Unwinding in Hong Kong: The Watch Enthusiast’s Travel Guide
7 min read
Are you traveling to Hong Kong anytime soon? Then why not combine your love for travel with your passion for watches into one unforgettable trip? Known for its dynamic energy, towering skyscrapers and heady blend of eastern and western cultures, this bustling metropolis is a unique juxtaposition of simplicity and luxury. As one of the world's leading financial hubs, it is home to a significant population of high-net-worth individuals, contributing to its reputation as a playground for the wealthy. The city's affluent residents and status-conscious society have fostered a strong demand for luxury goods, with iconic brands from around the globe establishing flagship stores here. From exclusive boutiques in Central to the high-end shopping mecca of Causeway Bay, Hong Kong offers unparalleled access to some of the most coveted luxury products. Its sophisticated retail landscape makes it a must-visit destination for watch collectors, fashion enthusiasts, and those with a taste for the finer things in life.
Hong Kong’s position as a prominent hub for luxury watches, boasts of a rich horological heritage and an ever-growing number of watch boutiques and experiences. Its vibrant shopping districts, tax-free policies, and access to some of the finest timepieces make the city an ideal destination for those who are looking to add to their collection of luxury timepieces.
Pointers On Buying Watches In Hong Kong
When purchasing watches in Hong Kong, it’s essential to keep a few useful pointers in mind. While these can be applied in general to most watch purchases – we’ve found them especially useful in Hong Kong.
Dealers prefer cash transactions: From what we have heard, most dealers prefer cash transactions, though some may accept credit cards with a processing fee if you’re not a Hong Kong resident.
Practice caution: While Hong Kong is generally safe with low crime rates, it’s wise to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings as pickpocketing and theft can occur in the crowded areas around the shops. Stay vigilant and avoid becoming an easy target. When exploring the vibrant streets of Hong Kong, it's smart to opt for easy-going, low-profile watches. With bustling markets and crowded areas known for pickpocketing, wearing an understated timepiece helps you stay stylish without drawing unnecessary attention. Look for durable, functional watches that blend with your look, offering peace of mind while you soak in the city’s sights without worrying about theft. Stay sleek and safe!
Always double-check the serial and reference numbers: Pay special attention to the bracelets, particularly in steel watches, as they are often replaced with aftermarket ones. This is a general watch buying area of importance but we’ve found it especially important within Hong Kong.
Travel with a loupe: To inspect the dial and lume condition, consider bringing a loupe or a UV torch for a closer examination. This again applies to all purchases in all locations but it is highly recommended within Hong Kong as well.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions: If you require additional assistance or guidance, don’t hesitate to ask the dealer for help and advice; most are generally honest and willing to assist.
Luxury watch brands recognize Hong Kong’s importance and have established flagship boutiques throughout the city. These boutiques are often located in prestigious areas and offer exclusive collections and personalized services. Areas like Central, Tsim Sha Tsui are not just bustling tourist spots, but also havens for anyone who is interested in purchasing luxury watches. Dotted across the length and breadth of these areas are numerous luxury watch boutiques and retailers that offer a stunning collection of watch brands. We list out some not to be missed options for you to explore.
Landmark
If you are looking for some exclusive timepieces, look no further than Landmark. As a powerful, luxury retail brand Landmark provides a rich diversity of offerings and experiences across the 4 iconic buildings. Built with a total retail area of 13,000 square metres, Landmark is a comprehensive one-stop-shop for luxury lifestyle needs, from antique Chinese furniture to exquisite watch and jewellery offerings. Here, you will find dedicated boutiques of a number of watchmaking maisons such as A. Lange & Söhne, BVLGARI, Chopard, Cartier, F.P. Journe, Franck Muller, Hublot, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Panerai, Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and many more.
