The Dark Side of the Watch World: A Singapore Scam Unveiled
It's a shocking revelation that has rocked the watch community: a trusted employee of a renowned Singapore watch boutique has been exposed for a fraudulent scheme, leaving victims in a state of disbelief and financial loss. This week's top story reveals the intricate web of lies spun by Soh Jian Kun, who promised the moon and stars to watch enthusiasts, only to leave them high and dry.
But here's where it gets controversial: in a city-state known for its stringent laws and low crime rates, how did this scam go unnoticed for so long? Kun, a former employee of Cortina Watch, claimed he had insider access to highly sought-after luxury watches from brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe. He promised his victims the chance to own these rare timepieces, but the truth was far from it. Not a single watch was ever ordered, and the victims were fed a steady diet of forged documents, fake receipts, and fabricated chat screenshots, all designed to maintain the illusion of legitimacy. The Straits Times reports that Kun has pleaded guilty to cheating 14 victims, including friends and former customers, out of almost $500,000.
This Ponzi scheme, masquerading as privileged access, has left many watch enthusiasts questioning the safety of their transactions. The watch community, known for its passion and camaraderie, has been shaken by this scandal. And this is the part most people miss: the impact of such scams on the trust and reputation of the industry. As prosecutors seek a sentence of up to five years and seven months in prison, the watch world is left wondering how to prevent such incidents in the future.
As we move forward into 2026, the watch industry is abuzz with anticipation. With LVMH Watch Week and Watches and Wonders on the horizon, the year promises to be filled with exciting releases and collaborations. But what are your predictions for the watch world this year? Who will be the rising stars? Which brands will dominate the market? Will microbrands make their mark? Share your thoughts with us, and let's explore the possibilities together.
At Time+Tide, we're thrilled to share our New York studio's grand opening and the exciting content we have in store for you. From the latest watch releases to the hottest trends, we're here to keep you informed and entertained. And don't forget to check out our weekly picks, from the Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Limited Edition to the Seiko Alpinist's eighth-generation model, we've got something for every watch enthusiast.
So, as we bid farewell to the first week of 2026, let's raise a glass to the year ahead. Here's to new beginnings, exciting releases, and a watch community that continues to thrive. And remember, stay vigilant, collectors, for the watch world is not immune to the shadows of deception.
