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TANAKA Memorial Foundation to Offer Precious Metals Research Grants of Up to 10 Million Yen (from a Grant Pool of 20 Million Yen) – Applications for Research Projects Open on September 1

TOKYO, Sept 1, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TANAKA Memorial Foundation (Representative Director: Hideya Okamoto) has announced that it will be accept applications for research themes for FY2025 Precious Metals Research Grants from September 1 to November 28, 2025. This grant program aims to contribute to the development of science and industry by promoting innovative research, technological development, and product development related to precious metals. Applications for the grants are open to educational institutions and public research institutes in Japan.This year markes the 27th edition of the research grant program. Guided by the catchphrase “Forging a Better Tomorrow with “Hirameki” and “Kirameki.”” the Foundation encourages research themes that contribute toward the creation of a better future by fusing the creativity of researchers and the potential of precious metals.Recipients will receive a total of 20 million yen in research grants, including 10 million yen—the highest amount—under the Umekichi Tanaka Award; 3 million yen under the Ichiro Tanaka Award; 1 million yen under the Innovative Precious Metals Award; 300,000 yen under the HIRAMEKI Award; and 1 million yen under the KIRAMEKI Award. The Umekichi Tanaka Award is named after founder Umekichi Tanaka, who strove to expand industrial use of precious metals. The Ichiro Tanaka Award honors Ichiro Tanaka, the company’s second president, who strove for international collaboration.Applications can be submitted using the application form on TANAKA Memorial Foundation website (https://tanaka-foundation.or.jp). Following a rigorous review process, the grant recipients will be announced around the end of March 2026.TANAKA Memorial Foundation aims to contribute to the development of new potential for precious metals and to the development of science, technology, and the social economy by conducting activities to realize a prosperous society. Through this grant program, the foundation will support a diverse range of research and development that endeavors to create a sustainable future.Last year, the Ichiro Tanaka Award was presented to “New developments in half-Heusler compounds as highly refractive transparent materials” (Assistant Professor Akihiro Ishii of Tohoku University) and “Establishment of a temperature measurement technique for highly efficient operation of cryogenic fluids using ruthenium complexes” (Professor Yu Matsuda of Waseda University). There was no recipient for the Umekichi Tanaka Award.Overview of the 2025 Precious Metals Research GrantsTheme- Themes that involve any of the following: new technologies to which precious metals can make a contribution, research related to precious metals that will bring innovative evolution to products, or research and development of new products using precious metalsGrant Amounts (Maximum amounts from a grant pool of 20 million yen)- Umekichi Tanaka Award10,000,000 yen- Ichiro Tanaka Award3,000,000 yen- Innovative Precious Metals Award1,000,000 yen- HIRAMEKI Award300,000 yen- KIRAMEKI Award1,000,000 yen*The grant amount is treated as a scholarship donation.*Awards may not be granted in some cases.Eligible Candidates- Personnel who work for educational institutions in Japan (universities, graduate schools, or technical colleges) or public and related research institutions may participate.*As long as the applicant is affiliated with a research institution in Japan, the base of activity can be in Japan or overseas.*KIRAMEKI Awards are for researchers under the age of 37 as of April 1, 2025.Application Period- 9 am, September 1, 2025 (Mon) - 5 pm, November 28, 2025 (Fri)Application Method- Enter the required information on the application form available on the TANAKA Memorial Foundation website (https://tanaka-foundation.or.jp) and upload details of the research (papers and supplementary material on the theme).Announcement- Results will be announced on the TANAKA Memorial Foundation website around the end of March 2026.*TANAKA will contact the award recipients directly.ConditionsNew research and development themes—either using precious metals or that can be applied to precious metals—that contribute to the creation of a sustainable future, with research content that falls under any of the following.- New technology related to precious metals (new materials, processing methods, process development, etc.)- Research that brings about innovative evolution in product development (new functions, process development, computational science, etc.)