Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is home base to a small ?horological collective? called Ming. These six folks are advancing watch design and the use of materials in rather unique ways. Led by photographer, designer, and watch collector Ming Thein, the other five members of the self-funded team are collectors of watches ranging from exemplary vintage pieces to six-figure one-offs.Though Ming?s 17-series watches represent the brand?s more affordable line, there is no sign of corner-cutting with the 17.03, which we have in hand for review. Nearly every aspect of this 38-millimeter GMT is unique, including the shapely titanium case and the layered dial with its sapphire overlay. Everything is made and assembled in Switzerland, with final inspection happening back in Kuala Lumpur.

$1720

Review: Ming 17.03 GMT
Case
Titanium (Grade 2)

Movement
Sellita SW330-1 (top grade)

Dial
Red; black

Lume
C1 Super-LumiNova

Lens
Sapphire (AR on both sides)

Strap
Titanium 5-link bracelet; nubuck straps

Water Resistance
100m

Dimensions
38mm x 43.9mm

Thickness
9.8mm

Lug Width
20mm

Crown
Push-pull

Warranty
Yes

Price
$1720

The “0” that stands in for the traditional 12 is the loudest announcement that Ming has gone their own way with the 17.03, That 0 also tells us that this watch is oriented to its GMT function. Meanwhile the mid-case, bezel, and solid case back are in brushed titanium, providing both a lighter over...