Our Story
How hauwelle Came to Be
hauwelle started from a simple observation: too many watch owners in Kuala Lumpur had trouble finding a repair service they could trust with their timepieces. Some had watches returned in worse condition than they went in. Others were quoted for work that was not actually needed. The stories were common enough that a different approach felt worth pursuing.
The workshop opened on Jalan Hang Kasturi with a small bench, a set of well-worn tools, and one guiding idea — tell the owner exactly what is going on with their watch, explain the options, and let them decide. No upselling. No vague language about "general maintenance required." Just a clear picture and a fair price.
Over the years, the bench expanded. More watchmakers joined. Better diagnostic equipment came in. But the way we talk to our clients has not changed. When a watch arrives, we assess it thoroughly and present the findings in plain terms. If the watch does not need a full service, we say so. If a part is hard to source and will affect the timeline, we mention that up front rather than after the fact.
We handle everything from everyday Seikos and Citizens to Swiss calibers by ETA, Sellita, and Miyota. Our focus is on doing the work properly — not on brand prestige. A well-loved field watch deserves the same care as a dress piece.
Today, hauwelle continues to operate from the same stretch of road in central KL. Our location in the historic area near Central Market makes us easy to reach, and we are always happy to sit down and discuss what your watch might need — no appointment necessary for a quick look.
Our Mission
Keeping Watches Running, Keeping Owners Informed
Our mission is straightforward: provide watch repair services that are technically competent, fairly priced, and communicated with total honesty. We do not believe that good repair work should come wrapped in mystery. When you leave your timepiece with us, you should know what is being done, why it matters, and what it will cost — before we pick up a single tool.
We also believe in keeping things practical. Not every watch needs a full overhaul. Sometimes a simple cleaning or a gasket swap is all that is required. We would rather recommend the right service than the most expensive one.
The Team
The Hands Behind the Work
Ahmad Taufiq
Head Watchmaker
With over 15 years at the bench, Taufiq specialises in Swiss mechanical calibers and has completed advanced training with several movement manufacturers. He oversees all complex repairs and final quality checks.
Sharon Lim
Service Coordinator
Sharon manages the intake and client communication process. She keeps track of every timepiece in the workshop and ensures owners receive timely updates throughout the service cycle.
Rajesh Kumar
Technician — Quartz & Cosmetic
Rajesh handles quartz movement replacements, battery services, and all cosmetic detailing work. His steady hand and eye for surface finishing ensure watches leave looking their best.
Our Standards
How We Work
Documented Assessment
Every incoming timepiece is examined and photographed. We note existing conditions — marks, scratches, functionality issues — before any work begins. This protects both the watch and your trust.
Appropriate Lubricants
We use synthetic oils and greases specified for horological use. Each lubrication point receives the correct grade — barrel arbors, pallet stones, and keyless works each have different requirements.
Timing Machine Regulation
Mechanical movements are regulated using a timegrapher, checked in multiple positions. We aim for rate accuracy within acceptable COSC-adjacent standards for the caliber type.
Water Resistance Testing
Where applicable, water resistance is verified after caseback reassembly using a pressure tester. We inform you of the result and advise on what the watch can and cannot handle.
Secure Storage
All timepieces are stored in a controlled workspace with restricted access. Each watch is individually tracked from intake through to collection.
Final Quality Review
Before any watch leaves, it undergoes a final check — rate accuracy, crown function, date change, and cosmetic condition are all verified against the original service scope.
What Guides Us
The Values Behind Our Bench
hauwelle was built around the idea that watch repair should not feel like a gamble. For many owners — especially those who have inherited a meaningful piece or saved up for a particular model — handing their watch over to someone they do not know can be stressful. We take that responsibility seriously.
Our approach starts with listening. Before examining a movement, we ask what the watch means to the owner, what problems they have noticed, and what they hope to achieve. A daily wearer with a loose crown has different needs from a collector looking to restore a vintage piece. Understanding the context allows us to recommend the right course of action rather than applying a blanket service.
Technically, we follow established watchmaking protocols and invest in keeping our tools and training current. Our workshop is equipped with ultrasonic cleaners, timing machines, pressure testers, and a full range of hand tools appropriate for caliber-level work. But equipment alone does not define quality — the attentiveness of the person using it does.
We are not the largest workshop in Kuala Lumpur, and we do not try to be. We prefer to take on work we can complete well and within a reasonable timeframe. If a particular repair falls outside our scope — say, a vintage caliber that requires factory-original components we cannot source — we will tell you rather than attempt a workaround that compromises the watch.
Get Started
Bring Your Watch In for an Assessment
No appointment needed for an initial look. Walk in during our opening hours and we will give your timepiece a preliminary check — no cost and no obligation.
Request a Quote