Peter is a real guy's guy. A passionate and serious collector of cars and watches, I'm sure he's got something in his collection that you'd be envious of, wether its that 300SL convertible in the garage, or that perfect 5513 Explorer dial sub on his wrist. His taste in watches run the spectrum of Rolex's usual suspects, but with a particular emphasis on the rare. From military Submariners to vintage Panerai, early chronographs to Explorer dial Subs, you name it, he has it. While not collecting cars or watches, Peter still manages to find time to work and can be found skiing down some of the finest mountains around the world. He is a good friend, and we're happy to have him as this week's Horological Minute.

What was your first watch?

I have always loved watches and anything mechanical. In middle school I was in a play, and was provided a cheap mechanical pocket watch as part of my costume. I can still recall sitting in my bedroom winding the watch, fascinated by its ability to run without batteries. It blew my mind. It’s probably still in a box back home at my mom’s house.

What was the last watch you bought?

The last watch I purchased was an extremely mint yellow gold 3525 from the man himself, Mr. Eric Ku. It was a slight upgrade over my first watch. ;-)

Do you prefer vintage or modern?

My collecting began with a few modern watches, but a few years later, I discovered my passion was stronger for vintage. I view all watches as art; small pieces of the evolution of a brand. It is the stories, patina, and history of a vintage watch that makes it much more interesting to me. This is what draws me towards vintage military, sport, and tool watches.

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

I love to share food with friends and family. A few months ago I was in New York City and one of my best friends had a reservation for Carbone. Hands down one of the best Italian meals I can remember eating in a long while.

Do you remember what watch you were wearing?

I was wearing my Panerai California Dial 3646

What do you love about vintage Rolex?

I love Rolex watches for two reasons. First, they were built for a purpose and second they were intended to endure. Whether it’s a Daytona for racing, Submariner for diving, or GMT for piloting, they have you covered. I am an avid outdoorsman and have my fair share of hobbies, so there is always a watch to come along for the journey and I never have to worry too much about damage. This durability is also what makes a 60 year old rolex age so well. I hope in 60 years my wife can say the same about me.

Strap or bracelet?

I have no preference. It’s usually whatever I feel goes with the example or is necessary to pull the patina together. Sometimes a tropical 5512 requires a chocolate leather strap. Other times, a 5512 might look killer in a bracelet. I prefer gold watches with a strap because it tones down the bling-factor.

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

It’s going to be a Submariner every time for me. There is just something magical about the variation in dials, bezels, crowns, cases, and crown guards. There is nothing more interesting than the evolution of the submariner from the early 6200 to the modern. Though the beginning and end are quite different, the DNA is strong and consistent. A Porsche 911 is exactly the same. Sometimes in history they get it right the first time.

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

Honestly, I do not follow the Basel Fair or new release watches. I like the idea of throw-back big crown but I doubt that will ever happen.

What's on your wrist today?

It's not a sub, but today I'm wearing my smooth bezel 6541 Milgauss. That wide bezel make it look really different than its turning bezel siblings, and the balance the smooth bezel gives, makes it perfect as a sports/tool watch or as a dress watch.