There’s a certain confidence in knowing what speaks to you—and trusting it. For Michelle Arifin, collecting has never been about chasing rarity or building the perfect archive. Instead, it’s an instinctive practice shaped by emotion, memory and an appreciation for objects with lasting resonance. From sculptural timepieces to designs she’ll treasure for years to come, she shares how her eye—and her collection—has evolved.
Here, she speaks to us about her instinctive approach to collecting, the joy of discovering meaningful pieces and the timepieces that reflect her personal journey.
GRAZIA Singapore (GS): How would you describe your collecting philosophy?
Michelle Arifin (MA): Very instinctive. I do not overstrategise. If something resonates with me in the moment, I trust that feeling. It is less about building a perfect collection and more about acquiring pieces that feel right at different points in my life.
GS: Beyond ownership, what pleasures do you find in collecting?
MA: It is the quiet thrill of discovery—the moment when you come across something that feels unexpectedly right. Over time, each piece becomes part of your daily rhythm and carries memories in a subtle, personal way.
GS: Is there a watch in your collection that surprises people most?
MA: My Cartier Cloche de Cartier Skeleton tends to surprise people. It is not the easiest watch to read, which almost feels beside the point. I love its sculptural design. It feels unique, slightly unexpected, and very much aligned with my own personality.
GS: How has your taste evolved over time?
MA: It has become more refined and self-assured. While I still rely on instinct, I now gravitate towards pieces with a stronger sense of permanence and designs that I know I will continue to appreciate over time.
Photography Sherman See-Tho
Art Direction Marisa Xin
Styling Joan Tai
Hair and Makeup Zhou Aiyi, using Shu Uemura and Revlon Professional
Styling Assistant Shiro Kuan
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