Marking Milestones with Time 在時間中見證人生里程
Contributors : Dominic Lam • Eric Zhang • Ismail Salameh • Joo Kim Tiah • Jumbo Lau • Patricia and Daniel Sun • Verne Ho • William Yong • Gina Chong, Butter Studios • Lucia Graca Remedios
As Featured in Fête Chinoise The art of Celebration Annual Edition No.3
Whether commemorating a breakthrough career victory, a wedding day, or welcoming a newborn child, fine timepieces capture our most enduring memories. Discover an intimate look into the personal collections of Canadian cultural leaders—featuring iconic pieces from Rolex, Breguet, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and Cartier—and explore why true luxury is defined by the stories we leave behind.
BACKDROP PHOTOGRAPHY: Deborah Lau-Yu
WATCH : Van Cleef & Arpels • Lady Arpels Brise d’Été 18K white gold, Diamond, Mother-of-pearl, Spessartite, Tsavorite, Enamel
Patricia and Daniel Sun
Our family’s watch collection has never been about simply owning luxury timepieces. Each watch represents a deeply personal chapter in our lives — moments of achievement, sacrifice, perseverance, and love. These timepieces are not only markers of time, but markers of memory. Every watch carries with it a story of where we were in life, what we overcame, and what that particular moment meant to our family. Over the years, the collection has become a reflection of our journey together and the values that shaped us: hard work, resilience, family, and legacy.
One of the most meaningful pieces in my collection is my Breguet Reine de Naples. I purchased it after completing my very first major real estate transaction, a sale that became one of the highest recorded sales in Toronto within the previous two years. At that point in my career, it represented far more than financial success. It symbolized the beginning of truly believing in myself, trusting my instincts, and recognizing the strength it took to build a career in luxury real estate. The history behind the watch made it even more significant. The Reine de Naples was inspired by what is considered the world’s first wristwatch, created by Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1812 for Caroline Murat, the Queen of Naples and sister of Napoleon Bonaparte. Designed for a woman of intelligence, influence, and power, the watch embodied elegance combined with strength — qualities that deeply resonated with me. Every time I wear it, I am reminded that success is not simply about transactions or numbers, but about courage, resilience, and determination.
我們家族收藏腕錶，從來不只是為了擁有奢華時計。每一隻腕錶，都承載著人生中一段深刻而珍貴的回憶——那些關於成就、犧牲、堅持與愛的時刻。這些時計不僅記錄時間，更收藏記憶。每一隻腕錶背後，都有一段屬於當下人生階段的故事，記錄著我們曾經歷過的挑戰，以及那些時刻對我們家庭的意義。多年以來，這個收藏逐漸成為我們共同人生旅程的映照，也反映出塑造我們家庭的核心價值：努力、韌性、家庭與傳承。
我收藏中其中一隻最具意義的腕錶，是我的 Breguet Reine de Naples。那是在我完成人生第一宗大型房地產交易後購入的，而那筆成交更成為當時多倫多過去兩年間最高成交紀錄之一。對當時的我而言，它代表的遠不只是財務上的成功，更象徵著我開始真正相信自己、信任自己的判斷，並明白在高端房地產行業建立事業所需要的勇氣與堅持。
而這只腕錶背後的歷史，也令它更具意義。Reine de Naples 的設計靈感，源自被譽為世界上第一隻腕錶——1812 年由 Abraham-Louis Breguet 為那不勒斯王后、亦即拿破崙妹妹 Caroline Murat 所打造的作品。這隻腕錶為一位兼具智慧、影響力與力量的女性而設計，優雅之中帶著堅毅，這份特質令我深深共鳴。每當我佩戴它時，它都提醒著我：成功從來不只是交易數字，而是關於勇氣、韌性與決心。
Images courtesy of Patricia and Daniel Sun.
Equally meaningful is Daniel’s Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre à Quantième Lunaire, one of the most elegant timepieces in our collection. He purchased it to commemorate the 10th anniversary of opening his first dental clinic — a milestone achieved through years of discipline, precision, and unwavering dedication to his patients. The Duomètre Lunaire is admired for its extraordinary craftsmanship, intricate moonphase display, and technical precision. In many ways, the watch reflects the very essence of dentistry itself. Dentistry is a profession with no margin for error, where every movement requires patience, accuracy, and artistry. Beyond technical skill, Daniel’s work has always been about helping people feel confident, healthy, and proud of their smiles. The beauty and precision of the watch perfectly mirrored the beauty and precision required in his profession and the care he brought to every patient.
