The Horological Society of New York (HSNY), America’s first watchmaking guild, hosted its highly anticipated Gala on March 22, awarding a record-breaking $160,000 in financial aid and raising over $300,000 toward its ongoing mission to advance the art and science of horology.
Held at the iconic Plaza Hotel, the black-tie event brought together 400 of the most influential figures in the watchmaking community, including independent watchmakers, top brands, VIP guests, and leading auction houses to support the future of the industry. The evening’s Charity Auction, presented by Christie’s, saw unique timepieces and experiences that raised record-breaking funds that will go directly towards expanding the Society’s initiatives, including scholarships for watchmaking students.
Items that commanded the largest hammer price included a signed Chronomètre Souverain wall clock signed by François-Paul Journe ($80,000), an omakase dinner experience with Chef Daisuke Nakazawa, donated by Grand Seiko ($24,000), and HSNY’s prestigious Lifetime Membership Card, which sold to “Shark Tank” titan Kevin O’Leary after an intense bidding war ($25,000). Hand-guillochéd by Brittany Nicole Cox, the sterling silver card features an original straight-line pattern inset with a 24k gold wire cloisonné enamel cabochon. The card grants Mr. Wonderful lifetime membership privileges at HSNY, including all aspects of all current and future membership levels.
In meeting with the Society’s year-round mission, HSNY issued a symbolic giant check for $160,000 to Brian Furi (Texas Institute of Jewelry Technology, Paris, Texas) and Justin Delano (Veterans Watchmaker Initiative, Odessa, Delaware), two scholarship recipients. In total, HSNY awarded scholarships to 28 students and four watchmaking schools in the United States. The scholarships aim to help watchmaking students succeed in every way and foster the next generation of horologists. (Recipients are included at the end of this announcement.)
Notable guests in attendance included famed watchmaker (and HSNY Trustee) Roger Smith OBE; entrepreneur, investor, and watch collector Kevin O’Leary (who surprised guests onstage); and auction houses Christie’s, Phillips, and Sotheby’s.
“I’m beyond proud of the success of the evening, ” said Nicholas Manousos, Executive Director of the Horological Society of New York. “The funds raised will have a direct and lasting impact on the future of horology, allowing us to support the brightest minds in the industry and ensure that the art of watchmaking continues to thrive. ”
The Gala, which featured a lavish cocktail hour and afterparty with live music, top shelf libations, and even a magician, offered the perfect backdrop for guests to network and celebrate the year’s accomplishments.
“The event underscored the strength of the horological community, its commitment to education, and its role in preserving the legacy of timekeeping, ” added Carolina Navarro, Deputy Director of the Horological Society of New York.
HSNY extends its deepest gratitude to all those who attended and contributed to the Gala’s success, as well as to the generous donors and sponsors who made the evening possible. Stay tuned for 2026 Gala details — HSNY’s 160th anniversary!
