Welcome to this week’s episode of Fratello Talks. There are various types of watches. A companion to functional objects, fashion accessories, anachronistic and fascinating watches…the list goes on. But there’s one weird thing. In the world of watches, the only thing more important than the watch itself is its price. But does that mean there’s no room for humor and levity in the world of watches? That’s the question Nacho, RJ and Rex set out to answer today. In an industry that tends to take itself quite seriously, we try to find rare examples of humor and levity with varying degrees of success. It’s not always obvious at first glance, but dig deeper and you’ll find that the watch has some strange examples of humor. Today’s show covers every possible example, from the clever tongue-in-cheek humor of “Sec/Second/” to some questionable advertising and the odd time (or two) that Rolex grinned . But first, let’s take a look at what’s on your wrist.
list check
Today we start with Rex, who happens to be wearing a pretty authentic Omega Speedmaster Broad Arrow “Replica” (ref. 3594.50.00). Rex’s love for the khaki green Celica rubber strap remains strong, and that’s exactly how he chooses to wear this watch. This Speedy shows no signs of frivolity behind its steely facade. However, there’s something to be said for that “Replica” name. Don’t be fooled. It’s a genuine Speedmaster!
As if to prove it, RJ also wears a Speedmaster 3594. He chose to wear it on a beautiful OEM cognac leather strap with an Omega deployant buckle. It certainly dresses up this already authentic watch. Is there really no room for levity in watches?
Just when it looked like he was going to have a full poker face, Jack Bianchi pulled off a stunning win. On Nacho’s wrist is a stunning Fratello x Jack Bianchi JB200 Pole Pro Night Diver.
Fratello talks: The humor of watches
There have been attempts to bring lightness to the often-serious world of watchmaking. The example above was inspired by the infamous Joker watch, created by famous Russian watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin in collaboration with Behrens. Other efforts (see below) include pieces by secnde/seconde/, Oris, Maurice Lacroix, Studio Underd0g, Mr Jones Watches, H. Moser & Cie., and (rarely) Rolex.
What do you think about this? Do you think watches need humor? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.
For now, I’ll leave you with a joke about horology.
A man goes to a watchmaker. He says, “My watch is out of order. Unlike the others, all I hear is ‘tick…tick…tick…tick…'”
“No problem,” the watchmaker said, taking the watch from the owner. He then shines a light on the clock face and says menacingly, “We have a way to achieve it…”.
Tune in next week for a new episode of Fratello Talks!
