Singapore - Golden Jubilee

I've learned from history in school that the Island of Temasek was founded by Sang Nila Utama in the 14th century during one of his hunting trips. He landed at the mouth of where Singapore River is in the present day, and went inland to hunt for animals. At one point, he saw a strange looking animal of orange body with a huge mane that moved quickly, disappearing into the jungle. He asked his chief minister what that animal was, and was told that it was a lion. Pleased with what he saw, believing that it's a good omen, decided to build his new city. He and his men stayed, and named the island, Singapura (Singa means 'lion' in Malay, and pura means 'town').

Fast forward to modern Singapore, the most significant event post-colonial and post-world wars era, is her independence 50 years ago today, on 9th August 1965. Led by the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, through a series of efforts in merger, (racial) tension resolution, and eventual separation from the Malaya Federation; The Republic of Singapore became a sovereign and independent nation.

Singapore separation from Malaysia

After gaining independence abruptly, Singapore faced a future full of uncertainties; the issues on sovereignty, pressing problems on unemployment, housing, hygiene, health care, national security and education are all but taxing on the lack of natural resources and land. But through the unity and transcendence of every race, every religion, every language and culture of all Singaporeans led by Mr. Lee Kuan Yew and his early cabinet ministers, that we raise this tiny red dot from 3rd world to 1st world country in a mere 50 years. These achievements are by no means a result of chance, but the drive and passion on our beliefs of what we can as one people, one nation, one Singapore.

Time nor Tide: Remembering Mr. Lee Kuan Yew (Part 1)

Building A Nation

Time nor Tide: Remembering Mr. Lee Kuan Yew (Part 2)

Putting Singapore On The Map

Founded by Carlo Crocco in 1980, Hublot started of as a watch brand with a concept of 'fusion' in mind; created the first rubber strapped watch of precious metals. Despite spending 3 years in research to perfect the strap, Hublot did not really take the world by storm in the hands of Carlo. It was not until Jean Claude Biver took charge from late 2003 that Hublot sees a wave of success, particularly with his inception and launch of the 'Big Bang' series. Being in the position of retirement, Jean Claude did not have to make a comeback into the horology world if not of his passion and belief in the swiss watch making industry.

I am not trying to draw parallel between nation building and watch making, but I see a striking similarity of what is achievable from a driven passion; a belief of what can be, when everyone (in a country, or a company) is inspired to pursue a common course in unison. Being a Singaporean, I am happy and proud to learn that Hublot (a company of similar core values at heart), launched a very limited production of its flagship models to commemorate this significant milestone of my country. Happy 50th Birthday, Singapore!!

Hublot 'Red Dot' Bang

50pcs in Hublonium, and 10pcs in Yellow Gold