From relative obscurity to international recognition, MING has become one of the most talked-about independent watchmakers in recent years. Their success stems from a combination of limited production, cohesive design language, and remarkable value for money. Released in 2019 as the brand’s most complex model to date, the 19.02 World Timer marked MING’s entry into the upper tiers of Swiss watchmaking. With the world timer long regarded as one of the most practical and sophisticated complications, this release cemented MING’s reputation as a serious player in modern horology.
As with so many of MING's offerings, the 19.02’s most distinct feature is its dial. Featuring their signature hand and chapter ring design, the 19.02 displays a stunning gradient that fades from black at the centre to a sandy hue along the periphery, partially exposing the movement below and the chapter ring above. Beneath the chapter ring, written in their corresponding airport codes, are 24 cities representing each of the world’s major time zones, providing the 19.02 its eponymous utility. Highlighted by a titanium disc that rotates below them, a star placed between the ‘1’ and ‘23’ indicators marks the wearer’s home time.
Found amongst its list of 24 cities is MING's hometown of Kuala Lumpur (ours too!), a rarity amongst world-timers and thus a celebration of their heritage and national pride as they go on to represent Malaysia on the world's horological stage. Beyond its dial, the 19.02 sports a 39mm x 10.9mm titanium case construction with MING's iconic flared 'pagoda' lugs with a blend of polished and brushed surfaces across its construction and an entirely luminous bezel.
Powered by the stunning Schwarz-Etienne Cal. ASE220.1 micro-rotor movement designed exclusively for MING, the 19.02’s exhibition caseback reveals partially skeletonised rose-gold-plated bridges with bead blasting and hand-polished anglage. This visually striking movement complements a watch that is both technically and aesthetically exceptional. With the 19.02, MING successfully asserted its place on the world stage, earning the recognition it rightfully deserves.
