Torque of the Town: Electric vs combustion – the race heats up for Hong Kong’s aspirational automobile owners

In Hong Kong, the luxury car has never been merely a means of transportation. In a city defined by vertical living, compressed geography and visible success, the automobile functions as a moving declaration of identity. Because efficient public transport reduces the necessity of private ownership, choosing to own a luxury car is an intentional act. It signals achievement, taste, and alignment with a particular vision of modern prestige. Today, that signal is evolving as the market navigates electrification, the enduring pull of European heritage, and the unstoppable rise of the power SUV.

For decades, the hierarchy of luxury motoring in Hong Kong was relatively stable. Mercedes-Benz represented establishment authority and diplomatic polish. BMW suggested executive confidence. Porsche conveyed disciplined performance credibility. Bentley and Rolls-Royce occupied the summit of aristocratic refinement, while Ferrari and Lamborghini embodied flamboyant success. The driveway on the Peak or in Repulse Bay communicated belonging to a particular echelon, and the badge on the bonnet carried generational meaning.

Yet the psychology of desire is shifting. Hong Kong’s newer affluent class – entrepreneurs in technology, logistics, finance and private equity – approaches luxury through a different lens. They grew up in a digital world. Innovation impresses them as much as legacy craftsmanship. A panoramic digital interface, autonomous driving capability or ultra-fast-charging infrastructure may weigh as heavily in their decision as hand-stitched leather or a century of racing history. Status is increasingly intertwined with technological fluency.

Electric Accord

Electrification sits at the centre of this transformation. Over recent years, electric vehicles have moved from novelty to dominance in new registrations. Government incentives accelerated early adoption, but policy alone cannot explain the shift. Electric performance has matured dramatically. Instant torque delivers acceleration once reserved for supercars. Silent cabins create a new dimension of serenity suited to Hong Kong’s dense urban environment. Charging infrastructure, while still evolving, has become far more accessible across residential towers and commercial buildings.

The arrival of credible luxury electric models from established European brands marked a turning point. Porsche’s Taycan proved that battery power could coexist with sports car DNA. Its low centre of gravity and disciplined handling reassured purists that performance would not vanish in the electric age. Mercedes-Benz translated the opulence of the S-Class into the EQS, emphasising digital theatre and near-silent refinement. BMW’s i7 leaned into cinematic rear seat experiences and executive comfort. Audi’s e-tron GT bridged performance and sculptural elegance.

Mainland Drive

At the same time, Chinese manufacturers have entered the premium conversation with confidence. Brands such as BYD, Nio, Zeekr and XPeng now compete not only on price but on technology and design. Their vehicles often feature expansive curved screens, AI-driven voice assistants and rapid software updates that mirror smartphone ecosystems. Extended range and fast charging capabilities address practical anxieties. For Hong Kong buyers accustomed to digital integration across every aspect of life, this seamless connectivity resonates strongly.

The result is a more fluid hierarchy. Car buyers are increasingly cross-shopping across continents and categories. A Porsche Taycan may sit on the same shortlist as a high-spec electric SUV from a Chinese marque. A Mercedes EQS may compete directly with technology-forward alternatives that promise similar comfort with greater digital novelty. Loyalty is no longer guaranteed by badge alone; it must be earned through user experience, innovation and perceived value.

Power Trip

Still, heritage retains powerful emotional weight. The mechanical theatre of a naturally aspirated engine; the tactile sensation of a perfectly weighted steering wheel; the resonance of a V8 echoing through a tunnel – these elements continue to enchant collectors and enthusiasts. Limited-production Ferraris and Lamborghinis remain coveted assets. For some, they represent the closing chapter of internal-combustion artistry, destined to become rarer and potentially more valuable as electrification advances.

This coexistence of old and new defines Hong Kong’s current luxury landscape. It is not a binary contest between petrol and electrons but a layered transition. Many affluent households now maintain multiple vehicles: an electric sedan or SUV for daily urban commuting, and a combustion engine supercar reserved for weekends or special occasions. The garage becomes a reflection of dual identities – pragmatic modernity alongside nostalgic passion.

If one category best captures present-day dominance, it is the power SUV. Hong Kong’s topography makes the appeal obvious. Steep inclines on the Peak, narrow roads in Mid-Levels and frequent heavy rain reward ride height, traction and stability. Chauffeur culture further strengthens demand for spacious rear cabins and commanding road presence. The SUV satisfies both symbolic and practical requirements.

Sport Utility Versatility

Rolls-Royce’s Cullinan redefined luxury expectations by proving that an SUV could deliver both imposing stature and exquisite refinement. Bentley’s Bentayga balanced grand touring comfort with everyday usability. Lamborghini’s Urus injected supercar aggression into the format, attracting younger, more flamboyant buyers. Ferrari’s Purosangue merged performance pedigree with four-door practicality, expanding the brand’s appeal without diluting its mystique. Land Rover’s flagship variants continue to anchor driveways with understated British authority.

Electrification has amplified rather than diminished the SUV’s relevance. Instant torque enhances uphill performance. Battery placement improves cabin space and stability. Mercedes’ EQS SUV, BMW’s iX and Porsche’s electric Macan reflect European commitment to electrified utility. Chinese competitors offer similarly sized electric SUVs with competitive range and technology at compelling price points. For buyers weighing environmental responsibility against presence, the electric SUV presents a persuasive synthesis.

Sustainability also shapes purchasing decisions in subtler ways. Corporate leaders mindful of ESG narratives increasingly consider the optics of their vehicles. Arriving at a board meeting in an electric luxury sedan communicates alignment with forward-looking values. Premium brands now emphasise responsibly sourced materials, recycled trim elements and carbon-neutral production while preserving craftsmanship. Luxury remains indulgent, but it is reframed through a lens of accountability.

Asset Driven

Investment considerations further complicate the picture. Hong Kong’s affluent community has long viewed certain cars as alternative assets. Limited-edition hypercars and rare performance models can appreciate significantly. Indeed, the final iterations of iconic engines may gain collectable status precisely because they represent an ending. Simultaneously, early landmark electric models may acquire historical significance as pioneers of a new era.