Our collection also carries deep emotional meaning because it represents generational legacy. My very first Rolex was a gift from my parents — a symbol of their belief in me long before I fully believed in myself. Years later, Daniel and I purchased a Rolex for our son to celebrate his university graduation, marking the transition into adulthood and the beginning of building his own future. The watch was not simply a gift, but a reminder that time, discipline, and perseverance are among life’s greatest investments. Now, with our son preparing for marriage next year, we find ourselves reflecting on another special timepiece from our personal collection that may one day be gifted to him on his wedding day. The idea of passing down a watch that has already lived through significant moments in our own lives makes the gesture even more meaningful. It becomes more than an heirloom — it becomes the continuation of a family story, carrying with it memories, lessons, and love across generations.
One day, we also hope to gift a meaningful timepiece to our daughter when she graduates from dental school, celebrating the same values of dedication, resilience, and ambition that define her journey. Watches measure time, but for our family, they preserve history, emotion, milestones, and the enduring legacy of the lives we continue building together.
“Watches measure time, but for our family, they preserve history, emotion, milestones, and legacy.”
同樣別具意義的，還有 Daniel 的 Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre à Quantième Lunaire，也是我們收藏中最優雅的作品之一。他購入這隻腕錶，是為了紀念自己創立首間牙科診所十周年。這個里程碑背後，是多年來嚴謹而精準的專業態度，以及對病人始終如一的投入。
Duomètre Lunaire 以卓越工藝、精細的月相顯示及極高技術精準度而聞名，而某程度上，這隻腕錶也正好映照出牙科工作的本質。牙科是一門幾乎容不下任何誤差的專業，每一個動作都需要耐性、準確與藝術感。除了技術層面，Daniel 的工作始終也是關於幫助人們重拾自信、健康，以及對自己笑容的驕傲。這隻腕錶所展現的美感與精準，正如他對每位病人所付出的細膩與專注。
我們的收藏亦承載著深厚的家族傳承意義。我人生中的第一隻 Rolex，是父母送給我的禮物——在我還未真正相信自己之前，他們已經選擇相信我。多年後，Daniel 與我則為兒子購入了一隻 Rolex，作為他大學畢業的紀念，象徵著踏入成年，以及開始建立屬於自己的人生。那不僅僅是一份禮物，更提醒著他：時間、紀律與堅持，是人生最珍貴的投資。
如今，隨著兒子即將於明年步入婚姻，我們也開始思考，或許有一天，會從自己的收藏中挑選一隻別具意義的腕錶，在婚禮當天傳承給他。一隻曾陪伴我們走過人生重要時刻的腕錶，再被交到下一代手中，令這份傳承更添重量。它不再只是一件古董珍藏，而是一段家族故事的延續，承載著回憶、人生體悟，以及跨越世代的愛。
未來有一天，我們也希望在女兒從牙科學院畢業時，送她一隻別具意義的腕錶，慶祝她一路走來所展現的努力、韌性與抱負。
腕錶測量的是時間，但對我們一家人而言，它們保存的，是歷史、情感、人生里程碑，以及我們仍在共同書寫的人生傳承。
Images courtesy of Patricia and Daniel Sun.
William Yong: A Timepiece That Marks a Moment
I did not grow up around luxury. When I was young, my family of six shared a 400-square-foot public housing estate apartment in Kowloon, Hong Kong. Watches, in my childhood, were purely functional objects — if they existed at all. That is why I remember so vividly the day my father came home with a Rolex.
My father told us he had bought the Rolex from a friend. To me, it was extraordinary. The weight of it, the quiet authority of its design, the way it seemed to hold time with intention — it was unlike anything I had encountered. He would even let me wear it to school. For a brief moment, I felt I was carrying something significant on my wrist.
Months later, I noticed something was off. The crown on the dial did not sit quite right. Slowly, the truth revealed itself: it was a replica. I suspect my father knew all along—that perhaps this was why he was so generous in letting me wear it. The disappointment was real,
but so was the quiet promise I made to myself: one day, if life allowed, I would own an authentic Rolex.
Years passed. Then came the pandemic — a moment that halted the world, and with it, live performance. As a choreographer and director, my work on stage disappeared overnight. Yet in that stillness, something unexpected emerged. Artists began turning to film, and I found myself stepping into a new role as a film director. During the pandemic, I created 37 dance films, short films, and music videos, many featuring artists of colour —work I remain deeply proud of. These projects travelled globally and received recognition at international film festivals. For the first time, I had a modest financial surplus — and a reason to mark it.
