Velda Tan, 29,

entrepreneur and founder of fashion brand Collate The Label

What was your very rst 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 rst 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 denitely have an interest, and I think having a few pieces would be great. I’m mostly inuenced 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 rst watch. I removed some links so the timepiece would t 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 nd 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.

Velda with one of her fave timepieces: the Hublot Big Bang with diamonds and a white strap.