All you need to know about the Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair
There are several different exhibitions held every year related to the watch and clock industry. However, the Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair is the most recognized one. This is mainly due to the magnitude at which it is hosted and the impact it has had on the industry. Perhaps, to understand the significance of this international event, we must take a look at the history of it.
Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair History
Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) launched Watch and Clock Fair in Hong Kong in 1982. The initial focus of the fair was to showcase Hong Kong’s growing watch and clock industry.
Organizers of this event wanted to create a platform that would inform the world of all the substantial developments that took place in Hong Kong during the 1970s.
The most significant development was the introduction of ‘the quartz technology’. Over the last 30 years, the exhibition has evolved to become one of the most important events in the region, attracting visitors and exhibitors from every part of the world.
Currently, the exhibition is organized as a collaboration between the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades and Industries Ltd., and the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd.
These three major institutions undertake all the management-related responsibilities of the Watch and Clock Fair.
Can you buy from watch and clock manufacturers at the fair?
The straightforward answer is no. You can not buy watches or clocks at the Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair. As the name suggests, the event is considered as an exhibition, which clearly indicates that it is an event to showcase products rather than putting them on sale.
Therefore, if you are an avid watch fan or investor looking to buy a high-timepiece like Rolex or Patek Philippe, you must note that buying one at the event is not possible. Perhaps, a better, more sensible alternative is to check out the pre-owned market.
As pre-owned watch dealers ourselves, we offer you the chance to buy a Rolex in Dubai or a luxury watch of your choice.
Exhibitors participating at the event
Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair hosts a range of different exhibitors. These include watch and clock manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of watches, clocks, and other related accessories.
Exhibitors participating in the event come from all over the world. A significant number of exhibitors come from Hong Kong, Switzerland, Japan and China. The exhibition is divided into different sections which include the following:
- Brand Name Gallery showcasing international and local brands
- World Brand Piazza showcasing luxury watch brands
- Hong Kong Pavilion showcasing local manufacturers
- Clock & Watch Machinery showcasing the latest technology and equipment used in the industry.
Products showcased at the exhibition include mechanical and quartz watches, smart digital watches, watch straps, clocks, watch movements, and other watch accessories.
The exhibition also features workshops and seminars that cover a wide set of topics related to the watch and clock industry. Some of the most notable ones are related to design trends, industry regulations and marketing strategies.
Impact and significance of the event
The two main aspects that state the significance of this event are that it enables businesses to showcase their latest products and creates a platform for improved networking. Watch and clock manufacturers like Patek Philippe, Breitling, and many more utilize this event as a means to show the world their new releases.
Not only that, but these brands also use these trade shows to showcase some of their remarkable achievements. These achievements could be anything from the launch of a new movement or a new breakthrough design. All of this makes the event an extremely interesting place to be for watch enthusiasts and aficionados.
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre plays a major role
Similarly, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre also helps retailers and distributors connect with each other and discuss new business opportunities. However, due to the rise in online sales, the fair has faced some challenges in attracting a greater audience. Nevertheless, the event still continues to thrive, and experts are positive about its continued success in the industry.
Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair is an event where brands and watch experts get to host multiple seminars and workshops. These workshops help the newcomers understand the market, the inner workings of the watches and the horological developments going around. For the ones who are new in the industry, the Honk Kong Watch and Clock Fair also becomes a great place for networking. This is where dealers get to connect with other dealrs from around the globe. A strong networking helps the dealers in sourcing watches rather easily.
For people who are always on the hunt for special and exquisite pieces, networking is highly important. If all of this has made you consider attending the event, the next watch exhibition is set to take place from September 5 to September 9, 2023, with the public days being Sept 8 & Sept 9.
Hong Kong: A global trading hub
Watch and Clock fairs are something that takes place almost everywhere. With most of these high-end luxury watches being from Switzerland, we also see events taking place there. With the next big thing being the Japanese movements, one also expected to attend such events in Japan. Even after that, it is the Hong Kong Watch and Clock fair that grabs the most attention. This has to do with two major factors. One, is that the trade show has been going on for decades and has created a sense of trust and faith among watch enthusiasts.
On top of that, Hong Kong is a global trading hub. It is the perfect place to host events like these. Hong Kong offers efficient logistics, a strong financial infrastructure as well as favorable business opportunities. All of this combined makes Hong Kong the top choice for such events.
Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair: An exhibit you can’t miss
It is one of the largest and most crucial exhibitions for the watch and clock industry in Asia. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre was chosen as the prime location to host this fair as Hong Kong is a part of one of the world’s leading watch and clock manufacturing centers. Its status as a major hub for the global industry makes it an important event for everyone involved in this sector to participate.
If you are into luxury and high-end watches, you should definitely consider attending the event. It helps you stay updated with the industry trends. It also helps people gain exposure to a global audience. For people in the business of buying and selling watches, it is a great way to establish business connections that will eventually help you to source watches whenever you need them. Lastly, the watch and clock fair is going to help you explore the market opportunities that have recently opened up.
