Behind the Dial Archives

My Watch Collection 2025: State of the Collection (SOTC) as a Female Enthusiast

The Early Days: My First Watches

Titus Interlude – Graduation Gift from My Parents

This quartz watch started it all. My parents gifted it to me upon graduation, and I picked it for its minimalist design with interesting sub-dials. Titus (now Solvil et Titus) is a Swiss-founded brand popular in Southeast Asia – the older generation sees it as a “proper” watch.

Sadly, it’s been broken for years (movement issue), but I plan to fix it soon because it’s sentimental. It also sparked my shift to mechanical watches – I love the romance and engineering of no-battery movements!

Titus Interlude AshleyTee — *Titus Interlude*

Seiko SKX013 – My Most Meaningful Watch

Bought with my first salary during a career transition and tough life phase, this ISO-certified diver reminded me to stay strong and durable. I still grab it for swimming with my kid – I trust that 200m water resistance!

It’s seen less wrist time lately, but it’ll always stay in the collection.

Seiko SNXS79 – My Wedding Dress Watch

Inspired by the Rolex Oyster Perpetual’s sunburst gray dial, this affordable dress watch was my wedding pick. I upgraded the bracelet (AliExpress find) and even replaced the cracked crystal with sapphire myself – proud DIY moment!

It got overshadowed by newer pieces, but I’ve been trying to wear it more and more. A true keeper.

Seiko SNXS79 Ashley Tee — *Seiko SNXS79*

Wedding Photo Ashley Tee — *Worn this Seiko as my wedding watch*

Family Gifts and Shared Pieces

Seiko 5 Field Watch (SNK803 Beige): Early buy that I fell out of love with… until a strap swap (dark brown leather) brought it back. Proof that tastes evolve – don’t sell too quickly!
Two Tissot Watches from Mom’s Long Service Awards: Feminine pieces with engravings. She passed them to me when she saw my obsession. Perfect for office or dressy occasions.
Casio W217: Gift from a friend. Currently “borrowed” by my toddler son – he loves it (even if it doesn’t fit his tiny wrist yet). Tough, plastic, kid-proof. Suggestions for a real kids’ watch welcome!
Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H (Panda Dial): Technically my husband’s wedding watch (I convinced him away from a G-Shock!). This hand-wound beauty is chunky but handsome – we share it, and it’s one of the dressiest in the collection.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H (Mechanical Ver.) Ashley Te — Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H (Mechanical Ver.)

Wrist shot of Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H (Mechanical Ver.) Ashley Tee — Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H (Mechanical Ver.)

Review Pieces and Microbrands

Timex M79: Impulse buy on sale for early YouTube reviews. Honeymoon phase ended quickly – it’s up for sale soon.
Casio “Tank” LTP V007: Affordable Cartier Tank homage. Great value, but the tapering strap feels too small.
Namoki Mod Kit Watch: My first assembly experience – customized with bracelet, blue rotor, display caseback.
Vario Reversible Watch: Inspired by JLC Reverso and Cartier Tank. Impressive quality from Singapore microbrand Vario – one of the best affordable flip watches out there.

Casio ABL-100 & Casio A168: Was very intrigued with the bluetooth function and got the A168 as a comparison piece.
DIY Watch Club Build: Reignited my passion post-motherhood with a gorgeous Miyota 8315 movement.
Orient Bambino 38mm Small Seconds: Review piece I can’t let go – elegant Roman numerals.

Orient Introduces the Bambino 38 Small Seconds — *Orient Bambino Small Seconds 38mm*

Standouts from Recent Years

Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm Mother-of-Pearl

Perfect timing – released around my pregnancy. The 35mm size fits my wrist beautifully (no overhang), integrated bracelet feels premium, and MOP dial is stunning. A daily favorite.

The 2025 Japan Haul – Four Amazing Picks!

We went to Japan knowing we’d hunt watches… but four? Unexpected highlight of the year. For Japan Watch Shopping Guide, check out my post here.

Seiko SBSC009 – JDM Seiko 5 Field GMT – instant love, tons of wrist time.

Seiko SBSC009 Rolex Explorer 2 Alternative Budget — *Rolex Explorer II Alternative – Beautiful white dial watch Seiko SBSC009 (Only Available in JAPAN).*

Husband’s Seiko 62MAS 60th Anniversary reissue Seiko SPB511 / SBDC213 – Beautiful gorgeous dial with premium bracelet with quick-adjust.

