The FineWatches Podcast

In his capacity as owner of The Watch Dealers, and his guise as @gcwatchguy on Instagram, Lewis Butterfield is at the leading edge of the watch trade in Australia.In this, the FineWatches Podcast's 20th episode it was a great pleasure to have a free and frank discussion with Lewis and to get to express some of the things I've always wanted to say on the cast.From the state of the market, through profiteers, to what actually constitutes a Micro-Brand, among other tasty morsels, we cover a lot of ground, and we're just getting started. Look out for more conversations with Lewis coming up in 2023.If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.You can find The Watch Dealers' website here: Visit now.Lewis' Instagram account is here: @gcwatchguyWe'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auFind all our other content and current watches here: www.finewatches.com.au

It's rare that one gets to speak with a true raconteur. It's a fitting description for Ben Lewin.His film "The Favour, The Watch and The Very Big Fish" with Jeff Goldblum and Bob Hoskins was one of the seeds that began my journey into watches. Featuring a JLC Reverso, it showed that watches could be something more than just a tool for telling the time. We refer quite a bit to his 2002 documentary "Hollywood Gold", linked to below, which beautifully captures the characters in the Hollywood watch and jewellery scene at the time.The L.A. based Australian film maker, watch trader, and story teller extraordinaire joined me to discuss what motivates people to collect watches, some of the amazing pieces Ben has come across, and to tell some of the most incredible tales of watch trading you'll hear anywhere.If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.You can find " Hollywood Gold" here: Watch on YouTubeWe'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auMore content: www.finewatches.com.au

One need look no further for a true expert on Patek Philippe than Tania Edwards. With over three decades both at the helm of the brand's marketing department, and now as a key member of the team at Collectability, Tania's knowledge and passion for the company, its output and its history, is deep and fascinating.Our conversation covers why Patek Philippe has held its reputation as one of the producers of the finest timepieces available for so long, the current mania around its more sought after models, some of the groundbreaking designers who have worked with the brand, and "that" campaign: "You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation."You can find Collectability's site here: https://collectability.com/Its instagram is here: @collecatbilityllcIf you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auYou can find our other content and more information about FineWatches here: https://www.finewatches.com.au/ 

Speaking with Andrea Furlan, one half of the Furlan Marri brand which exploded onto the watch scene under Covid with its Mechaquartz Chronograph range, it is evident why it has enjoyed such success. His vision and work that has gone into a lifelong passion for both design and watches shines through. The modesty with which Andrea discusses the success of the brand, pointing always to the incredible community of owners and supporters that helped make the first release a success, is indicative of a customer centric focus on quality and experience which will no doubt see this independent brand produce further triumphs going forward.We discuss some of the factors which ignited his passions, an incredible gift from his Grandfather, the mindset that allowed Andrea to excel in sports, find some incredible people and brands with which to hone his craft, and the current and future direction for Furlan Marri.If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auYou can find more from FineWatches at www.finewatches.com.au

Horomariobro's images are among the most recognisable, and unique, for anyone who follows watches on Instagram. Born out of a desire for something to do while stuck at home during the pandemic, Mario turned his Loupe system and iPhone X to taking photos of his incredible watch collection. Highlighting and critiquing the craftsmanship of some of the worlds best watchmakers, his content is fascinating and appealing in its honest approach. We discuss how he captures his amazing images, the appeal of independent watch brands, what makes a truly fine watch, and how Mario feels about the adulation his account has received from both his followers and leading watch media outlets.If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auOther FineWatches content can be found at www.finewatches.com.au

It's impossible to talk about watches without eventually touching on the close tie between motor racing and the sport's reliance on the precise measurement of time.Tim Schenken is one of the few Australians to have driven in Formula 1. He is a supremely accomplished driver who has driven, and won, for such legendary names as Williams, Surtees, Porsche, Ferrari, and others, in Formula 1, Sports Cars and other world class categories. Tim's motorsport involvement continues with Motorsport Australia, and as Race Director for the V8 Supercars Series, as well as serving as Clerk of the Course for various Grands Prix in the current World Formula 1 Championship.We discuss how a race driver perceives time behind the wheel, the effect of changing time measurement  technology on the sport, and of course some of the special watches Tim has owned and come across along the way.If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auAll other FineWatches content can be found at www.finewatches.com.au 

Rescapement is a newsletter and blog that provides highly interesting content around both the modern and vintage aspects of the watch world. Far from just covering the well trodden paths that so many travel on social media and elsewhere, topics are at once esoteric and highly engaging. Joining me for this episode is its founder Tony, who, incredibly runs the platform as a love project, which provides him and other super knowledgable contributors, an outlet for the fascinations that come with being a true watch aficionado.Our conversation covers the broader watch editorial and social media landscape, what actually constitutes an "important watch", what drives Tony to put the effort in to Rescapement's regular and prolific output and more.You can find the site and sign up to the newsletter here: https://www.rescapement.com/Its instagram is here: @rescapementIf you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auYou can find our other content and more information about FineWatches here: https://www.finewatches.com.au/ 