On a quiet morning, I reached out to a Rolex-authorized dealer. By chance — or perhaps timing — he had just received a Datejust 41 in two-tone with diamonds that very day. He offered it to me immediately, something almost unheard of. I drove there without hesitation. Trying it on felt like closing a circle I had unknowingly carried for years. I purchased my first Rolex on the spot.
That watch is more than a timepiece. It holds a childhood memory, a global pause, an unexpected reinvention, and a personal promise fulfilled. Since then, collecting watches has become a deeper pursuit — an appreciation of craftsmanship, history, and the poetry of time itself.
Marking What Comes Next
Looking ahead, I am drawn to timepieces that carry both technical mastery and emotional longevity—pieces that could one day be passed on as markers of meaning:
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon — a balance of precision and quiet grandeur
Cartier Santos-Dumont (yellow gold, black obsidian dial) — refined, sculptural elegance
Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph (British Racing Green) — a celebration of movement and heritage
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso — timeless design with a deeply personal, reversible story
Patek Philippe Calatrava — the essence of understated perfection
Each of these represents not just time kept, but time remembered—and perhaps, time shared across generations.
“That watch is more than a timepiece. It holds a childhood memory, a global pause, an unexpected reinvention, and a personal promise fulfilled. Since then, collecting watches has become a deeper pursuit — an appreciation of craftsmanship, history, and the poetry of time itself.”
PHOTOGRAPHY: Lucia Graca Remedios
一枚記錄人生時刻的腕錶
我並非在富裕環境中長大。童年時，我們一家六口擠在香港九龍一個約四百平方呎的公共屋邨單位。對年幼的我而言，手錶只是純粹的功能性物件——甚至未必真正存在於日常之中。因此，我至今仍清晰記得父親帶著一枚 Rolex 回家的那一天。
父親告訴我們，那枚 Rolex 是向朋友購入的。對我而言，它極為特別。它的重量、設計中那份沉靜的權威感，以及它彷彿以某種方式承載時間的姿態——都與我過去所見截然不同。父親甚至會讓我戴著它上學。在那短暫的片刻裡，我感覺自己腕上承載著某種重要的事物。
幾個月後，我開始察覺異樣。錶冠的位置似乎略有偏差。真相逐漸浮現：那是一枚仿製品。我隱約覺得父親其實早已知情，也許正因如此，他才如此慷慨地讓我佩戴它。失望是有的，但我也在心中默默許下了一個承諾：有一天，如果人生允許，我要擁有一枚真正的 Rolex。
歲月流轉，直至疫情來臨——世界被迫停下，現場表演亦隨之中斷。作為編舞及導演，我的舞台工作在一夜之間消失。然而在這片靜止之中，卻出現了意想不到的轉變。藝術家們開始轉向影像創作，而我亦踏入電影導演的新領域。在疫情期間，我創作了三十七部舞蹈電影、短片及音樂錄像，其中許多與有色族裔藝術家合作，這些作品至今仍令我深感自豪。它們在全球展出，並於國際影展獲得認可。人生首次，我擁有一點微小的財務餘裕，也有了紀念這一刻的理由。
在一個安靜的早晨，我聯絡了一位 Rolex 授權經銷商。機緣巧合下，他當天剛好收到一枚 Datejust 41 雙色鑲鑽款。他隨即表示可以將其出售給我，幾乎是極為罕見的情況。
我毫不猶豫地驅車前往。當我試戴的那一刻，彷彿完成了一個多年來潛藏於心的圓。當場，我購入了人生第一枚 Rolex。
這枚腕錶，已不僅是一枚時計。它承載著童年的記憶、全球的停頓、一次意料之外的轉變，以及一個終於實現的個人承諾。自此之後，收藏腕錶成為一種更深層的追求：對工藝、歷史，以及時間所蘊含的詩意之美的欣賞。
迎向未來
展望未來，我被那些兼具技術工藝與情感延續力的腕錶所吸引——它們有機會承載意義，並得以傳承：
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon —— 精準與靜謐氣度的平衡
Cartier Santos-Dumont（黃金、黑曜石錶盤） —— 精緻而具雕塑感的優雅
Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph（英倫賽車綠） —— 向速度與傳承致意
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso —— 永恆設計與承載雙面人生的故事
Patek Philippe Calatrava —— 低調完美的極致體現
這些腕錶所代表的，不僅是被記錄的時間，更是被記住的時間——或許，也是跨越世代得以延續與共享的時間。
“It reminds me of her and also marks my wedding day.”
