Cover Dato’ Sri Tan Aik Kiong
Dato’ Sri Tan Aik Kiong
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The Malaysian Paneristi was also the organiser of the first P-Day event in Kuala Lumpur
It’s a whirlwind week for Dato’ Sri Tan Aik Kiong. Kuala Lumpur is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes hundreds of Paneristis—collectors who are deeply passionate about Panerai watches—from around the world for the annual P-Day event. Hosting this flagship gathering in Malaysia for the first time—and only the third time in Asia since its inception in 2002—is a dream come true for Tan, a dedicated Panerai enthusiast since 2008.
“The (P-Day) committee makes their decision based on your passion, collecting journey, knowledge of the brand, and ability to organise an international event,” explains Tan, the group managing director of AikBee Group.
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Above Panerai enthusiasts and collectors in a group photo at P-Day 2024 in Kuala Lumpur
Panerai enthusiasts and collectors in a group photo at P-Day 2024 in Kuala Lumpur
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P-Day 2024 sees over 200 Paneristis from more than 20 countries come together in Kuala Lumpur. Panerai CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué adds to the event’s significance by personally unveiling the Luminor Venticinque PAM02025, a limited edition celebrating Paneristi’s 25th anniversary.
Designed in collaboration with Paneristi.com founder Padraig “Paddy” Conway, the watch features a brunito steel case with a unique finish. It is set to debut in September, with Paneristis like Tan getting early access.
“It makes you feel special,” he smiles. “Last year, we helped design a special edition for Malaysia, giving our input on the colour.”
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Above Panerai Luminor Venticinque PAM02025 is created to celebrate 25 years of the Paneristi community
Panerai Luminor Venticinque PAM02025 is created to celebrate 25 years of the Paneristi community
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This direct interaction with Panerai’s manufacture keeps things interesting for Tan, deepening his sense of connection to the Paneristi community “Panerai is a platform for us to get to know each other,” he says. “When we gather, we don’t just talk about watches. We talk about life and work. More importantly, we always have fun together!”
Above Panerai CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué attended the P-Day 2024 event in Kuala Lumpur
Panerai CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué attended the P-Day 2024 event in Kuala Lumpur
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Tan’s journey into the world of Panerai began with the Luminor PAM005, a classic model featuring the signature crown guard. “I was told by everyone that your first Panerai has to come with a crown guard, so I bought one,” he laughs. “It was also because it was high in demand then. After that, I started reading up about it, discovering more about the brand.”
Drawn to Panerai’s military heritage, Tan began acquiring more pieces. “I got into the habit of completing certain series. For instance, I must have all the special models created for Paneristi—I have the 2010 edition (Luminor PAM00360), the 2015 edition (Luminor 15th Anniversary PAM00634), and the one from 2020 (Radiomir Paneristi 20th Anniversary PAM02020). So, getting the 2025 special edition is a must to complete the collection.”
Among his favourites is the 2015 edition because it was the last Paneristi release under former CEO Angelo Bonati.
Tan has also developed a keen interest in bronze models and vintage re-editions. A standout in his collection is the Radiomir 1940 3 Days Acciaio 47mm, with a dial design inspired by Panerai’s early pendulum clocks. True to form, he owns the complete set in both black and white dials.
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Above Panerai Radiomir 1940 3 Days Acciaio 47mm with a dial inspired by an Art Deco pendulum clock
Panerai Radiomir 1940 3 Days Acciaio 47mm with a dial inspired by an Art Deco pendulum clock
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Nevertheless, there’s a special place in his heart for the Malaysia-exclusive Luminor PAM1957. “This is the design we asked for. We wanted the green to tie in with Panerai’s military history. It’s only sold in Malaysia, so if you want it, you must come here,” says Tan. Limited to 140 pieces, the model underscores Malaysia’s growing prominence as a Paneristi hub, home to at least 60 active members, according to Tan.
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Above The caseback of the Panerai Luminor PAM1957 is engraved with the iconic KLCC skyline
The caseback of the Panerai Luminor PAM1957 is engraved with the iconic KLCC skyline
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Above Panerai Luminor PAM1957, exclusive for Malaysia
Panerai Luminor PAM1957, exclusive for Malaysia
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Our conversation returns to P-Day. “It’s tiring and there’s a lot of pressure to make sure that everything goes smoothly, so that we can make Malaysia proud. Many Paneristis are visiting for the first time, and we want to leave a good impression.”
What excites him most about P-Day? “Discovering the city itself.” In 2023, P-Day was held in Lisbon, Portugal. Previously, the event had traveled to cities such as Hong Kong, Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt, among others
And the biggest reward of being a Paneristi? “The friendships I’ve made,” he replies with a warm smile.
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Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
