The Hour Glass Ventures to North Malaysia with a New Boutique at Gurney Plaza Penang
The Hour Glass takes up residence in an iconic location: Gurney Plaza Penang in George Town, Penang. The new boutique is an oasis of coastal chic and luxury that brings the latest novelties from the watchmaking capitals of the world to Penang, the emerald of the Indian Ocean.
The Hour Glass opens at Gurney Plaza Penang
Set along the scenic Gurney Drive promenade, Gurney Plaza was once a sea fronting mall that bathed in the sun and balmy breezes of the ocean. Land reclamation pushed the water’s edge further away from the mall, but it continues to be a beloved landmark and top tourist destination for those who want to enjoy contemporary luxuries amid old-world charm.
This captures the spirit of Penang as an island with a rich past and an auspicious future. Capital city George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prominent arts, culture and literary hub, a place where taste and appreciation are cultivated. A more fitting location for The Hour Glass would be hard to find in north Malaysia.
No two boutiques are alike and The Hour Glass Gurney Plaza Penang respectfully embraces the cues of its new home. Natural stone and timber form the bones of the boutique while sumptuous leather and delicate metal detailing respectively soften and highlight the interiors.
Inspired by the Coastal Connection
Exemplary craftsmanship abounds throughout, from the smooth hand-assembly of the natural stone façade to the fluidity of its architecture and as seen in the undulating timber panels of the ceiling, reminiscent of waves, and organically shaped display counters. The palette, forms, and textures are largely inspired by the coastal connection of the site, resulting in accents that echo the soft and shimmery beauty of seashells and corals.
Carved out spaces create individual display areas for The Hour Glass’ constellation of brands to showcase their DNA and latest novelties. Breitling, Girard-Perregaux, Grand Seiko, Hublot, Nomos, Sinn-Spezialuhren, TAG Heuer, Tudor, and Ulysse Nardin are expected to receive a warm reception.
Hublot fans will be especially thrilled that the watchmaker has chosen this boutique for the Asian debut of its shop-in-a-shop concept. Tracing the path paved by the Hublot boutique in Mykonos, the Hublot space captures the eternal summer of tropical Penang, marked by a desire for travel and adventure. Time takes on a new dimension with specialty watches like the Big Bang Unico Integrated Beige Ceramic 42mm Limited Edition and the Classic Fusion Chronograph Bol d’or Mirabaud 45mm Special Edition, specially curated for this celebratory occasion.
Inside The Hour Glass boutique at Gurney Plaza Penang.
Over at Tudor’s display, the manufacture’s signature black, red, and white livery impart its youthful edge and athleticism. Its Black Bay collection of dive watches fittingly have a starring role here, every one of them equipped with chronometer-certified in-house movements, legible markings for visibility in low-light conditions, and elegant proportions wrapped in retro or contemporary aesthetics.
The Apartment – A Special Sanctuary
The Apartment at The Hour Glass Gurney Plaza Penang
The generous layout of the retail area invites guests to explore at leisure. VIP clients who prefer to browse in private will be ushered into the Apartment, a lavish wing complete with a full kitchen and private dining area cloaked in the same soft hues and striking accents. The tastefully decorated space conveys the relaxed elegance of a seaside sanctuary while some of the most coveted wonders of the watchmaking world are presented on demand. Expect the attentive service and deep brand and technical expertise of The Hour Glass watch specialists to guide the expansion of personal collections.
“With the success The Hour Glass has enjoyed in Malaysia, it was only a matter of time before we explored what Penang has to offer. The island truly is a confluence of heritage, tradition and cutting-edge innovation which resembles the very spirit of the haute horologerie universe. The Hour Glass Gurney Plaza will allow us to bring some of our best brands and horological experiences to the sophisticated audience in Penang,” says Michael Tay, Group Managing Director of The Hour Glass.
The Hour Glass Gurney Plaza Penang is the latest star in the watch retailer’s extensive list of specialist boutiques and a must-visit for collectors when in the north of Malaysia. Visit the boutique today.
The Hour Glass Gurney Plaza Penang
Lot G-03, Ground Floor
170 Persiaran Gurney
10250 Georgetown
Penang
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday: 10:00am to 10:00pm