- Research and development of new products using precious metals*Precious metal refers to eight elements of platinum, gold, silver, palladium, rhodium, iridium, ruthenium and osmium.*If development is conducted jointly (or planned to be) with other material manufacturers, please indicate so.*Products that have already been commercialized, put to practical use, or that are planned are not eligible.About Umekichi TanakaAfter training at Ejimaya pawn brokerage in Tokyo, company founder Umekichi Tanaka opened Ejimaya Tanaka Shoten at Kitajima-cho, Nihonbashi-ku, Tokyo (now Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo). In the early days of the company, copper coins (one-hundredth of a yen) and nickel coins (five-hundredths of a yen) were bought and exchanged, in lots of 100 yen, with merchants for a fee. The company then expanded into the bullion trading business and began melting down foreign currency bought from Yokohama’s foreign quarter and other places, refining it, and selling the metal. The refining technologies developed at this time went on to play a significant role in the subsequent greater industrial use of precious metals.About Ichiro TanakaTanaka Shoten’s second President Ichiro Tanaka began negotiations around 1920 to directly import platinum from the Soviet Union, which accounted for approximately 70% of the world’s platinum production during that time. Three years later, in April 1923, the Soviet government signed a contract on sales rights with Tanaka Shoten. Through this contract, Tanaka Shoten became Japan’s sole sales agency for platinum and palladium and gained sales rights for the entirety of East Asia, which were the same terms as with the United States and the United Kingdom. Subsequently, Ichiro Tanaka strove for overseas collaboration in platinum group precious metals such as platinum and palladium.Inquiries Concerning the Research Grant ProgramPrecious Metals Research Grants OfficeGlobal Marketing / R&D Supervisory Department, TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIES Co., Ltd.2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0025E-mail: joseikin@ml.tanaka.co.jpTANAKA Memorial Foundation website: https://tanaka-foundation.or.jpTANAKA Memorial FoundationOrganization Name: TANAKA Memorial FoundationAddress: 2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, TokyoRepresentative: Hideya Okamoto (Special Advisor, TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.)Incorporated: 2015Purpose of Business: To provide grants for research related to precious metals to contribute to the development and cultivation of new fields for precious metals, and to the development of science, technology, and the social economy.Areas of Business: Provision of grants for scientific and technological research related to precious metals. Recognition of excellent analysis of precious metals and holding of seminars and other events.TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIES Co., Ltd.Headquarters: 2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, TokyoRepresentative: Koichiro Tanaka, CEOFounded: 1885Incorporated: 1918Capital: 500 million yenEmployees: 2,798 (Including overseas subsidiaries) (December 31, 2024)Sales: 353,213,723,000 yen (FY2024)Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.comPress InquiriesTANAKA PRECIOUS METAL GROUP Co., Ltd.https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/Press release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/2025901.pdf  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

2025-09-01

Honda Announces New Plan for Relocation of Global Head Office to Yaesu Area in Tokyo and Reconstruction of Honda Aoyama Building

TOKYO, Japan, August 29, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda) today announced new plans regarding the relocation of its global head office function:1) Honda will relocate its global head office function, before the end of 2029*, to the high-rise office floors of a new mixed-use building currently under construction near Tokyo Station, as a part of the Yaesu 2-Chome Central District Category-I Urban Redevelopment Project (“Yaesu District Redevelopment Area”).2) Honda will conduct a partial transfer of the ownership of Honda Aoyama Building (“Aoyama Bldg.”), the company’s existing head office building in Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, to Mitsui Fudosan Residential Co., Ltd.Yaesu 2-Chome Central District Category-I Urban Redevelopment ProjectPerspective drawing of exterior (Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit side)It has been 40 years since Honda built the Aoyama Bldg. as its global head office. Amid the continued rapid transformation of society and industry, Honda continues striving to be a “company society wants to exist” into the future. To fulfill this vision, Honda has been carefully considering various approaches to establish a global