Horological Meandering

kelwatches
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Hi,

I have been a lurker here, but its interesting subject that you brought up. Since I currently reside and work in China, Shanghai, and did seen a few good watches, here is my take.

Currently the market in China for fine time pieces are still in its infant stage. There are plenty of buyers for 'well-known" brands such as Rolex and Omega. But as it is still in its infant stage, the buyers have a different value system when evaluating a purchase. I can list it down to 3 main points below:
1) Brand prestige (It must be well known in China, but not necessary top of the line Swiss brands such as PP or VC nor AP)
2) True Luxury (Preferably in gold and with diamonds)
3) Refine looks (less divers and sporty nor large face watches)

Buyers usually care less about movements and history. Buyers are usually successful businessmen or officials, white collars and blue collars in China would find it very tough to justify a above RMB 100 watch. Hence the observation of the TS on the majority of people here.

As to places you would actually see these watches, I would suggest expensive Chinese Restaurants, Golf Courses and such where like minded people or people of similar stature mingle. Usually when on business trips or working time, the expensive watches will be taken off to be replaced with a less ostensible one.

Do note that the % of well off in China is very low, but the absolute amount of millionairs is salivating enough for major luxury brands from cars to watches to jump right into the fray.