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RAPAPORT... Baselworld 2013 came to a close after eight highly successful days for many exhibitors in the watch and jewelry industry. Organizers reported that 122,000 visitors attended this year, which was a 17 percent jump compared with 2012. For this 41st edition of Basel, the organizers confirmed that this show remains the world's most important event for the watch and jewelry industry, with buyers coming from 100 countries to browse products from 1,460 international exhibitors. This year, the vibe throughout the show floor was generally upbeat and particularly marked by the highly anticipated new hall complex revamped by Basel architects Herzog & De Meuron. The $460 million new structure provided exhibitors with the opportunity to present themselves in truly luxurious space, more than a 1,000 stands of which were completely redesigned for the occasion. All of the global watch and jewelry brands hosted in Hall 1 unveiled new two- and three-story stands. Sylvie Ritter, the managing director of Baselworld, stated, "With Baselworld 2013 we have set new standards. This has further reinforced the uniqueness of this event. There is nothing comparable in the luxury goods industry anywhere in the world. We shall be doing everything within our power to further expand our leading position next year, too." Baselworld 2014 will be held from March 27 to April 3, 2014 in the halls at Messe Basel.
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