When most people think of Bugis, they picture shopping, food, and bustling streets. Yet tucked along Bencoolen Street sits a lesser-known destination that has earned a strong reputation among watch enthusiasts — The Bencoolen.
For decades, The Bencoolen has been one of Singapore’s best-kept secrets for branded watches. Step inside the mall and you’ll discover dozens of watch retailers, collectors, service centres, and pre-owned watch specialists all under one roof. From affordable Japanese brands like Seiko, Citizen, Casio and G-Shock to premium Swiss timepieces, there is something for every budget and style.
What surprises many first-time visitors is the price. The same watch model found in major shopping malls such as Bugis Junction, VivoCity, or Orchard Road can often be purchased at a lower price at The Bencoolen. Discounts of around 10% to 30% are not uncommon, depending on the brand, model, and current promotions. Some shops may even offer additional in-store discounts for cash payments or repeat customers.
Why are the watches cheaper?
One reason is lower operating costs. Compared to prime retail locations in major shopping centres, many shops at The Bencoolen enjoy relatively lower rental expenses. These savings can be passed on to customers through more competitive pricing. Another reason is that some retailers purchase watches in large quantities, allowing them to negotiate better wholesale prices from suppliers.
In certain cases, some watches may also come through parallel import or “grey market” channels. These are genuine watches, but they may not always carry the manufacturer’s official international warranty. Instead, buyers receive a shop warranty. This helps explain why some prices can be significantly lower than those found at authorised boutiques. However, many stores at The Bencoolen are also authorised dealers for selected brands, offering official warranties as well.
Today, The Bencoolen remains a favourite destination for watch hunters looking for value and variety. Well-known watch stores include 3D Watch Shop, Brightime By Championtime, Heng Watch, Grandeur Time, and Asia Timepiece Centre. Together with numerous pre-owned and collector-focused retailers, they have transformed this modest mall into one of Singapore’s largest watch-shopping hubs.
Whether you’re hunting for your first Seiko, a limited-edition G-Shock, or a luxury Swiss timepiece, a visit to The Bencoolen might just save you a few hundred dollars while offering a wider range of choices than many traditional retail boutiques.