Market dynamics in mainland China inevitably influence local sentiment. The rapid advancement of Chinese electric technology and the scale of production have accelerated innovation and pricing competitiveness. Mainland buyers with business ties to Hong Kong contribute to cross-border demand, particularly for high-spec SUVs and flagship electric models. Yet Hong Kong maintains distinct preferences shaped by space constraints, parking costs and dense urban living. Compact luxury sedans and performance coupes retain appeal among enthusiasts who value manoeuvrability.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, the luxury-car market in Hong Kong is unlikely to converge on a single dominant narrative. Electrification will deepen as battery technology improves and charging networks expand. Autonomous features will become more sophisticated, appealing to chauffeur-driven owners who prioritise seamless commutes. European brands will continue investing heavily in electric platforms, ensuring that heritage evolves rather than fades. Chinese manufacturers will refine premium positioning, strengthening design language and global presence.

Ultimately, driving desire in Hong Kong remains anchored in aspiration. Whether powered by petrol or battery, whether adorned with a storied European crest or an ambitious new emblem, the luxury car continues to function as a mobile expression of ambition. The soundscape may be changing, trading engine roar for electric hum, but the symbolism endures. In a metropolis built on reinvention, prestige does not disappear – it recalibrates.

Hue Knew: Bold hues for autumn days and nights

Look 1

Black top, bag, black pants and shoes by Berluti

Look 2

Jacket, pants, bag and shoes by Berluti

Look 3

Brown leather jacket, brown pants, bag and shoes by Berluti

Look 4

Trench coat, bag and shoes by Berluti

Look 5

Blue top, pants and shoes by Berluti

Look 6

Casual suit jacket and pants by Berluti

Look 7

Beige jacket, denim pants and shoes by Berluti

Look 8

Knitted suit jacket, pants, handbag and shoes by Berluti

Look 9

(left)

Beige jacket and

white pants by Berluti

(right)

Green jacket and

khaki pants by Berluti

Look 10

(left)

Pink maxi dress by Valentino

(right)

Sequinned jacket, pants and boots by Valentino

Inner Joyce: Echoing her most soul-stirring hit, singer-songwriter Joyce Lee loves life every day without regrets

Befitting her award-winning singer-songwriter stature, Joyce Lee arrives at the Cordis Hotel in Mong Kok with an entourage – her glam team, who promptly proceed to finish her hair and makeup. She also brings along her handy speaker for sounds to transport her into photo-shoot mode. “No, please don’t put on my music,” she exclaims, laughing. “I don’t like listening to myself!”

So we blast upbeat ’80s hits, among them Madonna’s Like a Prayer, and the Canadian-born Cantopop pioneer dances while striking her signature poses: arms raised, head tilted, that knowing half-smile that has been selling records since the mid-’90s. The hotel suite suddenly feels like a living room where someone decided that the only appropriate response to life is to groove.

Before the platinum plaques and the theme songs that became Hong Kong’s unofficial background music, there was a teenager in Toronto hammering out scales at the Royal Conservatory of Music. As Lee notes, the conservatory drilled discipline and technical skills into budding musicians until they were muscle memory.

“After all those hours of practice, you will master the mechanics of it,” she affirms as her hair stylist battles a particularly rebellious strand. “Once you have that foundation down, the real magic happens when you stop thinking about the rules and start putting your heart into the music.”

Singing in the Shower

That heart first oozed melodies about age 16, usually when she was in the shower. English lyrics arrived uninvited, tagging along with the tunes. Looking back, she’s grateful for the Hong Kong lyricists who turned those early, half-formed feelings into Cantonese that still landed with the force of a quiet confession. The Canadian conservatory gave her the hands; the shower gave her the soul. The rest was just timing, and a mother who refused to let a good song die as a B-side.

After decades of drowning in Cantonese covers of American and Japanese hits, by the early ’90s, Hong Kong radio and television started championing original songwriting. Into that opening walked a 19-year-old with a piano who cooed Western-accented Cantonese that made people smile. It was in 1994 that everything clicked. Her single, One Day I Will Touch Your Heart – which her mother insisted the record company push – made the Jade Solid Gold list of the year’s top 10 songs; her first, second and third solo album went double platinum, and she was serenaded as TVB’s Singer-Songwriter of the Year.

Performing Spirit

Lee’s producer had pushed her to write as well as sing and play, but the real spark for her compositions was loneliness. Fresh from the Toronto suburbs, newly signed, friendless and culturally adrift, she wrote English lyrics because the Cantonese words for “I feel lost and I need my voice to be heard” hadn’t arrived yet. The finished song carried that wish. “I just really wished to be understood through music,” she recalls.

Her popularity was underscored the following year when she performed the theme song of A Kindred Spirit, one of TVB’s longest-running dramas. For 1,128 episodes over four years, people let the ballad Love Your Life Without Regrets into their living rooms the way they let in the evening news. Fans still stop her on the street to tell her what was happening in their lives when the first notes hit.

“It feels so lovely and humbling to realise that my music became a part of their personal stories,” she says now. It confirmed that vulnerability with a piano heartbeat travels farther than any manufactured karaoke anthem.

Notes of Emotion

Three decades later, the process looks different. Experience has piled up: personal heartbreaks and career highs; surviving cancer; and the ordinary miracles of raising three boys with husband Ted Lee. She sits with close friends, talks the ideas through, and takes their honest feedback into the studio. Producer and piano become co-conspirators. The goal is no longer just a good melody; it’s one that matches the emotional core of the story she’s trying to tell.

Trends change fast, but Lee has grown braver. “When you’re younger, you worry so much about fitting into a specific mould,” she reflects. “But looking back now, there is really nothing to be afraid of anymore because, creatively speaking, anything goes.”

Since the release of her seventh album, Fantasy, in 2005, her impact has been measured through deep connection with the community – performing at charity events, local concerts, masterclasses, even with a choir for people who simply want to sing together. If her music makes someone feel less lonely and more seen, it is exactly as it was meant.

Scene & Heard

Hong Kong’s pop scene still has that 24/7 pulse she loves – a raw energy you can’t find anywhere else. What needs work, she says without hesitation, is infrastructure: more affordable rehearsal spaces, independent gig spots where young artists can experiment without booking a commercial venue that costs more than a month’s rent. The talent is here. The rooms just need to open.

As one of the first female Cantopop singer-songwriters, Lee remembers the scepticism. Producers handed her songs and images. As a young woman carrying her own compositions, production choices and lyricism, she had to work twice as hard in the studio to prove the doubters wrong. Today, aspiring female stars face different traps – social-media scrutiny, hyper-sexualisation, the relentless demand to be ‘relatable’. Her advice is characteristically direct: “You just have to out-sing the noise.”

