The click of a clasp. The gentle weight of metal against skin. The subtle sweep of a second hand.
A watch is never just a way to measure hours — it’s a quiet companion, a personal statement, and sometimes, a treasured heirloom.
In Malaysia, a new generation of watchmakers is rewriting what that statement can be.
With designs that echo local culture, global sophistication, and a keen eye for craftsmanship, Malaysian watch brands are proving that the art of timekeeping knows no borders.
The rise of Malaysian watch brands
The global watch scene has long been dominated by Swiss precision and Japanese innovation. But over the past decade, Malaysia has been steadily carving its own path in horology.
Driven by a passion for design, engineering, and cultural storytelling, a new generation of Malaysian watch brands is creating timepieces that blend international standards with local sensibilities.
Whether you’re seeking a statement piece for special occasions or a robust companion for your adventures, these brands are proving that Malaysia is more than capable of holding its own in the world of watchmaking.
1. Ming Watches
Founded in 2017 by photographer and watch collector Ming Thein, Ming Watches quickly gained cult status among enthusiasts worldwide. Their design philosophy — clean lines, balanced proportions, and subtle detailing — is paired with Swiss-made movements and impeccable finishing. Limited production runs mean each release sells out within minutes, creating a sense of exclusivity.
Notable collections: The 17-series for its minimal elegance, the 20-series for travel-ready GMTs, and the experimental Special Projects Cave.
W ming.watch | F @mingwatches | I @mingwatches
2. MEM Watches
A boutique watchmaker with a focus on value and wearability, MEM Watches delivers quartz and automatic watches built for daily use. Their designs often feature crisp, uncluttered dials, applied indices, and comfortable straps, making them versatile for work or leisure.
Notable collections: The Classic series with sunburst dials, and the Sport series with water-resistant, rugged builds.
F @memwatches | I @memwatches
3. Nayan Co
Founded with a passion for vintage horology, Nayan Co specialises in mechanical watches with a nostalgic twist. Each timepiece is assembled in small batches, allowing for attention to detail and optional customisation. The brand often draws inspiration from mid-century tool watches and dress pieces, making them ideal for collectors with a love for heritage style.
Notable collections: Heritage Automatic series and bespoke, one-off commissions.
4. Artwist
Based in Cyberjaya, Artwist merges abstract art with fine watchmaking, producing elegant pieces powered by reliable Seiko and Miyota movements. Each design is a wearable work of art crafted with premium materials.
Notable collections: Several models pay tribute to Malaysian icons, including the minimalist-modern Tun M Wawasan watch and the Perdana Menteri series.
W artwist.co | F @artwist.co | I @artwist.co
5. Fateh Watches
Veteran watchmaker Tuan Haji Zainal Mohd Ali, who has over four decades of expertise in watchmaking, attended formal watchmaking training at Stern Frères Fabrique de Cadrans in Geneva, Switzerland, and began his career in the watchmaking industry soon after.
Notable collections: His debut Discovery collection gained attention for helping Muslims on Hajj or Umrah track two time zones with ease.
W fatehwatches.com | F @fatehwatches | I @fatehwatches
6. Revelot
Established in 2017 by Kevin HTJ and Yong Yee Mun, Revelot creates affordable, stylish timepieces funded through Kickstarter and Indiegogo. Their watches are available at Timekeeper outlets across Klang Valley.
Notable collections: Starting with the R7 and R11 models, the brand now offers a diverse collection.
W revelot.com | F @revelot | I @revelot_official
For more luxury watches, find them here.