Wrist Taker

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF BARRY YEOW

Who: Barry Yeow, 50, artist. A former drug addict who spent about 20 years behind bars, he now runs his own gallery 5seventeen, does charity work and is a big supporter of initiatives to help ex-offenders.

My watch: Rolex Submariner

How much I paid for it: It is pre-owned and I paid $7,200 nearly two years ago.

Why I like it: I bought this watch as a little reward for myself. When I was released from prison more than two years ago, I was blessed with people who supported me and commissioned me to do paintings. When I had saved enough, I bought this Rolex. It's an achievement for me. I like it because it looks sporty.

Having wasted 20 years behind bars, I've come to realise that "time and tide waits for no man".

I want to live life fruitfully, instead of frittering it away. When my time is up, I want to have no regrets. I want to be thankful that I have spent my time and lived my life well.

Wong Kim Hoh

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 07, 2017, with the headline Wrist Taker. Subscribe