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As September approaches, the Victoria Harbour waterfront prepares to host the watch industry’s most anticipated annual gathering. For those of us who have chronicled the evolution of horology for decades, there is a particular rhythm to the calendar—and September has always resonated with a distinctly “Hong Kong” beat. This year marks the 45th edition of the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, running concurrently with the 14th Salon de TIME from 1 to 5 September 2026 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
I have walked these halls since the fair’s early days, when it was already establishing itself as Asia’s premier sourcing hub. Today, it has matured into the world’s definitive watch industry event, highlighting the enduring role of Hong Kong as the gateway between Eastern craftsmanship and global markets.
This year’s theme, “Sparkling Moments Through Time” feels particularly resonant. It acknowledges the rich heritage of the past 45 years while embracing the dynamic forces reshaping our industry, from the resurgence of mechanical artistry to the relentless march of wearable technology.
The organisers, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, together with the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association and The Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries, have once again adopted the EXHIBITION+ hybrid format. The physical fair runs alongside the “Click2Match” online business matching platform, operational from 25 August to 12 September. This dual approach reflects a profound understanding of how global trade has evolved: seamless, borderless, and relentlessly efficient.
What makes this event truly exceptional is the complementary nature of its two components, First, the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair remains the industry’s most comprehensive sourcing platform. The “Pageant of Eternity” section dazzles with an extensive range of OEM and ODM complete watches, while dedicated zones for components, machinery, packaging, and trade services ensure that every link in the supply chain is represented.
Second, Salon de TIME, has evolved into a curated showcase of brand storytelling and design excellence. It opens its doors to both trade buyers and the public, bridging the gap between commercial sourcing and consumer appreciation. The six thematic zones offer a carefully orchestrated journey through horology’s many faces:
- World Brand Piazza, the epicentre of haute horlogerie, where iconic names present their most ambitious creations.
- Chic & Trendy, a celebration of fashion-forward brands from ALBA to Scotch & Soda, proving that style and precision need not be mutually exclusive.
- Craft Treasure, a sanctuary for mechanical purists, featuring CIGA Design (China’s first GPHG award winner) alongside masterpieces from AHCI members and heritage brands like Seagull and Shanghai
- Renaissance Moment, European elegance personified, with the Swiss Independent Watchmaking Pavilion and Francéclat presenting labels such as Briston, Herbelin, and LIP.
- Wearable Tech, where tradition meets innovation, including the world’s first smartwatch integrating medical-grade Continuous Glucose Monitoring with Traditional Chinese Medicine principles.
- Microbrands, a vibrant space for storytelling and creative risk-taking, featuring BREDA, Huasuo, Vario, and others redefining what a watch can be.
What has always distinguished this fair is its commitment to fostering dialogue and foresight, the Hong Kong International Watch Forum on 1 September brings together representatives of the world’s leading watch associations to assess global trade performance, forecast market trends, and explore how AI and smartwatches are driving convergence between tradition and technology.
The Asian Watch Conference on 2 September is particularly timely, focusing on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Greater Bay Area. Industry experts will analyse how these geopolitical developments are reshaping supply chains, opening new markets, and creating unprecedented opportunities for brands willing to embrace e-commerce and cross-border collaboration.
The 43rd Hong Kong Watch & Clock Design Competition continues to be a beacon for emerging talent. This year’s themes, “Contours of the Breeze” for students and “Transcending Time” for open entrants, reflect a delicate balance between poetic inspiration and commercial viability. The reintroduction of the “Made-to-Sell Award” is particularly encouraging; it bridges the gap between academic creativity and market reality, with winning student designs entering production under the guidance of the industry associations.
As I prepare for yet another journey to Hong Kong, I am reminded why this fair remains indispensable. In an industry often divided between tradition and innovation, between East and West, between craftsmanship and commerce, the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair stands as a rare meeting ground, where all these forces converge, converse, and create.
Forty-five years is a remarkable achievement. But what excites me most is the conversations that will unfold in September, the partnerships that will be forged, and the ideas that will shape the next 45 years of timekeeping. I look forward to seeing you there!