This episode is an epic discussion. I'm joined by Kathleen McGivney, one of the Founders of the RedBar Group, former COO of the Horological Society of New York and board member of Bailey House. We discuss what drives Kathleen and her RedBar associates to so passionately pursue the organisations philanthropic activities, the importance of brands and watches that neat their own path, and more, all in Kathleen's disarmingly honest style .You can find Kathleen on Instagram here: @kmcgivneyKathleen's amazing lecture to the Horological Society of New York is here : How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love Radium DialsDo check out the lecture. It's absolutely fascinating and super engaging. the other lectures from HSNY are also worth a wander through.If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auFor all other FineWatches content:www.finewatches.com.au

Erika's Originals straps enjoy a true cult status in the watch world. Seen paired with watches from almost any brand you care to name, from Seikos through to the hautest of haute horology, the bands, originally made from parachute straps, lend a personal lift to all.Our discussion ranges through what inspires Erika to maintain the brand's meticulous quality, what watches she likes, to the connection with customers which is so important to what makes Erika's Originals so special.You can find Erika on Instagram here: @erikasoriginalsAnd the entire range of straps can be found here: https://erikasoriginals.com/If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auFor all other FineWatches content:www.finewatches.com.au 

Comparing the virtues of Wu Tang Clan and Lil Pump is not something you expect to do during a watch podcast, but in this episode of the FineWatches podcast we do just that.In my conversation with Charlie Dunne his gregarious approach to the watch community, love for horology, and unquenchable thirst for knowledge shine though. His Instagram account @books_on_time is a must-follow for all curious watch lovers. Our discussion touches on the history of the measurement of time, what makes for a vibrant watch community, a list of amazing books to seek out, and, yes, a comparison of the lyrical prowess of Wu Tang vs. Lil Pump.You can find Charlie on Instagram here: @books_on_time Stacy Perman's Incredible book on the Henry Graves Supercomplication which we discuss in this episode is on Amazon here: A Grand Complication If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auFor all other FineWatches content:www.finewatches.com.au

Christo Hoppe, Founder of Aussie watch brand Bausele, brought both passion and deep, extensive experience in the realm of watchmaking from both time at Universo, Swatch Group's parts production division, and at the financial helm of Technomarine.  After arriving in Australia and recognising that the lifestyle and environment coupled beautifully with a locally designed and Swiss made watch, Christo created Bausele. Each watch in their range incorporates physical elements from Australia either in the crown or caseback, including Bondi sand, red centre soil, crushed Opera House tile, and aircraft fuselage alloy, as well as some bespoke materials which we discuss in the podcast.Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the brand has enjoyed some remarkable accolades for a young company. It was the first Australian brand to be invited to exhibit at Basel World, it is the official watch partner of the Sydney Opera House, jointly developed commemorative pieces for the RAAF's Centenary and more. You can find Bausele's Instagram account here: @bausele Their story, and full range of watches is on their website here: https://www.bausele.com/If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review!It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auYou can find out more about FineWatches and the rest of our content here: FineWatches.com.au

When talking with Paul Sweetenham of Farer, I got the feeling that the brand, more than just a business, is a vehicle for its founders' passion for great design, and of course watches.We discuss what inspiration drives the Farer team to deliver unique, high quality pieces, model after model, Paul's thoughts on the importance of independent brands pushing boundaries in the industry, and a period of time when design, of watches and just about everything else, was at its peak.For those who've asked for more background about FineWatches, Paul and I discuss how it all started and why we do what we do.You can find Farer's Instagram account here: @fareruniversalMore about their story, and their full range of watches is on their website here:https://farer.com/If you enjoy the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast and who or what you'd like to hear next. You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auYou can find out more about FineWatches and the rest of our content here: FineWatches.com.au

Despite time spent at the absolute pinnacle of all things horological, and a with good measure of beautiful cars too, Paul David Maudsley is an avowed lover of the unique and unexpected, and not necessarily at bank breaking prices. We talk about why straying from the well beaten track when collecting watches can be very rewarding, some of the amazing people and pieces that Paul was involved with in his time at Phillips, Bonhams, and now in his own business Remontoire, and the forces that influence trends in the watch world.You can follow Paul's amazingly diverse, and always fascinating, Instagram account here: @pauldavidmaudsleyIf you enjoy listening to the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people and is greatly appreciated.I'd love to hear from you, our listeners! You can reach me any time on Instagram @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.auYou can find out more about FineWatches and the rest of our content here: FineWatches.com.au

Ressence make, arguably, some of the most distinctive watches available.  Speaking with founder Benoît Mintiens it becomes clear why.  Ressence takes an approach to watchmaking that is uncompromisingly rooted in user centred industrial design thinking which focuses, first, on the people who wear their watches. In our discussion, Benoît takes us through his view on our relationships with the everyday objects we use, his design inspiration, why he chose to focus on watches, and where he sees the ideal future of the industry. You can explore the amazing range of models and technology of Ressence in more depth on their website here:  https://ressencewatches.com/If you like what you hear on the FineWatches podcast, please rate and review! It helps us reach more people. I'd love to hear from you, our listeners! You can reach me any time on Instagram, @finewatchesau or via email hello@finewatches.com.au

