Rolex has been the main anchor that has held Baselworld together for many years.  Although Baselworld has been seeing many of its smaller exhibitors head for the doors in recent years, Rolex and many of its counterparts could always be counted on for having mammoth booth spaces. 

Rolex decided to leave along with Patek Philippe, Tudor, Chanel and Chopard.  They didn't like the January date for the 2021 Baselworld and were not properly consulted when CHF selected the date.  However, the rising booth prices have not helped the situation either.   The Swatch Group left in 2019, leaving a major hole in the exhibit room 1.1.  However, now the hall is decimated.  The remaining exhibit hall is now anchored by Omega, Blancpain, Tissot, Corum, Rado, Jaquet Droz, and Glashiitte. 

The struggling Baselworld has been working on reinvigorating excitement in its event by launching new exhibit areas, and other events during Baselworld. 

So, what happens now?  Baselworld, for Rolex fans, is a dead story.  Certainly management will attempt to make amends and bring Rolex back.  However, it seems Rolex has decided to go all in on the next Geneva event. 

The Corona Virus situation closed Baselworld this year.  And Rolex's decision to launch new watches is usually centered around the Baselworld event.  However, it looks as if Rolex will use Geneva's event to launch its timepieces going forward. 

Although Baselworld didn't help itself by raising prices and having an air of snobbery around the management of its events, social media also has put an end to the need for massive events.  And the Corona Virus put a final dagger into Baselworld this year.  And let's be honest, Rolex is big enough to do their own event centered around just Rolex.  They don't need Baselworld, and haven't needed them for many years.