Antique clocks collected by Qing Long include French and British productions from the late 17th century to the 19th century.[Photo/China Daily]

Besides the masterpieces in the Forbidden City, Qing also wants to cover locally manufactured Western-style clocks in the Guangdong and Jiangsu provinces during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

"I am sure someone will write better books than me in the future," he says. "But at least for now I can lead a new way."

And, with Ke, his old friend in the rock band, also now collecting watches, Qing can be sure that he is moving in the right direction.

Contact the writer at wangkaihao@chinadaily.com.cn