Two KUOE watches (microbrand Kyoto Store exclusives): Bronze blue dial – Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 and triple calendar reverse panda – Kuoe Royal Smith 90-010

Seiko x Pepsi Collaboration – The “Real” Pepsi GMT

Limited edition with actual Pepsi branding. Bought for review, but the fun packaging and pop of color won me over – worn way more than expected!

Seiko 5 sports>The special site of the Pepsi® limited Edition is ... — *credit: www.seikowatches.com*

Husband’s old Seiko chronograph (I restored it).
Brother’s limited-edition Seiko Alpinist (white textured “snowy mountain” dial, Malaysia/Singapore exclusive – only 800 pieces!). This isn’t mine, I assigned myself as a caretaker as I bought this for my brother and it’s been with me since. 😀 I will return it to him once I get a review out on this. 🙂

Reflections on 2025 and the Hobby

Motherhood paused my passion for over a year. It just wasn’t convenient to have a watch during post-partum & breastfeeding. But DIY watchmaking kits and courses brought me back stronger, with deeper appreciation for watch movements.

What’s your favorite from my collection? Any must-haves for 2026? Drop a comment below!

Thanks for reading (or watching the video). Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays – see you in 2026 with whatever new watches come my way. ⌚✨

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My First Time Trying Panerai Watches – Pavilion KL Masterclass

Leave a Comment / Behind the Dial, DIY Watch Journey, Watch Guides

A few weeks ago, I received the invitation every watch enthusiast dreams about: an exclusive beginner’s watchmaking masterclass at Panerai, one of the luxury watch brands out there.

Big thank you to Keane and the entire team for being so warm and welcoming – this was genuinely one of the best watch experiences I’ve ever had.

(Quick disclaimer – this was an invited experience but 100 % my honest opinion and zero compensation.)

The moment I stepped into the boutique, located in the heart of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, the boutique gave me a navy-inspired vibe. Submarine-style display windows, warm oak wood everywhere, and right in the centre is this huge revolving marine dial with a magnifying glass. Meanwhile, the iconic glowing Panerai wall clock sits proudly in the middle.

To see it better, check out my video here:

Panerai History with Italian Royal Navy – Regia Marina

Giovanni Panerai opens his watchmaker’s shop on Ponte alle Grazie in Florence. The history of Panerai begins here. Cr: Panerai — *Giovanni Panerai* opened his watch shop in 1860 in Florence
Credit: Panerai

Colorized photo of battleship Duilio from
regia marina — Colorized photo of battleship Duilio from Regia Marina
Credit: https://naval-encyclopedia.com

His grandson Guido Panerai shifted the company to work closer with the Italian Royal Navy and became an official supplier for the Italian Royal Navy (mainly supplying precision gauges like depth calculators, compasses).

In 1916, they patented Radiomir – a radium-based luminous paste that produced a green glowing effect, which was very useful in the use cases of the Regia Marina’s frogmen who had to work underwater.

In the 1930s they worked with Rolex to create gigantic 47 mm dive watches for Italy’s elite frogmen: welded wire lugs, cushion cases you could operate with thick gloves, and sandwich dials packed with Radiomir paste so the commandos could read the time in pitch-black depths.

WWII Frogmen Wearing Panerai — *Credit: Panerai*

Panerai Radiomir Prototype — *Credit: Panerai*

WWII Frogmen wearing Panerai Watches — *Credit: Panerai*

After WWII, because of the radioactive radium, in 1949 they patented the safer tritium-based Luminor and added the now-iconic crown-guard lever.

*These watches stayed top-secret military property until 1993, when they finally released civilian versions.*
*Credit: Panerai*

Sylvester Stallone Wearing A Panerai Luminor 5218-201/a In ‘Daylight’ (1996)
Credit: Hodinkee

Sylvester Stallone gifted his good friend Arnold Schwarzenegger a Panerai watch
Credit: Jake’s Panerai World

The **Panerai Slytech** is a series of limited-edition watches created in collaboration with actor Sylvester Stallone, who is widely credited with launching the Panerai brand into the global luxury market.
*Credit: Panerai*

Watchmaking Class – White Coats & All

Ashley Tee_Panerai watchmaker coat — *Had the chance to wear an actual watchmaker’s white coat!*

*I got to partially disassemble the in-house P.3000 movement.*

Finally Wearing Panerai on a Female Wrist

Panerai Luminor Due Luna PAM01557 (38 mm) — Luminor Due Luna PAM01557 (38 mm) – pink alligator strap that accidentally matched my jacket perfectly.
It was surprisingly very comfortable, and I think any female will enjoy this piece

I also got to try on a few more watches, check them out in my video:

Verdict?

