"I prefer the beauty of vintage watches, but there's something really cool about the innovation and functionality of some modern."

Jeff Harris  //  THE HOROLOGICAL MINUTE
Jeff Harris

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THE HOROLOGICAL MINUTE

INTRODUCING

Jeff Harris

If there were such a thing as a hall of fame for watch dealers, Jeff would be one of the inaugural inductees. Starting in the business in 1986, he has literally been there, done that. He's likely owned the majority of important Rolex and Patek watches, even before we knew they were important. Terms like "Paul Newman" and "Exotic Dial"? He coined them before most of us realized we even liked watches. A natural raconteur Jeff would be a great candidate for the first Horogical Hour. We are happy to call him a friend, and he's this weeks Horological Minute.

What was your first watch?

It was actually a watch that till this day, i've still not seen again. A very large rectangular curvex Audemars Piguet time only watch, in platinum that was like new old stock. I was advised by a collector, "Buy this and you'll make money." I paid $6600 and an hour later, sold it for $7600. It was then that I realized that this was a pretty cool job!

What was the last watch you bought?

The last watch I bought was a steel 6239 black Paul Newman Daytona. I paid $90,000 for it, whereas I bought my first around 1986 for $1,900!

Do you prefer vintage or modern?

I prefer the beauty of vintage watches, but there's something really cool about the innovation and functionality of some modern watches. I guess you could say I really like both.

Can you remember your last great meal? Where was it and what did you eat?

I had a really great meal in Munich at a restaurant called "181". It has one Michelin star, and was truly a memorable meal.

Do you remember what watch you were wearing?

I was wearing this beautiful WG Daytona with factory MOP dial and two row diamond dial. I think its true, but all watch dealers love some bling!

What do you love about vintage Rolex?

I love the variety and beauty in early Rolexes. Early chronographs for example could have hundreds of dial and case combinations. The beauty of vintage Rolex at times still leave someone like me speechless.

Strap or bracelet?

I like wearing vintage Rolexes on leather straps. I have horrible memories of wearing stretch rivet bands that have ripped out many hairs on my wrist!

GMT/EXPLORER/SUB/DAYTONA or........?

I find the Daytona the most sexy and divers watch in the Rolex repertoire.

What do you want to see come out from Rolex at the next Basel Fair?

Every year, I'm still hopeful of the same thing- a reissue of the 6062 Star-Dial monophase, hopefully with an updated perpetual calendar mechanism.

What's on your wrist today?

This WG Daytona with a two row diamond dial.

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Stephane Medam

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Eric Ku

We are back online with a new look and feel.

Francesco Postiglione

This week we are introducing you to Francesco Postiglione, one of the few true restoration wizards still existing out there.

Stephane Medam

This week, we have a sit down with our dear friend, Stephane Medam- proprietor of Worldly Watches.