PETALING JAYA · SELANGOR
Where a Watch is Examined, Not Rushed
Melakaben Horology is a small bench studio in Petaling Jaya attending to wristwatches that deserve careful hands. Each piece is worked on individually, without a queue mentality.
BENCH SERVICES
Three Services, Each Handled with Attention
The studio works across three defined service areas. All enquiries are welcome before you decide whether to proceed.
Friction Fit Hand Replacement
For watches where hands have fallen loose, drifted in alignment, or require a reference-correct replacement. Hub deformation is assessed before new hands are seated and cleared through a full rotation check.
- Hub condition inspection
- Reference-correct hand sourcing
- Height and clearance verification
- Photographic work record
Period Reference Movement Overhaul
A specialist overhaul for vintage calibres where parts need patient sourcing. Full disassembly, ultrasonic cleaning, pivot and jewel inspection, period-correct component replacement, and multi-position timing.
- Part availability review first
- Ultrasonic cleaning protocol
- Calibre-appropriate lubrication
- Multi-position timing test
Watch Travel Care Notes
A discussion-based session covering altitude effects, magnetic exposure at security points and inside electric vehicles, and the practicalities of transporting heirloom pieces. Concludes with a written summary.
- Altitude and pressure considerations
- Magnetic field exposure guidance
- Luggage and carry-on notes
- Written summary provided
WHY THE BENCH MATTERS
What You Can Expect Here
One Piece at a Time
Work is not batched. Each watch receives the studio's full attention before the next is touched. You will always know which stage your piece is at.
Patience Over Speed
Parts for vintage calibres are sourced carefully. A rushed substitute is never used without the owner being consulted first. Waiting for the right component is considered part of the work.
Photographic Records
A photographic record accompanies hand replacement work. For overhauls, key stages are documented so you can see what was found inside and what was addressed.
Clear Communication
Findings are explained in plain terms. If something unexpected is found during disassembly, the studio stops and contacts you before continuing.
Small Parts Inventory
The studio maintains a small stock of period-correct components for common vintage families. This reduces wait times on overhauls without cutting corners on specification.
Heirloom Awareness
Pieces passed between generations receive a particular level of care. The studio has a written policy on intergenerational transfers, available on request.
OPEN FOR ENQUIRIES
A Watch Worth Wearing is Worth Looking After Properly
Whether you have a specific concern or simply want to understand what your watch needs, the studio is available for a conversation. No pressure to proceed.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Things People Usually Ask
How do I get my watch to the studio?
The studio is located at 53 Persiaran Tropicana, 47410 Petaling Jaya. Most owners visit in person. If you are coming from further afield in Selangor or Kuala Lumpur, please contact us first to arrange a suitable time so we can give you proper attention when you arrive.
How long does a movement overhaul take?
For most vintage calibres, the overhaul itself takes two to four weeks from the point when all parts are confirmed available. If certain components need to be sourced, this period may extend. You will be informed at the outset of what is expected and contacted if anything changes.
Will my watch look different after hand replacement?
The studio sources reference-correct hands wherever possible, meaning replacements match the specification of the original. If an exact match cannot be sourced, you will be shown alternatives before any decision is made. The dial is not removed for hand replacement unless there is a specific reason to do so.
Is the Travel Care Notes session suitable before any trip?
Yes. It is most useful for owners planning to travel with a watch they value, particularly heirloom pieces or those with water-resistant cases that respond to altitude. The session is informational and does not involve any work being done to the watch itself.
Do you work on modern watches as well as vintage pieces?
Hand replacement is suitable for most friction-fit wristwatches regardless of age. The overhaul service is specifically structured around vintage movement families where period-correct sourcing is the main consideration. If you have a modern piece, please enquire and the studio will let you know whether it falls within scope.
What happens if you find additional issues during an overhaul?
The studio pauses and contacts you before proceeding. Nothing additional is done without your knowledge and agreement. If a finding would significantly affect the scope or cost, a revised estimate is provided and you decide whether to continue.
LOCATION
Find the Studio
53 Persiaran Tropicana, 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
REACH US
Send an Enquiry
Studio Details
TELEPHONE
+60 3-7625 4891ADDRESS
53 Persiaran Tropicana
47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Malaysia
STUDIO HOURS
Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 15:00
Sunday & Monday: Closed
Visits by arrangement preferred