The mid-September launch of Reference Room brings together Chen's watch collecting expertise and Lim's nine years in Australia’s hospitality sector. Alongside an inventory of collectible timepieces, the venue serves Common Man coffee, TWG tea, alcoholic beverages, and seven different cakes baked in-house by Lim. Chen, who previously co-founded a food packaging business, sought to create an unpressured setting after feeling traditional watch stores lacked welcoming spaces to linger.
Key points
Julian Chen conceived the hybrid concept to provide a more welcoming alternative to tradi…: Julian Chen conceived the hybrid concept to provide a more welcoming alternative to traditionally transactional watch boutiques.
The business draws on Claire Lim's extensive culinary experience, which began with a home…: The business draws on Claire Lim's extensive culinary experience, which began with a home-baking venture at age 15.
The establishment welcomes both dedicated horology collectors and casual walk-in patrons…: The establishment welcomes both dedicated horology collectors and casual walk-in patrons seeking food and beverages.
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At Reference Room on Tras Street, Julian Chen and Claire Lim have brought together their passions for watch collecting and baking, creating a place where customers can browse, linger and connect.
On a street lined with fine-dining restaurants, cocktail bars and social media darling cafes, the last thing you’d expect to find is a vintage watch retailer.
Yet along Tras Street in Tanjong Pagar, Reference Room has taken root at number 46, surrounded by popular dining spots like Cafe Mary Grace and Burma Social.
To be fair, Reference Room isn’t just your average vintage watch retailer. It’s also a bona fide cafe that serves Common Man coffee, TWG tea and cakes baked in-house.
The concept is the brainchild of Julian Chen, 31, and Claire Lim, 28, who are partners in life and in business.
Since opening in mid-September, Reference Room has attracted a steady stream of visitors – from watch enthusiasts to cafe hoppers in search of their matcha fix.
When CNA Luxury visited a week after the opening, Chen said he was happy with the response.
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