DeKairos: The Gatekeeper Shaped by the Workshop
In the world of luxury watches, time is never just about time. It represents craftsmanship, value and above all, trust.
Yet in today’s rapidly expanding secondary market, that trust is increasingly being tested.
“Most people focus on price and appearance. But what really matters is the condition inside the watch.”
The man behind this conviction is Andy Chan, founder of DeKairos Sdn. Bhd.—a veteran watchmaker with over three decades of experience in the horology industry.
Seeing Beyond the Surface
Unlike many in the trade who come from sales or retail, Andy’s journey began at the workbench.
He spent 12 years servicing Rolex watches in Malaysia, building a solid technical foundation before joining the Richemont Group. His career later took him to Switzerland for advanced training, and eventually to China, where he served as Technical Director for a major watch group.
He is also a Malaysian Book of Records holder (2020), recognized for his expertise in luxury watch servicing and authentication.
This depth of experience has shaped a fundamentally different perspective.
“Most people see the outside. But as watchmakers, we look layer by layer—from the movement to every single component.”
It was this mindset that led him, when founding DeKairos in 2018, to make a defining decision:
To place technical integrity before commercial intent.
A Standard That Starts in the Workshop
At DeKairos, every watch undergoes a rigorous inspection and restoration process before it ever reaches the display case.
“If a watch leaves my workshop, it has to be complete, reliable, and up to brand standards.”
This goes far beyond cosmetic refinishing. Each piece is carefully assessed for ,signs of water damage , worn or replaced components , movement performance , water resistance integrity ,even the smallest irregularities are not overlooked.
“In today’s market, many watches are sold as long as they’re running. But that’s not how I work.”
For Andy, selling a watch is not just a transaction—it is a responsibility.
“What matters most to me is whether the customer will have peace of mind after the purchase.”
The Hidden Risks of a Booming Market
As demand for pre-owned luxury watches grows, so do the risks.
According to Andy, counterfeit watches today have reached a level where they can easily pass visual inspection.
“You can’t tell just by looking at it on someone’s wrist.”
Even more concerning are modified watches—pieces that may appear authentic on the outside, but contain altered or non-original internal components.
“These are even more dangerous than fakes. Even experienced professionals can be misled.”
He has encountered numerous real-life cases: buyers misled by acquaintances, or tempted by prices 20–30% below market value—only to suffer significant losses, sometimes ending in legal disputes.
“Scams usually start by building trust. Then, when the amount gets big enough, everything disappears overnight.”
“Authenticate First, Pay Later”
Rather than staying silent, Andy has taken an active role in educating the market.
Through social media, workshops, and direct client engagement, he consistently emphasizes one key principle:
“Always authenticate before you buy.”
“It’s like buying a car—you inspect it first. But with watches, many people do the opposite. They pay first, then verify.”
Encouragingly, more customers today are beginning to seek professional verification—either before or after making a purchase.
“At least now, people are starting to realize the importance of it.”
From Craftsman to Mentor
Beyond servicing and sales, Andy has expanded into education and mentorship.
Through platforms like YouTube and TikTok, as well as in-person workshops, he shares his expertise and builds a growing community of watch enthusiasts and aspiring professionals.
His training programs are intentionally small and hands-on, allowing students to work directly with tools and equipment.
“Technical skills can’t be learned by watching alone. You have to use your hands and train your eyes.”
For those who show potential, he even offers opportunities for employment or cllaboration—helping to nurture the next generation in a highly specialized field.
Looking Ahead: Building a Network of Trust
Andy’s vision for the future extends beyond a single business location.
“I hope to establish more service points, so more people can access proper repair and authentication services.”
In his view, only when professional standards become more accessible can the market truly mature.
More Than Time
In a world where authenticity is increasingly difficult to discern, the value of a watch goes far beyond its brand or price tag.
It carries craftsmanship, judgment—and trust.
And for Andy Chan, the path forward is clear, even if it is slower and more demanding:
To place a truly reliable watch into the hands of every customer.
Because in the end, that is not just his profession—it is his principle.
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@watchmakerandy
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@dekairos_boss_andy
Instagram: www.instagram.com/watchmaker_andy
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DeKairosWatches
Official Website: www.dekairos.com
