This image came from Flickr, see: https://www.flickr.com/photos/chethams_library/14434891044/
Photos acquired by Sir Bosdin Thomas Leech and Lady Leech of Manchester, during their round-the-world trip in 1901.
It looks like they bought commercial photographs during their visit. From other photos in this collection, the date can be estimated to c.1895–1900.
This photo can be dated more precisely. Hong Kong Club Building (2nd Generation) [1897-1981] is almost finished, only a few scaffolds still standing. United Telegraph Companies' Offices [1898-1948] and 2 Connaught Road / New Oriental Building [1898-c.1955]: work commenced. Butterfield & Swire's Offices [1897-1960] still under construction, third floor only partly finished. Hong Kong Club opened in July 1897. The date of the photo should be some months earlier (copied from a comment here).
"Most of the scaffolding of the new Club has been removed and it is now possible to obtain a clear view of this handsome structure, which will be an adornment to the colony. It is expected to be ready for occupation in June."
Source: Hong Kong Daily Press, page 2, 28th April 1897
The reclamation works look almost finished, only a few granite blocks can be seen at the waterfront.
Two hulks can be seen: HMS Victor Emmanuel (left) and HMS Meanee (right in the back).
Comments
There is a similar photo…
There is a similar photo from 1902. The praya buildings have been completed and are in use, and HMS Victor Emmanuel has been replaced by HMS Tamar.
Butterfield & Swire's Offices
Hi Klaus, the third floor looks complete, apart from the scaffolding. The third floor didn't cover the whole building, just the side facing the sea. Here's a view of the finished building: