When Singapore's highly anticipated ION Orchard luxury shopping mall opens in July, Swiss watchmaker IWC is poised to create a sensation of its own.  The historic Schaffhausen-based brand celebrates the impending opening of an expansive standalone boutique that represents a new level of excellence in the exclusive presentation of IWC timepieces.

Conceived by an in-house IWC team of design specialists and architects, the 1,000 sq. feet space is entirely harmonious with the striking contemporary elegance of ION Orchard, while presenting a completely unified presentation of IWC's core brand values and collection themes.  Swathed in flamed and brushed granite, brushed metal and dark chrome, the boutique exterior presents IWC's brand identity with potency and a feel of sophisticated luxury.  Inside, guests can immerse themselves in a number of unique product environments which highlight the distinctive IWC product lines; they will also enjoy a truly opulent setting in which natural wood flooring, gleaming metal, richly appointed leather accents, and custom furniture create the warm and alluring appeal of an exclusive club.  Advanced LED and metal halide lighting is installed throughout the boutique, creating an atmosphere which is pleasing to the eye, and brings out the fine finishing of IWC cases, dials, and movements.  

Other notable features of the ION Orchard IWC boutique include an extensive library on the brand's watchmaking history and product collections, and a special exhibition area for new products, complete with animations and other multimedia features.

At the event press conference, Georges Kern, Chief Executive Officer of IWC, stated, "The opening of the new IWC boutique in Singapore sets the cornerstone for IWC’s next generation of boutiques and heralds a compelling strategic opportunity as we significantly expand our presence here, bringing the manufacture closer to watch enthusiasts in this part of the world."

"Attracting the world's leading luxury watchmakers to bring their unique designs and concepts to Singapore was an important part of ION Orchard's leasing strategy," said Ms. Soon Su Lin, CEO of Orchard Turn Developments Pte Ltd.  "We are honored that a globally renowned brand such as IWC Schaffhausen will be opening its first standalone boutique at ION Orchard and we look forward to a long and fruitful partnership together."

Andreas Boesch, General Manager of IWC Southeast Asia also addressed the assembled journalists, adding, "On 21st July 2009, a new vibrant addition to Orchard Road will change the local retail scene forever and IWC Schaffhausen is extremely thrilled to be part of this historic changing moment. The IWC standalone boutique is specially developed to suit the iconic image of ION Orchard which is truly unique and aims to revolutionize one’s watch shopping experience."

More about IWC:

IWC brand & timepiece collections

IWC product blogs

IWC news