Empowerment, for Lee, is not a slogan. It is internal clarity – the freedom to know your worth and act on it even when society prefers boxes. It is the daily resilience of getting back up after life knocks you down; the quiet decision to keep going and find your voice again.

That same clarity fuels her work as an ambassador for OneSky (formerly Half the Sky Foundation), which trains caregivers in Chinese orphanages to meet each child’s unique needs, and the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation, where sharing her story of early detection, treatment and recovery is worth it if just one person listens. When she sits at the piano now, she is simply thankful that she is still here, breathing, creating.

Quiet Applause

Lee’s success used to be gauged by chart position, awards, airplay and applause. Today attainment comes from watching three boys grow, hearing them laugh, being with Ted – “my partner in crime and my biggest fan” – and the deep gratitude of still being healthy enough to share her music. “Happiness is waking up with peace in your soul, knowing that you survived,” she shares. “Realising every day you get to create, love and give back is an absolute gift.”

One of the keys to Joyce Lee’s triumphant journey through life is finding a reason to express gratitude and finding peace in her heart. Be it by being an inspiration to others, setting an example to society, or tuning into uplifting pop songs. Shoot completed, she heads home for some much-needed swimming therapy-cum-me time. It’s a passion she picked up from Ted, another kind of baptism, of letting the body move until the mind quiets.

The woman who danced to Madonna’s Like a Prayer in a hotel suite will soon be cutting through the water with the same quiet determination that once turned a shower melody into a double-platinum career. Through her music, we feel her power; it touches our hearts, drawing us into her world.

Interview, Text & Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Iris Ventura Venue: Cordis Hotel Hong Kong Stylist: Cecilia Yiu Make-up: Gaby Makeup Clothes: Zeemo at Walk in Closet Jewelleries: K.S. Sze & Sons Jewels

What’s on? Things to do this September in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Fashion Fest

Get ready to strut into style at Fashion Fest – the city’s annual flagship geared to turning Hong Kong into one of the foremost fashion-design hubs in Asia and globally. Expect a fashion-packed lineup that brings together bold design moments and exciting affiliate activities, including the Centrestage trade show – a thrilling core highlight – and an invitation-only gala extravaganza. From spotlighting local brands to proving Hong Kong is a prime destination for great cultural and creative events, Fashion Fest is where creativity meets opportunity.

When: 1-14 September

Where: Various Venues.

How much: Free

For more information: hongkongashionfest.com

Centrestage

Now in its 11th edition, this triumphant runway-and-innovation celebration is widely regarded as one of the region’s most definitive fashion showcases. Explore curated thematic zones, spectacular runway spectacles and flagship trend seminars. Centrestage 2026 brings a fresh international vision with a cross-cultural flair, highlighting Hong Kong’s vital role as an Asian fashion hub and a bridge connecting world-class design. Come to witness global allure in full sparkle!

When: 2-5 September

Where: Convention and Exhibition Centre

How much: Free admission

For more information: hktdc.com

Ive in Concert

Calling all Dives – your favourite K-pop girl band has turned the world into a dance floor! Prepare to leap from your seat and groove to hits from their 2025 EP, Ive Secret, and latest album, Revive+, led by the likes of Bang Bang and Blackhole. Lavish LED visuals and pulsating lighting effects serve as a fantastic backdrop to a stunning stage design. Ive’s dynamic sextet will not disappoint.

When: 4-6 September

Where: Asiaworld-Arena

How much: From HK$799

For more information: shows.cityline.com

Yu Lan Cultural Festival

Expect plenty of cultural sparkle beyond the usual festive treats and burnt-paper offerings. Indulge in competitions, exciting exhibitions, guided cultural tours and hands-on workshops where you can create, learn and sip your way through tradition – kung fu tea pouring, shadow puppetry, Sacred Horse modelling, metal-foil drawing and more. This year’s star turn comes in the immersive shape of interactive theatre production Cross Beyond.

When: 4-6 September

Where: Victoria Park

How much: Free admission

For more information: hkyulan.org

Silence Wang in Concert

After the prolific Mandopop singer-songwriter’s spectacular One Hundred Thousand Volts concert series shattered sets into inspiring fragments, the story rebuilds with an epic new stage universe designed to showcase his 12th studio album. Expect mind-blowing visuals plus immersive lighting and a high-energy DJ segment that gets everyone hyped and on their feet.

When: 4-20 September

Where: Kai Tak Stadium

How much: From HK$380

For more information: kaitaksportspark.com.hk

Journey of the Horse Light Show

Neigh – sorry, we mean hello – to a dazzling night-time adventure at the Hong Kong Space Museum. The Journey of the Horse: A Legacy of Arts and Culture light show returns to the museum’s dome façade with a gallop of creativity as one of the highlights of the 2026 Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage Month. Watch as stories from art and tradition ride alongside starry science. Whether you’re a culture fan or a stargazer, this is your ticket to a magical, unforgettable experience.

When: 4-20 September

Where: Space Museum

How much: Free viewing

For more information: Icho.hk

Mid-Autumn Lantern Carnival

Wander through spectacular lantern displays, then roll up your sleeves for hands-on fun as you learn the art of traditional lantern-making – a joyful way to experience intangible cultural heritage up close. Expect creative stations packed with sights, sounds and crafty surprises, perfect for families, friends and curious night owls. Whether you’re crafting your own mini masterpiece or simply snapping photos beneath the luminous skyline, the carnival promises an immersive festive atmosphere you’ll want to relive again and again. Come to celebrate, create and make memories under the moon..

When: 17-27 September

Where: Victoria Park

How much: Free admission

For more information: cpo.gov.hk

Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance

Witness a slice of living tradition as the 67-metre fire dragon sweeps down Wun Sha Street and Tung Lo Wan Road in Tai Hang. This Hong Kong Mid-Autumn Festival custom continues a timeless ritual of praying for peace and safety, turning the night into a shared wish for brighter days ahead. Watch the dragon’s fiery twists, feel the energy of the dance, and step into history as tradition, drama and community glow.

When: 24-26 September

Where: Tai Hang

How much: Free

For more information: firedragon.org.hk

Chinese Culture Festival

Join the Chinese Culture Festival, a vibrant summer celebration of culture, creativity and passion. Organised by the LCSD’s Chinese Culture Promotion Office, this annual event features performances and activities. The 2026 edition themed on Chinese legends is brought to life by outstanding artists from the mainland and beyond. Its final‑month highlights include opera showcases, opera‑gem film screenings and Sui‑Tang Dynasty exhibitions.

