Luxury timepiece retailer the hour glass’ new social-media campaign brings four of singapore’s top fashionistas to malmaison by the hour glass. rachel lim, yoyo cao, velda tan and arissa cheo reveal which watches make them tick, and why this boutique is a hit with them.
Luxury timepiece retailer the hour glass’ new social-media campaign brings four of singapore’s top fashionistas to malmaison by the hour glass. rachel lim, yoyo cao, velda tan and arissa cheo reveal which watches make them tick, and why this boutique is a hit with them.
Rachel Lim, 29, co-founder of online store Love, Bonito, and Her World BFF
What was your rst big watch purchase?
A Rolex, the ultimate classic timepiece. I bought it a couple of years ago when Love, Bonito was really taking o – I worked particularly hard that year and saved enough to buy my first milestone gift. I wanted something edgy and not too feminine. The Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II fitted the bill.
A timepiece that you’ve got your eye on is…
The Cartier Santos 100. I’m particularly fond of the squarish face. The watch will probably mark my next milestone: when I become a mother! The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is another head-turner. I love that it’s elegant but not too dainty.
When did you start getting interested in watches?
I wasn’t into them initially. My fiance changed that – he gets really excited by them, so I started to notice the designs and details. Now, I believe a watch is a very important accessory – more so than a handbag!
Tell us about your fave watch boutique.
I was so impressed by the personalised service of Malmaison that I’ve built a good relationship with one of the salespeople there. The space is large, yet it still feels private and intimate. I think that’s what makes browsing there a pleasure.
Yoyo Cao, 28, designer of fashion label Exhibit
Your very rst watches were…
A few Casio Baby-Gs when I was in primary school. They were gifts from my mother for doing well in class. They were practical, but more importantly, they came in various colours, which made me happy!
Your fave timepiece is…
My Rolex Daytona. My mother got it for me on my 18th birthday. At 40mm, it looks slightly oversized on my wrist, but that’s what I like about it. The design is classic and works well with any outfit or occasion.
How do you feel about the watch you’re wearing for this shoot?
I’m wearing the Rolex Day-Date in gold. The brand and its watches are timeless because of the no-nonsense design and functionality. The flagship models, designed decades ago, still look very current and contemporary.
What do you find most appealing about Malmaison?
It doesn’t feel like a traditional watch shop – the sense of comfort and privacy makes it feel more like someone’s home. I particularly like the second floor as it’s bright and spacious, yet feels private.
Velda Tan, 29, entrepreneur and founder of fashion brand Collate The Label
What was your very first major watch purchase?
I’m really into classic brands and initially wanted to buy something timeless like a Cartier or Rolex. I went to Malmaison and looked for a masculine watch that would be versatile enough for different occasions. I was recommended quite a few pieces, and there it was – the Hublot Big Bang. I even bought an additional white strap for variety. It was a very memorable first experience.
What will your next watch purchase be?
I need an occasion and I think that will be my 30th birthday. I’ve been looking around for a gold watch and am eyeing a few pieces. The last time I was at Malmaison, I was recommended the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak with a rose gold bezel – a beautiful piece I can see sitting on my wrist.
Would you consider yourself a collector?
I wouldn’t call myself a collector at this point, but I definitely have an interest, and I think having a few pieces would be great. I’m mostly influenced by my husband, who’s the collector in the family. Over the years, I’ve watched and learnt from him. I’m currently wearing a Rolex Submariner, which was actually his first watch. I removed some links so the timepiece would fit my wrist and now I’ve completely taken over it!
Do you have any advice for the rst-time watch buyer?
It’s important to find a timepiece that matches your personality. It’s something that you will be wearing and looking at every day, so it has to make you smile.
Arissa Cheo, 33, fashion influencer
Tell us about your rst key timepiece.
It was a Cartier Santos – a gift from my parents when I was 16. I still wear it, but I’ve since changed the strap to a white croc-leather one. It’s an absolute classic.
Do you consider yourself a watch collector?
Although I have a few nice timepieces, I wouldn’t consider myself a collector. I often forget to put on a watch, after all the accessories I pile on! But I definitely see more and more women collectors, and I’ve noticed that they are going for big, masculine designs from Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Richard Mille.
Is the rest of your family into watches?
Yes, my dad loves watches and believes everyone should have a quality timepiece. My mum has received many from him over the years. One day I hope to wear her limited-edition Audemars Piguet – although it’s covered in diamonds, it doesn’t look ostentatious and is surprisingly easy to wear.
Tell us about the watches you wore at Malmaison for this photo shoot.
I got to wear the iconic Patek Philippe Nautilus in stainless steel and this pink Hublot Big Bang Pop Art, which is quite me!