head office function that will serve as a “hub for transformation and communication that fosters innovation.” In September 2023, Honda decided to proceed with the plan to reconstruct Aoyama Bldg. into a new building, which will enable Honda to realize this vision, with target completion in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2031.The fountainhead of Honda innovations has been the “Waigaya (Y-gaya)” process, a unique communication culture of Honda, in which individual associates transcend their respective roles and positions, and engage in vigorous exchanges of their opinions that yields higher results. Since the temporary relocation of the head office function to Toranomon in Tokyo in May, Honda has been adopting a “one-floor” style of office layout, with associates working in one space on one floor, instead of spread across multiple floors. It has become evident that this office layout has strengthened connections among associates and facilitated more diverse members to come together and engage in more dynamic Waigaya discussions, which has begun generating ideas for a wide range of future innovations. In light of these factors, Honda reconsidered the optimal office conditions for its new global head office, and came to the conclusion that it is the best to relocate its head office to the Yaesu District Redevelopment Area, which includes the former site of the Honda Yaesu Building where the Honda global head office was located from 1960 to 1974. When relocated to the Yaesu District Redevelopment Area, the size of each office floor will be approximately 6.8 times larger than that of the Aoyama Bldg. and approximately 1.8 times larger compared to the current office in Toranomon, whereby Honda will strive to achieve significant enhancement in productivity and new value creation.For Honda, Yaesu is a place of special significance, as it was the location of the first operation base where the company strived to establish a presence in Tokyo, began taking on challenges to become a global brand, and laid the foundation for what Honda has become today. Moreover, the Yaesu District has been considered one of the world’s most renowned business districts, serving as a hub for cutting-edge technology and information, with its proximity to Tokyo Station providing excellent access both domestically and internationally. Currently, redevelopment projects are underway across the district, and further enhancement of urban city functions and services is expected in the future.Regarding the Aoyama Bldg., after thorough consideration of the traditional Honda approach to building design as well as the current business environment surrounding Honda, the company decided to transfer a portion of its ownership of the building and land of Aoyama Bldg. to Mitsui Fudosan Residential. The site of Aoyama Bldg. served as the second global head office building owned by Honda in Tokyo for approximately 40 years since 1985, and also housed Honda Welcome Plaza Aoyama to invite the public to see and experience Honda products and technologies, and it will remain a place of deep significance for Honda. Following the partial transfer, Honda and Mitsui Fudosan Residential will jointly construct a new building on the site of Aoyama Bldg. Once completed, Honda is planning to make use of part of the new building, and will explore a range of ideas and opportunities to make it a venue to further enhance Honda brand value.Honda global head office relocation schedule- May 2025 — Honda head office functions relocated temporarily to offices in Toranomon Alcea Tower and Honda Wako Building. - Before the end of 2029* — Honda head office functions will be relocated permanently on high-rise office floors of the new building in Yaesu District Redevelopment AreaOverview of Yaesu 2-Chome Central District Category-I Urban Redevelopment ProjectProject nameYaesu 2-Chome Central District Category-I Urban Redevelopment ProjectBuilderYaesu 2-Chome Central District Urban Redevelopment Project AssociationLocation4, 5, 6 and 7, Yaesu 2-Chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, JapanCompletionJanuary 31, 2029 (planned)Number of floors/ max height43 floors above ground, 3 floors below ground, approx. 744 ft. (approx. 227 m)Site areaApprox. 210,542 ft2(approx. 19,560 m2)Total floor areaApprox. 4,190,282 ft2(approx. 389,290 m2)Main purposesOffices, retail facilities, theater, serviced apartments, international school, bus terminal, parking lot, etc.ReferenceMitsui Fudosan Group news release:Yaesu 2-Chome Central District Category-I Urban Redevelopment Project:Partial Transfer of Rights to Honda and Joint Reconstruction of Honda Aoyama BuildingURL:  https://www.mitsuifudosan.co.jp/english/corporate/news/2025/0829_01/* Planned completion schedule as of August 2025. The schedule is subject to change in the future.  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