I used to be one of the many who formed a lot of opinions on Panerai (without examining properly), and only saying “Panerai is too big”.

Well, after this visit, I totally get why the Paneristi are obsessed. Every single design choice has real military DNA, and has real practical needs (which I find it to be super cool!)

Moral of the story: never judge a brand until you’ve tried it, and learn about it.

If you’re in KL, visit the Pavilion boutique and tell the team Ashley sent you. Try the 38 mm Due if you have small wrists – you might leave with a new obsession.

So… are you a Paneristi yet? Own one? Dreaming of one? Drop your thoughts below – I read every comment!

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Japan Watch Shopping And Where to Find Them

Leave a Comment / Behind the Dial, Watch Guides

Introduction to My Japan Watch Hunting Journey

My recent trip to Japan turned into an unforgettable watch hunting adventure, where I brought home four incredible timepieces: the Seiko SBSC009, Seiko SBDC213, Kuoe Old Smith 90-002, and Kuoe Royal Smith 90-010. From stumbling upon hidden gems in Osaka to exploring exclusive models in Kyoto, this journey was packed with surprises. Want to see the full story? Check out my YouTube video for all the details

Seiko 5 Field GMT SBSC009 – A Lucky Find

The adventure kicked off in Osaka when I stumbled into a massive store that wasn’t even on my itinerary: EDION at Namba.

EDION is a major Japanese consumer electronics retailer, with its flagship store, EDION Namba Main Store, located in the heart of Osaka’s Namba district. This large, department store-like facility offers a wide range of products, including home appliances, electronics, cosmetics, watches, toys, and even Japanese sake and snacks.

This place had an entire floor dedicated to watches—Rolex, Longines, Casio, and, of course, Seiko.

I went straight to Seiko section and found the Seiko SPSC009—a stunning white-dial JDM model.

Priced at 41,000 yen after tax deductions and an additional 7% discount, it was a steal compared to the 61,000 yen at the Seiko boutique in Shinsaibashi.

Pro Tip: JDM models like the SBSC009 aren’t always labeled, so do your research before hunting to spot these exclusive finds!

Seiko SBDC213 – A Defective Detour

At Yodobashi Camera in Umeda, my husband pointed out Seiko SBDC213 (aka SPB511), a limited-edition diver commemorating Seiko’s 1965 62MAS. Its white wavy dial and matte greyish bezel were stunning, and the solid bracelet with micro-adjust features sealed the deal. Priced at 171,000 yen, it was pricier than expected but a great deal compared to international prices.

Unfortunately, after arriving in Kyoto, I noticed the SBDC213 was running an hour fast. After checking and confirming, we decided to bring it back to Yodobashi Camera in Osaka, which resulted in a brand-new replacement 2 days later—huge thanks to their amazing staff! Of course, it threw our family travel plans off, but we are very glad we made that decision.

Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 & Royal Smith 90-010

The highlight of Kyoto was visiting the Kuoe store, where I was warmly welcomed by Shuhei, who introduced me to their vintage-inspired watches. My husband especially really like the bronze Kuoe Old Smith 90-002 (35mm) and as for me, I chose the Kuoe Royal Smith 90-010 (a reverse panda triple calendar, Kyoto exclusive). The store’s open layout, with no glass barriers, and having your watches to be assembled there itself, made the experience even better.

Why Visit Kuoe? Their Kyoto-exclusive models aren’t available online, so a trip to their store is a must.

Other stores to check out if you are in Osaka:

During my watch shopping, I also checked out these places. I highly recommend them though I didn’t get any from it.

Bic Camera Namba Store
BOOKOFF PLUS Namba Ebisubashi Store
アメリカ村フリーマーケットB.B(American village freemarket B.B)
Grand Seiko Boutique Osaka Shinsaibashi
Watch Colle

Tips for Watch Hunting in Japan

Research JDM Models: Not all stores label Japan Domestic Market watches, so know what you’re looking for.
Visit Multi-Brand Stores: Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, and Edion offer a wide selection, perfect for time-crunched travelers.
Check for Discounts: Check with the staff if there are any additional discount coupons, like the 7% discount I got just by following their IG account.
Be Patient with Vintage: Vintage watches, like King Seiko, require research & knowledge.
Traveling with Kids? Huge multi-floored departmental stores like EDION, Yodobashi Camera, BIC Camera have kid-friendly floors (toys, comfortable baby rooms), making watch hunting easier with little ones.

