Men’s Folio roped in six illustrators for a time (tongue) in cheek illustration on a series of watches, each filled with cultural references from the artist’s backgrounds. Swipe to see image of the original watch.
Bell & Ross BR 05 Black Ceramic
“You can learn a lot about a person by looking at their hands and the kind of watches they wear.” — Chong Wah, Singapore
Chong Wah is a graphic designer, illustrator, and all-around creative. He likes to draw things based on his current hobbies. Right now, he is obsessed with motorcycles.
Swatch Turquoise Joy
“Unfolds with ang ku kueh on a metal tray, topped with an old school plastic food cover, and paired with a vibrant Swatch Turquoise Joy watch. The bold colour combination shows the blend of local tradition and modernity, reflecting the spirit of Malaysia’s heritage.” — Lihuà, Malaysia
Lihuà — a fashion illustrator and artist — collaborates with top brands and creates internationally acclaimed works that blend fashion silhouettes with Chinese calligraphy and watercolours.
Hublot Big Bang Unico Orange Ceramic
“Recently, my 11-year-old brother returned home with a container full of Longkang fish, which reminded me of my childhood when I went Longkang fishing with my friends.” — Erwin Canuela, Singapore
Erwin Canuela is a graphic designer, lettering artist and illustrator. His current obsessions include dissecting typefaces on random street signs and the Monster Hunter franchise.
Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Skeleton
“This artwork feels especially personal because it captures my mood at that particular moment. Looking at it, I can vividly remember how I was feeling and what was going through my mind at the time. It’s like a snapshot of my emotions, and that’s what makes it so meaningful to me.” — Cawand Dien, Malaysia
With a deep understanding of animation techniques, a diverse range of artistic mediums, and a passion for storytelling, Cawand Dien is an accomplished artist, animator, and music video director who continuously pushes the boundaries of creativity.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Date
“My illustration depicts three iconic landmarks in Singapore — Merlion, Changi Control Tower, and ArtScience Museum (left to right). These places of interest have been illustrated with the idea of creating an imaginative look on Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Polaris Date watch.” — Justin Leow, Singapore
Justin Leow is a Singaporean creative and musician who illustrates using his trackpad. He is also the founder of the local brand Preety Chill.
Tudor Black Bay 58 Bronze
“Hawker centres in Singapore — like Lau Pa Sat — are more than just places to eat. They are integral to the city’s urban and social fabric, serving as unique keepsakes of our past as a bustling free port. Inspired by Lau Pa Sat’s Victorian-style cast-iron structure and distinct clock tower, this artwork captures the hawker centre’s architecture as a unique artefact of time — one immeasurable by clocks.” — Zarer Lim, Singapore
Zarer Lim is a Singapore designer/illustrator whose distinctive mixed-media style has led to a collection of energetic and colourful animation, videos, zines, editorial illustrations, and posters.
Once you are done with this story, click here to catch up with our August 2024 issue.