PHOTOGRAPHY: Gina Chong, Butter Studios
Joo Kim Tiah: A Timepiece, Yet to Be Passed On
My late grandmother gave me a Rolex asa gift when I got married (I’m not sure of the exact model). It reminds me of her and also marks my wedding day — a kind of coming of age, in some ways.
I’m generally not someone who spends on these sorts of things, and I don’t own many watches. I typically only wear the Rolex to special events because God forbid, I’d never want to lose it. On normal days, I wear a digital Casio because it lets me time my intervals when I train. It’s also light and practical for working out.
I plan to keep the Rolex in good condition and pass it on to my son when he gets married. He’s sentimental like that, so I think he would really appreciate it.
一枚尚待傳承的腕錶
已故的祖母在我結婚時送給我一枚 Rolex 作為禮物（我不確定具體型號）。這枚腕錶讓我想起她，也記錄了我的婚禮時刻——某種程度上，也象徵著人生的一個成長階段。
我並不是會在這類物件上花費的人，腕錶數量也不多。我通常只會在特別場合佩戴這枚 Rolex，畢竟我非常小心，絕不希望遺失它。平日裡，我會佩戴一枚 Casio 數碼錶，用來計算訓練間歇；它輕便實用，適合運動時佩戴。
我打算妥善保存這枚 Rolex，並在兒子結婚時將它傳承給他。他是一個比較重視情感的人，我相信他會非常珍惜這份禮物。
Ismail Salameh: A Timepiece That Marks a Moment in My Life
Of all the watches I’ve collected over the years, one stands apart — not because it is the most valuable, but because it carries the deepest meaning: my Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 35th Anniversary “Panda,” ref. 3569.31.
Like many enthusiasts, my journey into horology began with admiration for craftsmanship and design. My early pieces — the Speedmaster Professional, the IWC Mark XII, and a Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Chronograph — reflected a growing appreciation for mechanical excellence. But the Apollo 11 “Panda” marked a shift from collecting watches to collecting stories.
The Speedmaster is already a legend, forever tied to the Apollo missions and humanity’s first steps on the moon. But this particular edition spoke to me on a different level. Its contrasting “panda” dial, with its crisp white background and black subdials, feels both vintage and timeless — an homage not just to space exploration, but to precision, courage, and human ambition.
I acquired it at a time in my life when things were beginning to align — personally and professionally. It wasn’t tied to a single milestone, like a promotion or a specific event, but rather to a broader realization: that progress is often the result of quiet persistence rather than singular breakthroughs. In many ways, that mirrors the story of the moon landing itself — years of effort, risk, and belief culminating in one defining moment.
What makes this watch special is not just what it represents historically, but what it reminds me of personally. Every time I wear it, I’m reminded to keep pushing forward, to stay curious, and to appreciate the journey as much as the destination. It’s a grounding piece — one that brings perspective in both moments of success and challenge.
Over time, its value has increased significantly, but that has never been the point. If anything, its growing recognition in the collector community reinforces something I’ve come to believe: the most meaningful objects in our lives often gain value not just because of rarity, but because of the stories we attach to them.
Looking ahead, I see this watch as more than just a personal keepsake. It’s something I would one day pass on—perhaps to my daughter—as a reminder that time is not just something we measure, but something we shape. And that even the most extraordinary achievements begin with the decision to take the first step.
“The most meaningful objects in our lives often gain value not just because of rarity, but because of the stories we attach to them.”
Image courtesy of Ismail Salameh.