2025-08-29

Ministry Of Health, Labour and Welfare Grants Orphan Drug Designation in Japan to Anticancer Agent Tazemetostat for Unresectable INI1-Negative Epithelioid Sarcoma

TOKYO, August 29, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Tokyo, CEO: Haruo Naito, “Eisai”) announced today that it has received orphan drug designation for anticancer agent the EZH2*1 inhibitor tazemetostat hydrobromide (generic name, product name “Tazverik® Tablets 200 mg”, “tazemetostat”) for unresectable INI1*2-negative epithelioid sarcoma that has progressed after chemotherapy, from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW).Epithelioid sarcoma is a type of soft tissue sarcoma that is a rare cancer estimated to account for about 1% of all soft tissue sarcoma.1 Only 174 cases were registered from major hospitals across Japan over a10-year period from 2006 to 2015.2 Loss of INI1, which is a negative regulator of EZH2, is observed in over 90% of epithelioid sarcoma cases,3 leading to EZH2 activation that is believed to drive tumor onset and malignant progression. Treatment options are limited, resulting in an extremely high unmet medical need.Tazemetostat was approved in Japan in June 2021 for relapsed or refractory EZH2 gene mutation-positive follicular lymphoma (only when standard treatment is not applicable). For INI1-negative unresectable epithelioid sarcoma that has progressed after chemotherapy, a Phase II investigator-initiated trial of tazemetostat (A Phase II Trial of Tazemetostat for Patients with Unresectable or Metastatic Epithelioid Sarcoma: TAZETTA trial), led by the National Cancer Center Hospital, is currently underway.Eisai identifies oncology as one of its priority areas and strives to develop ground breaking new therapies aimed at curing cancer. We remain committed to meeting the diverse needs of cancer patients worldwide, their families, and healthcare professionals, and to enhancing the benefits delivered to them.*1 A type of histone methyl group elongation enzyme, it is a protein that controls gene expression by methylating the 27th lysine residue of histone H3 (H3K27).*2 One of the proteins that make up the SWI/SNF chromatin complex (a protein complex that modifies chromatinstructure to regulate gene function), it is involved in regulating gene expression.For more details, please visit: https://www.eisai.com/news/2025/pdf/enews202558pdf.pdfMedia Inquiries:Public Relations Department,Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120   Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

2025-08-29

Hitachi Energy acquires remaining stake of eks Energy, reinforcing leadership in power conversion systems for energy storage

Completion of strategic acquisition affirms Hitachi Energy’s position as a market and technology leader in advancing energy storage innovation - a cornerstone of secure energy transitionsPower electronics with advanced digital capabilities are critical to ensure reliability and stability of the electric gridZurich, Switzerland, August 28, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi Energy, a global leader in electrification, has completed the acquisition of the remaining stake in eks Energy, a technology and market leader in power electronics and control solutions to deliver a scalable, flexible, and complete approach for energy storage customers. Hitachi Energy acquired a majority stake in eks Energy in 2023. As energy storage emerges as a cornerstone of grid stability, reliability and energy security, the IEA1 has called for a sixfold increase in global storage capacity to 1,500 GW by 2030. Underscoring this urgency, the COP29 Global Pledge2 highlights energy storage and grid infrastructure as essential to building resilient, decarbonized energy systems worldwide.The integration of eks Energy’s innovative technology, talent and enterprising spirit provides Hitachi Energy with greater strategic and operational flexibility. It allows the company to streamline solution integration, further expand its power conversion and energy storage business, and respond rapidly to evolving customer needs.