Wrist Aficionados: Guram Gvasalia

The list of items people will collect is seemingly endless and includes items ranging from worthless items to the priceless. Whether it's coins, stamps, autographs or works of art, finding and securing them is almost always more emotional than logical, let alone in the case of watches.

This is a golden age for watch collecting, as watches are particularly sought after to collect due to their multifaceted nature. , the technological aspect in terms of their movements, the different finishes and advances in precision. Watchmaking is full of technical jargon, but once a person has a deep wrist and the more they know, the greater their appreciation grows.

However, collecting watches is not limited to the acquisition of material objects: they are exceptional in terms of timing; their value generally increases over time; in some circles, they are status symbols and become meaningful heirlooms passed down from generation to generation.

Guram Gvasalia, creative director of Vetements, is a watch enthusiast known for his collection of luxury watches that reflect his sense of style. Its collection includes some of the rarest and most sought-after pieces in the world of watchmaking, from brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet.

A testament to his discerning eye, his collection reflects his affinity for rare timepieces and highlights two of the plus prestigious names in watchmaking: Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe.

Here Gvasalia talks about how his collection started, his favorites, what made him motivates and influences fine watches. his creations for Vetements.

WWD: When did watches become important to you and why did you start a collection of watches?< /p>

Guram Gvasalia: I was 12 when I read a magazine article about this collector of watches. I was blown away and promised myself that “one day I will launch my own collection”. To be a war child, a refugee and to have only one toy growing up seemed like a distant wish. I received my first watch when I was 16. I worked double duty all summer and managed to save enough money to buy a vintage 1972 Rolex Air-King, which I still own. This watch carries so many good and crazy memories.

WWD: What is the most important watch(s) in your collection and why?

G.G. : I am a big fan of the Patek Philippe reference 5970; this model is for me the undisputed king of watches. One of the finest Patek references ever made, in my humble opinion, if we're talking about watches that look modern and can still be worn today. I have 5970s in all metals, and I have had the pleasure on several occasions of receiving compliments from Mr. Thierry Stern [president of Patek Philippe]...