Ming 17.09 Blue

Some independent watchmakers make their names with increasingly complicated movements. Others manage to establish an entirely new design language. MING belongs firmly in the latter camp. Founded in 2017 by Malaysian photographer and designer Ming Thein and a small collective of enthusiasts, the brand quickly developed a following for watches that look unlike almost anything else on the market. The 17.09, introduced in April 2021, marked the final chapter of MING’s original 17-series, bringing together several years of experimentation in a particularly accomplished design.

Housed in a 38mm stainless steel case measuring just 10mm thick, the 17.09 Blue is a fascinating study in texture, light, and visual depth. Its two-part metallic blue dial combines a finely patterned Clous de Paris center with a circular-brushed outer ring, creating a surface that seems to change character depending on the angle of the light. The luminous hour markers are actually laser-etched onto the underside of the sapphire crystal, giving them the appearance of floating above the dial. Add MING’s distinctive openworked hands, dramatically shaped lugs, and almost complete absence of conventional dial furniture, and the result is immediately recognizable.

The mechanical side is equally interesting. Inside is the automatic Calibre 330.M1, based on the Sellita SW330-2 and extensively modified by Schwarz-Etienne for MING. Rather than simply displaying a second time zone, the movement allows the hour hand to be adjusted independently through the crown without stopping the watch, a particularly useful feature when traveling. Power reserve is approximately 42 hours, while the compact case offers an impressive 100 meters of water resistance. The watch is fitted with a textured black Alcantara (a suede-like fabric) strap, handmade by Jean Rousseau Paris, with a contrasting blue rubber lining. This example is accompanied by its original inner and outer boxes, papers, and pamphlets.

The 17.09 is an excellent reminder that originality in watchmaking doesn’t necessarily require an entirely new complication or an extravagant price tag. MING took a relatively straightforward automatic watch, reconsidered nearly every visible detail, and arrived at something with its own personality. As the farewell to the brand’s first collection, the 17.09 Blue feels particularly significant. A fitting conclusion to the series that helped put MING on the map, and a compelling example of what independent watch design can accomplish.

Established in 2017 in Malaysia by Ming Thein and a close group of watch enthusiast friends and investors, Ming has quickly climbed to the top of the “high-end independent” heap for its inspired designs, minimalist aesthetics, and wildly cool dials. Small details such as a bracelet that fits universally on all models, a unique 12 o’clock marker, and flared lugs make for a notable product line that nevertheless flies well under the radar in a world obsessed with steel sports watches from a handful of well-known brands.

Produced in Switzerland and QC’d in Kuala Lumpur, Ming watches use either Sellita or ETA movements in their entry-level pieces, or higher-end calibers from the likes of Schwartz-Etienne and others on some of its pricier wares. Their products sell out quickly, and Ming often rewards repeat customers with offers of allocations on new models. The watch industry has also taken note, awarding the 17.06 Copper model the Horological Revelation prize at the 2019 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.

From simple, time-only models to GMTs and moon phases, Ming’s timepieces represent some of the best in modern boutique watchmaking, drawing on a collective 80 years of experience in the watch space to push the horological envelope.

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Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a two-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.