The 45th Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and the 14th Salon de TIME, jointly organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Limited, and The Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries Limited, concluded successfully on September 6, 2026. The events attracted over 17,000 trade buyers from 115 countries and regions, with notable increases in buyer attendance from North America, ASEAN, and Latin America. This growth reinforces Hong Kong's position as a pivotal international trading center and premier sourcing hub for the global watch and clock industry.
According to an HKTDC survey conducted during the fair, 50% of respondents expect overall sales to increase over the next 12 to 24 months, while 43% anticipate stable sales. The survey identified Latin America (68%), Korea (67%), the Middle East (64%), Australia (64%), and South Africa (64%) as the most promising markets for growth. In terms of product trends, 37% of respondents believe fashion watches offer the greatest growth potential, followed by smart watches (30%) and casual watches (26%).
The fairs facilitated significant business deals. Exhibitors reported robust results, with some expecting sales to exceed US$3 million. For instance, Hunan Shengshi Weide Technology Co., Ltd. connected with potential buyers from India, Italy, and Malaysia, including an Italian buyer interested in purchasing 2,000 watches. Peacock Watch (Group) Co., Ltd. secured daily orders and expects total sales to exceed RMB10 million, making first-time connections with customers from Kuwait and Mexico.
Buyers also expressed satisfaction. Jovial, a UAE-based wholesaler, anticipates sourcing approximately US$1 million worth of watch components from nine suppliers, including two new ones, and plans to purchase US$250,000 worth of packaging materials. CN Innovations Limited, a 45-year participant, showcased 3D-printed titanium watches and emphasized the fair's evolution from a transaction-driven trade show to a strategic platform for industry exchange and market promotion.
The Salon de TIME, which was open to the public with free admission, attracted over 20,000 visits alongside CENTRESTAGE. The Microbrands zone doubled its exhibitor count to 29 brands from eight countries and regions. First-time exhibitor MicroMilspec from Norway received more than 170 visitors on the first day and estimated potential sales of US$29,000. WOLF, a UK luxury watch winder brand, launched the world's most compact travel watch winder and connected with 40 potential buyers via HKTDC's Click2Match platform.
Cross-industry collaborations were highlighted, such as LINK2CARE's partnership with Swiss watch brand MARVIN to launch a smartwatch with medical-grade biometric sensors. The fair also featured Guochao-inspired watches, reflecting growing consumer appreciation for personalized and cultural designs. David Sun, Executive Director of Sun International Concepts Ltd., reported 17 enquiries for bespoke timepieces, generating HK$4 million in customized orders.
The fairs demonstrated Hong Kong's strengths as an international trading platform, attracting global opportunities while helping local and mainland enterprises expand overseas. As HKTDC Associate Executive Director Smilely Lam noted, the events connect the entire value chain and create a comprehensive industry ecosystem. The Click2Match platform remains open until 12 September for continued online business discussions.
The success of the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TIME underscores the resilience and global appeal of the watch industry, with Hong Kong serving as a vital bridge between East and West. The fairs not only generated substantial business but also showcased the latest trends and innovations, positioning Hong Kong as the world's leading one-stop marketplace for watches and clocks.
