Ron Good and the Alberta Museum of Chinese Horology in Peace River

阅读中文文章

For those of you who are familiar with the world of Chinese watches, Ron Good needs no introduction. But for those of you who aren't, he is one of the most knowledgeable collectors of Chinese watches in the western hemisphere, specifically Vintage Chinese Mechanical Watches (VCMs). His collection of both vintage and modern Chinese timekeeping devices is so expansive it could fill a museum. In fact...it does just that, and the Alberta Museum of Chinese Horology in Peace River has just relaunched its newly designed website. If you love vintage watches, you'll love the gallery of photos at AMCHPR!

I became aware of Ron during my time researching the Chinese watch industry (before starting this site) through his website and various online watch forums where he very thoroughly documents his experiences, and shares pictures and reviews of his watches. Anyone looking for a peek inside China through the lens of the watch industry should definitely take some time to read through some of his experiences posted on Watchuseek or other forums (search albertatime on forums). I was more than thrilled when I was finally introduced to Ron (by the very kind Tina, from Rossini) at the 2015 China Watch & Clock Fair in Shenzhen.

Ron's interest in Chinese watches began in 2008, and he has since traveled to China on multiple occasions establishing relationships with the industry's top tier of leadership. And I do mean top tier. I spent only a few hours with Ron and company, and was blown away by the unprecedented access, not to mention unprecedented respect, that he and his group of industry friends were given. Among these friends is Mr. Li Wei of the China Horologe Association, who I was also fortunate enough to meet. Ron was the first and today one of a small handful of non-Chinese people with a membership in the China Horologe Association. I have to just say, however, that he doesn't let any of this go to his head. Ron is truly one of the sweetest and most genuinely gracious people I've met.

Like most watch enthusiasts, his collecting began with a curiosity to find something more interesting than the watch already on his wrist. Curiosity and research led him to the world of Chinese watches where his curiosity became an interest, which soon became a passion. But for Ron, from what I gather in my little time speaking with him, it's really about more than just watches. His love for the wonderful culture that surrounds the industry is truly the driving force behind his passion. On the first day we met, he told me with all sincerity that he hopes to die in China. That's a statement! Hey Ron, let's revisit that idea 20 or 30 years down the road, eh?