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Global Watch Industry Summit Concludes Successfully: 44th Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Attracts Record 650 Exhibitors
Introduction
Held from September 2 to 6, 2025, the 44th Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and 13th International Watch Symposium, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), brought together over 650 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions under the theme “Here and Now.” The International Watch Pavilion set a post-pandemic record, with significant increases in brands from Switzerland, France, and Germany.
Highlights
- Smart Tech Meets Chinese Aesthetics
- German brand Watch2Care debuted an AI-powered TCM health monitor analyzing 300,000 medical cases for organ function scoring.
- Shanghai Seagull showcased its “Three-Legged Golden Bird” minute-repeater with kinetic gold carving, inspired by Chinese mythology.
- Sustainability Innovations
- A new “Micro Brands” zone featured biodegradable straps and solar-powered movements.
- The “Click2Match” platform facilitated 2,000+ virtual meetings from August 26 to September 13.
- Global Expansion
- European brands accounted for 35% of exhibitors, with the Swiss Independent Watchmakers Pavilion (SIWP) introducing 12 niche brands to Asia.
Key Sessions
- International Watch Forum: Forecasted 18% global smartwatch growth by 2026, emphasizing hybrid watch-tech synergy.
- Emerging Markets Workshop: Chinese brands secured Dubai distributorship deals during the session.
Closing Achievements
The event generated $1.2 billion in intent orders (up 15% YoY), with smartwatch OEMs contributing 40%. HKTDC Vice President Esther Cheung stated: “The fair reaffirms Hong Kong’s role as a global trade bridge”.