You are officially holding the 20th issue of GMT; since the half-yearly A4 format of the Great Magazine of Timepiece is a numbered edition. Faithfully reflecting the spirit of fine watchmaking since the year 2000, GMT is not restricted to this numbered series, but also shows up in a variety of sizes in step with the seasons: ultra-masculine in summer in an XXL version; daintily feminine in a pocket-sized edition every six months; extremely lifestyle-oriented in winter with the outsized Stars&Snow special. All of which means that GMT is now published six times a year and the exact number to date is in fact almost double that which appears on this issue – at least in Switzerland. In parallel, part of its contents also nourishes the American, Asian and European versions on the various markets where GMT also conveys the values of the big names in the Swiss watch industry – as well as those of its outsiders.

This approach is backed by editorial support for events serving as barometers of horological creativity, such as the Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix or the Only Watch operation in Monaco. As one might expect within the current economic climate, the Financial section of this issue is twice as big as usual, while the Interviews reveal the measures being taken by newly appointed CEOs. Meanwhile, in the area of structures and materials, the Architecture column features the intervention of a cutting-edge contributor. As our partner Christie’s reveals, collectors seem to be impervious to the crisis, which could augur well for new records to be set (page 70). Meanwhile, the parade of new releases hits the catwalk in the first section of this issue which is all about sensations, and we can only wish them all the very best in the exercise of their undeniable seductive powers.