Changing Chimes

Time waits for no man. In Cheong Ann Watch Maker, one was constantly reminded of the fleeting nature of time with the many clocks on display. CityJo Bruce caught up with the third-generation owner of the business, Shawn Lim, to find out more about how the business had changed. 

Although Cheong Ann no longer makes watches, they are still very involved in the business of repair and restoration. Through his years of experience, Shawn shared with Bruce that the chimes of mechanical clocks sound different from that produced by electronic clocks. Shawn shared that this was due to the differences in the materials used. Bruce was also educated on how an antique clock was valued.

As the pair zoomed in on an antique clock ornamented with lion heads and dragons, Bruce was quizzed on its origins. Bruce thought that the clock was made in China, when in fact, it was made in France for the Chinese market. The pagoda-like timepiece was made between 1860s – 1880s, and originally retailed by Tiffany & Co. Owing to its intricate design and history, the antique clock was valued at between $12,000 – $14,000.

Keen to know if you are holding onto an antique timepiece? Watch this episode to find out.