In 2016, three young entrepreneurs from Hanoi started Curnon Watch with a simple dream. They wanted to design modern, affordable watches made for Vietnamese millennials. At that time, most local consumers had only two choices. They could either buy cheap, unbranded watches with low quality or spend big on global luxury brands. There was nothing in between.
The Curnon team saw this gap and created something in the middle. Their watches featured sleek designs and reliable Japanese Miyota movements, and were assembled in China. Yet, the most important part was that they were proudly branded as “Designed in Vietnam.” This message connected with young buyers who wanted both style and identity.
The startup started small, mostly selling online through social media. But their big break came in 2018, when they stepped onto the stage of Shark Tank Vietnam, Season 2. Standing in front of some of the country’s toughest investors, they asked for VND 5 billion in exchange for 15 percent equity. It was a bold move for a young company.
A Deal That Changed Everything
On the show, two Sharks, Louis Nguyễn and Dzung Nguyễn decided to take a chance on Curnon. They offered VND 3 billion in equity and VND 2 billion as a convertible loan in exchange for 20 percent ownership. This deal was slightly different from the one the founders had asked for. Still, it was a turning point.
After the episode aired, the company saw an immediate spike in attention. Monthly website traffic jumped from around 20,000 to over 150,000 visits. The brand’s name was suddenly everywhere news articles, social media, and word of mouth. This publicity boost helped Curnon grow its revenue by seven times within a year, reaching nearly 1.5 million US dollars in annual sales.
The team opened more retail stores and increased their staff size by ten times. What had started as a college idea quickly became one of the most talked-about startups in Vietnam.
Winning Hearts and Facing Doubts
Curnon’s early success was about more than just money. The brand tapped into something deeper: cultural pride. By promoting the idea of “Designed in Vietnam,” they made buyers feel part of something new and meaningful. This identity helped them stand out from global competitors. The watches weren’t just tools to tell time. They were statements of taste and Vietnamese creativity.
However, the company also faced criticism. Some people questioned whether the brand was truly Vietnamese, since it used imported components and overseas assembly. Critics pointed out that the watches were not fully made in Vietnam. But the Curnon founders responded honestly. They explained that they never claimed to manufacture everything locally. Instead, their mission was to build a Vietnamese brand that could compete globally in style, design, and customer experience.
Building a Lifestyle Brand
Curnon didn’t stop at watches. As their fanbase grew, they began experimenting with other lifestyle products like sunglasses and leather goods. Each item carried the same values: clean design, affordable pricing, and a strong cultural story.
Their team also doubled down on branding. They worked with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), ran influencer campaigns, and invested in both online and offline marketing. They opened five stores across Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offering customers a chance to interact with the brand in real life.
One marketing campaign featured a series of short films showing everyday moments in modern Vietnam. These stories were subtle but emotional, making the brand feel relatable. In a market crowded with flashy ads, Curnon stood out by being honest and human.
A Brand That Listens
One reason Curnon keeps growing is that they listen to their customers. They use feedback from social media, store visits, and customer service to improve their products. For example, when users requested thinner watch faces and longer battery life, the team responded in their next product line.
They also learned from negative reviews. In one viral YouTube video, a reviewer praised the watch design but criticized slow after-sales service. Instead of ignoring the feedback, the Curnon team reached out publicly, promised to improve, and made actual changes. This helped win back trust and showed that the brand cared.
What Makes Curnon Different?
“Curnon stands out because it balances local identity with global appeal,” said Nguyen Dinh, a retail branding expert based in Ho Chi Minh City.
“They’re not trying to copy foreign brands. They’re building something new that Vietnamese consumers can be proud of.”
Nguyen Dinh, a retail branding expert
This mix of cultural pride and customer focus has helped Curnon gain a loyal base of over 50,000 buyers. These are not just one-time customers. Many return to buy gifts, share social media posts, or recommend the brand to friends. That kind of loyalty is rare in fashion retail.
Where They’re Headed Next
As of 2025, Curnon has shown interest in expanding beyond Vietnam. Though they have not launched in other countries yet, their online sales model could allow them to test new markets easily. The brand is also exploring collaborations with Vietnamese artists and musicians to bring even more personality to their products.
They may not be a billion-dollar company yet. But Curnon Watch has already done something powerful. They’ve proven that a young Vietnamese brand can compete with the world, not by being the cheapest or flashiest, but by being real, bold, and local.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
Curnon Watch transformed from a small startup into one of Vietnam’s most beloved lifestyle brands after their appearance on Shark Tank. Their mix of modern design, cultural pride, and real customer feedback helped them build a loyal and growing community.
FAQs
Is Curnon Watch still in business in 2025?
Yes, Curnon Watch is still active and growing. As of 2025, they operate multiple stores across Vietnam and continue expanding their lifestyle product lines.
Did Curnon get a deal on Shark Tank Vietnam?
Yes, Curnon Watch secured a deal with Sharks Louis Nguyễn and Dzung Nguyễn — VND 3 billion in equity and VND 2 billion as a convertible loan for 20% ownership.
Where are Curnon watches made?
Curnon watches are designed in Vietnam, use Japanese Miyota movements, and are assembled in China. This model helps them balance quality and affordability.
Is Curnon Watch a Vietnamese brand?
Yes, Curnon Watch is a proudly Vietnamese brand, founded by local entrepreneurs with a focus on Vietnamese design and cultural identity.
Where can I buy Curnon watches?
Curnon watches can be purchased from their official website or in-store at retail locations in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.