he evening’s live charity auction, presented by Sotheby’s, showcased exceptional timepieces and experiences, raising record funds to expand the Society’s initiatives, including scholarships for watchmaking students.

Among the auction highlights were a signed F.P. Journe Octa Réserve De Marche Wall Clock, donated by the brand, which sold for $200,000; a unique C by Romain Gauthier Titanium Wristwatch, donated by the independent watchmaker, which sold for $130,000; and HSNY’s 2026 Lifetime Membership Card, crafted and donated by Joshua Shapiro and Artur Akmaev, which sold for $42,000, which grants its holder access to all current and future HSNY membership benefits.

In support of the Society’s year-round mission, HSNY presented a symbolic $450,000 check to Eliza Kurtz, a student at the Rolex Watchmaking Training Center. In total, HSNY awarded 55 scholarships, supported five watchmaking schools, and granted three awards to independent watchmakers, totaling $450,000 and nearly quadrupling last year’s amount.

Notable guests in attendance included famed watchmaker, HSNY Trustee Roger Smith OBE; entrepreneur, investor, and watch collector Kevin O’Leary; and independent watchmaker Romain Gauthier, all of whom were the evening’s Gala co-chairs.

At this year’s Gala, HSNY recognized two honorees whose contributions to the world of fine watchmaking span generations. François-Paul Journe received the Howard Fass Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Society’s highest honor, in recognition of his decades of work advancing the art and science of horology, from pioneering complicated mechanisms to championing emerging talent through his Young Talent Competition. The award was accepted on his behalf by F.P. Journe’s North America General Manager, Pierre Halimi, and Laurent Journe, brother of François-Paul Journe and Los Angeles Boutique Director.

The Centennial Recognition Award was awarded to London Jewelers on the occasion of their 100th anniversary, celebrating a century of service to watch and jewelry enthusiasts and their enduring role in fostering appreciation for the watchmaking arts.

“The gala truly showcased the passion and dedication of our community,” said HSNY’s Executive Director Nicholas Manousos. “Raising over $1 million for our mission enables us to continue to preserve, educate, and inspire the next generation of horologists. This funding will have a lasting and meaningful impact on the Society’s mission. One hundred sixty years is a remarkable milestone, and I am profoundly grateful to our guests and supporters for their generosity.”

The Gala, which featured a lavish cocktail hour and after-party with music by DJ Rich Medina, top-shelf libations, and even a magician, offered the perfect backdrop for guests to network and celebrate the year’s accomplishments.

“This gala exceeded every expectation, and that is a direct result of the warmth and generosity of our supporters, ” added HSNY’s Deputy Director, Carolina Navarro. “Celebrating 160 years of HSNY alongside so many passionate members of the horological community was an honor. Evenings like this reaffirm our commitment to the mission and remind us of the remarkable people who make it all possible.”

To commemorate the occasion, HSNY produced a short film celebrating 160 years of horological tradition in New York City. Narrated by actor Ben Ahlers, who visited HSNY to research watchmaking for his role in the period drama HBO’s “The Gilded Age”, the film traces the Society’s storied history and enduring mission, highlighting the passion and craftsmanship that have defined HSNY since its founding in 1866. The film premiered at the Gala and is now available on HSNY’s YouTube channel.

HSNY expresses its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to the Gala’s success, especially the generous donors and sponsors who made the evening possible.