When: Until 30 September

Where: Various prices & venues.

How much: From HK$598.For more information: ccf.org.hk

Valley of the Kings: Cellar royalty Napa Cabernet delivers enduring clarity for collectors in its greatest years

In the world of fine-wine collecting, few bottles command as much reverence – or deliver as much long-term satisfaction – as Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. It remains the crown jewel of American wine: structured yet polished, powerful yet precise, and capable of ageing for decades. For collectors building a cellar, the great Napa Cabernet vintages offer both immediate prestige and enduring reward.

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is defined by concentration, structure and clarity of fruit. Warm days ripen grapes to deep intensity, while cool evenings preserve acidity and aromatic lift. From the gravelly benchlands of Rutherford to the volcanic slopes of Howell Mountain, the region’s varied soils allow Cabernet to express subtle distinctions of place.

Classic notes of blackcurrant, blackberry and cassis are often layered with dark cherry, cedar, graphite, espresso and cocoa, framed by the gentle spice of French oak ageing. In exceptional vintages, this richness is matched by balance. The wines feel complete upon release, yet possess the tannin backbone and acidity necessary to evolve for 15, 20, or even 30 years.

The best vintages tend to share a steady, warm growing season without extreme heat spikes, cool nights that retain freshness, and a long, dry harvest that allows winemakers to pick fruit at optimal ripeness. When these conditions align, Cabernet achieves both power and poise. Rather than tasting overly ripe or excessively oaked, the wines show clarity, energy, and a sense of harmony that promises graceful ageing.

Vintage Vitality

Among modern releases, the 2013 vintage is widely regarded as one of Napa’s greats. A dry season produced small, concentrated berries, resulting in dense wines with firm tannins and remarkable structure. These bottles remain youthful and built for the long haul, making them foundational pieces for serious cellars.

The 2016 vintage benefitted from what many describe as near-perfect growing conditions. The wines are beautifully balanced, combining richness with precision. Refined tannins and vibrant acidity give the 2016s both immediate appeal and long-term potential, and they are often cited as among the most complete wines of the past decade.

Yielding Cabernets that emphasise balance and approachability without sacrificing depth, 2018 offered a cooler, more measured growing season. These wines tend to show freshness and composure, making them especially attractive for collectors who want bottles that can be enjoyed sooner while still rewarding patience.

The 2019 vintage, particularly from the mountain sub-appellations, brought structure and energy, with vivid fruit and firm tannins suggesting impressive ageing capacity. The low-yielding 2021 vintage and the 2023 – rated by many growers as the ‘vintage of a lifetime’ – are also celebrated.

Place Names

Location within Napa plays a defining role in style and collectability. Producing premium wines like Scarecrow and Sloan, Rutherford is famous for its subtle earthy character – often described as ‘dust’ – which lends cocoa and savoury undertones to plush fruit. Oakville has long been home to some of Napa’s most acclaimed winemakers, including Harlan Estate and Screaming Eagle, who marry power with polish.

Hosting the likes of Shafer Vineyards and Realm Cellars, Stags Leap District is known for wines that combine elegance and supple texture with underlying strength. Elevated sub-appellations such as Howell Mountain (Hundred Acre, Abreu) and Diamond Mountain (Lokoya, Kinsman Eades) often produce more structured, intensely concentrated Cabernets, prized for their ageing potential. For collectors, these hillside sites frequently offer the firm backbone that rewards extended cellaring.

Cultured Cabernet

Producer reputation is equally important. While cult labels generate headlines and waiting lists, the most compelling collections are often built around estates known for consistency and restraint. Wines that emphasise balance and terroir expression rather than sheer ripeness tend to age more gracefully. Single-vineyard bottlings like Heitz Cellar Martha’s Vineyard can be particularly desirable, as they highlight specific parcels and often carry limited-production numbers, adding to their allure.

Napa Cabernet occupies a fascinating space between luxury indulgence and tangible asset. The true return on a stunning Cabernet comes when opening a bottle at peak maturity. With time, youthful notes of black fruit and sweet oak gradually evolve into layers of tobacco, cedar, dried herbs, leather and earth. Tannins soften, aromas deepen, and the wine gains nuance.

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a reflection of ambition and place. It captures California sunlight, meticulous craftsmanship and decades of viticultural evolution. Great vintages embody the region at its best – powerful yet balanced, expressive yet ageworthy. For collectors, they represent both heritage and possibility.

Under the hammer: Fab Four auction sales (August 2026)

World-Time Record

In the rarefied world of haute horology, few moments capture collectors’ imaginations like the sale of a legendary Patek Philippe. At Phillips’ Geneva Watch Auction in May, an extraordinary Ref. 2523 ‘South America’ achieved an astonishing 7.96 million Swiss francs (HK$77.46 million), instantly setting a world record for the model.

Crafted in 1953, Patek Philippe’s Ref. 2523 is revered as one of the most beautiful world-time wristwatches ever made. Encased in warm 18-carat yellow gold, this particular example features an exquisite cloisonné enamel dial depicting a vibrant map of South America – the rarest and most romantic of the series’ three map variations. The miniature enamel work alone places it firmly in the realm of portable art.

Technically groundbreaking for its era, it features the manufacture’s signature dual-crown system, allowing the wearer to track multiple time zones with effortless elegance. What makes this piece even more compelling is its rarity. Produced in extremely small numbers and largely absent from public view for decades, the ‘South America’ 2523 embodies both scarcity and storytelling, showcasing the enduring allure of global adventure.

Mystery in the Making

Phillips showcased one of horology’s most enchanting creations in Geneva recently: a Cartier Mystery Clock sold for more than 1.2 million Swiss francs (HK$11.82 million), reaffirming the enduring fascination with the maison’s most magical invention.

First introduced in the early 20th century, Cartier’s Mystery Clocks astonished the world by creating the illusion of floating hands suspended in crystal, seemingly disconnected from any visible mechanism. The secret lies in hidden toothed discs driven by a concealed movement housed discreetly in the base.

This 1924 example embodies the artistry and technical ingenuity that define Cartier at its most imaginative. Crafted in rock crystal, agate, rose quartz, nephrite, diamond, onyx, turquoise, mother-of-pearl, yellow gold and enamel, it incorporates most remarkably an antique chimera.

Mystery Clocks were produced in very limited numbers, often under the creative direction of Louis Cartier in collaboration with master clockmaker Maurice Couët. Representing a union of fine watchmaking, decorative arts and theatrical design, each piece remains as spellbinding today as it was more than a century ago.

