Episode 18 - Collecting Independents with Paul Blandford
Ever wondered what's behind the world of independent watchmaking and its fascinating connection to Formula One? In this episode, Paul Blandford shares his journey from being a car enthusiast to becoming deeply engrossed in the world of independent watchmaking. We explore the essence of independent watchmaking and the creative independence it represents. We speak about the role of social media, particularly Instagram, in connecting collectors and emerging watchmakers. Paul emphasizes the importance of trying watches on in person to truly understand their unique characteristics and how they resonate with you.
Paul's journey led him from car aficionado to a passionate collector of independent watches, a world where horology and engineering merge. Independent watchmaking is characterized by creative freedom, unbridled by corporate constraints. It's a realm where watchmakers like Max Büsser of MB&F, Felix Baumgartner and Martin Frei of Urwerk, Rexhep Rexhepi of Akrivia and others create exceptional timepieces that defy convention and pull at your emotions.
I’ll apologize to you as there is some discussion of Formula1 here that is no longer relevant since we recorded this at midseason! Enjoy the show and let me know if you have any comments!
Key Takeaways:
Formula1 Talk 12:00 - 26:00
Paul Defines Independent Watchmaking 38:41
Paul on Independents : 40:24
What makes Independent Watchmakers Different : 44:20
What do you get from a independent brand 45:47
Advice for collectors- Dubai Watch Week- 46:21
Where to find new indies - 49:51
Do your Research - 52:16
Future of Independent watchmaking - 56:49 - 57:00 - get the watches on your wrist
You can find Paul on Instagram at @f1ptb, and you can follow me on my site, you can always get the latest over on Instagram, or sign up for my newsletter!
Have a great weekend everyone and we’ll be back next week!