Whether your watch appreciation journey is just beginning, or you measure time by when you're adding the next piece to your collection, grab a pen and paper as there is much to be learned from this episode's guest. Fred Mandelbaum is a self described completionist and lover of all things horology.  His knowledge and passion for watches, the technical achievements in the field, and the history of important brands and their milestones is truly exceptional. So much so that Breitling has engaged Fred to consult for the brand on numerous projects and specific model re-editions.Fred is a passionate member of the global watch collecting community known for his generous sharing of knowledge and belief that a deeper understanding of any area of interest enhances one's enjoyment significantly. Fred's contribution to our discussion is sure to be valuable to anyone interested in watches.If you're following the FineWatches podcast, or just like what you hear, please rate and review on your platform of choice. It help us reach more people and is very much appreciated!You can follow Fred on Instagram here:  @watchfredYou can find FineWatches here: https://www.finewatches.com.au/Follow us on Instagram here: @finewatchesau

Just in time for the launch of the MB&F LMX, which celebrates 10 years of the company's exceptional Legacy Machines line, Max Büsser joins me for Episode 5 of the FineWatches Podcast. We discuss; Max's creative vision and the uncompromising principles that have lead to the creation of 19 incredible Calibers, as well as limited release specials, and other collaborative works, in 16 years; How the Friends component of Maximilian Büsser & Friends is gathered, and has remained truly friendly despite the tremendous pressure of delivering such prolific work; And, why just treating people as you want to be treated is so important in both business and life.If you enjoy the episode, follow us on your favourite podcast platform, and please throw us a rating and review. It helps more people find us, and we appreciate it immensely! You can see MB&F's incredible work, and team, on their website here: https://www.mbandf.com/Max and MB&F's Instagram accounts are both well worth following, and are here: @mbandf @maxbusserYou can find FineWatches here: https://www.finewatches.com.au/Follow us on Instagram here: @finewatchesau

With March being both Women's History Month, and the five year anniversary of What's On Her Wrist falling in the week this episode drops, timing couldn't be better to talk with Barbara Palumbo. Through the blog on her website www.whatsonherwrist.com  and Instagram account @whatsonherwrist, Barbara brings a distinctly female, and highly relatable, viewpoint of the watch industry and its products, and an unbridled passion for the good people who work within it. We discuss some of the best micro-brands on offer and the people who help make each special, a few of the more established but less talked about houses making exceptional watches, and we delve into whether homogenisation of watch design to be more "unisex" is indeed a good thing.You can find out more about FineWatches here: www.finewatches.com.au and follow our Instagram here: @finewatchesau

True enthusiasts everywhere understand the pure passion one gets from their interest. Whether it's watches, cars, movies, or ouzo, the joy of discovering the intricacies and nuances of any given field is hard to match. For the true zealot, sharing this passion with others is, in some ways, an even greater joy. My guest for episode three of the FineWatches podcast is a true enthusiast about many things, with an eye for the common thread of the unusual in each. Phillip Toledano, or Mr Enthusiast, is an artist and true creative who's passion for unusual watches and cars sets him apart from the usual banter around both. We discuss his various collections, the joy to be found off the well trodden path and what it means to be a true enthusiast.You can find Mr Enthusiast here: @misterenthusiastThe Viva Bastardo project is here: https://vivabastardo.com/You can find out more about FineWatches here: https://www.finewatches.com.au/

Vintage watches have a unique desirability all their own. Their increasing scarcity, place in the history of watchmaking and design, and their perceived potential as investment pieces, mean Vintage collecting is an area best approached with sound knowledge. None has a sounder knowledge of the area than Eric Wind, now of Wind Vintage and formerly at the helm of some epic sales at Christie's. We discuss watch history, some of the incredible watches Eric has come across in his journey, and he gives some pointers toward some cool pieces that anyone wanting to enter this market might want to seriously consider. You can visit Eric's site here: www.windvintage.comThe list of most valuable sales we discuss is here:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_most_expensive_watches_sold_at_auctionAnd as always you can find FineWatches here: https://www.finewatches.com.au

As first episodes of podcasts go, to have a conversation that travels though the world of watches and watchmaking with William Massena is an excellent start. We discuss Massena LAB's latest collaboration with Unimatic, the U1-MLM, what's coming up in terms of new releases, what makes someone a watch collector, and theming a collection. Current and future design trends and brand vs product are also explored.William names the model he holds to be the T-Shirt of Watchmaking, and explains in glowing terms what this means.You can find FineWatches previous conversation with Giovanni Moro of Unimatic on our blog here :  FW on UnimaticCheck out our Instagram here: @finewatchesauMore on the brands we discuss here:Massena LABUnimaticLaventureRessence