King Koons

Sotheby’s New York shimmered with anticipation as Jeff Koons’ Louis XIV (1986) crossed the auction block, ultimately achieving US$8.57 million (HK$67.18 million). The sale reaffirmed Koons’ place at the intersection of art, luxury and cultural spectacle.

Part of the Neo-Pop artist’s celebrated Statuary series, Louis XIV is a stainless-steel sculpture that reimagines the famed French monarch as a high-gloss icon of opulence. As a life-size bust of the Sun King, it draws inspiration from grand European monuments. Yet in Koons’ hands, the narrative shifts, with the highly polished piece balancing aristocratic power and popular kitsch.

Created in the mid-1980s, during Koons’ meteoric rise in the international art world, the sculpture reflects his fascination with grandeur, celebrity and the allure of perfection. Its immaculate surface and meticulous craftsmanship blur the line between fine art and luxury object, making it as much a statement piece as a collectible masterpiece. Louis XIV’s successful sale proves that Koons’ bold vision continues to captivate amid a global culture where heritage meets high shine, and art becomes pure spectacle.

Ocean’s 13

The spring-sales spotlight in Geneva shone brightly when Christie’s unveiled one of nature’s incredible treasures: the Ocean Dream, a 5.5 carat fancy vivid blue green diamond that is the largest of its type to be graded by the GIA laboratory. It sold for a breathtaking 13.6 million Swiss francs (HK$132.1 million) in a new world record for a sparkler of this shade.

The name Ocean Dream could not be more fitting. With a luminous triangular shape and an almost fluid glow, the stone seems to capture the shifting colours of serene tropical waters. Its extraordinary blue-green hue – a phenomenon created by trace elements and the Earth’s natural forces over millions of years – places it among the rarest and most alluring of diamonds. Given that examples with such a pure and saturated colour are exceedingly scarce, it is a true collector’s fantasy.

The diamond’s re-emergence at auction generated palpable excitement among connoisseurs, jewellers and investors, who led the bidding to more than double its 2014 sale price. Geneva once again proved why it remains the global stage for exceptional gemstones.

Independent Movement: Nine visionary ateliers working on their own time

In the rarefied heights of horology, there exists a category so exclusive that even seasoned collectors pause before entering. This is the preserve of ultra-high-end independent watchmakers whose creations can climb well into seven figures. At this level, value is built on mechanical innovation, finishing executed at near-mythical standards, rarity and authorship.

Unlike conglomerate-owned manufacturers with global marketing machines and industrial production lines, these independent ateliers operate at a human scale. Their output is measured not in thousands but in dozens; their names are often on the dial, and their watches are less products than personal manifestos rendered in steel, gold, titanium and sapphire.

Top Finish

Greubel Forsey sits firmly at the summit of modern independent watchmaking. Founded by Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey in 2004, the brand is synonymous with multi-axis tourbillons and obsessive finishing. Their movements are architectural sculptures, often angled dramatically within the case to improve chronometric performance. Collectors prize Greubel Forsey not only for technical audacity but for setting a benchmark that redefined contemporary haute horology. Limited to eight pieces, the sapphire Double Tourbillon 30° Technique was unveiled in 2016 for a cool US$1.1 million (HK$8.6 million).

If Greubel Forsey represents modern technical bravura, Philippe Dufour embodies the soul of traditional watchmaking. Widely regarded as one of the greatest living watchmakers, Dufour crafts an extraordinarily small number of pieces each year. His finishing – especially in models like the Simplicity – is considered among the finest ever achieved. A circa 2020 Simplicity in steel recently sold for HK$9.5 million at Phillips in Hong Kong.

Rexhep Rexhepi of Akrivia represents the new guard of elite independence. Still relatively young compared to his peers – he founded his atelier in 2012 aged just 25 – Rexhepi has already achieved extraordinary auction results. A first-generation Chronomètre Contemporain in pink gold sold at Phillips Hong Kong in 2023 for HK$7.24 million. Admired for immaculate hand finishing and restrained elegance, each creation reflects a balance between technical integrity and aesthetic refinement.

Inventor Class

F.P. Journe occupies a unique position, straddling insider prestige and broader recognition. Journe’s motto, Invenit et Fecit (invented and made), underscores the French watchmaker’s commitment, since 1999, to in-house innovation. His early brass-movement pieces have become especially collectable. Journe’s worth stems from technical originality and the fact that his work has already secured a place in horological history. A 2009 Grande et Petite Sonnerie Minute Repeater Souveraine sold for CHF 3.1 million (HK$30.3 million) at Christie’s in 2022.

Founded in 2005 by Maximilian Büsser, MB&F approaches watchmaking as kinetic art. Its ‘horological machines’ challenge conventional notions of what a wristwatch should resemble. Three-dimensional cases shaped like spacecraft or automotive forms house complex mechanical systems developed in collaboration with specialist artisans. Collectors value MB&F not only for rarity but for conceptual boldness, with each piece feeling like a sculptural experiment in timekeeping.

De Bethune blends futuristic aesthetics with deep technical research. Co-founded in 2002 by French watchmaker Denis Flageollet, the brand is known for mirror-polished titanium cases, spherical moonphases, and proprietary balance-wheel innovation. Sharp lines, heat-blued components and celestial motifs create an immediately recognisable identity. For collectors, De Bethune offers both innovation and continuity, merging avant-garde design with classical chronometry.

Virtuoso Vision

Since 2002, the eponymous Swiss workshop of Finnish watchmaker Kari Voutilainen has been revered for traditional craftsmanship elevated to extraordinary levels. His guilloché dials are often hand-turned in-house using antique rose engines. Movements display broad, hand-polished anglage and harmonious architecture inspired by historical pocket watches. Collectors appreciate the romanticism of his approach: every component feels considered, every finish intentional.

Laurent Ferrier offers a quieter expression of excellence. A former Patek Philippe watchmaker, Ferrier launched his independent venture in 2009, focusing on refined case design and technically sophisticated yet understated movements. His signature micro-rotor calibres and natural escapement designs reflect both innovation and restraint. For collectors seeking subtlety over spectacle, Ferrier provides enduring appeal.

Launched in 1997 by master watchmaker Felix Baumgartner and chief designer Martin Frei, Urwerk pushes boundaries through radical time displays. Satellite hour indications, revolving cubes and futuristic case forms distinguish its creations from traditional watchmaking norms. Urwerk’s worth lies in its uncompromising individuality. Owning one signals a willingness to embrace unconventional mechanical art.

