Our next interviewee is our good friend Bas, aka "Cosmo-Online". Bas, a lifelong watch lover got his start in the business as a watchmaker for Richemont, primarily working on Panerais as well as other brands. After he realized his love was in the hunt and chase rather than the technical side, he started his website "Cosimo-Watches", which brings to collectors all over the internet a carefully curated selection of vintage watches across all brands. A frequent contributor to VRF and other forums, Bas is this week's Horological Minute.

What was your first watch?

My first watch was a Camel Trophy watch. I bought it when I was sixteen years old. Only two months later, I ended up with my first mechanical watch. It was an Omega Speedster bumper automatic from the late 40's. When I got the watch, I immediately fell in love with the mechanical movement. I then decided to study watchmaking, as I was already learning about jewelry design and goldsmithing.

What was the last watch you bought?

The last watch I bought was a Heuer Carrera 2447S in mint condition.

Do you prefer vintage or modern?

I prefer vintage, because each watch has its own story and there is no such thing as two identical vintage watches. However, I'm also happy to wear modern watches. I usually wear modern watches during vacations as I can swim safely with them and not have to worry.

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

Yes, I remember it very well, and will not forget it. (It was that good!) It was at Hung Wan in Geneva, a Chinese restaurant that YOU took us to! I can't name all the dishes we had, you did a good job ordering for the table, and everything was amazing. I've only had Chinese food this good before in Hong Kong!

Do you remember what watch you were wearing?

Yes, I was wearing my oversized Longines "Calatrava", which was on a beads of rice bracelet.

What do you love about vintage Rolex?

Rolex surely is the most innovative watch brand out there. The timeless design and history of the brand can be seen in each of their models. I'm also in awe of the technical side of how they are produced. I'm a watchmaker by trade, and I think there are no better made watches than Rolex. Each piece is put together perfectly, and its always a pleasure to work on them.

Strap or bracelet?

I usually prefer to wear my Rolexes on a leather strap, but I like to wear time only dress watches on GF metal bands.

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

I love a lot of Rolexes, but if I had to choose one watch, it would be the Paul Newman Daytona.

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

I'd love to see a 36mm Datejust in steel with a honeycomb dial.

What's on your wrist today?

My favorite watch, a white 3-color Paul Newman ref. 6241 with the rare "Saucer" dial.