Cover Nicole Syjuco wears Patek Philippe Twenty-4 in stainless steel
Nicole Syjuco wears Patek Philippe Twenty-4 in stainless steel
1 / 1
This career woman, mother and wife, reveals her love for watches that has grown through the years
Over ten years ago, business executive Nicole Syjuco bought her first watch at Cartier, the classic Tank. She was captivated by the piece’s timelessness, sparking her love for watches. “I don’t really see myself as a collector, but more of a fan who appreciates the beauty of certain timepieces. I’m always in awe of the mechanism and designs,” says the vice president of luxury residential design-and-build firm, Draco Builders.
A few aspects interest Syjuco when it comes to watches. First, design and style. When she was younger, Syjuco would dream of owning a gold Rolex Day Date. Nothing gets her attention more than a classic gold watch such as this. Timeless, as she says. The second aspect is value. “It’s hard to deny that watches are also an investment. They are valuable assets that only appreciate with time—if you choose the right pieces.” The last thing would be rarity. “I like owning timepieces that may sometimes be harder to get,” she adds.
Above Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
1 / 1
Watches mirror the personality of its owner, they say; and this is true with Syjuco and her “flexible personality”. “I love wearing different watches to express my personality and style,” Syjuco shares. She has a classic gold Patek Philippe Nautilus 7118 for meetings that are formal and serious. “ I wear it when I mean business,” she says. When she’s feeling dressy and stylish, she whips out her rose gold Audemars Piguet Royal Oak with diamonds. It’s the watch for dinners out with family and friends. And when she is feeling casual, she uses her stainless steel Patek Philippe Twenty-4.
Despite a hectic schedule, Syjuco shares her memories of acquiring her most memorable timepiece, her opinion on the most practical watch and, most importantly, what style she prefers .
Above Nicole Syjuco wears Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
in rose gold
Nicole Syjuco wears Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in rose gold
1 / 1
What type of watches do you collect? Classic or contemporary? Why?
I am a fan of both. I love a Classic Rolex Date just just as much as a flashy Audemars Piguet Royal Oak with diamonds. I like owning different styles because I want to be able to wear a different watch depending on the occasion. I also made sure that I have an all-steel, a two-toned and an all-gold watch.
What watch was the most memorable to acquire?
That would be my rose gold Patek Philippe Nautilus 7811 with diamonds. I still remember being in awe when I first saw it in the store. It’s such a beautiful timepiece, classic and elegant. It has been my dream watch for many years, and I really worked very hard to afford it. It serves as a reminder of all the struggles and hardships I went through to get to where I am today. I love it so much that I saved up to purchase a second one, but without diamonds this time.
Above Patek Philippe Nautilus 7118 in classic gold and Patek Philippe Twenty-4 in stainless steel
Patek Philippe Nautilus 7118 in classic gold and Patek Philippe Twenty-4 in stainless steel
1 / 1
As a mum, wife and business executive, what is the most practical watch to own?
As someone who loves watches, I always make sure that I get to wear the timepieces that I purchase. I am not the type to buy a watch and store it in the safe for a long time. I enjoy owning and wearing them. However, I probably won’t be wearing a watch with diamonds to a brunch. So, for practicality, I would say buy a watch that you’re not afraid to scratch and one you can wear anywhere and everywhere. For my everyday watch, I stick to an all-steel or an all-gold one without any diamonds, I very casual or classic look, and use it for meetings, lunches out with friends even when running errands.
NOW READING
The Tatler Guide to matching watches according to dress codes
How Vintage Grail is Nurturing the Country's Community of Luxury Watch Enthusiasts and Collectors
What Should You Know About Collecting Vintage Watches? Paolo Martel of Vintage Grail Shares Advice
Credits
Photography: Patrick Diokno
Hair: Rudolf Davalos
Make-Up: Thea Dionisio
Production: Isabel Martel Francisco, Dorynna Untivero, Michelle Soriano, Johannah Reglos
Location: Porro, Baxter, Ceccotti, Zanotta Showrooms Kuysen Design + Experience Center
