About Phet Bua
Phet Bua takes its name from the lotus stone — a quiet reference to something formed slowly, over time, into something worth keeping. The workshop opened in Bangkok's Chatuchak district after its founder spent several years studying horology in Thailand and working alongside watchmakers in Europe, and it has operated on the same unhurried principles ever since.
The decision to specialise in mechanical and vintage movements was deliberate. Modern quartz pieces seldom need a workshop like this. Mechanical ones — particularly older, inherited, or collectible pieces — do. They demand real knowledge of the movement, patience with parts that are sometimes no longer made, and a willingness to work at the pace the piece requires rather than the pace that suits a busy shop floor.
Every watch that comes through the door is given an honest assessment first. We look at what the movement needs, what the case has been through, and what the owner is hoping to achieve. From that point, we work to a written plan and agreed price. Work does not begin until the owner has seen the assessment and is comfortable proceeding.
Our mission is simple: to return watches to their owners in better working order than we received them, having treated each piece with the consideration it deserves. Where a watch carries family history or personal significance, that is understood and respected throughout the process.
The People Behind the Work
A small workshop where each person takes direct responsibility for the pieces in their care.
Khun Prayut
Founder & Lead Watchmaker
Over fifteen years working on mechanical movements, with particular experience in Swiss-lever and cylinder escapements. Handles complex restorations and assessments personally.
Nattharee Suwannarat
Case & Dial Technician
Specialises in case metalwork and dial conservation. Trained in surface finishing and takes a measured approach to how far a restoration should go.
Araya Phongsathorn
Client Liaison & Records
Manages intake, documentation, and communication with owners. Ensures each piece is tracked carefully from arrival to collection.
How We Work
The standards we hold ourselves to, for every piece, every time.
Written Assessment First
Every piece receives a documented inspection before work begins. Findings and costs are shared clearly, and work proceeds only with the owner's agreement.
Secure Storage
All watches in our care are logged and stored securely. Access is restricted and every piece is tracked from intake to return.
Rate Testing & Measurement
Timekeeping is measured using calibrated timing equipment before and after servicing. Results are recorded and shared with the owner.
Quality Materials Only
We use watchmaker-grade lubricants and components. Replacement parts are sourced appropriately for each movement type and age.
Service Documentation
A service record is prepared for each completed job. Parts used, work performed, and timing results are noted for the owner's reference.
No Surprise Charges
Costs are agreed before work begins. If anything unexpected is found during the service, we contact the owner before proceeding.
Mechanical Watch Repair in Bangkok
Bangkok has many places to have a watch looked at. Fewer have the patience for the kind of work that older mechanical pieces actually need — a thorough cleaning of the movement, careful regulation across multiple positions, and an honest conversation about what a case refinish should and should not touch.
Phet Bua focuses on mechanical movements — pocket watches and wristwatches, Swiss-made and domestically produced, from the early part of the twentieth century through to modern automatic calibres. The work is done by hand, at a workbench, with the right tools and enough time to do it properly.
For owners of inherited pieces, collectible watches, or everyday mechanicals that have simply drifted out of adjustment, we offer a service that puts the watch first. No upselling, no unnecessary work, no shortcuts on lubricants or procedure. We take on a limited number of pieces at any one time so that nothing is rushed.
The workshop is in Chatuchak, easily reached from central Bangkok. Enquiries are welcome by phone or email, and visits can be arranged during opening hours.
Have a Watch That Needs Attention?
We are glad to take a look and share an honest assessment. There is no obligation to proceed.
Get in Touch