“As the worldwide market leader in grid automation solutions, the acquisition of eks Energy strengthens our leadership position, enabling one of the industry’s most comprehensive solution portfolios that combines proven converter and control technology with Hitachi Energy’s global scale, unparalleled grid expertise, and digital capabilities,” said Massimo Danieli, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy’s Business Unit Grid Automation. “The acquisition furthers our global strategy ensuring continuity for existing customers while unlocking new opportunities for innovation and growth.”Since 2023, the team has strengthened capabilities for power conversion solutions, including the development of a center of excellence in Seville, Spain, where the business is headquartered, to foster deeper collaboration across R&D, product development, and customer delivery. Additionally, Hitachi Energy’s power conversion solutions business has demonstrated strong commercial momentum and technical leadership across the globe, playing a key role in major energy storage projects such as the Waratah Super Battery in New South Wales, which recently reached key milestones including commercial operation (COD) and full registration under the System Integrity Protection Scheme (SIPS), a fast-acting grid support system designed to maintain stability during critical events. The business has also expanded its global footprint, positioning Hitachi Energy to better serve energy storage customers across key global markets. The successful development and launch earlier this year of a new liquid-cooled WD4 converter platform further enhances performance and scalability across BESS applications for system integrators.Power converters play a critical role connecting power source with power supply, making sure that currents and voltage are balanced correctly for end user demand. They are data-intensive systems, and when paired with Hitachi Energy’s internet of things (IoT) connectivity and energy management capabilities, deliver rich insights and analytics to maximize reliable energy supply. The completion of the acquisition will enable Hitachi Energy to innovate faster and improve the technology at this critical grid connection point.Hitachi Energy is making unparalleled investments in its global footprint and people, continuously pioneering technologies to enable the world’s energy system to be more sustainable, secure, resilient and acquisitions are playing a critical role in supporting the company’s broader strategy. 1 Outlook for battery demand and supply – Batteries and Secure Energy Transitions – Analysis - IEA2 COP29 Global Energy Storage and Grids PledgeAbout Hitachi EnergyHitachi Energy is a global technology leader in electrification, powering a sustainable energy future with innovative power grid technologies with digital at the core. Over three billion people depend on our technologies to power their daily lives. With over a century in pioneering mission-critical technologies like high-voltage, transformers, automation, and power electronics, we are addressing the most urgent energy challenge of our time – balancing soaring electricity demand, while decarbonizing the power system. With an unparalleled installed base in over 140 countries, we co-create and build long-term partnerships across the utility, industry, transportation, data centers, and infrastructure sectors. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ over 50,000 people in 60 countries and generate revenues of around $16 billion USD.Https://www.hitachienergy.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hitachienergyhttps://x.com/HitachiEnergyAbout Hitachi, Ltd.Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are inbalance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Hitachi Energy is a global technology leader in electrification, powering a sustainable energy future with innovative power grid technologies with digital at the core. Over three billion people depend on our technologies to power their daily lives. Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.  Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

2025-08-29

Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, Salon de TIME return in September

HONG KONG, Aug 28, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The 44th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and the 13th Salon de TIME, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries Limited, and Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Limited, themed “Our Time Our Moments”, are expected to attract over 650 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions, providing a one-stop sourcing platform for global buyers.Under the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, the physical exhibitions will be held from 2 to 6 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Salon de TIME is fully open for industry professionals and the public to visit and make purchases. Exhibitors and buyers can meet online through the Click2Match smart business matching platform between 26 August to 13 September.Number of participating brands hits post-pandemic highSophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "As a globally renowned watch event, the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TIME continue to attract pavilions from France and Switzerland, as well as from Guangzhou and Taiwan. Additionally, exhibitors from Germany, Japan, Lebanon, and the Netherlands