Blending the elegance of craft with the spirit of excellence, Rolex hosted an event that went beyond celebration. Held in the Grand Ballroom of the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, the reception and dinner, with Tatler Asia playing host, brought together luminaries and legends from around the world, with the spotlight on tennis icon and Rolex testimonee Li Na.
Rolex, a brand synonymous with precision and timeless craftsmanship, has long championed the pursuit of excellence—not just in watchmaking but in every endeavour it supports. This mission finds a perfect embodiment in Li, whose journey from the courts of Wuhan to the global stage has been nothing short of extraordinary. As the first Chinese player to win a WTA tour title, the first Asian to claim a Grand Slam singles championship and a pioneer who cracked the top ten in world rankings, Li’s career is a testament to resilience, dedication and an unyielding commitment to excellence.
Michel Lamunière, Li Na and Maxim Lamarre (Photo: Rolex)
A fireside chat with Li Na and Angelica Cheung Rolex testimonee Li Na (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
But her influence extends beyond the tennis court. She is a beacon of individuality, known for her unpretentious style. Her mantra is simple yet powerful—comfort and authenticity over conformity. This ethos resonates deeply with Rolex’s values, making her an ideal testimonee for a brand that honours individuality and timelessness.
Moreover, Li’s philanthropic efforts are as impressive as her sporting achievements. She has been a staunch advocate for various causes, from supporting children and elderly people to uplifting underprivileged communities. Her impact has paved the way for the next generation of Chinese tennis stars, including Zheng Qinwen, who recently made history by winning China’s first-ever Olympic tennis gold.
Rolex is celebrating excellence in every field of life
The evening’s programme, which opened with a cocktail reception and a warm welcome by Tatler Hong Kong’s editor-in-chief Ahy Choi, unfolded as a masterclass in inspiration. Rolex Greater China’s CEO Maxim Lamarre set the tone with his opening remarks, followed by a welcome note from Tatler Asia’s chairman and CEO Michel Lamunière, which led into a captivating fireside chat with Li, moderated by journalist Angelica Cheung. Guests were treated to a gala dinner that was both a feast for the palate and a tribute to the spirit of excellence. The night reached a crescendo with a performance by Olivia Xiaolin—a Hong Kong-born DJ, producer and contemporary violinist known for her fusion of jazz, ambient beats and ’80s-inspired music.
Li Na Rolex testimonee Li Na (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
The tablescape at the exclusive event (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Rolex’s commitment to excellence was palpable throughout the evening, reflected not only in the orchestration of the event but in the calibre and diversity of conversations that filled the room. This was more than just a gathering; it was a convergence of like-minded individuals who, much like Rolex, are driven by the desire to push boundaries and redefine what is possible.
Stephanie Au and Nicholas Edward Choi at the Rolex event (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Cindy Yeung at the Rolex event (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Jeffery and Julian Yau (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Lincoln Li and Feiping Chang at the Rolex event (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Cecilia Yeung (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Jason Chan (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Anne Wang at the Rolex event (Photo: Rolex)
Li Na was also the Tatler cover star (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Ballroom at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong where the event was held (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Chefs prepared tennis-themed desserts (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Maxim Lamarre (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Michel Lamunière takes to the stage (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Rolex’s special touches at the venue (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Ming Ho Tang and Sherman Tang (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
Alex Jiaravanont and Rachel Choy (Photo: Rolex)
Olivia Xiaolin (Photo: Tatler Hong Kong/ Billy Chen/ Humphrey Ng)
In every detail—from the legendary figures it celebrates to the iconic timepieces it creates—Rolex remains at the forefront of showcasing the pursuit of excellence. And on this night, as Li’s journey intertwined with the brand’s storied history, it was clear that the quest for greatness is not just a mission: it’s a way of life.