Maximum Rare

These nine staunchly independent names are united by authorship – each brand is driven by a founder or small team whose philosophy guides production. Collectability is driven

by genuine scarcity. Many of these ateliers produce only 300 to 500 watches annually, with some like Philippe Dufour, Voutilainen and Akrivia creating fewer than 50. When production depends on manual finishing at extreme standards, scaling up is neither easy nor desirable.

Technical innovation flourishes in independence. Without corporate constraints, these watchmakers experiment freely. Multi-axis tourbillons, constant-force escapements and unconventional balance systems emerge from workshops willing to take risks. Finishing quality often surpasses that of large-scale luxury brands, too. Internal angles are executed by hand, requiring hours of labour for a single bridge, and surfaces are polished to mirror perfection. For collectors, this represents a preservation of artisanal knowledge that industrialisation cannot replicate.

Finally, there is the lure of emotional value. Owners frequently interact directly with founders. Commissioning a piece may involve conversations about dial colour, case metal or engraving details. The relationship between maker and collector fosters connection beyond transaction.

In a marketplace saturated with logos and marketing campaigns, ultra-luxury independent brands offer something quieter yet more profound: authenticity. They represent individuals devoted to mechanical perfection in an era increasingly defined by automation; they transform timekeeping into sculpture and engineering into poetry.

Pieces of Weight: From heavy chains to standout cuffs, bold gold jewellery is an everyday treasure

Chunky gold chain necklaces and bracelets are among the strongest statements in modern fine jewellery. Once reserved for royalty or ceremonial adornment, substantial gold pieces now represent confident, comfortable daily wear. When created by prestigious jewellery houses, they combine significant gold weight, technical craftsmanship and refined luxury. These are not fashion accessories but enduring expressions crafted in 18-carat yellow or white gold or platinum and designed to last generations.

Power Decorating

Cartier stands at the forefront of bold gold jewellery. The house has mastered the art of transforming strong, architectural forms into wearable luxury. Collections such as Santos de Cartier and Clash de Cartier feature thick, structured chain links and studded forms that feel powerful on the wrist and neck. The weight of Cartier’s 18-carat gold pieces is intentional; they are designed to feel substantial without sacrificing comfort. Even classic designs like Love and Juste un Clou take on a commanding presence in their thicker iterations.

Tiffany & Co. brings an urban, industrial sensibility to heavy gold jewellery. The Tiffany HardWear collection, inspired by New York City architecture, is defined by oversized gauge links and bold chain silhouettes. These necklaces and bracelets are crafted in solid 18-carat yellow or white gold, often with smooth, high-polish finishes that emphasise their sculptural weight. The scale of the links gives them visual impact, yet they remain fluid and wearable.

Bvlgari approaches strong gold from an architectural and Italian design perspective. Known for its confident silhouettes, the house creates thick Tubogas necklaces and bracelets that coil smoothly around the body without visible soldering. The B.zero1 collection features wide gold bands and structured forms that echo Roman engineering. In white gold, these pieces feel sleek and contemporary; in yellow gold, they radiate warmth and Mediterranean glamour.

On the Cuff

David Yurman has built a reputation for substantial, wearable luxury. The brand’s signature Cable bracelets are instantly recognisable for their twisted gold structure, often produced in thick gauges for a bold wrist presence. Yurman also creates chunky Curb Chain and heavy link necklaces in both yellow and white gold. Many designs incorporate diamond accents, enhancing their everyday luxury appeal.

Boucheron delivers Parisian sophistication through structured gold forms. The Quatre collection, with its graphic stacked bands and striking textures, translates beautifully into cuff bracelets and heavy gold necklaces. Boucheron’s designs often combine smooth gold with ridged or engraved surfaces, adding dimension to substantial pieces. The result is chunky jewellery that feels architectural rather than overly ornate.

Buccellati offers a distinctive interpretation of chunky gold. While the house is known for intricate engraving by hand, it also produces wide cuffs and substantial bangles that have real weight. The gold surfaces are often textured using traditional Italian techniques, giving even heavy pieces a refined softness. Buccellati’s bold jewellery feels regal and artisanal rather than industrial.

Diamond Dynamism

Graff is primarily celebrated for exceptional diamonds and exquisite workmanship, but its bold link necklaces and substantial white-gold bracelets deserve recognition. Chunky pieces often serve as architectural frameworks for remarkable stones, with white-gold settings engineered to support large diamonds while maintaining sleek lines.

Harry Winston also creates strong, structured diamond link bracelets and necklaces in platinum and white gold. While the emphasis is always on the stones, the metal frameworks are substantial and carefully engineered. The result is jewellery that feels significant, both visually and physically.

Chopard offers geometric fine jewellery within the Ice Cube line, where wide gold bracelets and structured link necklaces emphasise clean lines and substantial metal presence. It frequently pairs heavy gold with pavé diamonds, especially in white-gold versions, creating a brilliant yet powerful aesthetic. Chopard craftsmanship ensures that even weighty pieces maintain flexibility and comfort.

Gold Star

Pomellato is synonymous with Italian gold expertise. The brand’s Gourmette chains and thick link bracelets are designed with smooth, rounded edges for comfort. Pomellato specialises in rich 18-carat gold tones, creating pieces that feel bold yet fluid. Even their oversized necklaces maintain a soft silhouette, making them ideal for everyday wear. White-gold styles often subtly incorporate diamonds, while yellow gold versions stand strong on their own.

Chunky gold and white-gold jewellery represents confidence and permanence. Unlike delicate trends, these pieces anchor an entire look. Whether rendered in polished yellow gold, sleek white gold, or diamond-accented platinum, they embody strength, craftsmanship and timeless design. Across these brands, the unifying element is intentional, weighty gold designed to be felt as well as seen.

Water Break: Immersive Kerala redefines luxury through backwater cruising, rippling highlands and serene seascapes

Kerala unfolds slowly, like silk slipping over the shoulders. Along India’s southwestern edge, where the Arabian Sea presses gently against palm-lined shores, this narrow ribbon of land has long drawn traders, healers and wanderers. Today the Malabar Coast attracts a different kind of visitor: the traveller who equates luxury not with glittering excess, but with depth, discretion and a profound sense of place.

