Golding sports his new Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso in KL (Photo: Low Yen Yeing/ The Edge)
Early this year, Lucky Time, a vintage watch dealer in London, took to social media to announce that the most expensive watch in its shop had been snapped up by none other than British actor Henry Golding.
He had acquired a Cartier Roadster “Las Vegas”, distinctive for its unique roulette dial with alternating red-and-white Arabic numerals and a concentric hour track, evoking a speedometer. Created as an homage to the golden age of sports cars, the Roadster, which was discontinued in 2012, features voluptuous curves and a date magnifier shaped to look like a vintage headlight.
As a longtime fan, Golding is constantly spotted wearing a variety of timepieces from the brand. His collection spans from a Pasha — the very first luxury timepiece he diligently saved up for — to a maroon Tank Louis, which has become a personal staple for injecting a sophisticated pop of colour into his wardrobe.
“I would never call myself a watch collector. I’m a watch wearer. So, my collection is stuff that I’d wear on an everyday basis,” he says during a homecoming visit to Malaysia.
It has been nearly eight years since Crazy Rich Asians catapulted Golding into the global stratosphere, transforming the charismatic former travel presenter into a Hollywood darling.
His current career is worlds apart from his early days hosting TV shows. Yet, the ever-grounded actor — born in Betong, Sarawak, to an English father and Iban mother — is not one to forget his roots. He readily acknowledges that his years in broadcast TV built the character, skill and discernment required for the big screen.
“Coming into acting later in life has been a blessing. Because I’m already my own person, I know when to say no and what my limit is. My experiences have helped me navigate that world,” he says.
Taking a rare moment to pause and reflect on his whirlwind trajectory, he discusses what drives him today, his upcoming projects and burgeoning hobby for watch collecting.
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Tell us about the current phase of your career.
Venturing outside my comfort zone has been a big driver. Taking on characters that are different and unique, be it scary, fun or a bit kooky. I’m drawn to films that offer a challenge and have great people working on them. You look at the director, the actors, the studio that’s producing it, the storyline — there are so many elements that go into a decision. I love making movies. It’s about finding the right one.
What can we expect from you soon?
My next film comes out early next year. It’s called Close Personal Friends for Amazon. We have a great cast. It’s Lily Collins, Brie Larson, Jack Quaid and myself. It’s kind of a romantic comedy, but more comedy than romantic. It follows two couples: one from a more ordinary background, while the other comprises two superstars. They become fast friends and it’s about the journey into their world and the absurdity of what each other’s lives hold. It’s so much fun.
Who do you look up to in the industry?
There are so many. Daniel Day-Lewis is one. Jesse Plemons, who did Bugonia. Filmmaker Jon Chu will forever be an idol of mine for how he directs and creates these fantasy worlds.
And now the pertinent question: Is the sequel for Crazy Rich Asians happening?
Right now, I’ve got nothing! They have to figure out the backend first.
What is the latest film that moved you?
There’s this Chinese film that I watched recently featuring Jackson Yee. It’s called Big World. It’s about a young man who has cerebral palsy. His acting in this movie is probably some of the best I’ve ever seen. It’s such a moving, poignant piece about struggle and disability.
Tell us about a timepiece you recently acquired.
I got a Cartier Roadster. I like the design, in particular. It’s the Las Vegas version with the rarer red-and-black dial. Funnily enough, I feel like I’m the watch oracle. As soon as I bought it, Cartier brought out the 2026 version.
Do certain watches hold special meaning for you?
Yes, of course. I have an old Omega Seamaster DeVille that I wore as Nick Young for Crazy Rich Asians. I have a Cartier Tank, the first watch I wore on the red carpet in Los Angeles. I have a Tudor Black Bay that my wife got me for our wedding. Everything has a story.
What is your favourite at the moment?
This Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso that I just love. I’ve always wanted a Reverso. I’ve not had anything engraved at the back yet, but I will.
What else is in your current rotation?
My Tank Louis in maroon, the Roadster. I just got back my Oyster Perpetual on a Nato strap… and my Garmin!
Tell us your top five dream watches.
It has to be the Vacheron Constantin 222 in steel. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso with the salmon dial and mesh bracelet from last year. Something from Ming (Malaysia represent!); their Polymesh titanium bracelet is beautiful. The smaller Nautilus from Patek Philippe — that’s my favourite watch of all time. I also like the FP Journe Élégante.
How would you describe your taste in horology?
I like watches with a great story, whether they have some significance in a time period or the way they are designed. I like that they become reminders of a chapter of my life or a celebration.
This article first appeared in 'Calibre' on July 27, 2026 in The Edge Malaysia.
