There are watches that tell us much more than just the time. Some hold fascinating stories; others represent pivotal chapters in the technical and aesthetic evolution of watchmaking. Still others have become objects of desire for entire generations of collectors, who recognize something truly unique in a particular model, a dial, or a design detail.
From October 22 to 25, 2026, Bologna will once again become a gathering place for those who share this passion. Time on Show, the event dedicated to vintage, rare, and collectible watches, is returning to the BolognaFiere exhibition center with Auto e Moto d’Epoca, one of the most important events for lovers of classic cars and motorcycles.
Over the course of four days, you’ll have the chance to get an up-close look at rare timepieces, talk with industry professionals, and why not?, find that one watch you’ve been searching for.
Time on Show 2026: Where Watchmaking Meets Collecting
Now in its fourth edition, Time on Show has built its identity around a specific format: bringing together a selection of specialized dealers and offering enthusiasts a setting in which to discover and purchase vintage and collectible watches.
The event stands out for its intimate atmosphere, reminiscent of a salon dedicated to watchmaking, where the direct interaction between dealers and visitors becomes an integral part of the experience.
The appeal of an event like Time on Show also lies in the opportunity to see in person pieces that we often know only through photographs, auction catalogs, or specialized publications. This is a particularly valuable opportunity in the vintage watch market, where the condition, originality of components, proportions, and finishes can profoundly alter one’s perception of a watch.
The choice of Bologna and the fact that it coincides with Auto e Moto d’Epoca add another layer of interest. These two forms of collecting share a particular focus on history, mechanics, and authenticity, as well as the pleasure of research and discovery.
For lovers of classic cars, as well as for watch collectors, the value of an object often depends on knowledge of its provenance, its characteristics, and the context in which it was created. This shared language makes the convergence of these two passions feel particularly natural.
The Stars of Time on Show 2026: Dealers Participating in Bologna
One of the most interesting aspects of the 2026 edition is certainly the selection of exhibitors, who will bring their expertise to Bologna along with a collection of timepieces sure to catch the attention of collectors.
Among the names announced are: Andrea Foffi, Alessio Zenga Vintage Watches, Bonanno Roma, Cacciari Salvati, Caso Watches, Lema, Mattioli e Stefani, Monaco Legend Group, Mr. Tempo Prezioso, Muratori Vintage Watches, Nautilus Watches, Piretti, and Tempvs. This lineup brings together businesses specializing in the sale of vintage and collectible watches, offering the public the opportunity to engage with professionals who have in-depth knowledge of this market.
For enthusiasts, this will be an opportunity to explore a selection of watches with different histories, features, and origins, delving into aspects that often make the difference when choosing a collector’s item.
Whether you’re searching for a specific timepiece you’ve always wanted or simply curious to discover something new, Time on Show also offers the opportunity to connect with people who dedicate their daily work to the study and trade of historic timepieces.
Why You Should Visit Time on Show, Even If You’re New to Vintage
Collecting is all about encounters, conversations, and discoveries. Anyone who has spent a long time searching for a particular watch knows the satisfaction of finally being able to examine it up close, perhaps after spending months studying its features through photos and documentation.
Events like Time on Show allow you to experience this firsthand, with one major advantage: the opportunity to compare different watches, understand their unique features, and talk with the people who select and sell them.
For experienced collectors, the appeal may lie in the search for a rare item or a piece in particularly good condition. For those just starting out in the world of vintage items, however, a visit can be an opportunity to refine their eye, learn to recognize details, and deepen their knowledge of a field that is as fascinating as it’s complex.
Even if you aren’t planning to make a purchase, viewing a selection of historic watches is a fascinating experience. After all, some of the most enduring passions are born precisely from an unexpected encounter with an object that captures our attention.
Time on Show 2026: Dates, Times, and How to Participate
Time on Show will take place from Thursday, October 22, through Sunday, October 25, 2026, at the BolognaFiere exhibition center, in conjunction with Auto e Moto d’Epoca.
The published hours for Auto e Moto d’Epoca are from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. on October 22 and 25, while on October 23 and 24, the event will be open from 9.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
For all information regarding the event and how to participate, visit the official websites of Time on Show and Auto e Moto d’Epoca, where you can find directions to the exhibition center and information on purchasing tickets.
Four days to meet some of the leading figures in the world of collecting, discover watches that have spanned different eras, and share a passion that continues to bring generations of enthusiasts together.
And who knows, maybe the next piece for your collection is hiding right there in one of Bologna’s store windows.
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