Tom Ford 001
The fashion legend on creating his first watch
Watches: why now?
“I’ve loved them my entire life, so it was a natural next step. A beautifully designed, classic watch will never go out of style.”
How does the 001 fit with the brand?
“The face is quite original, which is not easy to do, as just about every face has been done. I modelled it after a mechanical instrument. It’s also a sleeved, curved watch that follows the shape of the wrist.”
One of the most eye-catching features is actually the strap...
“I used to buy webbing strap watchbands and thread them through my watch. It always drove me crazy how difficult this was and I wondered why someone hadn’t just designed a watch that was made for this. The most striking thing about it is the ease with which one can change the band.”
What’s the appeal of having interchangeable straps?
“It was important to me to create a wide range of materials and colours so people could really have the option to completely change the look of the watch based on their preference: a bright orange strap for summer, and a black one for winter. Customers have been buying multiple watch bands with their watches, which was really the whole point. I couldn’t possibly choose one.”
The 001 is unisex, but how would you describe the man who wears a Tom Ford watch; what is he into, what does he do?
“I view myself as the quintessential Tom Ford customer, so in many ways, I design for myself.”
Can we have a hint what 002 might look like?
“I am working on an automatic watch right now…”
From £1,600–£7,550 depending on configuration; tomford.com