Baselworld is one of the most prestigious watch fairs in the world. But the Basel, Switzerland-based event is under pressure as star watch brands depart in a spat that has roiled the Swiss watch industry. Image credit: Baselworld The timepiece brands belonging to LVMH’s watchmaking division have decamped the once-grand Baselworld annual watch fair and expo, joining Rolex, Patek Philippe, Chanel, Chopard and Tudor in abandoning a 103-year-old event that fell victim to the lockdown over the COVID-19 coronavirus and a perceived inadequate response to financial and scheduling concerns.