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The Horological Society of New York (HSNY), America’s first watchmaking guild, proudly announces its 160th anniversary Gala, to be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York City.
The Plaza Hotel
The black-tie celebration will honor HSNY’s longstanding mission of advancing the art and science of horology and will feature celebrity co-chairs, the special presentation of a lifetime achievement award, a can’t-miss charity auction presented by Sotheby’s, an after-party, and much more.
The Gala will be co-chaired by a distinguished roster of celebrity ambassadors and industry leaders, including Roger W. Smith OBE, Founder of famed British brand Roger W. Smith Ltd., and HSNY Trustee; Danièla Dufour, distinguished independent watchmaker carrying forward the legacy of her father, Philippe Dufour; and actor Ben Ahlers of HBO’s historical drama series The Gilded Age, which features HSNY. Co-chairs for the Society’s 160th anniversary were carefully selected as beacons who share a deep appreciation for the art of timekeeping.
François-Paul Journe
HSNY will honor renowned watchmaker François-Paul Journe with its Howard Fass Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Society’s highest honor. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have shown extraordinary dedication to the ideals that the Society pursues. Journe’s lifetime of work has profoundly shaped the art and science of horology. Over decades, he has built upon tradition while driving innovation, creating timepieces that marry technical mastery with aesthetic brilliance. Beyond his own watchmaking, Journe has championed the next generation through his Young Talent Competition, providing crucial recognition and support to emerging watchmakers. From pioneering complicated mechanisms to elevating independent watchmaking on the global stage, his contributions have left an indelible mark on the craft, inspiring both his peers and future generations.
Between courses, HSNY will host an unforgettable live charity auction presented by Sotheby’s. Auction lots to be announced in early 2026.
Lively bidding at the 2025 Charity Auction
In 2026, HSNY will triple its scholarship funding and introduce a new Independent Watchmaker Grant, offering three awards of $50,000 each. This significant expansion of HSNY’s scholarships and awards is made possible by a generous grant from the Vogt Foundation. At the 2025 Gala, HSNY raised over $300,000 and awarded scholarships to 28 students and four watchmaking schools in the United States, totaling $160,000.
Steve Eagle, HSNY Director of Education (left) and Brett Walsdorf, HSNY Treasurer (right) presenting a ceremonial scholarship check to watchmaking students Justin Delano (middle left) and Brian Furi (middle right) at the HSNY 2025 Gala.
Following the formal program, guests are invited to an exclusive after-party at The Plaza, where the celebration will continue late into the evening. The after-party will feature a DJ, dancing, and a full open bar, offering attendees the chance to toast HSNY’s milestone anniversary in true New York style. The glamorous affair will draw celebrity-turned watch enthusiasts, luxury watch brands, major auction houses, and of course, HSNY members.
“Reaching 160 years is an extraordinary milestone,” said Nicholas Manousos, HSNY Executive Director. “HSNY’s 2026 Gala is not only a celebration of our past—it’s a reaffirmation of our mission to ensure the future of watchmaking education. We are deeply grateful to our partners, members, and supporters who make this work possible.”
Since its founding in 1866, HSNY has served as a cornerstone for horological education, preservation, and community. Proceeds from the Gala will directly benefit HSNY’s financial aid programs, educational classes, library initiatives, and more, ensuring the Society continues to thrive for another 160 years.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
- Time: 6:00 PM — 11:00 PM
- Location: The Plaza Hotel, 768 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY
- Dress Code: Black Tie
Tickets for the Gala will be available for purchase on the following schedule:
- Gold Tier Members: Thursday, November 6, 2025, 12:00 PM ET
- Silver Tier Members: Thursday, November 13, 2025, 12:00 PM ET
- Bronze Tier Members: Thursday, November 20, 2025, 12:00 PM ET
- General Public: Thursday, November 27, 2025, 12:00 PM ET
A portion of each Gala ticket sale is tax-deductible.
HODINKEE is a sponsor of the Horological Society of New York.
Source: www.hodinkee.com — original article published 2025-11-17 16:00:00.
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