Interview: Ben Rachaphon Wang
This interview delves into the watch collecting journey of Ben Rachaphon Wang, exploring his evolution from a teenage fascination with the Omega Seamaster to a current preference for dress watches and independent brands. Wang discusses what draws him to specific timepieces, highlighting the importance of movement design, craftsmanship, and unique aesthetics, with A. Lange & Söhne being his favorite brand.
Wang's initial interest in watches was sparked by the Omega Seamaster featured in the James Bond film 'Die Another Day', leading to his first luxury purchase of the SMP 300.
His collecting taste has shifted from sports watches, including Rolex sport models and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore, to primarily dress watches, ranging from simple time-only pieces to those with perpetual calendar functions.
A. Lange & Söhne is cited as his all-time favorite brand due to its three-dimensional movement design, craftsmanship, and finishing.
Grand Seiko's masterpiece collection is considered underrated, with Wang noting their superb finishing despite a potentially 'boring' appearance to the masses.
Key factors in his watch purchases include movement, finishing, design, rarity, history, the story behind the piece, and how it feels on the wrist, exemplified by his appreciation for the rare and beautiful A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk 'Lumen'.
He steers clear of Hublot, citing a phase of collecting the brand but feeling that 'limited edition after limited edition has cheapen the brand'.
Wang no longer has interest in Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore models, which were once his favorite.
He typically wears the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph as his daily watch and others occasionally during overseas trips.