Over the past few years, the UK watch scene has started to shift. What was once largely centred around London is now spreading across the country, driven by enthusiasts who want more than just seeing watches online; they want to experience them in person.
Through 12&60, and more recently organising the WatchIt! Watch Fair, I’ve seen that change first-hand. It’s not down to any one organiser, but a wider movement. The Watch Collectors’ Club has played a role in that, building a series of events that are accessible, well-located, and focused on enthusiasts rather than trade.
There’s also a collaborative feel to it. Hamish from the Watch Collectors’ Club has been very helpful in me organising WatchIt!, and there’s a shared understanding that these events complement each other. With the Watch Collectors’ Club covering Glasgow, Manchester, and Southampton, and WatchIt! Watch Fair covering the Midlands, there are now independent watch events reaching most of the UK outside of London – something that simply wasn’t the case a few years ago.
The Watch Collectors’ Club’s 2026 calendar reflects that.
Glasgow – 9th May
The Glasgow show at Hampden Park sets the tone. It’s more than just brands on tables — there’s a live recording from the Scottish Watches team, talks throughout the day, and on-site valuations from Lyon & Turnbull.
The exhibitor list is strong too, with names like Bamford London, Christopher Ward, Anordain and Baltic alongside a wide mix of independents.
There’s also a pre-show meetup the night before, which is often where the community side really comes through.
More info and book tickets here: https://www.thewatchcollectorsclub.com/events/the-glasgow-watch-show-2026/
Southampton – 4th July
July brings the first Southampton show, held at St. Mary’s Stadium.
This one matters simply because of location. The South Coast has plenty of enthusiasts but hasn’t had many events like this. Bringing around thirty brands to the area fills that gap.
The format remains the same — relaxed, accessible, and built around interaction — with the addition of a charity partner on the day.
More info and book tickets here: https://www.thewatchcollectorsclub.com/events/the-southampton-watch-show-2026/
Manchester – 7th November
The year finishes in Manchester at the Bridgewater Hall.
Now in its third year, this show continues to grow, with more brands, more talks, and additional meetups around the city. It’s quickly becoming one of the key dates in the UK watch calendar.
More info and book tickets here: https://www.thewatchcollectorsclub.com/events/the-manchester-watch-show-2026/
Final Thoughts
What ties these events, and the wider UK scene, together is simple: people want to experience watches physically. They give you something you simply don’t get online — the chance to handle watches properly, speak to the people behind them, and form your own opinions.
The Watch Collectors’ Club is contributing to that, alongside independent events like WatchIt! Watch Fair. The result is a more connected and accessible UK watch scene. And that’s only a good thing.
