Young collector Ryan Ong has a taste for timepieces with distinctive details

Reflecting a maturity beyond his years, this watch enthusiast enjoys watches with distinctive character and intricate details.

By Lynette Koh / 6 Jul 2023

Ryan Ong, watch collector and fan of distinctive designs. (Photo: Veronica Tay)

luxury watches, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Talking Time, Watch collectors, Watch collectors Singapore, Watches

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Early inspirations

“When I was 16, we used to go to a family friend’s place for brunch on the weekends. He had a remarkable watch collection. His Rolex Sky-Dweller in yellow gold left an impression on me with its array of functions. That furthered my fascination with horology. I’m currently pursuing my passion for watches through my Instagram and TikTok accounts, as well as a soon-to-be-launched website. I have been helping out in my family business in the food industry, but I’m also exploring new career opportunities. Hopefully, I can do something in the watch industry.”

Of high calibre

“One of the biggest highlights in my watch journey so far has been my visit to the Vacheron Constantin factory in Geneva. The Grand Complications room was my favourite. I remember walking in and hearing the sound of gongs resonating throughout the room. The complex calibres in this department were the work of the brand’s top watchmakers, and their sheer depth and breadth were impressive. The experience of seeing how raw materials come to life through the work of the watchmaker was truly unforgettable.”

"Iconic" - Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona in yellow gold

Veronica Tay

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“When I turned 18 in 2015, my father passed his Rolex Datejust to me. It was two-toned with a Jubilee bracelet and a fluted bezel — and it was my first-ever luxury Swiss watch. As time went by, I started to long for a sports watch with wrist presence, and I knew it had to be the iconic Daytona. Then, I never imagined I’d own a Daytona one day, let alone one in gold. As my style matured, so did my appreciation for gold. Among others, I now have two Daytonas in yellow gold — one with an Oysterflex bracelet and one with a yellow- gold bracelet (pictured). I like the Daytona because it is the epitome of an automotive-inspired sports chronograph.”

"Vintage-casual" - Patek Philippe 5172G Manual-Wind Chronograph “Salmon” in white gold

Veronica Tay

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“I am highly selective in acquiring new timepieces. I’m willing to invest the time in researching and collecting the ones I believe are truly exceptional. In my collection, one of my favourites is the Patek Philippe Ref. 5172G Manual-Wind Chronograph ‘Salmon’. I fell in love with it when I got up close with the blue- dialled variant through a good friend. I did not manage to acquire that version, so when I had the opportunity to get the one with the salmon dial, I did not hesitate. I like its details such as its triple-stepped lugs, vintage-inspired syringe hands and pump pushers, as well as the fact that its movement is Patek Philippe’s first in-house, hand-wound chronograph movement.”

"Vibrant" - Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 “Rainbow” in yellow gold and diamonds

Veronica Tay

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“Last June, I was going through a tough time due to the loss of someone dear to me. Around that time, I received a text out of the blue from a dealer about the Rolex Day-Date 36 ‘Rainbow’, a watch I never knew existed. For me, the rainbow hour markers on the watch serve as a reminder of the beauty after the storm and the preciousness of life. This special piece has since become my everyday watch. It never fails to bring me joy.”

luxury watches, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Talking Time, Watch collectors, Watch collectors Singapore, Watches