In addition to this, The Landmark hosts the Perpetual Week which is not just an exhibition; it serves as a vibrant platform for the Landmark Horology Community and Hong Kong’s watch connoisseurs to gather, exchange experiences, and share their knowledge in the intricate world of precision timekeeping. The esteemed watchmaker brands conduct a series of workshops, in-store experiences and private masterclasses where visitors are offered an exclusive opportunity to immerse themselves into watchmaking excellence and gain insight into the rich heritage and enduring excellence of their watchmaking traditions over the generations.
Pre-registration is required for the showcase entry and the masterclass sessions hosted by renowned watch professionals. The masterclass sessions have limited entry and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. All details for the event can be found on the Landmark website.
The Hour Glass
A well-known retailer, The Hour Glass aims to advance watch culture. Known for its thoughtfully curated selection of brands, a passion for designing immersive retail experiences and a team of knowledgeable specialists, The Hour Glass strives to become the primary port of call for all watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. With a network of over 55 boutiques across the globe, the retailer has locations in Central and Tsim Sha Tsui in Hong Kong. Here, you will find a discerning selection of watch brands from Hublot to IWC, Panerai to Patek Philippe. The Hour glass is a must-visit for watch enthusiasts when in Hong Kong.
The Vintage Concept
Vintage Rolex watch collectors will feel right at home at The Vintage Concept. A beautiful store located in the heart of Central Hong Kong, the store is a haven for Rolex watches. They also have some Cartier and Omega models among others, but the main contender here is vintage Rolex sport model watches primarily in steel. The watches at The Vintage Concept speak for themselves, but one of the most interesting elements that you may miss as a result of being distracted by the sheer amount of vintage Rolex goodness is the collection of vintage Rolex collectibles and memorabilia in the background of the store and within the display cases. Old Rolex catalogues, books, and artifacts line the cases, making for an equally interesting experience as some of the watches themselves. Additionally, they have a beautiful curated selection of women’s jewellery from YSL, Christian Dior, and Chanel. So, this could make a nice visit if you are traveling with your partner or if you need to get a little something extra as a result of buying yourself a grail watch.
The Lavish Attic
With a unique concept of encapsulating the feeling of a cozy home attic that embraces the feel of a warm and luxurious home surrounded by exquisite, meaningful and exclusive craftsmanship pieces, The Lavish Attic is for those who are bitten by the independent bug. Established in 2013 coinciding with the growth and demand for international independent luxury products and services across the Asia region, it is one of Hong Kong’s premier watch boutiques.
The Lavish Attic redefines luxury by focusing on bespoke craftsmanship and limited-edition pieces designed for discerning individuals. For them, true luxury isn’t mass-produced or driven by social trends; it’s personal, niche, and tailored to those who value originality and superior quality. Their creations are intended for everyday life, not just special occasions. They craft for the few, offering one-of-a-kind items that reflect individuality and timeless design. The Lavish Attic's clients are trendsetters, not followers, seeking subtle sophistication over mainstream recognition. For them, luxury is a lifestyle rooted in unparalleled craftsmanship.
Dubai Watch Week Horology Forum
If you are in Hong Kong anytime between 22nd October and 24th October, then you must visit the Dubai Watch Week Horology Forum HF. 10. Every edition contains within it a Horology Forum that presents a unique knowledge exchange, and this year, making its debut in the vibrant city of Hong Kong is the 10th edition titled HF.10. Since its inception in 2015, Horology Forum has become a trailblazer in hosting insightful discussions on the latest trends and thought-provoking topics in the watch industry. Over the years, it has organized more than 90 panels, featuring over 270 speakers. The aim is to tap into the broader Asian market, including mainland China, reflecting the importance of the city’s thriving watch culture and its position as a strategic gateway for the watch industry’s growth across Asia.
With its array of luxury boutiques, world-class retailers, and enriching horological experiences, Hong Kong remains one of the most exciting places in the world for watch enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey into the world of fine timepieces, Hong Kong offers a treasure trove of opportunities to explore, acquire, and experience the art of watchmaking at its finest.
