The renowned Swiss watchmaker honored the basketball legend and the recipient of the 2013 Asia Society’s “Visionary of the Year” award, Yao Ming, by dedicating him a special version of its renowned Chrono Hawk watch. At the special event, organized by Girard-Perregaux and Asia Society Southern California (ASSC), at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, the second of only two produced Chrono Hawk Yao Ming models was auctioned for $16,000.
The special Yao Ming’s models bears the same stunning design of the last year’s Chrono Hawk watch, one of the best looking sport timepieces in 2012. It features a 44mm case with nicely cut, sharp edges, a round bezel made of the same material (satin-finished stainless steel), as well as a rubber octagonal ring, fitted in-between, giving the watch a nice contemporary look.
A beautiful dial is decorated by the pattern that echoes the emblematic Girard-Perregaux Bridge. Along with applied hour markers, two chronograph counters and the inner bezel ring with the minute track, this pattern creates a striking 3-D effect. Special models bring inner bezel rings and chrono hands, marked in Yao Ming’s red color. Besides, there is a Yao Ming’s special symbol inscribed in striking red on a black rubber strap, as well as another symbol transferred on a sapphire glass that covers the case-back.
After presenting the watch to the legendary sportsman, the International sales Director of Girard-Perregaux, Jean-Marc Bories, said that Yao Ming represented the best in the sport of basketball, but also the best of humanity, through his important work with the Special Olympics and WildAid in its quest to prevent the eradication of sharks and African elephants. “Thus, we are very proud to honor such an iconic star”, said Jean-Marc Bories.
By presenting him a Girard-Perregaux 1966 full calendar watch, the renowned Swiss watchmaker also honored another basketball icon, Steve Nash, for his strong philanthropic work through the Steve Nash Foundation.
In addition, Asia Society Southern California awarded John Chiang, California State Controller, with the 2013 “Asian American Leader of the Year” title.
