The Geneva-based international co-head of Christie’s watch department had a very busy 2010, having spent 150 days of it on the road for business. Other than auctions and watch shows, he also travels to meet individuals who may have something to sell. He would not reveal stories that might infringe on his clients’ privacy, but he shares with Reggie Ho how he spends his occasional free time on trips – and the real break he longs for.
Where do you travel most?
Certainly the locations where Christie’s holds its most important watch sales, including Hong Kong, New York and Dubai. London is also a regular destination, since it’s Christie’s headquarters. I often travel to other cities to meet clients. These include Tokyo, Beijing and Shanghai in Asia; towns in Germany, France and Italy; and in the US.
You don’t travel like a tourist, do you?
As I am always in touch with people who actually live [in the destinations], I have the privilege of being either taken to restaurants to which tourists would have no access or, even more interestingly, invited to my clients’ homes.
Is there any one city that impresses you?
Hong Kong is particularly close to my heart. It is the hub of Greater China and all of Asia for our auctions. These dynamics are very attractive to me.
What do you do when there is free time on a trip?
I enjoy escaping to a local market, such as the marché aux puces in Paris or the Dubai souk. I might also treat myself at the hotel spa or simply read newspapers in a café where, in between two articles, I can observe the local passeggiata.
What do you not leave home without?
My briefcase would always carry a BlackBerry and its charger, an international adaptor, a group of loops and my watchmaker’s kit.
Are you a picky traveller?
On the plane, I like to be seated as close to the front as possible. Once landed, I want to move quickly to my next destination. As per hotels, I don’t want my rooms to be close to elevators and I like a powerful shower!
How many watches have you handled?
I am very passionate about watches and they are a great part of my life. If I should give you a figure, I’d say that I deal with over 2,400 watches per year.
What is a real holiday for you?
Last summer, I spent three wonderful weeks with my family in Cote d’Azur. I’d like to go and see everywhere I haven’t been…the ancient ruins of Egypt, a Harley-Davidson trip on route 66 in the US or an adventurous travel around Africa or South America with no electricity or phone connection – a real break from my normal life.
