The 43rd Hong Kong Watch & Clock Design Competition, 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, has announced its results, spotlighting innovative designs that push the boundaries of traditional timekeeping. The competition, held alongside the 45th Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and the 14th Salon de TIME, attracted over 17,000 trade buyers from 115 countries and regions, underscoring the global interest in Hong Kong's watch industry.
This year's competition featured two categories: the Open Group and the Student Group, each with distinct themes. The Open Group's theme, 'Transcending Time,' encouraged participants to translate sensory experiences into design elements, while the Student Group focused on 'Contours of the Breeze,' capturing the movement of wind. A total of 130 entries were submitted, and a judging panel of eight industry experts, along with celebrity guest judge Joey Thye, selected the winners.
In the Open Group, the Champion was 'Tectonic Indeterminacy' by Chan Pak Hei and Yang Tianxu, sponsored by Golden Hawk Manufactory Ltd. The design, inspired by the organic geometry of pebbles, uses angled facets and a sculpted void to transform the watch into a spatial experience. The First Runner-up, 'Channel' by Wong Ting Bong, incorporates a VU meter scale and pointer, making abstract concepts of time and sound visible. The Second Runner-up, 'Moment of Stillness' by Pang Sze Nga, depicts mountain ranges with gold wire and enamel, featuring a swallow as a messenger of time.
The Student Group saw Yip Yuen Sze, Christine, from the Hong Kong Design Institute, take the Champion with 'Traces of Storm.' The watch face mimics cyclone patterns from satellite images, with lightning bolt-shaped hands, symbolizing the courage to break new ground. The First Runner-up, 'Running through the Breeze' by Tam Hei Yiu of Pope Paul VI College, uses hands shaped as a girl, a tree, and a windmill, conveying a message of perseverance. The Second Runner-up, 'Carpe Diem' by Lo Hoi Pui of the Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, draws inspiration from dandelion seeds and a weathervane.
Additionally, the 'Made-to-Sell Award' recognized a design with commercial potential, and was awarded to Yip Yuen Sze for 'Traces of Storm.' This design will be produced by the industry associations and launched through the HKTDC's Design Gallery.
The competition has been instrumental in raising design standards and encouraging creativity within Hong Kong's watch industry. By showcasing these innovative designs, the fair not only enriches its content but also promotes Hong Kong-made timepieces in local and overseas markets. The recognition of emerging designers highlights the industry's commitment to nurturing new talent, ensuring the continued growth and evolution of watchmaking in Hong Kong. For more details on the competition and winners, visit the HKTDC's event pages for the Salon de TIME and the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair.
