Analogue Display

In terms of its shape, the watch itself bares similarity to another brand presenting at the event, Richard Mille. Famed for highly technical timepieces, Richard Mille also works with fine artisanal craftsmen to create tonneau-shaped watches that aren’t just mechanically sophisticated but extremely elegant as well.

The RM 051 Phoenix Tourbillon is the epitome of that fusion of beauty and technical excellence. Richard Mille will be presenting a very special edition designed in association with Hong Kong based-actress Michelle Yeoh. Adorned with hundreds of flawless diamonds and constructed from a mix of platinum, onyx and rose gold this timepiece will be a serious contender for the most extravagant on display at the Masterpieces of Time event. Limited to just 18 pieces, it will also be one of the rarest most visitors are likely to see.

Fans of more traditionally styled timepieces may prefer the watches being presented by Vacheron Constantin. One of the world’s finest watchmakers, the brand will be showcasing two timepieces from its legendary Patrimony range. First launched in the 1940s, the movement in this timepiece has long been celebrated for being one of the thinnest, most complex ever produced.

On show will be the Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Chronograph and Contemporaine Perpetual Calendar timepieces. Strikingly similar with their pink gold finish, the later timepiece continues the ultra thin tradition with a thickness of under 9mm. Even for a Vacheron Constantin, it has just that little bit more class.

At the other end of the spectrum, though, is Panerai. Favoured by men of action including Sylvester Stallone, the brand has real machismo appeal. The watch on show will be the Luminor 1950 Tourbillon GMT Ceramica. This complex timepiece is oversized at 48mm and finished in black ceramic. It looks tough and, for the lucky owner, it’ll make them look tough too.

For watch aficionados in Hong Kong, the Masterpieces of Time is one of the few opportunities to get hands on with some of the greatest timepieces in the world. Hong Kong might have missed the boat for luxury watch exhibitions, so make sure you don’t. Short of buying airfare to Switzerland, you’re unlikely to have such an opportunity to view such a fine collection of horological heavy weights and rare examples of watch making mastery. Well, until next year at least.