A Global Journey into the People, Culture, and Craft of Watchmaking
Singapore – Refinery Media and Wei Koh, founder of Revolution magazine, have partnered to create Man of the Hour, an eight-episode series exploring the artistry, innovation, and human stories at the heart of modern watchmaking.
Hosted by Wei Koh, one of the most influential voices in horology, the series takes viewers on a journey that weaves together adventure, cultural exploration, and expert insight. Each episode reveals how extraordinary timepieces are imagined, crafted, and celebrated – with precision, creativity, and soul.
The series shines a spotlight on the independent visionaries of the watch world. From Los Angeles to Geneva, Paris to Singapore, audiences will enjoy rare, intimate access to the stories and studios of legendary master watchmakers and pioneering tastemakers when Man of the Hour premieres on the Discovery Channel.
More than a story of craft, Man of the Hour is about the people and families who built these extraordinary brands. Wei Koh not only explores their techniques but also shares in their passions and daily lives, revealing the cultures, values, and human stories that shape their creations.
As wristwatches enjoy a resurgence as cultural icons, the series speaks to a thriving global community of collectors and enthusiasts. Today, timepieces are embraced not only as tools of precision but as works of art, investments, and heirlooms. From younger audiences rediscovering mechanical craft to seasoned connoisseurs curating collections, the fascination with watches has never been stronger – making Man of the Hour especially timely.
Produced by Refinery Media, the series highlights both the artistry of watchmaking and the cultural landscapes that inspire these timeless creations.
Wei Koh, who also serves as Executive Producer and host, said: “Many of the people featured in Man of the Hour are not just watchmakers I admire, but dear friends whose families I’ve had the privilege to know. For me, this isn’t just a documentary about horology, it’s about sharing the lives, laughter, struggles, and triumphs of people I care deeply about. It is an honour to bring their stories to a global audience.”
Karen Seah, Executive Producer at Refinery Media, added: “What drew us to this series was not only the craft, but the intimacy of the human journeys behind it. These are stories of heritage carried forward, artistry enduring against the odds, and innovation sparked by resilience. At Refinery, we are dedicated to telling stories that connect across cultures and generations – and Man of the Hour does exactly that.”
Lynn Ng, Head of Content, Networks APAC at Warner Bros. Discovery said: “Our audiences turn to Discovery for experiences that surprise, inspire, and connect them to worlds they might never encounter. Man of the Hour opens a window into the artistry of watchmaking, but more importantly, it captures the spirit of the people shaping it. That combination of culture, character, and creativity is why we’re so excited to share it with viewers.”
Season 1 Highlights:
Episode 1 – F.P. Journe | François-Paul Journe’s legacy as the independent visionary who redefined modern watchmaking.
Episode 2 – Chopard | Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and his family’s enduring heritage, values, and innovations.
Episode 3 – De Bethune | Denis Flageollet’s philosophy where science, nature, and artistry converge.
Episode 4 – Urban Jürgensen | The revival of a historic Swiss name with Alex and Andrew Rosenfield and Kari Voutilainen.
Episode 5 – Rexhep Rexhepi | From refugee to revered master — an inspiring story of resilience and vision.
Episode 6 – Greubel Forsey | Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey’s relentless pursuit of horological excellence.
Episode 7 – Louis Vuitton | Jean Arnault, alongside Michel Navas and Enrico Barbasini, shaping the Maison’s watchmaking future.
Episode 8 – MB&F | Maximilian Büsser’s imaginative universe where timepieces become radical works of art.
Featuring F.P. Journe, Chopard, De Bethune, Urban Jürgensen, Rexhep Rexhepi, Greubel Forsey, Louis Vuitton, and MB&F – and supported by Singapore Airlines – the series offers rare behind-the-scenes access to the world of fine watchmaking. For information and updates on the series, visit www.manofthehour.tv.
Man of the Hour premieres in November on the Discovery Channel in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, Hong Kong and South Korea, with other countries to follow.
About Wei Koh (Host of Man of the Hour)
Wei Koh is the founder of Revolution magazine, one of the world’s leading publications on horology. A globally recognised authority, he has built a reputation for his deep expertise, insight, and passion. Koh’s unique ability to contextualise watchmaking within culture, art, and design has made him one of the most respected voices in the industry today.
About Refinery Media
Refinery Media, headquartered in Singapore, is Asia’s leading producer of award-winning reality and lifestyle entertainment. Its credits include Asia’s Next Top Model, The Apprentice: ONE Championship Edition, and SupermodelMe Revolution, with multiple honours from the Asian Academy Creative Awards. The company recently completed production on Man of the Hour, a non-scripted series on horology, and is expanding into scripted and virtual production, with its first co-produced feature film Mothernet set to premiere on Netflix in 2025.
