Since 1996, Chinese watch brands, under

Since 1996, Chinese watch brands, under the leadership of the China Horological Association, formed the first “Chinese Delegation” to attend the Baselworld Watch and Jewelry Show in Switzerland. This marked a significant step for domestic watches towards international recognition. The journey was fraught with challenges and stories of perseverance, yet 1996 became the inaugural year for Chinese horology’s showcase in Switzerland.

Due to the outbreak of SARS in 2003, the Chinese delegation was unable to participate and was collectively repatriated by Swiss authorities.

Personally, I have been attending Baselworld since 2006, missing only the 2007 edition. I have witnessed the growth of Chinese brands at this prestigious Swiss event firsthand. In 2006, Beijing Watch Factory unveiled the unique platinum micro-sculpture tourbillon watch “Dragon and Phoenix Play” at Baselworld, developed in collaboration by Chinese watchmaking masters Zhang Youxi, Xu Yaonan, and Liu Dong. This masterpiece was later sold for CNY 1.08 million, creating a legendary moment for Chinese watchmaking. That year, Tianjin Seagull also introduced its domestic minute repeater watch at the show.

In 2008, Tianjin Seagull hosted the grand “Rhine Night” dinner in front of Hall 1 at Baselworld and also won the first intellectual property lawsuit for a Chinese watch enterprise in Switzerland.

After 2008, the task of organizing Chinese exhibitors for Baselworld shifted from the China Horological Association to the Shenzhen Watch & Clock Association, due to the majority of Chinese watch enterprises being based in Shenzhen, making it easier to coordinate.

In 2011, Fiyta brought pride to the nation by becoming the first Chinese watch brand to enter Hall 1, the main hall of Baselworld, competing alongside giants like Patek Philippe, Rolex, and Omega. Fiyta has maintained its presence in Hall 1 at every Baselworld since then.