Les 24h du Temps

Les 24h du Temps: Besançon, capital of French watchmaking

Les 24h du Temps is a unique event in France that celebrates the intimate link between Besançon and watchmaking. Historic capital of French watchmaking, Besançon hosts this event dedicated to the art of time every June, created in 2014 from an original idea by France Bleu Besançon.

An event at the heart of Besançon's heritage

Les 24h du Temps takes over emblematic locations in the city center of Besançon:

• Palais Granvelle — inner courtyard and exhibition rooms
• Musée du Temps — permanent collections and temporary exhibitions
• Espace Utinam — workshops and demonstrations
• Kursaal — conferences and watchmaking fair

Passionate exhibitors

Around sixty players from the watchmaking world gather to share their expertise and creations:

• French and international watch brands
• Contemporary designers
• Watchmaking and training students
• Artisans — case makers, dial makers, enamellers, engravers
• Enthusiasts and collectors

Art and design in the service of time

The 2025 edition, the 11th, highlighted the union between art and design in the watchmaking world. The objective is to showcase “not only the technological aspect, but also the creation and artistic quality” of the sector. Conferences, round tables, and demonstrations provide insight into the contemporary challenges of watchmaking.

Prestigious guests

Alain Silberstein, watch designer and “founder of new French watchmaking,” shared his vision of the role of design in watchmaking at the 2025 edition. The Swiss commune of Sainte-Croix (Canton of Vaud) was the guest of honor, with the MEC-ART association presenting music boxes, automata, and animated sculptures.

Watchmaking fair and discoveries

Les 24h du Temps also includes a watchmaking fair where collectors and enthusiasts can buy, sell, and trade watches and watchmaking pieces. Tours and strolls through the streets of Besançon complete the program to discover the city's watchmaking heritage.