Watch My Full Japan Watch Hunting Adventure

Want to see these watches up close and hear more about my journey? Check out my YouTube video for the full story, including clips from Kyoto’s KUOE store. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on my in-depth reviews of the 4 watches.

Which of these four watches is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below, and happy watch hunting!

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Why My Seiko SKX013 Means Too Much to Sell

Why I Can’t Sell My Seiko SKX013

Why? The Seiko SKX013 was my first mechanical watch, and it carries a story that makes it irreplaceable. I bought it during one of the toughest periods of my life.

My career was in chaos, I felt completely lost, friendships and relationships were crumbling, and loneliness was overwhelming. It was a dark time.

But through prayer and determination, I pulled myself together. I dove into the world of watches, landed a job I love in an incredibly supportive corporate environment, and made a complete career switch. It required learning new skills, but my passion helped me find joy and grow.

With my first month’s salary from that job, I celebrated by buying this SKX013.

I chose this watch for its affordability and durability, particularly its ISO certification. For a non-diver like me, that certification might seem unnecessary, but it’s proof this midsize dive watch is built to last. YouTube reviewers often called it a “beater watch” because of its robust build, and that durability became a personal reminder to stay strong and push through life’s challenges. I know it’s unusual to see a watch this way, but that’s what makes it special to me.

My Collector’s ‘Toxic’ Trait

There are many types of watch collectors, and I’m not ashamed to admit I’m the kind who attaches deep meaning to each piece, tying them to life’s moments and memories. It’s why I struggle to let go, even when I stop wearing certain watches or my tastes evolve.

Sigh. As a watch YouTuber, this trait feels almost toxic. My job is to review watches, but I keep accumulating them, even those bought just for content. It’s hard to sell pieces I’ve lost love for when they still hold stories, and now I’m practically hoarding, operating at a loss.

The SKX013 is a prime example. Its value goes beyond its iconic design or the fact that I could sell it for more than I paid. It’s a symbol of my journey, and that’s worth more than money.

The Seiko SKX013 vs. 5KX Debate

The SKX013 was beloved for its affordability, quality, and iconic design, which is why fans were upset when Seiko discontinued it in 2019. Its ISO certification set it apart in its price range, and the 7S26 movement was reliable, if not cutting-edge.

Seiko SRPK 38mm 5KX Divers — *source: @ChisholmHunterOfficial on YouTube*

I understand Seiko’s perspective, though. The newer 5KX models, like the SRPK line under $300, offer great value with the upgraded 4R36 movement, which includes hand-winding and hacking. Even without ISO certification, the 5KX is a solid entry-level watch. If I didn’t already own the SKX013, I’d probably pick one up. That said, the debate between SKX and 5KX fans is heated—both sides have valid points. What’s your take? Share in the comments!

Rediscovering the SKX013

Here’s the funny thing: while writing this and wearing the SKX013, I’m starting to fall back in love with it. I’m even thinking about passing it down to my son one day. But for that to mean something, I need to wear it more—it can’t just be one of many watches collecting dust. Maybe a NATO strap will give it a fresh look and get it back on my wrist.

Conclusion

So, why can’t I let go of my Seiko SKX013? It’s more than a watch—it’s a reminder of my toughest days and how I overcame them to find a job I love. Its sentimental value outweighs any market price.

The Seiko 5KX and 5 GMT are great, and I see why Seiko moved on, but this SKX013 is my story. No upgrade can replace that. Do you have a watch you can’t part with? Are you an SKX or 5KX owner? Share your stories in the comments below!

For a complete review on the Seiko SKX013, click here

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My Watch Collection 2024: Favorites, Stories, and Lessons Learned

Leave a Comment / Behind the Dial, Watch Guides

I’ve been passionate about watches for 4-5 years, and my collection has grown to 15 unique timepieces. In this post, I’ll share my favorite watches, their stories, and some lessons I’ve learned as a watch enthusiast. From dress watches to divers, field watches, chronographs, and digitals, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, join me on this journey through my 2024 watch collection!

