"I've got a soft spot for a few Pateks as well...."

Hiroshi Fujiwara  //  THE HOROLOGICAL MINUTE
Hiroshi Fujiwara

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THE HOROLOGICAL MINUTE

INTRODUCING

Hiroshi Fujiwara

Known as the Godfather of Harajuku, this week's guest is truly a man of many talents. As a musician, he has collaborated with the likes of Eric Clapton and Japanese singer Ua; as a designer, he has collaborated with names such as Nike, Visvim, Cole Haan, Beats by Dre, Head Porter, Levi's, Bape, Martin Guitars, and many more. With his Simply put, Hiroshi Fujiwara is a man with a finger on the cultural pulse of the world. It comes as no surprise then, that he is a certified vintage watch maniac with a serious Rolex problem. A seasoned collector, Hiroshi is a man of exquisite taste who has amassed an impressive collection of vintage Rolex. It's an honor for us to sit down with him to talk about our favorite brand in this installment of the Horological Minute.

What was your first watch?

The first watch I ever got was a Texas Instruments digital watch, but the first Rolex I ever got was an Air King.

What was the last watch you bought?

A Rolex 5510

Do you prefer vintage or modern? Why?

Vintage....I always prefer vintage to modern.

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

There are so many good restaurants in Tokyo. Today I just had a great meal of wild duck at a restaurant called Takajo Kotobuki - it's a 300 year old restaurant that specializes in game.

Do you remember what watch you were wearing?

A Rolex 5517 milsub.

What do you love about vintage Rolex?

I've been in love with vintage Rolex for 35+ years! My father was a big James Bond fan, and he's the one that introduced me to the brand.

Strap or bracelet?

Strap.

GMT/EXPLORER/SUB/DAYTONA or……..?

I really love all of them, so its hard for me to pick only one.

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

Nothing in particular, or nothing special. I really don't want them to come out with some sort of reissue....

Has there been any watch that you wish you bought, but got away from you?

Maybe a really nice Rolex 6200 Submariner. I had a chance, but....I wish I bought it!

What’s your favorite or most special watch in your collection and why?

I have a fondness for Air-Kings because my first Rolex was an Air-King. I've been collecting Paul Newmans for a long time so I really like those as well. Finally, I've got a soft spot for a few Pateks as well....

What’s on your wrist today?

My 5517.

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