一枚記錄人生時刻的腕錶
在我多年收藏的腕錶之中，有一枚特別與眾不同——並非因為它最為昂貴，而是因為它承載著最深層的意義。它是我的 Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 35th Anniversary “Panda”，型號 3569.31。
和許多鐘錶愛好者一樣，我對製錶的熱愛始於對工藝與設計的欣賞。早期的收藏——包括 Speedmaster Professional、IWC MarkXII，以及 Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Chronograph ——反映我對機械工藝逐步加深的理解與欣賞。然而，Apollo 11 “Panda” 則標誌著我從「收藏腕錶」走向「收藏故事」的轉變。
Speedmaster 本身已是傳奇，與阿波羅計劃及人類首次登月的歷史緊密相連。然而，這枚特別版本在另一層面打動了我。其對比鮮明的「熊貓面」設計，以純白錶盤搭配黑色計時盤，既復古又永恆 —— 不僅向太空探索致敬，也象徵精準、勇氣與人類的雄心。
我入手這枚腕錶時，個人與事業正逐漸步入正軌。它並非源自某個具體的里程碑，例如升遷或特定事件，而是一種更深層的體悟：進步往往來自安靜的堅持，而非單一的突破。在某種程度上，這也正如登月本身——多年努力、風險與信念，最終匯聚成那個決定性的時刻。
這枚腕錶的特別之處，不僅在於其歷史意義，更在於它對我的提醒。每當佩戴它時，都讓我記得要持續向前、保持好奇，並同樣珍惜過程與結果。它是一枚能讓人回歸內心的腕錶，在成功與挑戰之間，都能幫助我重新調整視角。
隨著時間推移，它的價值顯著提升，但這從來不是重點。若真要說，它在收藏圈中日益受到認可，更印證了我一直以來的信念：生命中最有意義的物件，其價值往往不僅來自稀有性，而在於我們賦予它的故事。
展望未來，我視這枚腕錶不僅是個人收藏，更是 一件有朝一日會被傳承下去的物件——或許交給我女兒——作為提醒：時間不僅被衡量，更是我們親手塑造的過程。而即使是最非凡的成就，也始於決定踏出第一步。
Verne Ho: Keeping Time, Keeping Memory
When I think about milestone pieces in my collection, the Cartier Santos Dumont "Rewind" is the first that comes to mind. It marked a personal achievement in my collecting journey — and how I celebrated turning 40.
The watch is unconventional in all the right ways. The ruby cabochon signals a platinum case, Cartier's way of quietly distinguishing a rarer material. The smoky red dial is cut from carnelian stone, a natural material that means no two examples look quite alike.
What catches people off-guard is that the watch runs backwards — by design. The counter-clockwise numerals are a subtle tell, but the real story is inside: Cartier engineered a one-of-a-kind reversed movement specifically for this piece, rightfully earning it the nickname "Rewind."
“There’s something poetic about marking 40 trips around the sun with a watch that runs the other way.”
There's something poetic about marking 40 trips around the sun with a watch that runs the other way. It's a nice reminder that while time waits for no one, there's nothing stopping you from having a little fun with it.
The Santos Dumont Rewind is a special occasion watch at its finest. Only 200 were ever made, and being allocated one still feels like an enormous privilege. For a watch built to run backwards, it has a remarkable knack for marking exactly the moments you'd want to revisit.
For me, the key to gifting a meaningful timepiece is to personalize it to the individual and occasion. Watches are inherently personal objects, so the best watch to give varies widely based on who will eventually be wearing it and what it’s meant to commemorate.
With that said, here are some brands and watches I’d start my search with:
Cartier —— My personal bias is fully on display here. Cartier exemplifies elegance and heritage in watchmaking in a way that very few brands can match. It is the master of shapes and a century-old challenger to the common conventions of watch design. I’d start with a Santos de Cartier for a modern sporty vibe, or lean into the Tank or Santos Dumont lines for a more classic and timeless look.
Rolex —— Achievements and Rolex watches have become practically synonymous – cliché, yes, but also well earned. They've mastered the essentials: reliable mechanics, timeless design, and watches that improve with age. I’d start with a classic Oyster Perpetual if this is a ‘first watch’ type of gift, but there’s plenty to graduate into from there.
Timex —— If the brief calls for more accessible options, I’d start with Timex. Built to last without breaking the bank, Timex has really been nailing the formula for delivering hits from their extensive back catalog and modernizing them for today’s sensibilities. From tool watches to dress watches to digital timepieces, Timex has a way of supporting any individual’s style while offering some serious bang-for-your-buck.
Seiko —— If the plan is to convert a milestone watch into an irrational obsession for watch collecting, Seiko will do the trick. With both accessible and premium offerings, Seiko supports a broad range of budgets with great-looking and GADA (go anywhere, do anything) timepieces. Many watch lovers attribute (or blame) the start of their journey on the Seiko SKX diver, so I’d start with the modern rendition of that – the Seiko 5 Sport.
Tissot —— Tissot has quietly become the first brand I mention when someone has a $500+ budget. While they offer a well-rounded catalog of timepieces, it’s the Tissot PRX line that does the heavy lifting.
Available in multiple sizes, colours, and finishes, the PRX is my favourite modern example of a watch that punches way above its weight class (and price tag).
