For the first time, the Singapore Watch Fair will make its debut in the city’s main shopping district, at the Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza along Orchard Road. Affectionately known as “The Tent”, this event is considered Asia’s most prestigious festival celebrating the art of watchmaking. Formerly part of the JeweLuxe Festival, the Singapore Watch Fair is now independent and will welcome watch lovers from October 26 to 30, 2022.
According to its press release, this watch-centric festival is dedicated to “[perpetuating] the appreciation and culture of collecting mechanical watches in Singapore and throughout the region and will be the place where relationships between collectors and watchmakers are forged.” The tent will host more than 20 independent watch brands like L’épée 1839, Bianchet, Furlan Marri and many more. Visitors who wish to sharpen their knowledge of watchmaking can take part in a series of experiential activities, including viewing vintage pieces and a panel discussion led by industry experts such as Alexandre Bigler, Head of Asia -Pacific for Christie’s Watches and Marc Andre of WatchesTV. They will share their opinions on key topics and the future of watchmaking and watch collecting.
“Watch imports to Singapore have steadily increased to meet the growing demand here. With a well-defined retail structure, a stable business environment and accessibility to the rest of Asia, Singapore is the ideal destination for watchmakers and watch enthusiasts to present their showcase, exchange information and expand their network. ”, say Nelson Lee and Ali Nael, founders of the Singapore Watch Fair.
“This year, we have elevated the Singapore Watch Fair with the aim of being the ultimate destination for watchmakers in Singapore and the region. Attendees can expect an exciting program of activities, including a one-of-a-kind exhibition designed to pique consumer interest and deepen their appreciation of the art of watchmaking, as well as debates with VIPs eminent institutions and foundations such as the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie. Ultimately, our goal is to be Asia’s leading watch show and a destination for watchmakers worldwide.”
One of the highlights of the show will be the fusion of watchmaking and NFT. Luxury standalone watch retailer Culture Watches and world-renowned watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin have created an exclusive Bored Ape Yacht Club timepiece to be launched at the Singapore Watch Fair. The event will also be a gathering point for the crypto-rich, who can participate in the live NFT coin minting process and in-camera purchases, among other activities. Closer to home, Atelier Holgur, based in Singapore, will present its creations during these five days.
FutureGrail, the city-state’s leading bespoke private storage, museum and Web3 service provider, will also be exhibiting at the Singapore Watch Fair. On the occasion of this event, it will launch a timepiece and vault service for collectors, who will be able to safely store their precious collection of watches in its state-of-the-art facilities. Already a favored storage platform for many, it has one of the largest collections of historic watches from the early 19th century, which is on permanent display in its private museum. At the same time, visitors have the opportunity to discover these vintage pieces in an immersive and engaging setting.
The exciting program of activities, combined with an exceptional showcase of independent brands, makes the Singapore Watch Fair the preferred destination for collectors and enthusiasts. Go to the Ngee Ann Plaza Civic Plaza to spend an unforgettable moment contemplating the different manifestations of time.
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