The Escapement Watch Event Relocates from Abu Dhabi to Las Vegas
The Escapement, a planned watch collector and enthusiast event, has been canceled in Abu Dhabi and rescheduled for Las Vegas in February 2027. The relocation is attributed to corporate travel restrictions stemming from the ongoing military conflict in the Middle East, which would have prevented some brands and executives from attending. Organizers aim for a stronger showing and greater certainty of execution in Las Vegas.
- Event moved from Abu Dhabi to Las Vegas
- New dates: February 5-7, 2027
- Original Abu Dhabi VIP tickets: ~$1,200 USD
- Original Abu Dhabi general admission tickets: ~$435 USD
- Las Vegas ticket prices projected to be 10-15% higher than Abu Dhabi
The Escapement's move from Abu Dhabi to Las Vegas was driven by corporate travel policies affected by the Middle East conflict, impacting brand and executive attendance.
The inaugural event will now take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with organizers seeking greater certainty and control over the program.
Notable figures like Rexhep Rexhepi of Akrivia and Jean Arnault of LVMH were expected in Abu Dhabi, but their attendance in Las Vegas is unconfirmed.
Many brands originally slated for Abu Dhabi, including Armin Strom, Biver, Czapek, Fleming, Greubel Forsey, Romain Gauthier, Simon Brette, and Ming, are expected to participate in Las Vegas.
Projected ticket sales for the Las Vegas event have been scaled back compared to the original Abu Dhabi plans.
The event's organizers include Neeshu Hajra, Anish Bhatt (WatchAnish), and Faheem Khan (Screw Down Crown).
The relocation highlights the disruptions faced by the global watch industry due to geopolitical events and shifts in international relations.