Dress Watches: Elegance and Sentimentality

Dress watches dominate my collection, blending style and personal meaning. Here’s a look at my favorites:

Titus Interlude: A Cherished Gift

My Titus Interlude, a graduation gift from my parents, was one of my first watches. Founded in 1887, Titus was originally Swiss but is now a Hong Kong brand. While it’s perceived as high-quality in Southeast Asia, some enthusiasts now view it as a fashion watch post-acquisition. After 8 years, mine stopped working (not due to the battery) and the logo has peeled off after a few drops. I’m still diagnosing the issue, but its sentimental value keeps it in my collection.

Seiko SNXS79: A Fan Favorite with a Cracked Crystal

The Seiko SNXS79, is a fan favorite that kickstarted my YouTube channel. Featuring the 7S26 movement, this Seiko 5 was my go-to watch, even worn at my wedding. Unfortunately, I dropped it face-down, cracking the Hardlex crystal. See how I got it fixed here

Tissot T-Classic Couturier Lady: Retirement Gift

A gift from my mom, this watch was a retirement gift from her company, inscribed with “Jasamu Dikenang” (Your contribution is appreciated in Bahasa Melayu) on its caseback. At that time, this watch adds a feminine touch to my collection which consists mostly 37mm and above. Working in a corporate setting, I find myself wearing this pretty often.

Tissot Classic Dream Lady: Feminine Elegance

Another gift from my mom, this time with an inscription of “LONG SERVICE AWARDS” on its caseback. A memento from my mom’s 25+ years of working in the same company reminds me of a traditional value of hard work and persistence. Measuring 28mm, it’s my smallest watch, perfect for evening gowns. The Roman numeral indices add a delicate touch.

Casio LTP-V007: The Affordable Cartier Tank Alternative

At just $20, the Casio LTP-V007 (aka Casio Tank) is the cheapest watch in my collection. Despite its petite size, it’s a fantastic budget alternative to the Cartier Tank. Its affordability and quality make it a great choice for those on a tight budget seeking elegance. See my review here

Vario Versa: A Reversible Gem

Sent by Vario, a Singapore-based company, this watch is a unique alternative to the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. Its reversible design feels like owning two watches in one. As a YouTuber, receiving this for review was a pleasant surprise, and its distinct style adds variety to my collection.

Tissot PRX Powermatic 35mm: My Current Favorite

The Tissot PRX Powermatic (35mm, mother-of-pearl dial) is my most frequently worn watch (so far!). A thoughtful gift from my husband, its dynamic dial outshines the ice blue version. While the other colors’ version felt underwhelming in person, this one’s dynamic, vibrant dial makes it a standout. Full review on this here

Dive Watches: Durability and Nostalgia

Dive watches are built for adventure, and mine carry deep personal meaning (especially this one:).

Seiko SKX013: A Sentimental Classic

The Seiko SKX013, a 38mm dive watch, was my first “proper” watch, purchased during a challenging career transition. Being an ISO certified and divers watch that can take a beating, it reminds me to be strong during one of my most challenging periods of my life. Its compact size suits my wrist better than the SKX007/009, and its rarity adds to its value. Despite seldom wearing it now, its sentimental significance ensures it stays in my collection.

Timex M79: An Impulsive Purchase

The Timex M79, with its diver’s bezel, was an impulsive buy during a discount. While I liked it initially, its 50m water resistance and high original price make it less appealing now. It’s one watch I could part with easily which is surprising because I am usually very attached to my watches. So I guess this says a lot.

Field Watches: Learning from Impulse Buys

As a beginner watch enthusiast, I was eager to complete my collection by checking off categories like dress and dive watches. Field watches, known for their rugged practicality, were next on my list. However, as my taste has evolved, my enthusiasm for field watches has shifted.

Seiko SNK803: A Beige Version of the Popular SNK809

The Seiko SNK803, a beige field watch, was bought early in my watch hobby to check off the field watch category after dress and dive watches. I was excited at first, but it no longer excites me. It’s not buyer’s remorse, just a sign my taste has changed—a lesson for new collectors to avoid rushing purchases.

Namoki ‘Midnight Sakura Tide’: A DIY Triumph

This unique watch, the Namoki Midnight Sakura Tide (which I named myself) was sent by Namoki as a DIY watchmaking kit. I assembled it myself, choosing extra parts to make it one-of-a-kind, and named it for its distinct design. The process was challenging, especially the second hand, but so rewarding. Check out my video for the full story! I wear it occasionally and love its uniqueness.

Chronographs: A Timeless Obsession

If I had unlimited funds and bigger wrist size, I’d focus on dress watches and chronographs—my two favorite styles.

