Cover Jay Fung wearing the Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
Jay Fung wearing the Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
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The ‘Song for the Absentees’ singer discusses becoming Friend of the Brand for the luxury watchmaker and the story behind his first watch
Zenith made two headline-grabbing announcements at LVMH Week 2023: the launch of the Defy Skyline Skeleton and the signing of singer and songwriter Jay Fung as the face of the brand. Fung wore the watchmaker’s latest creation in the campaign photos, echoing the company’s “time to reach your star” philosophy.
“When Zenith presented me with the opportunity to take on the role of Friend of the Brand, I realised that it is working towards solving key issues, including the Horiz-on initiative that promotes sustainability, inclusiveness and diversity and the Dreamhers platform that encourages women to pursue their dreams—I find it extremely relatable as it reminds me of my own journey in reaching my star”, says Fung.
The Sweeetly star talks to Tatler about his journey to fame, and which watches make their way into his personal collection.
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Above Jay Fung (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
Above Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Reference: 03.9300.3620/79.I001 (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
Jay Fung (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
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Tell us about your favourite watch and the stories or memories attached to it?
My favourite watch right now is the Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton watch. Even though I haven’t had mine for a very long time, I just can’t seem to keep my eyes off of it. The watch itself is just so stunning with so many intricate details put into it. Also, might I add, it stands out as the first and only openworked watch to feature the El Primero 3620 SK. It’s incredible to witness that it’s the first of its kind to feature this exceptional function. Furthermore, this is a very pivotal moment for myself, since it’s my first time partnering with Zenith in being their latest Friend of Brand, and I very much look forward to our collaboration and to the many incredible things to come.
Do you recall the first watch you owned? Which one was it?
The first watch I ever owned was when I was about six or seven years old, and at that timeI could barely even make out the time on a regular clock, but one day I walked into the Disney store in my hometown and there it was sitting in a glass case alongside other watches being sold in the store. However, that watch was the one that stood out to me the most. It was a mini leather-strapped golden mickey mouse watch, and I remembered for a whole month. Each time I went into the store I would beg my mother to purchase it for me, but she would insist that I wait till it was on sale. One day, during Christmas holidays, I went back into the store to find that the watch had disappeared. It wasn’t until that Christmas morning when my family and I sat around the Christmas tree to open gifts thatI realised my mum had bought this watch that I’d longed for, and she presented it to me as a gift. I still remember that glorious Christmas morning, it was all so perfect!
Above Jay Fung (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
Above Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton Reference: 03.9300.3620/78.I001 (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
Jay Fung (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
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As a singer and songwriter, what role do watches play in your life?
Being both a singer and songwriter in Hong Kong is very rewarding, but it can also be very demanding since it takes up most of my time. When I’m not on stage performing or in front of the camera, I’m usually recording behind-the-scenes [footage] at the studio, or at home writing songs for myself and for other singers. This means that having to balance between the roles of singer and songwriter isn’t always easy, and being able to manage my own time efficiently and accurately is very important, so I always need watches to help keep track of time.
You had mentioned that you connected with Zenith in your journey of “reaching your star”. Can you tell us about this journey, the hurdles you faced and how it all resonated with the brand?
Zenith has long been known as a brand that exemplifies class and precision, but also with an aspiration to always aim higher and reach further, which is [also how] I pursue my own dreams and ambitions. Although my music journey hasn’t always been smooth-sailing—and at times I would describe it as taking a detour to get to where I am today—I do believe that no matter how long it takes, if I continue to dedicate the seconds, hours, days to fully committing myself to achieving my own dreams… anything is possible.
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Above Jay Fung (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
Jay Fung (Photo: courtesy of Zenith)
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What do you look for when selecting a watch for your personal collection?
I have certain preferences. Firstly, I have a liking for skeleton watches, and it’s simply because I enjoy looking at and admiring the inner workings and the intricate details of a timepiece. In addition to that, what I also look for in a watch are style, durability, and weight. Since I work long hours and in different spaces all the time, I prefer watches that are durable enough to last through various and unexpected weather conditions, and preferably something more lightweight.
As the Regional Editor for Watches and Jewellery and Editorial Content Lead for Tatler GMT, Amrita Katara specialises in luxury watch and jewellery coverage across Asia, with expertise in editorial strategy, feature writing and interviews with industry leaders. Her past roles span luxury lifestyle media and client partnerships. Based in Mumbai, Amrita’s work bridges global trends and Asian market insights.
