Savina Chow has spent her career immersed in the worlds of fashion, design and luxury, so it’s no surprise that the watches she gravitates towards are chosen with the same discerning taste. Rather than chasing trends, she seeks out timepieces with strong design narratives, storied heritage and lasting craftsmanship.
Here, she reflects on the parallels between fashion and watchmaking, the appeal of Japan’s vintage watch culture and what her collection reveals about her personal style.
GS: What speaks to you most when you choose a watch?
Savina Chow (SC): When I look at watches, the design and history matter most to me. Since I was trained in fashion and design, I appreciate the rich heritage and craftsmanship that go into each piece. I see watchmaking as running parallel to the fashion industry. Archive designs are always being reinterpreted for the modern day. Heritage watch brands have such a rich design language that influences dressmaking. For example, Coco Chanel’s 1926 little black dress, with its geometric lines, was quintessentially Art Deco, and you can see those influences reflected in watch designs such as the Cartier Tank.
GS: You’re a fan of the secondhand watch scene in Japan. What sets it apart?
SC: Japan has one of the biggest, most diverse supplies of vintage luxury pieces, and there is a deep cultural emphasis on care and preservation. This means vintage watches often remain in remarkably good condition, making it possible to source rare pieces. The country also has strict anticounterfeiting laws, so it’s generally safe for luxury watch shopping.
GS: If your collection were viewed as a portrait of your life, what would it say about you?
SC: It would reveal a deep appreciation for design, history, and craftsmanship. It also reflects my personal style, at times quite boyish and sporty, and on some days, feminine and elegant.
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