Seiko Chronograph: A Fixer-Upper

This Seiko chronograph was my husband’s, sent to me to polish out scratches. I’ve used a polishing cloth, but it needs polywatch for better results. I rarely wear it since it’s not fully mine, but it’s a nice piece.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H: A Wedding Splurge

The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H, a mechanical watch, is my husband’s wedding watch. I insisted he not wear his Garmin for our wedding, so we hunted for couple’s watches and fell in love with this one despite its price. It’s one of our best purchases, even if it looks big on my wrist.

Digital Watches: Lightweight and Fun

Digital watches offer a refreshing change from analog designs.

Casio W-217H: A Thoughtful Gift

The Casio W-217H, a gift from a friend, was my first Casio. Its lightweight black resin strap is perfect for casual days, and I often forget I’m wearing it. As a gift, it holds a special place in my collection.

Casio G-Shock “Casioak” (Female Version)

I never thought I’d own a G-Shock, but the Casioak GMA S2100 (a smaller GA-2100 series) in white won me over. Its metallic indices and pastel appeal target the female market, and I prefer it over the black version, which feels too smartwatch-like. I’m still in the honeymoon phase with this one!

Lessons Learned as a Watch Enthusiast

Reflecting on my collection, I’ve learned valuable lessons:

Tastes Evolve: Early in my watch journey, I rushed to “check off” categories, leading to some purchases I no longer love.
Sentimental Value Matters: Watches like the Titus Interlude and Seiko SKX013 hold a special place due to their stories.
Budget-Friendly Options Shine: Affordable watches like the Casio LTP-V007 prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for quality.

Have a favorite watch or a collection of your own? Share in the comments below!

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From Motherhood to Watchmaking: My Unexpected Journey

Motherhood and My Watch Habits

The past year has been a whirlwind. Motherhood is exhausting, but it’s also the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. I never pictured myself as a “kid person” before, but now? Every smile from my baby melts me. It’s changed how I see everything—even watches.

For a while, watches took a backseat. Those early months of breastfeeding meant they were more of a hassle than a joy, and I worried about my baby’s comfort with anything bulky on my wrist. Instead, I leaned on my Huawei fitness band—small, light, and perfect for tracking sleep and steps or finding my phone. Occasionally, I’d wear my Casio LTP V-007 (see review here) or G-Shock. Their durability & affordability handled my baby’s curious grabs. Big steel watches? Not anymore—they were a hassle, plus they triggered anxiety while breastfeeding!

Huawei Fitness Band — *small, light, simple – Huawei fitness band 8*

casio g shock gma s2100 — *Casio G-Shock GMA S2100 aka Mini CasiOak*

What’s wild is how my watches on my wrist feels different now. Comfort and practicality rule, and my love for mechanical watches has shifted. I used to adore winding them, but now I crave simplicity—no fuss, no winding, no time setup. My watch journey has evolved, just like I have.

Rethinking Watch Content

This shift got me thinking about my content. Watch reviewing feels different compared to tech, where new gadgets drop constantly. Watches thrill us with subtle updates—smaller sizes or new dial colors. I toyed with reacting to trends I missed, but I’m over-chasing hype. I want to enjoy watches for what they are.

Don’t worry—I’m not ditching reviews! I’ve bought some pieces, and reviews are coming in a few weeks. But I’m also drawn to something deeper: understanding how watches work.

Exploring Watchmaking

My curiosity led me to watchmaking and repair. There’s magic in those tiny gears and springs—a miniature world inside each timepiece. It’s more rewarding than just collecting. I’m no expert (just a busy mom!), but I’ve tinkered—assembling a watch with Namoki Mods and fixing a cracked crystal. Those moments felt like a new connection to my passion.

So, I’ve signed up for online watch repair courses to see where it takes me.

ashley tee watch making — *trying on watchmaking/watch repair will be daunting but exciting!*

What’s Next for AshleyTee

This blog and channel will continue to deliver watch reviews—affordable, carefully picked ones. But I’ll be filming my watchmaking journey, even if it means fumbling with screws.

As you may see, I recently restarted my blog again (making it an active blog this time), and there’s new merch too—mugs and hoodies inspired by clean designs and my space fascination.

Ashley Tee Merch — *Some of my merch, if you want to support – Check them out at ashleytee.com/store!*

Let’s Connect

That’s my story so far—balancing mom life, watches, and learning new skill. What do you think? Any watchmaking tips for a beginner? Drop your thoughts below or on Instagram (@ashley_watches). See you soon!

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