Hong Kong Watch Buyer's Guide

Hong Kong is renowned as one of the premier destinations for vintage watch enthusiasts worldwide. Its bustling districts are home to exceptional vintage watch shops, each offering unique timepieces. While watch stores can be found throughout the city, this guide highlights four main areas where collectors can discover some of the finest treasures: Causeway Bay, Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui (TST), and Central.

Known for its thriving jewelry and watch trade, Hong Kong is a hotspot for a diverse range of brands and styles. As someone with roots in Hong Kong but currently living in the Netherlands, I bring a unique perspective to navigating the city’s vibrant watch market. Drawing from personal experiences and connections to both cultures, I’ll continuously update this guide to help you explore Hong Kong’s thriving world of luxury watches.

Quick Tips for Buying Watches in Hong Kong

1. Cash Transactions are Preferred
   Most dealers prefer cash payments, though some may accept credit cards with an additional processing fee for non-residents. While Hong Kong is generally safe, exercise caution in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing.

2. Inspect Serial and Reference Numbers
   Pay close attention to serial and reference numbers, as well as the authenticity of steel watch bracelets, which are sometimes replaced with aftermarket ones.

3. Bring a Loupe
   A loupe or UV torch is invaluable for examining the dial and lume condition of vintage watches.

4. Ask Questions
   Don’t hesitate to consult specialized guides or ask dealers for advice. Most are honest and willing to help.

Area: Causeway Bay

Overview
Causeway Bay is one of Hong Kong’s busiest shopping districts, featuring numerous authorized watch dealers (ADs) and second-hand watch shops. While modern and neo-vintage pieces are more common here, vintage gems can be found in Causeway Bay Plaza 1, a mid-rise building housing several vintage dealers alongside excellent dining options.

Key Shops:

• Times Watch
  • Location: Level 2, 107A, Causeway Bay Plaza 1
  • Specialty: A variety of vintage and modern watches, including neo-vintage Rolex models (late 1980s–2000s). Brands like Blancpain, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet are also available.

Area: Central

Overview
Central is Hong Kong's business hub, housing high-end vintage watch shops. Among these are some of the city’s most prestigious dealers.

Key Shops:

• The Vintage Concept

  • Location: LG/F, Century Square, 1-13 D’Aguilar Street
  • Specialty: Specializing in vintage Rolex sport models, as well as Cartier and Omega. The store also features vintage Rolex memorabilia and curated women’s jewelry.

• Berne Horology

  • Location: Unit A, 10/F, Shing Lee Commercial Building, 6-12 Wing Kut Street, Sheung Wan
  • Specialty: Family-run with a youthful, artistic vibe, offering meticulously selected vintage timepieces for men and women.

• Raymond Chung

  • Location: Shop 2, Pottinger Street, Central
  • Specialty: A tiny shop with a diverse range, including rare collector-grade pieces like pre-moon Omega Speedmasters.

Area: Mong Kok

Overview
Mong Kok, located in Kowloon, is a bustling district with the Yan On Building serving as a hub for vintage watch dealers.

Key Shops:

• Grateful Time

  • Location: Yan On Building, Kwong Wa Street
  • Specialty: Known for rare Rolex stone dials and a captivating selection of Day-Dates and other vintage pieces.

• London Watch

  • Location: Kwong Wa Street, across from Grateful Time
  • Specialty: Focuses on collectible Rolex models, from Oyster Precisions to yellow gold Paul Newman Daytonas.

• Past & Future Times

  • Location: Mong Kok
  • Specialty: Offers a diverse selection, including vintage Rolex sport models, Blancpain Mil-Spec, and LIP watches with exotic dials.

Area: Tsim Sha Tsui (TST)

Overview
TST, located in southern Kowloon, is a vibrant area with both ADs and hidden gems for vintage watch collectors. Exploration is ongoing to uncover the best locations for vintage timepieces in this district.

Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, Hong Kong offers an unparalleled experience in vintage watch shopping. From the bustling streets of Mong Kok to the refined shops of Central, there’s something for every enthusiast. Stay tuned as we continue to explore and update this guide with more recommendations.