When the 26th annual Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) opens in Geneva on January 18, visitors will discover a streamlined layout “designed to promote a spirit of conviviality,” according to the show’s organizers. They will also find a slew of new exhibitors: The fair’s 15 prestige brands—with Cartier, IWC, and Panerai chief among them—will welcome nine independent watchmakers into their midst. This means the five-day event—considered the world’s finest showcase of high watch…