Redefining time with Basotho heritage and luxury 

A digital creator and fashion curator who is prominently recognised for fashion styling and creative storytelling has launched his own luxury brand called PM, that produces watches and clocks.

Potlako Mohai wants PM to craft pieces that blend Basotho heritage with cutting-edge creativity.

He said he has noticed that storytelling in fashion and textiles is getting a bit stale, with many brands trying to educate and showcase culture, but often losing focus. He now aims to break this mold with a fresh approach.

The brand name “Potlako” comes from Mohai’s late grandfather, who gave it to him with profound insight. Interestingly, his grandfather was blind, yet saw Mohai as ahead of his time. Mohai’s name is rooted in time, carrying meaningful legacy from his elders.

He said PM do not just use culture as decoration; it is woven into the brand’s DNA as a design philosophy. His team draws inspiration from authentic Basotho visual systems like Litema, incorporating its geometry, symbolism, rhythm, and storytelling.

“These patterns traditionally marked identity, memory, and continuity in Basotho homes,” he noted.

Mohai explained that the brand translates Litema’s principles into clocks and watches, using structured forms, thoughtful colour palettes, and balanced compositions that reflect order, meaning, and time. 

Additionally, he stated, with a modern artistry twist, PM applies global luxury standards, featuring refined designs, precision engineering, high-quality materials, and sleek finishes.

PM sees time as a carrier of culture, memory, and identity. Each piece conveys that Basotho culture evolves, and belongs in global luxury space.

“It is about intentional living, where luxury entails meaning, craftsmanship, and legacy,” he pointed out.

Mohai said owning a PM piece is aligning with purpose and respecting time as a legacy to inherit and pass on. The brand honours the past, values the present, and designs for the future.

PM’s process starts with cultural study, revisiting Basotho heritage like Litema and symbolism, and then refines these elements into modern, luxurious designs, focusing on proportion and balance.

Local materials and artisans play a key role, preserving skills and embedding human touch, Mohai added.