Massena LAB is proud to present the 17.09 MING x Massena LAB, our first collaboration with MING, and MING’s first collaboration with any other brand. This collaboration marks a partnership between two friends and colleagues: renowned photographer and watchmaker Ming Thein and William Massena.
The MING x Massena LAB features an intricate, hexagonal honeycomb dial inspired by vintage Rolex dials of the mid-century. Surrounding the central honeycomb is a circularly-brushed ring to compliment its patterned center.
The case of the 17.09 MING x Massena LAB is constructed from polished and brushed 316L stainless steel, which recalls the padellone (or “little frying pan” in Italian) cases of the Rolex 8171. At 38mm, and with the same distinctive flared lugs of the 17.09, the MING x Massena LAB will fit a variety of wrist sizes comfortably with straps by Jean Rousseau Paris. On its reverse side, the honeycomb pattern is etched to encircle the Massena LAB logo.
The 17.09 MING x Massena LAB is powered by a modified version of the Sellita SW330-2, the 330.M1. Developed by Schwarz-Etienne, it features an independent hour hand adjustment mechanism, exclusive to the MING 17.09, which makes it an ideal travel watch.
Limited edition of 150 pieces.
Information:
Reference: 17.09 Black
Limited: 150 Made
Bracelet: Honey calf with brown alcantara lining. Handmade by Jean Rousseau Paris. Buckle signed “MING”.
Case Size: 38mm x 10mm Thickness
Lug Width: 20mm
Case Metal: Stainless Steel
Movement: Cal. 330.M1 based on the Stellita SW330-2, Modified by Schwarz-Etienne - Automatic - running within spec
Functions: Hours, Minutes
Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes, and warranty papers
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.5”
Condition:
Case has little to no wear with only light wear on the caseback. Strap has light normal wear with a small amount of creasing. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear.
History of Ming Watches
Horologer MING, founded in 2017 by photographer and watch enthusiast Ming Thein, has quickly become a notable player in the watch industry. Born from Thein's passion for horology and frustration with the industry's increasing prices and pretentiousness, MING was created alongside a group of like-minded enthusiasts. The brand's philosophy centers on delivering mechanical watches with distinctive designs, exceptional value, and integrity across all price points. MING's approach is characterized by its reductive design language, featuring strong symmetry, flared lugs, and visual layering that creates dynamic appearances under different lighting conditions.
Despite its young age, MING has garnered significant acclaim, including a GPHG shortlisting for its 19.01 model in 2018. The brand operates through collaborations with various partners, allowing it to produce a range of watches from entry-level to high-end pieces. MING's unique position in the market stems from its commitment to transparency, limited production runs, and a customer-centric approach. As the brand continues to evolve, it faces challenges due to its Malaysian base and lack of a local watchmaking ecosystem. However, MING remains focused on innovation, exploring new complications and designs while staying true to its founding principles of value, integrity, and coherent design.