PHOTOGRAPHY: Verne Ho
收藏時間，也收藏記憶
當我回顧自己收藏中重要的腕錶時，Cartier Santos Dumont “Rewind” 是第一個浮現腦海的作品。它標誌著我收藏旅程中的一個個人成就，也記錄了我如何慶祝步入四十歲。
這枚腕錶在各方面都不落俗套。錶冠上的紅寶石凸圓設計暗示著鉑金錶殼，是 Cartier 用以低調區分稀有材質的方式。煙燻紅色錶盤由天然紅玉髓（carnelian）切割而成，因此每一枚作品都獨一無二，無法複製。
最令人意想不到的是，這枚腕錶被刻意設計為「反向」運行。逆時針排列的數字只是細微的暗示，真正的故事藏於機芯之中：Cartier 為此特別打造了一枚獨一無二的逆向機芯，因此也賦予它 “Rewind” 之名。
以一枚逆行的腕錶來紀念四十次繞日而行的旅程，當中自有一種詩意。它提醒我：時間雖然不會為任何人停留，但我們仍然可以用自己的方式，為它增添一點趣味與想像。
Santos Dumont Rewind 是一枚真正屬於特殊時刻的腕錶。全球僅限量二百枚，能夠獲分配到其中之一，至今仍是莫大的榮幸。對於一枚本身逆向運行的腕錶而言，它卻恰恰擅長標記那些最值得回望的瞬間。
對我而言，送贈一枚有意義的腕錶，關鍵在於為佩戴者與場合度身訂造。腕錶本質上是一種極為私人的物件，因此最合適的選擇，往往取決於對方是誰，以及這份禮物所承載的意義。
基於這個出發點，以下是我在挑選腕錶時會優先考慮的品牌與作品：
Cartier —— 這裡毫無疑問帶有我的個人偏好。Cartier 以其優雅與歷史底蘊，在製錶世界中樹立了少數品牌能夠企及的標準。它是造型藝術的大師，也是百年來不斷挑戰傳統腕錶設計規範的品牌。我會從 Santos de Cartier 開始，作為偏向現代運動風格的選擇；若偏向更經典而永恆的設計語言，則會回到 Tank 或 Santos Dumont 系列。
Rolex —— 成就與 Rolex 腕錶幾乎已成為同義詞。這樣的連結雖略帶俗套，但確實實至名歸。它們將腕錶的核心做到極致：可靠的機械結構、經典的設計語言，以及隨時間愈發迷人的氣質。如果是作為「第一枚正式腕錶」，我會從 Oyster Perpetual 開始，再逐步延伸至更進階的選擇。
Timex —— 如果預算更為親民，我會優先考慮 Timex。它以合理價格提供耐用可靠的選擇，同時成功將品牌的經典款式重新演繹並現代化，貼合當代審美。從工具錶、正裝錶到數位腕錶，Timex 都能在不同風格之間自由切換，並提供極高性價比的選擇。
Seiko —— 如果打算把一枚紀念腕錶，轉化為對腕錶收藏的長期熱愛，那 Seiko 幾乎是最佳起點。品牌同時涵蓋入門與進階產品，能夠滿足不同預算，同時提供一系列外形出色、兼具實用性與風格的 GADA（go anywhere, do anything）腕錶。許多錶迷都將 Seiko SKX 潛水錶視為（或歸咎為）他們收藏旅程的起點，因此我會從其現代演繹版本 Seiko 5 Sport 開始。
Tissot —— 當預算達到約五百元以上時，Tissot 往往是我第一個推薦的品牌。雖然其產品線相當完整，但真正成為焦點的，是 PRX 系列。它提供多種尺寸、顏色與飾面選擇，是當代最能體現「超越價格期待」的腕錶之一。
Images courtesy of Dominic Lam and Jumbo Lau.
Dominic LAm & Jumbo Lau: Time, Memory, and the Watches We Keep
Time is the most equal gift given by nature—everyone has twenty-four hours each day. For this reason, we should respect and cherish time. A watch is not only a tool for telling time; it reminds us of the importance of punctuality and serves as a vessel of trust, respect, and emotional connection between people.
In my life, four watches have marked different chapters of my past.
The first is my father’s very first watch, an Olma that he passed down to me. It was not just the transfer of an object, but a reminder for me to cherish and remember his teachings.
The second is a Concord gifted by my wife on our wedding anniversary. At the time, it was the world’s first squ are, water-resistant, ultra-thin quartz watch—symbolising the years we have weathered together through both calm and storm.
The third is a birthday gift from my son. I love fishing and often took him along since he was young. He gave me a Casio Fishing Gear, which can display global tide movements and fish feeding patterns. It made me feel the deep emotional bond between father and son.
