"I obsess over finding the perfect strap for each watch."

Morgan Cardet  //  THE HOROLOGICAL MINUTE
Morgan Cardet

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THE HOROLOGICAL MINUTE

INTRODUCING

Morgan Cardet

This week, we bring to you an interview with Morgan Cardet, whom I affectionately call "The Brains" behind the operation at Matthew Bain Inc. While not really the entire brain trust, Morgan has established himself quickly as a knowledgeable player in the watch world. Dealing in vintage and modern watches for over six years, he has a keen grasp on market trends and pricing and is in tune with what collectors want. Among other things, Morgan is also in charge of "Wirelug", the eBay subsidary of Matthew Bain Inc. There, he is responsible for selling hundreds of watches a month, ranging from Rare Rolexes, to that strange looking 60's dive watch that your weird uncle gave you. A real genuine guy who loves watches just like all of us, Morgan is this week's Horological Minute.

What was your first watch?

I would like to think that I had two "first" watches. My "first" watch was a TAG Heuer Link that my parents gifted me for my Bar Mitzvah, and it instantly sparked my love for watches they then gifted me with some great modern watches for other milestones throughout my life. Six years ago, I bought my "first" vintage watch, a Tudor Submariner from the 1970s and I haven’t bought a modern watch since.

What was the last watch you bought?

For our first anniversary my wife bought me an oversized Universal Geneve Uni-Compax in rose gold from the 1950s. It’s absolutely mint and I love wearing it. It’s an obvious choice with a suit but because of the size it also works in a more casual setting.

Do you prefer vintage or modern?

Definitely vintage, I love the history and character of a vintage watch. They each have a different story and feel great on the wrist. But Miami tends to be a modern town and one of the perks of working in the watch business is getting to test drive the latest and greatest from my favorite brands. I constantly find myself getting excited about watches with funny nick names like the “Hulk”, “Blue Bay”, “Dark Side of the Moon” or “Baby Nedal”.

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

I was with a close group of friends and family at the Matador Room at the Edition Hotel on Miami Beach. Great food in a great setting with great company.

Do you remember what watch you were wearing?

My daily wearer, Maxi Dial 5513. It works for every occasion.

What do you love about vintage Rolex?

It’s just the perfect watch. They are attractive, versatile, robust and no two are a like. Yes, they have been worn by Presidents and movie stars, but they have also been sported by professional divers, engineers, pilots and everyday people that make the world go round. I often hear people say, “everyone has a Rolex,” and I can only reply, “there’s a reason for that”.

Strap or bracelet?

I love them both! I always have to sample the latest strap from my friend Jean Paul Menicucci. I obsess over finding the perfect strap for each watch. That being said I always find myself going back to the original bracelet. Sport models look best on the bracelets they were born on.

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

Very tough call, I’ve seen such incredible examples of them all during my time here at Matthew Bain Inc. They all speak to me differently. If I have to choose one… I’m a Sub Guy.

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

A steel Daytona with a black ceramic bezel. You know they will do it, but they will wait for a totally unassuming year.

What's on your wrist today?

My favorite daily watch, my "Maxi Dial" 5513. Its perfect for any occasion!

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