Interview with Chris, CoFounder at- Fifty Eight Watches
Please tell me a little about yourselves.
My name is Chris, I’m 35 years old and I’m an avid watch enthusiast, with professional experience of more than 8 years in the watchmaking industry.
I’m based in London UK, in my spare time I enjoy getting out of the house and be physically active, it keeps me fit. Recently I have discovered mountain biking, which has been a great way to relax.
When did the idea for your own watch brand come up? What was the trigger?!
The idea started growing from the beginning of my watch industry career.
I had been speaking with enthusiasts and collectors which led me to the creation of Fifty Eight, and to produce a timepiece that focuses on legibility and perfect proportions. After having the chance to meet with a watch manufacturer in Switzerland, I made the decision that is time to take my dream to the next level and allow my imagination and enthusiasm to come to life.
Following several talks with Mihaela, who is experienced in all aspects of business development and coordinating internal operations, we joined forces and founded Fifty Eight watches.
Tell me some specifications about the watch!
The Geneva Tribute collection comes in five different versions, with a limited production of 158units/model. Designed and built to stand the test of time, featuring a reliable Swiss-Made caliber: Sellita SW200, stainless steel 316L case, sapphire crystal glass and hand made in Italy leather straps.
What sets this watch apart is the signature sector dial, the outer track has a matte finish, applied high polished hour indexes raised from the texture of the dial and a center section with Côtes de Genève decoration. Properly sized and proportioned faceted Alpha hour and minute hands with a distinct diamond-shaped counterweight, to preserve the overall character of the watch.
A timepiece built with increased readability in mind, the 41mm case has the perfect proportions. A flat case back with curved lugs, 10.2mm thickness and 47mm lug-to-lug width (makes it very comfortable on wrist). The watch will slide underneath the wearer’s sleeve, offering great comfort and wearing experience.
In addition to this, each of our watches comes with a complimentary strap of your choice, fitted with an easy release system that allows you to change the look of your watch depending on your style, mood, or occasion.
Each watch is delivered in a beautiful Royal Ebony Macassar grain pattern box.
How was the name and the logo created and what exactly does it mean?
The name Fifty Eight was chosen to represent the company’s quest to symbolize the heydays of vintage watchmaking. The crown represents the undisputed reign of the Swiss watchmaking and the shield is inspired by the Canton of Geneva’s coat of arms.
How did you come up with this design?
I aspired to create more than a homage to an iconic watch design, so instead, I created a homage to the past and present of Swiss watchmaking. So what better way of doing that other than celebrating the heart of the watchmaking, Geneva-Switzerland.
Our design codes include the iconic Côtes de Genève decorations, a charming case back engraving – St Pierre Cathedral, signature sector dial and a logo that upholds the reign of Swiss watchmaking.
Are you making the watches or you hired a professional watchmaker?
The concept and design are made entirely by me. Our watches are manufactured by professional watchmakers in Switzerland.
Are you planning to make other types of watches as well or only dress watches?
I`m planning to release two new collections, one fully stainless steel and another collection with mechanical complications.
What do I or my readers have to do to get a watch from you as soon as possible?
The Geneva Tribute is available for preorder on Kickstarter at prices starting at £460 (~€530 ~$640).
And what do you want for the future?
I have very ambitious plans. Going forward, I’m planning to use the funds raised from our Kickstarter campaign, to fund future collaboration with watch designers and industry experts, and release two more collections. The goal is to become an established watch microbrand, with a reputation of bringing value to the watch lovers community.
Thank you.
Thank you for your amazing interview! Hope you will succeed and fulfill your dreams!
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