You may not know him by name, but if you're wearing your watch on a leather strap, chances are you're wearing one of his creations. He is the creator behind many of today's most popular straps being sold everywhere. Hailing from a long line of leather artisans near Tuscany in Italy, Jean-Paul is not only a purveyor of fine leather goods, but a passionate collector as well. He is this week's guest on the Horological Minute.

What was your first watch?

My first watch was a Submariner my father gave to me in 1989 for my 18th birthday. It was a 5513, and its still the most treasured watch I own. Its unpolished and has all its boxes and papers.

What was the last watch you bought?

The last watch I bought was a new Rolex rose gold Datyona on a bracelet. I loved it since it was released two years ago, and always wanted it and was waiting until the right deal came along.

Do you prefer vintage or modern?

Of course vintage! The patina of age, and the little details such as gilt printing on the dial, or the plastic crystals, make the watches stand out much more.

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

The last great meal I had was in Forte dei Marmi. Forte die Marmi is a resort town in Northern Italy along the coast. I ate there at a restaurant called Ristorante Lorenzo, and had the most delicious simple grilled fish, along with a great bottle of champagne.

Do you remember what watch you were wearing?

I was wearing my Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetual Calendar in steel.

What do you love about vintage Rolex?

I am an artist by trade, and I create things that people buy because of their details, craftsmanship, and unique characteristics- its the same with vintage Rolex. No two pieces are alike, because they all have the patina of time. They have a practicality and sportiness across the line, from the Subs to the Day-Dates. They really match anything in your wardrobe, from a tailored suit to a pair of casual jeans.

Strap or bracelet?

It's quite ironic that I'm saying this, but for me, I generally prefer wearing watches on bracelets. I don't have to worry about it if I jump into the pool, and I find there are many different Rolex bracelet designs that can fit different moods.

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

The Day-Date for sure! Its one of the most versatile watches in the lineup. Very classic, but you could have a stella dial, or a diamond dial, or a gilt dial, or a gold dial. You could be collecting watches forever and not have all the variations of the Day-Date. When I first started liking watches, it was because of my father's Day-Date. I have more Day-Dates in my collection than any other Rolex, and none of them have the same dial, case material, bracelet, etc.

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

I'd love to see a new Daytona finally come out next year. This has been rumored for so long, but nothing has come out yet. I hope that when it does come out, they will have more than two dial choices, including possibly a Paul Newman like variation.

What's on your wrist today?

This 6234 with small subdials. Its a recent find as well, and the condition is simply spectacular!