WATCH OUT!!!
I have a confession to make. I love watches. I mean LOVE LOVE watches. Some people might say I have a fetish, but I am a bonafide horologist. It is nothing for me to stop a stranger on a street and inquire about their watch. Man or woman. After I give a compliment to ease the tension, I find that most people or very happy to talk about their watches. A lot of times there is a quaint story about the watch.
When the Apple Watch came out people started to wear watches again. Well, they started to wear watches more. I have to admit, that even though I have mixed emotions about the Apple Watch, it is good to see people wearing watches. I hope that it will lead them to traditional watches. These watches have so much artisanal value. Unlike the Apple and Google watches. They are little more than another version of your cell phone or tablet/laptop that has been shrunk to wear on your wrist. They are functional, yet soulless. Wistfully they are worn with Armani suits or Prada ensembles. Able to do 100 things, not being gaudy isn’t one of them. Neither is being stylish.
I’ve many watches. From the prices of $25 to a few that cost over $1000. Even so, at times I can be, but shouldn’t be a watch snob. I love Seiko. It’s the best watch company in the world. And I also love Aragon. It’s a microbrand, that uses Seiko’s movements. (especially the workhorse NH35). While perusing my collection I realized that I don’t have a watch by a black watch company. A couple of years ago I remember reading in GQ Magazine that former president Barack Obama had worn a watch that two black watch companies, Teleport and Actively Black, had collaborated on. I did a little research and found that there are more than a handful of black watch companies. I compiled a concise list for people who, like me, didn’t know of any black watch companies. These are in no particular order.
1. Talley and Twine: As the largest Black-owned luxury watch company, Talley and Twine have garnered significant attention. Their watches have been featured in prestigious publications, making them a standout choice for watch enthusiasts. The Talley & Twine Watch Company offers an array of stylish watches for both men and women. Let’s explore some of their popular timepieces:
Men’s Metal Collection:
Black Rose V1 (46mm): A dynamic conversation piece.
Tuskegee Airmen “Redtails V1” (46mm): A tribute to the historic Tuskegee Airmen.
Blue & Silver Ice (46mm): Sleek and versatile.
Women’s Canvas Collection:
Gold (41mm): Colorful and casual.
Gold “Art Series I” (41mm): An artistic choice.
Gold “Juneteenth” (41mm): Celebrating Juneteenth.
2. Vitae London: this ethical watch brand combines beautiful design with a commitment to social justice. Let’s explore their best-selling watches:
Elmington Collection:
The Elmington range features modular-interchangeable fashion watches. These elegant timepieces come in four face colors: silver, blue, gunmetal grey, and black. You can also choose from interchangeable straps and bezels in silver, rose gold, or gold.
Purpose-Driven Mission:
Vitae London’s watches are named after the council estate in south London where the founder, Will Adoasi, grew up. The brand aims to help people worldwide “live without limits.” For every watch sold, Vitae London supports children in Sub-Saharan African provinces. Their latest initiative provides solar lamps to children in remote villages of Ghana, ensuring they don’t have to travel for hours to find a streetlamp or use harmful kerosene.
Quality Craftsmanship:
Each Vitae London watch features either a high-quality genuine leather band or a stainless-steel band. Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass ensures durability and elegance.
Social Impact:
By choosing a Vitae London watch, you’re not only getting a stylish accessory but also contributing to positive change. The brand’s profits support education and well-being initiatives for children in Africa.
3. The Benjamin Banneker Watch Company
This watch features real luxury wood to honor Benjamin Banneker, who built the first striking clock in America in 1753 using hand-carved wooden parts.
The Black Eagle Baller is part of the Joe Madison Signature Timepiece collection and boasts Swiss Movement and free shipping.
Nice (Crimson / Sandalwood):
This high-quality timepiece features Swiss Ronda 713 Movement, Sapphire Crystal, 316 Stainless Steel, and exotic woods. Each watch is individually numbered on the case back.
Camelot Gold (43mm):
This watch combines elegance with historical significance.
Poise:
The Poise watch is a stylish choice that pays homage to Banneker’s achievements.
Baller (The Black Eagle):
The Black Eagle Watch contains real wood and features Swiss Movement.
These watches not only adorn your wrist but also carry the legacy of Benjamin Banneker’s remarkable contributions. Explore their full collection on the Benjamin Banneker Watches and Clocks website.
Black: Good enough for The President. Good enough for you.
