Credits: Article and images by Marton Radkai @ Quill & Pad. See the original article here - https://quillandpad.com/2024/08/23/hong-kong-takes-time-with-the-2024-clock-and-watch-fair-hkcwf-3-7-september/
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In the metal
On the hardware side, the HKCWF reserves lots of space for all players from the horological supply chain, from parts and components, machinery and equipment, to packaging and displays. The “Pageant of Eternity” hall will be showing finished timepieces from sort-of luxury to fast-and-fashionable, passing by smartwatches that you can buy for a pittance, as long as you take large volumes.
(As a chatty aside: Having passed on my business card to several of these companies, I was bombarded with offers I had to respectfully decline, several times, reminding the senders that “journalist” did not mean “buyer” or “retailer.” But the shotgun method of commerce is applied when the competition is large and fierce).
If last year’s event is any gauge, the Pageant hall will also host an array of companies specializing not both in finished products and OEM/ODM wares, a very vigorous segment especially in nearby Shenzhen.
The “Salon de Time” is where the real action is for watch fans. This sprawling hall is divided into several sections, like the “World Brand Piazza”, where last year I found some very high-end pieces, of Bovet, DeWitt, Parmigiani and Franck Muller.
The “Chic & Trendy” section has much lighter fare, like Ice-Watch’s colorful products, and other brands. Not far off is the “Renaissance Moment” area, where the Swiss, French, and other companies exhibit their wares.
Mechanical and jewelry watches are gathered to one side under the heading “Craft Treasure”. It is here you find the Chinese makers of mechanical watches, including brands and independents.
Last year, I spent almost a day here examining Shanghai Watch, Happiewatch, Angleswatch, Lucky Harvey, Hedone, and the well-known CIGA Design. Some of these brands have been knocking hard at the European gate, and one, CIGA Design, even won a GPHG prize in 2021.
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Credits: Article and images by Marton Radkai @ Quill & Pad. See the original article here - https://quillandpad.com/2024/08/23/hong-kong-takes-time-with-the-2024-clock-and-watch-fair-hkcwf-3-7-september/