Managing director of Cortina Watch Malaysia
Tay Liam Khoon has served nearly two decades in the luxury watch industry – working his way up from the retail floor to being a part of two of the greatest watch dynasties in Southeast Asia. But despite being born and bred into the business, it is his unwavering passion and quiet humility that has ensured Tay’s unique view from the top.
On the thrill of selling watches
Buying watches are an emotional process and the best memories I have of being in the retail business is selling a customer his or her first timepiece.
On what motivates him
I have been in the industry for over 15 years now, working in Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. What has made me so passionate about my job is the close relationships I have forged with business partners; be it brand principals, mall landlords or my customers, many of whom I now regard as friends.
On the future for Cortina
The appetite for luxury goods in Malaysia is becoming more refined as the population of watch collectors grows. Besides the more experienced collectors, we are noticing young executives becoming more savvy and interested in luxury watches. I would love for Cortina to be the place where they go to make their first purchase – offering them the brands and level of service they are after, as we aim to be the number one luxury watch retailer in Malaysia.
