Australia’s First Watch Fair to Showcase Homegrown Talent
Australia may not be known for its watchmaking industry, but that is about to change with the upcoming Wristwatch Check fair organized by Domenic Italiano, founder of Grip Auto Timepieces. The event, scheduled for May 30 at Benzina Stables in Melbourne, will feature seven local watch brands, giving attendees the opportunity to try on and speak to the designers themselves.
With a lack of physical retail space for Australian watchmakers, Mr. Italiano saw the need for a dedicated event where local brands could showcase their creations. The fair will include brands like Bausele, Ocean to Orbit, and Second Hour, each offering unique designs and craftsmanship.
Watch enthusiast Irwin Liaw, a member of RedBar Melbourne, is excited to explore the offerings at Wristwatch Check. He sees the event as a chance to discover watches that are “out of the norm” and appreciate the intricate details of each timepiece.
Thierry Nataf, president of the Luxury Consulting Company, believes that the fair could be a stepping stone for Australian brands to gain international recognition. With the rise of social media, local microbrands have been gaining popularity, offering affordable and unique alternatives to luxury watches.
Matthew Corbo, co-owner of the Melbourne Watch Company, agrees that the timing is right for Australian brands to shine. In a challenging economic climate, consumers are looking for quality watches without the hefty price tag, making microbrands a popular choice.
Mr. Italiano has big plans for the future of Wristwatch Check, with two more fairs planned for Melbourne this year and expansion to other parts of the country next year. While he aims to increase the number of exhibitors, he wants to maintain the focus on microbrands as a point of difference for the event.
With the inaugural Wristwatch Check fair on the horizon, Australian watch enthusiasts and collectors are gearing up for a unique opportunity to support and celebrate homegrown talent in the watchmaking industry.
