Focus on craftsmanship: INHORGENTA presents the main theme of the next trade fair

The next edition of Inhorgenta will take place from February 20 to 23, 2026. This year, the international meeting place for the watch, jewelry, and gemstone industries will focus particularly on craftsmanship, as the trade fair has declared "Craftsmanship" its main theme. Craftsmanship, in which centuries-old techniques are still practiced today, will be presented in all its diversity – by exhibitors themselves and with themed worlds and a supporting program that showcases the excellence of craftsmanship in all its facets.

Left: Engraving process on a tantalum ring at Tantalum Wedding Rings. © Tantalum Wedding Rings

Back to the roots

We often don't realize how much genuine craftsmanship and sophisticated artisanal techniques actually go into a watch or piece of jewelry we own. Especially in a fast-paced world where one technological advancement follows another, we should be aware that there are still things that require absolute skill, dedication, mastery, and patience: The work of art in the jewelry and watch industry is one of these special areas that breathes magic into life and our favorite everyday companions.

That's why it's all the more pleasing that INHORGENTA intends to focus more on this topic at the next trade fair and thus raise people's awareness. 

Stefanie Mändlein, Exhibition Director of INHORGENTA, explains: 

"Crafts are the foundation of our industry. Especially in times of automation and digitalization, crafts are experiencing new appreciation and are becoming increasingly relevant. With the guiding theme Craftsmanship We create a stage for the people and skills that make jewelry, watches, and gemstones what they are: an expression of precision, passion, and cultural heritage."

Commitment to a successful future

The contribution INHORGENTA can make to revitalizing craftsmanship, which often remains behind the scenes, is enormous: Since 1974, INHORGENTA has united the entire value chain of the industry, bringing international brands, manufacturers, and designers together under one roof. In its 52nd edition, the fair once again presents itself as Europe's leading platform for jewelry, watches, and gemstones – and clearly demonstrates 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 is specifically dedicated to future-oriented topics—from sustainability and digitalization to the promotion of young talent. A special highlight is the mobile watchmaking workshop of the Central Association of Watches, Jewelry and Time Measurement Technology. A total of around 1,500 trainees and students are expected to participate in the specially designed junior program—a clear signal for the promotion of the next generation of skilled workers.

Experience real craftsmanship – live and up close

INHORGENTA invites exhibitors to showcase their craftsmanship live and on-site. For four days, the Munich exhibition center will become a showcase of international craftsmanship. In curated themed worlds—from goldsmithing and watchmaking to gemstone cutting—exhibitors showcase their skills and latest creations.

These special live demonstrations offer exclusive insights: watchmakers, goldsmiths, ebouchers, lapidaries, jewel setters, and polishers demonstrate intricate work steps. Workshops invite visitors to get hands-on – 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 beveling machines, or precise CNC and laser processes: The trade fair provides insights into technologies that create new design freedom and enable the highest manufacturing quality.

At the same time, the connection to origin, responsibility, and authentic craftsmanship remains central: Many exhibitors are third- or fourth-generation family businesses that craft their products with care and transparency. Their expertise—often passed down over 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 foundation of trust—and thus the new currency in the world of luxury. One example of this is the Stuttgart jeweler Kutter 1825, which brings craftsmanship to life in its retail store and was honored with the INHORGENTA AWARD 2025 for this."

The traditional company relies on an innovative store concept: a glass watchmaker's workshop opens the view to 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 on site.

"We combine the highest quality with personal service and a strong consulting culture. We always enjoy visiting INHORGENTA – for us, it's more than just a trade fair. It's an important meeting place for personal exchange with 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: an international platform that highlights developments, promotes quality, and provides spaces for inspiration, dialogue, and business. Connections are created here that have a lasting impact – both economically and personally."

Dates and further information

INHORGENTA 2026 will take place from February 20 to 23 at the Munich Exhibition Center. The opening hours have been changed and are now as follows: Fri-Sun: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Mon: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The INHORGENTA AWARD ceremony will take place on February 22, 2026. During an exclusive gala evening, the industry's most outstanding jewelry, designs, and masterful craftsmanship will be honored for the ninth time.