Arrival often begins in Kochi, a port city shaped by centuries of exchange. Portuguese-built churches, Dutch-era warehouses, Jewish synagogues and spice markets coexist within walkable streets washed in sea air. The mood is unhurried. Colonial villas have been transformed into intimate boutique hotels where courtyards bloom with jasmine and corridors glow with lamplight reflected off polished teak. Instead of grand lobbies, there are shaded verandas and antique daybeds. Instead of spectacle, there is atmosphere.

In the seaside area of Fort Kochi, mornings begin with filtered coffee and the distant creak of Chinese fishing nets being lowered into the harbour. Private guides lead art lovers through galleries showcasing contemporary Indian artists whose work addresses the region’s layered past. Afternoons drift into curated culinary experiences – chef-led explorations of spice markets followed by tasting menus that reinterpret coastal classics with quiet finesse.

Backwater Buoys

South of the city lies the landscape most closely associated with Kerala’s identity: the backwaters. This labyrinth of canals, lagoons and lakes threads through villages and paddy fields in a dreamlike sprawl. The traditional kettuvallam, once a humble rice barge, has been reborn as one of India’s most distinctive luxury experiences. Today’s private houseboats are floating sanctuaries crafted from bamboo and jackwood, outfitted with linen-draped beds, marble bathrooms, and chefs who prepare multi-course meals tailored to each guest.

Gliding through still water at dusk, one feels suspended between worlds. Coconut palms lean toward their reflections. Temple bells echo across the lagoon. Fishermen in narrow canoes move soundlessly past. On deck, a steward pours chilled wine as plates of pearl spot fish simmered in coconut milk arrive fragrant with curry leaves. Time loosens its grip. The only schedule is the movement of light across water.

There is nowhere else to be and nothing else to do but watch the landscape unfold. Children wave from the banks. Villagers rinse laundry at the water’s edge. Life continues, uncurated and authentic. During the summer monsoon season, rain does not disrupt the rhythm; it softens it. Light shifts, colours deepen, and conversations lengthen under covered decks.

High Tea

Beyond the backwaters, Kerala’s interior rises into cool highlands carpeted in tea. Munnar, the hill-station retreat once favoured by British planters, feels cinematic beneath rolling mist. The Western Ghats mountainsides ripple outwards in velvety shades of green, punctuated by silver oak trees and narrow footpaths. Restored colonial bungalows crown the slopes, their wraparound porches offering sweeping views across plantations.

Inside, heritage architecture meets contemporary comfort. Fireplaces crackle in the evenings. Libraries are stocked with volumes on botany and empire. Guests wake early for guided walks through tea estates where pluckers, clad in bright headscarves, gather tender leaves with practised precision. Private tastings reveal subtle notes – floral, citrus, honeyed – reflecting soil and altitude.

Picnics are arranged beside waterfalls swollen by seasonal rains. Chefs prepare menus infused with local spices like cardamom, black pepper and nutmeg. Evenings invite quiet indulgence: single-estate teas served in porcelain cups, or perhaps an Indian wine, paired with dishes that merge tradition and innovation.

Coastal Flow

Kerala’s coastline offers another dimension of refinement. In Kovalam, boutique resorts perch above crescent beaches where waves roll in with hypnotic regularity. Architecture favours natural materials – laterite stone, reclaimed wood and terracotta tiles blend seamlessly into the environment – while infinity pools seem to dissolve into the horizon.

Here, days revolve around sensory pleasure. Morning swims in warm sea water. Afternoons spent reading beneath swaying palms. Sunset cocktails infused with local flavours such as kokum or tender coconut. Private chefs prepare seafood caught hours earlier: lobster brushed with coconut butter; prawns tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves. Candlelit dinners unfold to the soundtrack of surf.

Food Culture

Culinary exploration in Kerala serves as both indulgence and education, with cuisine reflecting the tropical state’s maritime history. Arab traders, European colonisers, and neighbouring states have all left their imprint. In fine-dining restaurants, appam (pancake) arrives lace-edged and delicate, paired with vegetable stew fragrant with cloves. Duck is roasted with a glaze of palm jaggery and spices. Desserts highlight tropical abundance – mango, banana and jackfruit – presented with contemporary elegance.

For those seeking deeper engagement, chefs organise immersive cooking sessions within ancestral homes. Guests grind spices on stone slabs, learn the balance between heat and sweetness, and share meals around communal tables. Stories flow freely of matrilineal households, of harvest festivals, of fisherfolk who navigate tides guided by intuition rather than instruments.

Cultural experiences enrich the journey. In Thrissur and other temple towns, intricate murals and wooden carvings reveal centuries of devotion and artistry. Kathakali dancers, their faces painted in vivid pigments, transform into mythic characters through elaborate gestures and expressions.

Craft traditions flourish as well. Artisans weave handloom textiles edged in gold thread. Coir is spun from coconut fibre into intricate mats and rugs. Rosewood is carved into furniture that balances ornamentation with durability. Private visits to workshops offer insight into techniques passed down through generations.

Health is Wealth

Wellness is woven into the cultural fabric of Kerala. Ayurveda, India’s ancient system of holistic healing, forms the foundation of many high-end retreats. These are not spas in the conventional sense, but sanctuaries where medicine, ritual and hospitality intertwine.

Guests begin with consultations from experienced physicians who assess constitution and imbalance. Treatments are deeply personalised. Warm herbal oils are poured in steady streams across the forehead in a ritual known as shirodhara. Synchronised massages employ rhythmic strokes designed to restore equilibrium. Herbal steam baths release tension while the scent of tulsi (holy basil) and neem lingers in the air.

Meals at these retreats are crafted with equal care. Ingredients are seasonal, often sourced from on-site gardens. Dishes are calibrated to support specific wellness goals – think lightly spiced lentils, red rice, sautéed greens and broths scented with medicinal herbs. Days flow between yoga sessions at sunrise, guided meditation and periods of intentional silence. Technology fades into the background. The emphasis is on recalibration, on listening to the body and the landscape simultaneously.

Mindful Memories

Responsible tourism underpins much of Kerala’s modern luxury landscape. Many properties implement rainwater harvesting, solar power and waste-reduction programmes. Houseboats adopt cleaner engines to protect fragile ecosystems. Wellness centres partner with local farmers to source organic herbs. Staff-training initiatives provide employment pathways for surrounding communities. Indulgence, in this context, coexists with accountability.