return with a range of uniquely designed watch products. The Salon de TIME features over 140 global brands, marking a new post-pandemic high. Aside from an increase in Hong Kong brands, there is also a rise in participating brands from Switzerland, France, and Germany, the three major watch-exporting countries in Europe. This high level of international representation underscores Hong Kong's advantage as an international business platform."According to the latest data, Hong Kong is the world's second-largest hub for watch imports and exports. In the first seven months of this year, the total export value was approximately HK$28.2 billion, with the decline narrowed from 8.2% during the same period last year to 2.7%, representing an improvement of 5.5 percentage points. Some individual markets recorded double-digit increases, including Brazil (+65%), France (+57%), Germany (+15%), and India (+35%). Additionally, the HKTDC Export Confidence Index for Timepieces rose from 51.2 to 52.1 in the second quarter, indicating the industry remains optimistic about the export outlook despite challenges.Distinctive niche brands and “Guochao” elegance at Salon de TIMESalon de TIME, located in the Hall 3FG, features six thematic zones, including the new zone Microbrands.  There are 12 unique niche brands offering watches that are both affordable and stylish. Other zones include World Brand Piazza, Renaissance Moment, Wearable Tech, Craft Treasure, and Chic & Trendy. Some of these brands provide on-site retail options, allowing the public to purchase their favourites. Also, this year the fair will welcome 18 brands from Mainland China and several independent watchmakers to present their “Guochao” series watches.World-renowned brands showcased at World Brand PiazzaSponsored by Prince Jewellery & Watch for the 15th consecutive year, World Brand Piazza remains a highlight of the exhibition. This year, the zone will feature 9 renowned international brands, including Baume & Mercier, Corum, CVSTOS, DeWitt, Kerbedanz, Montblanc, Peonia Diamond, Sarcar and Ulysse Nardin.The themed area showcases limited-edition and prestigious timepieces from top brands. For example, Corum is presenting the Golden Bridge Round 43 “Blue Sapphire”. a stunning new addition encased in 43mm of 18K white gold. The bezel is adorned with 96 baguette-cut blue sapphires, creating a vivid, luminous frame. At its heart beats the CO 113 hand-wound caliber—Corum’s signature linear movement—with 18k gold bridges and a 40-hour power reserve, visible through the sapphire crystal case.The Ulysse Nardin Freak One OPS wristwatch is cased in black DLC titanium, complemented by the special sunray-patterned barrel cover and bezel made of Carbonium®ï¸'. Freak ONE OPS’s calibre UN-240 Manufacture flying carousel movement is clearly visible. Power reserve up to 90 hours.Innovative sustainable materials cater to a new generationThe younger generation of customers increasingly values environmental, social, and governance (ESG) based products, prompting some watch brands to switch to recycled or sustainable materials. To make it easier for buyers to purchase products that meet environmental standards, this year's exhibition continues to feature a Green Solutions Suppliers label to identify over 20 selected exhibitors showcasing sustainable watches, including:German brand Lilienthal Berlin which follows the launch of the world's first watch with a case made from recycled coffee grounds last year, with a watch that features a dial made from recycled tea leaves, giving it a subtle tea fragrance.Hong Kong brand Memorigin presents the Genesis Series (Ocean Blue) tourbillon watch, featuring a polished metal case paired with an eco-friendly strap jointly created with Austrian strap manufacturer Hirsch. The strap is made from ocean recycled yarn, making it both stylish and environmentally friendly.Hong Kong brand Sunrex has launched a solar-powered watch inspired by space exploration, equipped with the Epson VS76A solar quartz movement. Once charged, it can run continuously for five months.Growing health consciousness creates opportunities for the watch industryIn recent years, the public's increasing focus on health and engagement in digital fitness has created new opportunities for the watch industry, driving the widespread adoption of smartwatches and sustaining growth within the industry. Featured products at the shows include:German brand Oskron has launched the Watch2Care “Western-Chinese Prevention” smartwatch, equipped with exclusive “Five Organs Digital Pulse Diagnosis” technology. Powered by data from 300,000 traditional Chinese medicine cases and advanced AI analysis, it helps users stay on top of their well-being. On 3 September, the brand has invited Professor Zhang Qiming from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences