INHORGENTA 2026 - Focus on craftsmanship
When you look at the heart of a watch or piece of jewelry, you don't just see materials — you can experience the history, the excellence, and the lived tradition that have gone into it.
With the main theme „Craftsmanship“ The upcoming INHORGENTA will shine a light on precisely this world, showcasing not only exhibitors but, above all, the skills of the people who create these objects: goldsmiths, watchmakers, gem cutters, designers, artists, and many more who contribute to their creation. The result is a panorama that makes the connection between technology, design, passion, and knowledge tangible.
INSIGHT INHORGENTA takes a look at the concept, thematic focus and supporting program with which INHORGENTA 2026 will reimagine craftsmanship and once again prove its role as an innovator and thought leader in the industry.
When hands write history
The next edition of Inhorgenta will take place from February 20th to 23rd, 2026. This year, the international meeting place for the watch, jewelry, and gemstone industries will focus particularly on craftsmanship, as the fair has declared "Craftsmanship" its central theme. Craftsmanship, which still employs centuries-old techniques, will be presented in all its diversity – by the exhibitors themselves, through themed areas, and with a supporting program that showcases the excellence of craftsmanship in all its facets.
We are often unaware of just how much genuine handwork and sophisticated craftsmanship goes into a watch or piece of jewelry we own. Especially in a fast-paced world where one technological advancement chases the next, we should remember that there are still things that require absolute skill, dedication, mastery, and patience: The art of jewelry and watchmaking is one of those special fields that breathes magic into life and our most cherished everyday companions.
That's why it's all the more wonderful that INHORGENTA wants to put the topic more firmly in focus and thus raise awareness among people with the next edition of the trade fair.
Stefanie Mändlein, Exhibition Director of INHORGENTA, explains:
„"Craftsmanship is the foundation of our industry. Especially in times of automation and digitalization, craftsmanship is experiencing a renewed appreciation and is gaining increasing relevance. With the guiding theme ‚Craftsmanship‘ We create a stage for the people and skills that make jewelry, watches and precious stones what they are: an expression of precision, passion and cultural heritage.“
Commitment to a successful future
The contribution that INHORGENTA can make to bringing renewed brilliance to craftsmanship, which often remains behind the scenes, is enormous: Since 1974, INHORGENTA has united the entire value chain of the industry, bringing together international brands, manufacturers, and designers under one roof. In its 52nd edition, the trade fair once again presents itself as Europe's leading platform for jewelry, watches, and gemstones – and makes it clear that the combination of tradition, innovation, and international exchange forms an important foundation for the future viability of the industry.
With lectures, panels, and special exhibitions, the trade fair focuses specifically on future-oriented topics – from sustainability and digitalization to the promotion of young talent. A particular highlight is the mobile watchmaking workshop of the Central Association of Watches, Jewelry, and Timekeeping Technology. A total of around 1,500 trainees and students are expected to participate in the specially designed young talent program – a clear signal of the commitment to fostering the next generation of skilled workers.
Experience genuine craftsmanship – live and up close.
INHORGENTA invites exhibitors to present their craftsmanship live and on-site. For four days, the Munich exhibition grounds will be transformed into a showcase of international craftsmanship. In curated themed areas – from goldsmithing and watchmaking to gemstone cutting – exhibitors will demonstrate their skills and their latest creations.
These special live demonstrations offer exclusive insights: watchmakers, goldsmiths, ébouchiers, lapidaries, jewel setters, and polishers present intricate work processes. Workshops invite visitors to get hands-on experience – for example, with gemstone cutting or the precise assembly of a mechanical watch movement under the guidance of the Fondation Haute Horlogerie.
A successful mix: tradition and technology
Next year, INHORGENTA will also demonstrate how traditional craftsmanship and technological innovation go hand in hand – and mutually enrich each other. Whether AI-supported design processes, automated faceting machines, or precise CNC and laser processes: the trade fair offers insights into technologies that create new design freedom and enable the highest manufacturing quality.
At the same time, the connection to origin, responsibility, and genuine craftsmanship remains central: Many exhibitors are third- or fourth-generation family businesses that produce their products with care and transparency. Their expertise – often passed down through decades – is reflected in the quality of each individual piece and demonstrates the passion, experience, and precision that goes into every detail. Stefanie Mändlein emphasizes:
„Craftsmanship is the basis for trust – and thus the new currency in the world of luxury. One example of this is the Stuttgart jeweler Kutter 1825, which makes craftsmanship tangible in its shop and was awarded the INHORGENTA AWARD 2025 for this.“
The traditional company relies on an innovative store concept: A glass-walled watchmaker's workshop offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and conveys the enthusiasm for precision to the outside world.
At Wempe Jewelers in Munich, masterful craftsmanship is also the focus: The stylish branch houses its own workshop directly in the building.
„We combine top quality with personal service and a strong consulting culture. We always enjoy attending INHORGENTA – for us it is more than just a trade fair. It is an important meeting place for personal exchange within the industry.“
Alessandro Rozzo, Managing Director Wempe Maximilianstrasse
Exhibition Director Stefanie Mändlein concludes:
„"INHORGENTA stands for authentic luxury – characterized by masterful craftsmanship, history and personality. We see ourselves as a driving force for the industry: as an international platform that makes developments visible, promotes quality and provides spaces for inspiration, dialogue and business. Here, connections are made that have a lasting impact – both economically and personally."“
Dates and further information
INHORGENTA 2026 will take place from February 20th to 23rd at the Munich Trade Fair Center. The opening hours of the trade fair have been changed and are now as follows: Fri-Sun: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm and Mon: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.
The INHORGENTA AWARD ceremony will take place on February 22, 2026. During an exclusive gala evening, the most outstanding jewelry pieces, designs, and craftsmanship in the industry will be recognized for the ninth time.
