WHAT MAKES ME TICK

01 TIME TO CELEBRATE

The AP Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph 44mm Rose Gold, launched around 2008, has been my dream watch for a long time. The hue of the rose gold is different from that of the carbon or forged carbon pieces that I usually wear. In terms of size, this also appeals to me, because AP Royal Oak Offshores are usually 42mm. I had a few of those, which I have sold over the years, but this is a very expensive piece that needs a special occasion to warrant its purchase, and I finally bought it for myself when we opened Corner House in 2014. It was also a gift to myself for my 32nd birthday, and marks a new chapter in my life and career. 02 BIG BOYS’ TOY

While I wear the 44mm only on days off and special occasions, my daily watch is the AP Royal Oak Offshore Arnold Schwarzenegger The Legacy, which is 48mm. AP didn’t make many big watches until these recent 10 years, and its watches were either 30, 40 or 42mm. I believe there are only two 48mm pieces – one made for Arnold Schwarzenegger and the other for Shaquille O’Neal. They are hard to find but I got hold of the one for Arnie about two years ago.

03 FORM AND FUNCTION

I am usually drawn to watches by their design, and really love the geometry of the Royal Oak Offshore’s bezel design with its rivets. However, I only collect automatic watches. I have about eight watches now, including three AP pieces and a Rolex Deepsea.

04 WORK ON. WATCH OFF

Timekeeping is very important in my kitchen: Every component of the dish has to be precise, with exact timing. However, my watches are too precious to wear in the kitchen. I easily wear the Arnie watch two or three times a week to work, but take it off when I reach the restaurant.

05 DREAM BIG

On my wishlist now: a Richard Mille RM 11.