As the journey draws to a close, departure feels less like an ending and more like a gentle awakening. The memory of backwaters at twilight lingers. The scent of herbal oils clings faintly to skin. The cadence of temple bells echoes in the mind. Kerala does not overwhelm with spectacle. It envelops, persuades, and ultimately transforms.

Kerala remains, above all, an experience of texture and tone: rain on palm leaves, tea mist rising from porcelain cups, silk brushing against polished wood, waves dissolving into dusk. It is a destination that understands that the highest form of luxury is presence and offers it generously to those willing to slow down and receive it.

Romancing the Stone: Pursuit of Jade heartthrob Zhang Linghe finds emotion and polish within an analytical mind

In the ever-evolving landscape of Chinese-language costume dramas, where new stars rise with viral speed and just as quickly fade, Zhang Linghe has taken a more deliberate path. Refined, analytical and steadily ambitious, he has built his career on carefully chosen roles and gradual artistic expansion. Yet while his early successes established him as a promising leading man, it was this year’s hit series, Pursuit of Jade, that propelled him from domestic favourite to global phenomenon.

The 28-year-old Jiangsu native did not train as an actor. Unlike many of his contemporaries who graduated from prestigious drama schools, Zhang’s academic background was in engineering. He studied electrical engineering at Nanjing Normal University, a discipline that shaped his methodical personality. He has spoken in interviews about breaking down scripts logically, mapping emotional arcs and understanding motivations before embodying a role.

Young Prince

Fan-worshipped for a prettiness of face that looks almost feminine and a commanding presence, 1.9-metre-tall (six-foot-two) Zhang is a graceful figure in historical costume. Having been approached by a talent scout at university, he made his acting debut in 2020 in the Tencent Video drama Maiden Holmes, playing a composed prince with investigative prowess. Though still new to the craft, the youngster demonstrated a restrained emotional style that would become one of his trademarks. Rather than overplaying scenes, he relied on subtle gestures and steady gazes to communicate authority.

In Sparkle Love, aired the same year on Mango TV, he shifted into a modern campus romance, offering viewers a lighter and more contemporary portrayal. The transition showed his versatility, moving from palace intrigue to relatable youthful affection.

He was back in costume again for Love Between Fairy and Devil (2022), a 2022 fantasy epic that elevated his profile. As a celestial lord bound by duty yet torn by love, Zhang embodied noble restraint. The character’s quiet longing resonated with audiences, and international streaming on iQIYI introduced him to viewers beyond China.

Zhang then challenged himself with darker material in Story of Kunning Palace (2023), playing a morally complex strategist. The role required intensity and psychological nuance, marking a maturation in his acting. Critics observed increased confidence and emotional depth, noting that he was evolving beyond the archetype of the gentle prince.

Jade Journey

Fast forward to Pursuit of Jade and the defining turning point of his six-year career on camera. Released in March, the series combines historical drama with cultural symbolism, weaving themes of loyalty, identity, heritage and ambition into a sweeping narrative. It is named for the power of jade, which symbolises precious resilience and inner purity in Chinese tradition. Hiding his true identity as a warrior marquis seeking justice, his character enters a marriage of convenience with a plucky butcher, Fan Changyu (Tian Xiwei) – ‘yu’ means jade – that over 40 gripping episodes matures into true love.

What distinguishes Pursuit of Jade is not only its storytelling but its global reach. Screened by Netflix, the drama quickly gained traction among overseas audiences. Viewers praised its cinematic production quality, intricate costume design and emotionally charged performances. Online fan communities across Asia, Europe and North America began circulating translated clips and character analyses. Remarking on how his flawless skin and good looks were enhanced by makeup and soft lighting, Zhang was dubbed the ‘foundation general’.

The drama’s popularity influenced his public image. Fashion editorials began emphasising his polished elegance. Media profiles highlighted his thoughtful demeanour and steady career planning. He became associated not just with romantic roles but with cultural storytelling and artistic seriousness.

Emotional Breakthrough

Critically, Pursuit of Jade allowed Zhang to demonstrate emotional range on a broader scale. Scenes of quiet craftsmanship contrast with moments of political confrontation and personal heartbreak. Rather than relying on dramatic outbursts, he employs restrained expression to convey internal turmoil.

“I come from a science background [and] have always possessed an analytical mind, but I used to be somewhat lacking in the emotional realm,” he has said. “However, through acting, interpreting the choices made by my characters … and above all feeling the affection that the audience has shown me, my heart has slowly begun to melt. [Now] I have a softer heart and a richer emotional depth to truly feel and inhabit my roles.”

Environmental Concern

Zhang has used his stardom to promote a cause close to his engineer’s heart – green energy. In April, he appeared in the Warner Bros. Discovery documentary The Answer is Earth, and has said in an interview: “I found myself thinking if I have this kind of attention I could actually put it to good use to spread positive messages. I hope that attention can eventually shift away from me personally and onto these causes instead, bringing environmental change.”

Despite the global recognition, Zhang has remained measured in public appearances. Colleagues describe him as focused and humble, someone who continues to treat each role as a learning opportunity. In media sessions following Pursuit of Jade, he showed gratitude toward the production team, expressed interest in exploring more diverse characters, and spoke about expanding his emotional vocabulary.

Border Crossing

The international success of Pursuit of Jade reshaped his career trajectory. Social-media metrics reflected a surge in overseas followers. Already a favourite of luxury brands like Lancome, Chopard, Gucci and Bvlgari, his desirability soared with expanding global visibility. A flurry of invitations to international events and brand campaigns is signalling his transition from Chinese television star to cross-border cultural figure.

Zhang’s global breakthrough reflects larger industry shifts. Chinese dramas are increasingly crossing borders, aided by streaming platforms and subtitles. He represents a new generation positioned at the intersection of tradition and globalisation.

Looking ahead, industry observers speculate about his next moves. After six prominent roles in C-dramas and three more soon to air, including the imminent Republican-era series Overdo, will he pivot toward feature films? If Zhang’s career thus far indicates anything, it is that he values progression over haste.

“Just focus on doing the work right in front of you” is his advice. “Don’t let your ambitions outstrip reality. First perform your current duties thoroughly and conscientiously. Only then should you start thinking about other avenues for future growth.”

In an industry often driven by spectacle, Zhang’s ascent is not down to controversy or flamboyance. Instead, he builds credibility through layered performances and cultural resonance. As global audiences continue to explore Chinese storytelling, Zhang Linghe stands as one of its most compelling ambassadors: polished like jade, resilient under pressure, and steadily shaping his place in the international spotlight.