Dial Artist, Chris Alexander that helped distinguish Hands On Horology from larger trade-focused events. Exclusive launches, live demonstrations, artwork, and hospitality throughout the day ensured there was always something happening beyond the exhibition tables.

Perhaps most importantly, the event succeeded in celebrating what mechanical watchmaking is really about, the people. Behind every dial, movement and case lies a story, and Hands On Horology provides the perfect stage for those stories to be told directly by the individuals who create them.

As the afternoon drew to a close and attendees reluctantly made their way home, there was a clear feeling that Hands On Horology has firmly established itself as one of the highlights of the UK watch calendar. Building on the success of its debut and delivering an even more polished experience this year, the event demonstrated that there is a genuine appetite for watch gatherings that place enthusiasts at the centre of the experience.

For those fortunate enough to attend, Hands On Horology 2026 was far more than a watch exhibition. It was a celebration of craftsmanship, community and the enduring fascination with mechanical timekeeping.

If this year’s event is anything to go by, the future of Hands On Horology looks exceptionally bright.