How did you become involved in the watch industry?
A passion for mechanics from my father and grandfather. I grew up with historic cars giving me an appreciation for fine mechanics. Following Watchmaking School in London l worked for five years in antique watch restoration, which provided an invaluable understanding of the history and work of emblematic watchmakers before moving to Switzerland to be immersed in complicated watchmaking.
Do you remember your first watch?
Mechanical Ingersoll three hands (hour, minute and seconds).
What is the one watch you would never part with?
Actually, it would be a clock. The 18th Century bracket clock by John Smith of London, twin fusée movement with Dutch striking mechanism in a Chinese-style lacquered case.
What is your most memorable experience with a timepiece?
The 2011 Concours de Chronométrie Compétition and the record timing performance of the Double Tourbillon Technique 915 / 1000 points represents between 0.3 and 0.8 seconds/ day through the whole competition.
What qualities define exceptional watch design?
Authenticity, proportions, and for us, three-dimensional architecture. Often made up of many details, there should be balance, it must be engaging and have elegant proportions, fresh and original, and there should not be any compromise.
Which watch brand has surprised you the most this year?
TAG Heuer, The brand’s Connected Watch comes with the option to buy a replacement module or the ability to upgrade to a mechanical chronograph. It is very innovative.
If you didn’t work for a watch company, which industry would you like to work in, and for which brand?
Automotive. Most likely in historic car restoration, which has similarities to fine watchmaking
What is the biggest challenge facing the watch industry today?
Commercial brands must reduce supply and stocks. They must engage consumers with an honest and authentic message. Thanks to the media, consumers are now better educated and are looking for credibility and transparency.
Who is currently the most influential person in watches?
The collector!
If your brand did not exist, which watch would you wear?
The George Daniels Tourbillon Chronograph wristwatch with Co-axial escapement.