Rebecca Lim On Honing Her Craft, Philanthropy And New Ventures

Rebecca Lim is arguably one of Singapore's most prominent and talented actresses; her name has become synonymous with local broadcast television but that's not all she's known for.

In a career spanning about a decade, Lim has actively participated in several philanthropic and charitable initiatives, and has also been tapped by many brands to front their advertising campaigns, the latest of which is Longines. Recently named "Friend of the Brand" by the Swiss luxury watchmaker, Lim also stars in a series of videos and photographs promoting Longines' DolceVita collection—an ode to the Italian 'sweet life'. Which is a perfect match for Lim because Longines is the very first luxurury timepiece she bought for herself.

Featuring a rectangular case inspired by a previous model from the 1920s, the Longines DolceVita collection is touted to be an emblematic collection of the brand. This collection has eight new interchangeable coloured leather straps—orange, lime green, brown, coral, taupe, pine green, turquoise and yellow—which are available in two sizes.

What's also interesting is that the new model is furnished with a "quick switch" system, allowing fuss-free changing of straps. Furthermore, a new white dial is also added into the DolceVita family.

We caught up with the actress to find out more about her partnership with Longines, how she's coping with the new normal in Phase Two and more.

How does it feel being a Friend of the Brand and how did the partnership come about?

It feels like a dream come true to be associated with a brand of such rich heritage—especially one that I love. It truly is my highlight of 2020.

I’ve been a fan of the brand for a very long time now, mostly because I was influenced by my grandfather’s love for his Longines timepieces. This is also why the first timepiece I bought for myself three years ago was also from Longines—a Conquest Classic. Most of my partnerships with brands have come about very organically over the years, and Longines is no exception. I love the variety of timepieces that the brand offers, and how each one of them is classic and elegant.

What is it about the Longines DolceVita collection that you love? 

That it is timeless yet versatile. It’s the perfect timepiece collection for the multitasking individual and that’s what I love most about it. The contemporary twist put on a classic Longines DolceVita design makes it suitable for any and every occasion. It’s also something that won’t go out of style, so you can pass it on to the generation.

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How would you describe your personal style and what are your tips on wearing the Longines DolceVita timepieces?

My off-work style is honestly quite casual. I’m always seen sporting a white, grey or black top with denim, high-waisted pants or skirt outfit, which I always accessorise with a nice Longines timepiece. And what I love about the DolceVita collection is that you can match it with everything by easily changing the colour of the straps to suits your mood, bags or shoes. I also sometimes deliberately wear a bright coloured strap to give my whole look that pop of colour, which never fails to get me compliments.

What does the DolceVita collection symbolise to you and how do you relate to the brand’s slogan “Elegance is an Attitude”?

To me, dolce vita means being able to do what I love, being surrounded by people I love and who love me and even eating what I love! The sweet life is the life that I wish for everyone.

I also believe that elegance truly is an attitude—although that’s not something I consciously remind myself to behave as. I believe that time is the best teacher and that everything we go through in life helps us grow, for as long as we’re willing. In essence, elegance comes with growth, and there’s no rushing it.

Tell us more about your philanthropic and charitable work. 

I’ve been immensely blessed in my career. If you had asked me 10 years ago, when I was just starting out, if I’d ever expect myself to be where I am today, I would have laughed it off as a joke. But here I am, and I think that it’s only right that I do what I can with what I have to try and spread the good that I’ve been blessed with. 

When it comes to the work that I do, I believe in consistency and that it doesn’t always have to be a mega huge event. I’ve been providing for the less fortunate and holding Chinese New Year reunion meals for the elderly who are living alone for the past four years, and I will continue to do so. 

I also believe in treating everyone I meet with due respect and in being kind with the things that I say about others (even if they’ve been unkind). If you have nothing good to say, just don’t say it—that’s something I truly believe in.

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What have been your biggest takeaway from helping those in need?

One, that it is truly a blessing to be able to give. Two, though we cannot single handedly change the world, our baby steps in being kind will make a difference in someone’s life, even if it’s just for a little while. And lastly, to do so without expecting anything in return.

What does your new normal look like and what can we expect from you in the near future? 

I’ve started working on a new production, which will premiere at the end of this year. Everyone on set has been really responsible with staying safe and creating a safe environment for one another. It took a little bit of getting used to working so intensely again after two months of circuit-breaker, and I miss having all three meals at home with family. 

Lastly, what have you been most proud of in your career so far? 

That I never once rested on my laurels and thought that I was too good for a job. I still seek to improve myself. I give 100 percent of myself towards everything that I do and will continue to do so.

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