The 37th edition of the HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair will be staged at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) between September 4 and 8.

For the five days of the fair, over 820 exhibitors from 24 countries and regions are expected to meet a record number of trade and private buyers from around the world.

Organised jointly by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd and The Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades and Industries Ltd., last year’s event saw over 21,000 buyers from 92 countries — a growth of 4 per cent from 2016 — turn up to survey the best the watchmaking industry had to offer.

Salon de TE

The fair highlights some of the most revered marques at the Salon de TE in Hall 3C-E. The Salon de TE is a beacon for watch connoisseurs, showcasing the stunning elegance and artistry of around 150 prestigious watchmakers including Breguet, Glashütte Original and Chopard.

On-site research

During last year’s event, the HKTDC commissioned an independent market research agency to conduct an on-site survey during the fair, interviewing 834 buyers and exhibitors about their views on market prospects and product trends. According to the results, more than half (53 per cent) of the respondents expect overall sales in 2018 to remain unchanged, while 41 per cent expect a growth, and six per cent expect a decrease.

As for retail prices, 59 per cent of the respondents predict retail price to remain unchanged. Most of the respondents view Western Europe and North America to be the most promising traditional markets, while the Chinese mainland and ASEAN countries are seen as having the best prospects among emerging markets in 2018.

In terms of product trends, the event last year postulated that fashion watches (32 per cent) are considered to have one of the biggest growth potentials in the region.

In addition, watches that can interact with smart devices (47 per cent), collections that align with current season’s fashion trends (33 per cent) and mix & match watches with changeable parts to match clothing (29 per cent) are predicted by respondents to be the most prevalent product development strategies of 2018.

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has been a statutory body established since 1966, HKTDC, and is the international marketing arm for Hong Kong-based traders, manufacturers and service providers. With more than 40 offices globally, including 13 on the Chinese mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a platform for doing business with China and throughout Asia.