Before wristwatches became the norm, pocket watches were the timepiece people carried around, typically tucked into a pocket and attached to a chain. These days, you’re more likely to spot one dangling from a keychain than peeking out from someone’s 3-piece ensemble.
And with bag charms, chunky chains, and personalised accessories having their moment, practically any sort of linglong is possible to get, or make yourself. If you fancy the vintage, retro feel that timeless pieces give, or love a functional accessory, a pocket watch may be for you.
Requisite Store has put a DIY spin on the classic with its Pocket Watch Making Workshop, where you can create one as a keychain, chain accessory, or one-of-a-kind bag charm.
Image adapted from: Requisite Store
The Pocket Watch Making Workshop costs $65 for 1 person or $120 for 2 people, working out to $60/pax if you bring a buddy along. Just make sure you can commit to your slot before booking, as Requisite Store has a strict no-cancellation, no-refund policy. However, they are able to accommodate participant swapping if something crops up before your designated session.
The fun part of customising your own pocket watch is making it look different from everyone else’s. At Requisite Store, you’ll probably have a hard time choosing, thanks to the wide variety of bits and bobs you can customise your pocket watch with. With over 50 dials, chains, and charms to pick from, you’ll be thoroughly spoilt for choice.
Rather than being limited to a fixed number of embellishments, Requisite Store allows you to add as many charms as you’d like to your watch. Minimalists can keep things simple, while those firmly on team maximalism can pile on the charms for something more unique and eye-catching.
Image credit: Requisite Store
And no, you do not need any watchmaking or jewellery-making experience to attend. Expect to be guided step-by-step during the session, where all tools and materials will be provided, and you’ll be taken through the process of designing and customising your very own pocket watch. So, all you need to bring is yourself.
Complimentary drinks and snacks will also be provided during the session. Each workshop accommodates a maximum of 8 attendees, although Requisite Store accepts enquiries for larger groups such as corporate events, weddings, parties, and event booths.
Image credit: Requisite Store
Perhaps the best part about making your own accessory is getting to decide how exactly it fits into your wardrobe.
Clip your creation to your handbag if you’re going for a classy, timeless look, or let the chain dangle from your trousers for a more vintage-inspired aesthetic. Since you’re choosing the dial, chain, and charms yourself, there are plenty of opportunities to coordinate the watch with fashion pieces you already own.
Once your watch is complete, it’s yours to bring home and show off. A gift box and polishing cloth are included with each watch, which is great if you want to hand-make a gift rather than keep the item for yourself.
Image credit: Requisite Store
If you’re tired of all the plushies hanging from your bag, a pocket watch could just be the thing to shake things up. With plenty of room to customise your design and different ways to style the finished piece, it’s one to bookmark for your next crafty day out or when you’re after an accessory that’s unlikely to look like everyone else’s.
Those who fancy a twist on a classic wristwatch or want to sport a statement piece between their collarbones can also opt for the specialised Watch Making Workshop or Choker Watch Making Workshop.
Address: 16 Shaw Road, Kin Building, #02-11, Singapore 367954
Opening hours: Tues- Sun, 11AM- 7:30PM
Contact: Requisite Store website
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Cover image adapted from: Requisite Store
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