The stretch of seafront known as Collyer Quay resulted from land reclamation works carried out in the 1860s to allow for the erection of office buildings and godowns along the quayside. Many prominent buildings lined the busy waterfront. The edifice featured in the postcard was the second Ocean Building. It was constructed in 1923 and noted for its spiral tower. The first building was built in 1864 and demolished in 1919. The Straits Steamship Company bought over the land in the early 1970s and proceeded to construct a third Ocean Building. The new 28-storey complex for corporate offices was completed in 1974.
