A simple green board with the shop’s name written in Malay and Chinese greets customers. Inside, it is a sight to behold as clocks of every size, shape and colour – from grandfather clocks to cuckoo clocks as well as watches – are on full display.
“This business was started by my grandfather in 1929,” Robert Lee Hon Wai, 63, told FMT.
In those days, the shop was abuzz with activity as there were several merchants under the same roof. Apart from Robert’s grandfather, there was a petition writer and a dentist sharing the front portion of the shop and a noodle factory at the back.
“My grandfather passed away during World War Two,” Robert shared.
The second and third generation’s story
Robert’s father, Lee Hing Choy, and uncle, Lee Lai Choy, took over running the business and it was during this period that they bought over the shop building.
With the passing of time, Robert’s grandmother had the foresight to make plans for the third generation to take over the business. So, she approached Robert, who had by then, made plans to study for his A-levels.
“I was pestered and pestered [by my grandmother]. So, finally, I didn’t even proceed with my A-Levels and came back to the shop,” he shared. Robert joined the family business in 1979.
His Majesty’s clocks
By that time, Wah Sang Brothers were already appointed to repair the clocks of the late Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah.
It was his uncle, Lai Choy, who initially repaired His Majesty’s clocks at the palace, with Robert tagging along as the ever-curious apprentice.
“Then one day, my uncle finally said: ‘Don’t worry, go ahead. You are ready to do the job.’ So, I started repairing the clocks in the Istana in the 1980s,” Robert recalled.
After being in the profession for more than four decades, what does Robert enjoy most about his work?
“I like my job because it teaches me to be patient. It also gives me a better life and gives me a deeper understanding of what everyday life is all about,” he mused.
During FMT’s visit, there was a constant stream of customers, each bringing a timepiece that required Robert’s attention.
“We have a mixture of new customers and those who have been coming to us for a long time. We even have third-generation customers and I feel proud about that,” he said.
According to Robert, even in this digital age, there is still an appreciation for antique clocks. “However, they must be able to understand its value.”
For those aspiring to get into the industry, Robert had this piece of advice, “You need the heart and mind, as well as the interest to assemble and disassemble. Not many people are keen to do it as a lot of patience and precision are needed.”
An uncle and mentor
Robert still has fond memories of his uncle, and said, “He is the one who trained me.”
It was a long process, he said, because his uncle was strict and forbade him from even attempting to repair any clock until he was 100% sure he could identify every single clock part as well as disassemble and assemble the clock with precision.
Robert added that he would always consult his uncle while on the job and never repaired any timepiece blindly. He said he and his uncle enjoyed a special bond, and shared not just work matters but personal matters as well.
Sadly, Lai Choy passed away in August. According to Robert, he died of old age, and peacefully in his sleep. Clearly still emotional, he said, “I was very, very close to him. He was like my father.”
Will there be a fourth generation?
The question that remains is – what’s next for Wah Seng Brothers?
“When I can’t repair timepieces anymore, I would like to open a little school to train people on how to repair them.”
Like many multi-generational businesses, the question of who will take over the business is a constant worry.
“I don’t think my family will take over the business. If someone would like to buy the business, I will guide them,” Robert said, adding that the individual would have to learn the “repairing” aspect of the business as no retailer can survive selling timepieces alone, especially in a small town like Klang.
“I hope that this business will carry on. But we won’t know until the time comes. I think I will be around for another ten years…if I am still alive,” he added with a laugh.
Wah Sang Brothers
No 3, Jalan Stesen Satu
41000 Klang
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Business Hours : 10.45am – 6pm (Daily except Sunday)
Contact : 019-225 5331