Forward Momentum Podcast - Episode 16: Talking Indies & Watch Straps with JDR from Alex Crown
Welcome to a conversation with our guest today, JDR, the CEO of Alex Crown. With a passion that runs deep, JDR is not just a collector and enthusiast of watches, he's also a driving force in the industry. Join us as we dive into the intricacies of watchmaking, the emotional resonance of timepieces tracing back generations within his family, and the intersection of the horology and the sartorial world. From his first cherished timepiece, a Longines Heritage Retrograde, to his immersion in the realm of independent watchmaking, JDR’s insights are bound to captivate your horological curiosity. Tune in for this and more, as we uncover the hidden stories behind the world of watches.
0:10 - Introduction to the guest, CEO of Alex Crown JDR, and why he is a collector and a watch enthusiast
2:00 - How did watches become a part of his life?
5:05 - His family has been involved with watches for multiple generations now
8:15 - The importance of learning about watches
10:55 - His first real watch was a Longines Heritage Retrograde
14:15 - How JDR got into the world of watches
16:55 - The emotional connection between watches and heritage
20:00 - The power of the watch strap and how it fits into fashion
25:35 - First exposure to independent watchmaking and independent brands
27:55 - Exploring the Impact: Vianney Halters' Antiqua as the First Noteworthy Independent Watch
30:30 - The story of how he became interested in DeBethune
32:50 - First F.P. Journe Watch, before the brand's rise to prominence
35:10 - What draws him to an independent watchmaker?
37:50 - Independent watchmakers: crafting timepieces beyond profit
40:50 - JDR’s journey to becoming an entrepreneur. 40:50
43:40 - The sense of camaraderie and community in the watchmaking community.
45:50 - The importance of having a community
48:20 - The younger watchmakers are looking at the trailblazers in the past 10-20 years
51:10 - The future of watchmaking in America
54:00 - A Rapid Fire Round on Watchmaking and Industry Secrets
Links:
Alex Crown Link - www.alexcrown.com
Instagram: @alexcrownlive
JDR’s Instagram @jardins_des_rois
You can follow along for more about watches, independent watchmaking, and Forward Momentum on at @fts.creates on Instagram and if you liked the show please like and subscribe and follow along to hear from the retailers, collectors, journalists, and of course the watchmakers about independent watchmaking!
