How many of you are wearing a watch on your wrist right now? Are you wearing it on your left or right hand? Well, our parents used to tell us that if you are left-handed, you should wear your watch on your right hand. But if you are right-handed, you should wear it on your left! Do you know why? One of the reasons was because we were students wearing watches to school back in the day. Wearing your watch on your non-dominant hand helps avoid that uncomfortable bulk when writing. You’ve probably felt that your watch was in the way when you wore it on your dominant hand and tried to write. It is not a nice feeling.
So, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best affordable and luxury watches for both men and women available right here in Malaysia that might suit your taste and have you checking the time every five minutes.
Malaysian Brand Watches
Contents
1. MING
Founded in 2014, MING is the brainchild of Ming Thein, who remarkably graduated Oxford at a mere 16 years old with a degree in physics. Along with five other local watch enthusiasts, they finally released their first product in 2017, and has now amassed a cult following all over the globe. Each model is released in small quantities, making their products ultra-exclusive and extremely sought-after. The brand has even been nominated for and won prestigious accolades – their models were finalists in the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève for three years in a row, and the 17.06 model won the Horological Revelation prize. If you hadn’t heard of MING before, they’re most definitely among the best watch brands in Malaysia
Why we love it:
- Mechanical designs
- Designed in Malaysia, assembled in Switzerland
- Has been featured in The New York Times and The Financial Times
Price: Price on request.
Where to buy: MING
2. Nocturne Watch
Nocturne Watch offers you an elegant design with fine craftsmanship. This watch brand is definitely worth getting for yourself or as a gift. Each of Nocturne Watch’s timepieces features a 316L stainless steel case that is surgical-grade, and a Swiss Ronda Movement. What’s more, the straps of the watches are interchangeable as well! Which can help elevate your look, and provide versatility. A luxurious yet affordable watch homegrown brand, it’s definitely a conversation starter and one of the best watches brand watches in Malaysia.
Why we love it:
- Water-resistant
- Scratch-resistant
- Changeable straps
Price: RM705.80 (O.P. – $149)
Where to buy: Nocturne Watch
3. Malaya Co
Keen on owning a watch with a minimalistic design? Then Malaya Co is the right choice for you! Malaya Co is known for its watches that are minimal and no-frills. More than just one of the best watch brands in Malaysia, Malaya Co includes accessories such as pouches and bags with their watches. These brand is inspired by industrial and military minimalism, so your timepieces will be both über chic and functional.
Why we love it:
- Minimalistic design
- Water-resistant
- Stainless steel case
Price: RM488.23 (O.P. – $110)
Where to buy: Malaya Co
4. Nayan Co
Highly affordable but doesn’t compromise on elegance, here’s a Sabahan watch brand that you will definitely love. Did we mention that even The Flash’s actor Grant Gustin owns one of these timepieces? That’s right! This local watch brand actually gained popularity after it was spotted on the wrist of Grant Gustin, whose wife also happens to be Sabah-born. Launched back in 2018, Nayan Co has since been the centre of attention with its unmistakable logo.
Why we love it:
- Highly affordable
- Water-resistant
- Curve mineral glass
Price: RM180.00
Where to buy: Shopee
5. MEM Watches
No, you’re not seeing it wrong. MEM watches really do turn counterclockwise. That’s right, this is one of the best watch brands in Malaysia that will make the perfect gift for someone or yourself. Their goal is to make something so different, that it becomes unique. Besides, this will be a great party trick and a great conversation starter. You can take a look at all that this watch brand has to offer in-person at their store in Cyberjaya and at Aeon Mall Shah Alam.
Why we love it:
- 1-year warranty
- Unique counterclockwise watch
- Changeable straps
Price: RM374.22
Where to buy: Mem Watches
Luxury Watches
1. Audemars Piguet
Looking for a watch that will stand out in the crowd? The new Royal Oak Concept Split Second Chronograph GMT Large Date is bound to turn heads. The peak of horological luxury, this epic timepiece is sheathed in a 43mm three-dimensional titanium case with an openwork dial display, showcasing the Calibre 4407 self-winding mechanism in all its glory. A true masterpiece, this model by Audemars Piguet will be the talk of the town. Available offline at the Audemars Piguet Boutique in Starhill Gallery.
Why we love it:
- Extremely durable
- Has a two-toned openwork dial
- Interchangeable strap
Price: Price upon request.
Where to buy: Audemars Piguet
2. Bovet
Bovet is a master at combining elegance with intricate mechanisms, topped off with the most faultless mechanisms. The Bovet Récital 22 Grand Recital won the Aiguille d’Or at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2018, and for good reason. Featuring seconds on the double face flying tourbillon, precision moon phase, retrograde double-sided date, as well as an incredible 9-day power reserve with a single barrel and a retrograde perpetual calendar on the back, it’s no wonder this watch is a collector’s dream. It may not be affordable, but it is sure a thing of beauty.
Why we love it:
- Featured the day, month, leap year, and retrograde double-sided date
- Has a hand-painted, glow in the dark, rotating earth 24-hour display
- Has a 9 day power reserve
Price: Price on request.
Where to buy: Bovet
3. Breitling
Every watch collector should have at least one Breitling. In 1952, Willy Breitling developed a piece that would allow pilots to perform all necessary flight calculations with a wrist-won chronograph with a circular slide rule. More than seven decades later, the Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 41 has seen many reiterations, but still remains a classic to this day. With new shades of blue, green, and copper, this timepiece remains one of the most recognisable watches in the world.
Why we love it:
- Iconic
- Water resistant
- 70-hour power reserve
Price: RM39, 500
Where to buy: Breitling
4. Casio
A favourite among Malaysians, Casio is one of the well-known and definitely best watch brands that also makes your well-used calculators! With an angular design, it is very recognisable and comes in a variety of colours. These watches offer qualities that are quite endearing as well. It’s both digital and analog, making it super unique.
Why we love it:
- Stainless steel band
- Water-resistant
- Tough solar
Price: RM 2,730
Where to buy: Casio
5. Phillip Watch
Born in 1858, Phillip Watch are experts at making timepieces. Featuring a classic brown leather strap, gold casing, and quartz movement, the Anniversary 40mm Case Leather Strap Men’s Chronograph Quartz Watch will definitely elevate your outfit to the next level. At less than RM2,000, it’s affordable luxury, making it one of the best watch brands available in Malaysia.
Why we love it:
- Swiss made
- 10ATM water resistance
- Quarts movement
Price: RM1,944.00
Where to buy: Zalora