to the event to consult and share health information with attendees.Saga, in collaboration with HONOR Connect, has launched a smartwatch featuring the market's smallest 35mm delicate smartwatch movement, specifically designed for women. It is equipped with health monitoring, 109 sports modes, 10-day battery life, and IP68 dust and water resistance.The two fairs also feature a variety of styles, as well as collaborations, limited-edition, or debut watches, catering to market demands:Sea-Gull presents the “Three-Legged Golden Sunbird” Minute Repeater with Gold Engraved Automata, featuring a dial inspired by Chinese mythology and crafted by renowned Chinese master engraver Mei Hua. It is equipped with the Sea-Gull independently developed ST9100 minute repeater movement. When it chimes the wings of the three-legged golden bird unfold, showcasing the modern beauty of Eastern aesthetics.FIYTA has launched a watch themed “Chang'e Flying to the Moon”, featuring an engraving of the Moon's South Pole-Aitken Basin on the caseback. The watch has a gradient black dial adorned with an 18k gold relief of the Earth and the Moon, complemented by rocket-shaped hands.Zbioland's collaboration with Harry Potter brings the "Dynamic Snake" watch, which will be unveiled for the first time during the fair, with a limited release of 200 pieces. Local brand UNDONE has launched the “Legends of Rock” series, paying tribute to rock legends, featuring a vinyl record player design on the dial. The caseback of each watch is printed with a unique image from the Rolling Stones’ photo assets, granting the watch owner full ownership of that image asset, making it particularly valuable for collectors.European independent watchmakers showcase exceptional craftsmanshipIn recent years, personalised niche watch brands have been gaining popularity, winning the favour of the younger generation and collectors through limited production and customisation options. This year, the Swiss Independent Watchmakers Pavilion (SIWP) and Francéclat bring together 19 international watchmaking brands, showcasing uniquely designed and expertly crafted watches, including:Swiss brand Aerowatch is celebrating its 115th anniversary by launching a limited edition “Milan” pocket watch, with only 115 pieces available. This watch blends traditional and modern styles, reflecting the brand's enduring legacy with a contemporary twist.Legendary French watchmaker and modernist artist Alain Silberstein has designed a bold, colourful, and uniquely styled watch, featuring a playful twist with Yema's in-house micro-rotor automatic movement.Eight specialised zones offering a one-stop procurement platformAt the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair in the ground-floor exhibition hall, there are eight specialised zones.  Pageant of Eternity will showcase high-end complete watches produced through Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) and Original Design Manufacturing (ODM). Other zones include Complete Watches, Clocks, Machinery & Equipment, OEM Smart Watches, Packaging & Display, Parts, Components & Accessories, and Trade Services.Forums and seminars explore industry trendsDuring the fairs, more than 35 unique events will be held, including forums, seminars, watch parades, and networking activities, to help industry professionals stay informed about market trends.On the first day (2 September), the Hong Kong International Watch Forum will be held, featuring leaders from watch associations in mainland China, Germany, France, Switzerland, Japan, and Korea who will share the latest regional trade data and industry trends and discuss global supply chain strategies.On the second day (3 September), the Asian Watch Conference will focus on the theme “Redefining Eternity: Trends, Values, and Visions in Watchmaking”. A senior analyst from international market researcher Euromonitor International (Hong Kong) will share insights on the latest developments in the watch market. Additionally, an independent watchmaker and chief representative from the SIWP, along with a seasoned independent watch collector, member of the Academy of the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), will discuss the art and philosophy of independent watchmaking and microbrands.On the second day, there will be two additional events focused on the theme of Chinese trends. One is the Chinese Watchmaking 70th Anniversary: Panel Discussion and Watch Preview, organised by Fosun Watch Group, featuring Sea-Gull and Shanghai Watch. The other is “To the Stars and Beyond: The Chinese Independent Watchmaking”, which will explore the current state of development of Chinese independent watchmakers and the essentials of independent watchmaking.The HKTDC, the Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries Limited, and