Leica Camera, in partnership with Ernst Leitz Werkstätten, will stage a curated photographic exhibition at the Leica Store Geneva, to be held during the renowned Swiss international horology fair this April. Entitled Timeless: Through the Lens of John Goldberger, this exhibition is the result of a creative collaboration with Auro Montanari alias John Goldberger, distinguished watch collector, author of eleven books and Leica photographer.
Our ambition is to translate Leica’s century-long legacy of precision engineering and iconic design from cameras to watches. We are honoured to welcome the international press and watch collectors to Geneva together with John Goldberger, a long-time Leica user and a rare watch collector whose reputation bridges generations, underscoring the profound dialogue between these two universes and the enduring legacy of Leica.
— Dr Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Leica Camera AG.
For the love of photography
John Goldberger continued, “My father instilled in me a love for photography at a very early age and introduced me to Leica. I bought my first Leica camera at 18 because of him. Photography has always been at the heart of what I do.
“My first book was devoted to street photography, and later that same eye naturally turned to watches. For me, the universes of photography and horology are closely connected: both demand precision, craftsmanship, and a sense of timeless design, and both reflect a lifelong passion.”
Through this exhibition, John Goldberger shares a personal visual journey shaped by the places and objects he instinctively considers timeless. Photographed with the Leica SL3 as well as vintage Leica cameras, the images bring together photographs taken during his travels over many years with more recent work.
Taking a global perspective
From Bologna, the Italian city he calls home, to Wetzlar, where Leica’s history continues today, and countless locations across the globe, the photographs are shaped by Goldberger’s longstanding relationship with the brand. They offer a perspective seen through the eye of one of the world’s most respected vintage watch collectors and tastemakers.
This special exhibition will open with an exclusive preview on Wednesday, April 15, co‑hosted by John Goldberger and Dr. Kaufmann. A panel on “Timelessness,” moderated by Ash Longet of Watchonista, will take place at 6:30pm on that day. A team of experts will be on hand to present Leica’s current watch collection and latest releases in depth, offering guests the opportunity for a true hands-on experience.
Photography masterclass
Following the preview event, a public photography masterclass workshop will be offered on Saturday, April 18, by the talented Laurent-Xavier Moulin, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to enhance their skills and deepen their appreciation for the art of watch photography.
Today, around 150 years after the optical brand’s foundation, Leica watches are manufactured with the same precision and attention to detail as the famous Leica cameras. Each piece represents the pursuit of excellence that has always distinguished the brand.
Dates and times to note:
TIMELESS: Through the Lens of John Goldberger
Leica Store Geneva, Pl. de Saint-Gervais 1, 1201 Genève
Private preview: 15 April 2026
Public exhibition: April 16 until May 15, 2026. Tuesday – Friday, 10am – 6.30pm. Saturday 10am – 5pm
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