The fourth represents my professional honour. At the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Omega presented me with a limited edition commemorative watch of only 300 pieces worldwide, recognising my long-standing work hosting major international sporting events and Sports World. It stands as one of the most inspiring medals in my career.
One watch I still hope to own is a “wood watch.” This concept watch brand collects discarded carpentry wood and transforms it into watch cases and straps. A portion of the proceeds is then used to plant trees for customers or support environmental organisations. In today’s world, environmental awareness is essential. Beyond simply telling time, it serves as a reminder of our relationship with nature—and, importantly, that life must have a sense of purpose.
“A watch is not only a tool for telling time; it serves as a vessel of trust, respect, and emotional connection between people.”
時間、記憶與我們收藏的腕錶
上天最公平的賜予就是時間，每人每日皆有二十四小時，所以人應該要尊重及珍惜「時間」。鐘錶不僅是計時工具，更讓我們知道守時的重要性，亦是連結人與人之間互信、尊重與情感的載體。
在我生命中，有四隻手錶刻劃出我的過去。
第一隻是我父親第一隻擁有的腕錶，他將 Olma 傳給我，不僅是物件的交替，更是讓我珍惜及銘記他的教誨。
第二隻是太太在結婚週年紀念送的 Concord，當年這是全球首創的方形防水、世界最薄石英錶，象徵我倆共同走過風雨的歲月。
第三隻是兒子送我的生日禮物。我熱愛釣魚，自小常帶他垂釣，他送給我 Casio Fishing Gear，能顯示全球潮汐漲退與魚群覓食時段，令我感受到父子連心的溫暖。
第四隻是我職業的榮耀。1996 Atlanta 奧運 Omega 贈予我全球限量300隻紀念腕錶，認可我多年來在主持世界各大型體育盛事及《體育世界》的專業，這是我事業中最鼓舞人心的勳章。
我還想擁有的一隻錶是：「木錶」。該錶廠收集木匠廢料，再重新設計改裝成為錶帶與錶殼後出售，售後會將部分收益為顧客種一棵樹或資助環保機構。現今環保意識至關重要，它不單是為了知道時間，更提醒我們與自然共處；另一個重要意義是人生一定要有「目標」。
Images courtesy of Dominic Lam and Jumbo Lau.
I am the most much-loved youngest daughter in my family. My siblings are all more than ten years older than me, and in my childhood memories, I often heard them casually speaking about Cartier and Rolex. Those enchanting images of fine watches quietly planted a seed of admiration in my heart from a very young age.
In the year I graduated from design school, my brother gifted me a Cartier Tank. This deeply meaningful gesture became my first luxury watch, carrying the bond of sibling affection. Although the Tank has accompanied me with its elegance, deep down I have always held a persistent admiration for Rolex that time has never diminished. After entering the workforce, I wanted to buy a Rolex entirely with my own earnings.
It wasn’t until I came across a ladies’ Rolex Oyster Datejust with a white Roman numeral dial in two-tone steel and gold that I was instantly captivated by its understated elegance.
I decided to go for it. The moment I picked it up, I felt a sense of affirmation for my own hard work and journey—it was also the first watch I ever bought with my own money. Interestingly, while at the boutique, I also saw another diamond-set Cartier Baignoire with its distinctive oval shape. It was truly love at first sight, and I told myself that one day, when the time is right, I would bring it home.
“The moment I picked it up, I felt a sense of affirmation for my own hard work and journey.”
After immigrating to Canada, I would travel frequently between Canada and Hong Kong for work. In 1995, as my son started primary school, I decided to leave my work in Hong Kong and settle in Toronto. At this turning point in life, I wanted to give myself a meaningful keepsake. Over the years, although my husband and siblings have gifted me many beautiful watches, the image of the Cartier Baignoire has always lingered in my heart. So I decided to buy it for myself as that commemorative piece.
Recently, someone asked me whether I still have a wish list within the world of watches.
As a left-handed person, I naturally live life using my left hand. If I were to fall in love with watches again, I would hope to find a men’s large-sized timepiece designed specifically for left-handed wearers, to be worn on my right wrist—so that I can wear it with even more ease, confidence, and freedom.