the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Limited are also jointly organising the 42nd Hong Kong Watch & Clock Design Competition to promote watch design and nurture local creativity. This year, the open group and student group have themes of “Memorable” and “Believe in Yourself” respectively. The competition continues to include the Made-to-Sell Award to recognise student work with significant market potential.Celebrity Bowie Cheung who served as a guest judge will attend the award ceremony. The winning and shortlisted designs will be displayed during the fair, and the award ceremony will be held on 6 September at the event stage.A variety of events, lucky draws and workshop for the publicSalon de TIME will host a variety of special events and watch presentations. On the fourth day (5 September), Hong Kong metal engraving artist Carlos Koo will demonstrate the art of watch engraving.The Smart Bidding event will be held again, and attendees can enjoy exclusive starting prices to bid on their preferred watches, including brands such as Saga, Anne Klein, and Elmer Ingo. Additionally, there will be the Beijing Watch 66th Anniversary Special Edition, the Sea-Gull 1963 Times Edition and the Shanghai Watch Tribute to 1955 Series 70th Anniversary Moon Phase Limited Edition.A lucky draw will be held every day during the five-day exhibition, giving attendees the chance to win luxurious watches, including those from Claudia Koch, Alexus Christy, Shanghai Watch, Sea-Gull, and the Memorigin Genesis Series (Ocean Blue) tourbillon watch, paired with the latest eco-friendly watch straps.Other exciting events include watch showcases and launch events, with appearances by celebrities including Aka Chio, Michael Tong, Kaman Kong, and Olympic karate medallists Grace Lau and Ariel Torres.Additionally, CENTRESTAGE will be held from 3 to 6 September at the HKCEC bringing together fashion brands and designer collections from around the world. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest products from approximately 400 watch and fashion brands.The export performance of watches & clocks industry in Hong Kong: Jan-Jul, 2025Jan-Jul, 2024Total export value-2.7% (YoY)-8.2% (YoY) Photo download: http://bit.ly/45WjTz9The 44th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and 13th Salon de TIME take place on 2 to 6 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Introducing fair highlights at a press conference are Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director (center), Ethan Cheung (right) and Vincent Chan (left), Co-Chairmen, HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Organising Committee 2025 The watch parade featured some 30 selected luxury watchesGerman brand Lilienthal Berlin is debuting a watch that features a dial made from recycled tea leaves   German brand Oskron has launched the Watch2Care “Western-Chinese Prevention” smartwatch, equipped with exclusive “Five Organs Digital Pulse Diagnosis” technology. Powered by data from 300,000 traditional Chinese medicine cases and advanced AI analysis, to help users stay on top of their well-being For the 15th consecutive year, the World Brand Piazza, in collaboration with Prince Jewellery & Watch, continues to be the highlight of the exhibition. This year, Prince Jewellery & Watch is presenting luxurious pieces from 9 internationally renowned watch brands, including the new limited edition Golden Bridge Round 43 "Sapphire" wristwatch by Corum (left), and the Ulysse Nardin Freak One OPS wristwatch (right)Sea-Gull presents the “Three-Legged Golden Sunbird” Minute Repeater with Gold Engraved Automata, featuring a dial inspired by Chinese mythology and crafted by renowned Chinese master engraver Mei HuaZbioland's collaboration with Harry Potter brings the "Dynamic Snake" watch, which will be unveiled for the first time during the fair, with a limited release of 200 pieces Local brand UNDONE has launched the “Legends of Rock” watch series, paying tribute to rock legends, featuring a vinyl record player design on the dialFrench legendary watchmaker and modernist artist Alain Silberstein has designed a bold, colourful, and uniquely styled watch, featuring a playful twist with Yema's in-house micro-rotor automatic movement  The 42nd HK Watch & Clock Design Competition has two categories – “Memorable” for the Open Group and “Believe in Yourself” for the Student Group. Award-winning work and finalists will be exhibited during the fairsWebsites:Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkwatchfair/enSalon de TIME: https://www.hktdc.com/event/te/enMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department: Johnny Tsui,  Tel: +852 2584 4395,  Email: johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. https://www.hktdc.com Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

2025-08-28