
Time+Tide hosted simultaneous global launch events for the TAG Heuer x Time+Tide Sundowner II in London, New York, and Melbourne, bringing together watch enthusiasts. The author also shared reflections on the 2026 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) awards, noting a shift towards prioritizing horological complexity over design originality.
The Sundowner II launch events were held in London, New York, and Melbourne, coinciding with the embargo drop.
The Sundowner II is described as a watch made by Australians for Australians, inspired by Australian beaches.
The author observed that the 2026 GPHG presentation was conducted 90% in English, a departure from its predominantly French history.
A trend noted at the 2026 GPHG was the jury prioritizing 'true horology' over innovative design.
The author suggests that while rewarding horological advancement is positive, more consideration should be given to originality of design and concept.