在家族中，我是備受寵愛的小么妹。兄姊們皆年長我十餘歲，童年記憶裡，總聽著他們閒談間常提及 Cartier 及 Rolex。那些關於名錶的迷人光影，早在兒時便於我心中悄然播下了嚮往的種子。
設計學院畢業那年，哥哥贈我一隻 Cartier Tank。這份厚重的情誼，成為我人生中第一枚名牌腕錶，承載著兄妹間的親情。雖然腕上已有 Tank 的優雅陪伴，但我內心深處，對 Rolex 始終存有一份不隨時光淡去的執著。投身社會後，我想完全用自己工作賺來的錢買一隻 Rolex 腕錶！
直到我留意到那隻女裝 Rolex Oyster Datejust 白色面羅馬字 Two-tone Steel & Gold，清麗脫俗的錶盤瞬間令我心動，決定成交！取錶的那一刻，心裏面有一份自己努力奮鬥歷程的肯定，這也是我自己賺錢買的第一隻錶。有趣的是，取錶時在錶行見到另一隻鑲鑽石 Cartier Baignoire 鵝蛋形腕錶，那種「一眼萬年」的感覺令我下定決心，待日後有緣，定會帶妳回家。
移民加拿大後，我也會穿梭加港工作。直到1995年，隨著兒子步入小學，我決定告別香港工作，定居多倫多。在人生階段轉變之際，我想送給自己一份紀念。
這些年來，縱然丈夫與兄姊曾贈予我多隻精美腕錶，但那隻 Cartier Baignoire 的倩影，始終在我心底迴盪。於是我決定買給自己，作為那件紀念禮物！
近日有人問我於錶之林中，可還有心頭好？
身為「左撇子」的我，慣於用左手揮灑生活。若再與錶結緣，我想尋覓一隻男裝（大尺寸），且專為左手使用者設計的左撇子腕錶，配戴於右手。讓自己戴得更瀟灑，更自在！
Eric Zhang: Future Gifts
I purchased a Rolex Explorer and a Rolex Submariner in the years my two daughters were born, and engraved the casebacks with their birth dates and times. My hope is that as they grow, they’ll develop an interest in watches so I can gift these to them on their 18th birthdays. In the meantime, I make a point of wearing them often around my girls, especially at significant milestones like birthdays, dance recitals, and their first and last days of school.
While I’m careful, I don’t baby these watches. The marks and scratches are intentional signs that the watches have been lived in. When the time comes to pass them down, I don’t want my daughters to think, “Wow, a new watch!” I want them to think, “Wow, that’s Dad’s watch.”
Images courtesy of Eric Zhang.
Watches I would gift that anyone would love to receive:
1. Rolex Datejust
2. Cartier Santos Dumont
3. Cartier Tank Louis
4. Rolex Oyster Perpetual
5. Casio F-91W-1 —— for literally any child in your life
“I want them to think, ‘Wow, that’s Dad’s watch.”
Images courtesy of Eric Zhang.
未來的禮物
我在兩個女兒出生的年份分別購入了一枚 Rolex Explorer 及 Rolex Submariner，並在錶背刻上了她們的出生日期與時間。我希望隨著她們成長，能夠逐漸對腕錶產生興趣，並在她們18歲生日時將這些腕錶送給她們。在此之前，我會盡量經常佩戴這些腕錶，尤其是在與她們一起的重要時刻，例如生日、舞蹈表演，以及開學與結業的日子。
雖然我會小心使用，但我並不會過度保護它們。那些痕跡與刮花，都是它們曾被真實使用過的證明。當有一天我把它們傳承給女兒時，我不希望她們說：「哇，一枚全新的手錶！」而是希望她們說：「哇，那是爸爸的手錶。」
我認為任何人都會喜歡收到的腕錶禮物包括：
1. Rolex Datejust
2. Cartier Santos-Dumont
3. Cartier Tank Louis
4. Rolex Oyster Perpetual
5. Casio F-91W-1 —— 適合任何孩子的第一枚腕錶
MARKING FUTURE MILESTONES 未來選擇
Selections from our contributors.
Images courtesy of Cartier, Casio, Chopard, IWC, Dominic Lam and Jumbo Lau, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Private collector, Vacheron Constantin
BACKDROP PHOTOGRAPHY: Deborah Lau-Yu
WATCH : Van Cleef & Arpels • Cadenas 18K yellow gold, Mother-of-pearl
More from Fête Chiniose
A luxury timepiece is far more than an instrument of precision. It is a vessel for memory, sacrifice, and family legacy. In this special feature from The Art of Celebration Annual Edition No.3, community leaders and creative visionaries share the deeply personal stories behind the watches that marked their most pivotal life milestones and the heirlooms they plan to pass on.