As the creator and host of Blamo!, Jeremy Kirkland explores the world of fashion with the people who shape it, approaching the oftentimes stuffy space with a down-to-earth sense of approachability and innocent curiosity. Trust us – Kirkland's podcast is one of the very best.

In Bezel's exclusive interview, we sit down with the style authority, podcaster, and creative to explore his introduction to the world of watches, his love for all things Seiko, plus the most prized watches in his personal collection.

In Conversation with Jeremy Kirkland

Bezel: How did you get into watches? 

JK: My late grandfather had a Casio digital watch on a steel bracelet. He loved it and would always show me how his watch had a digital face. He was so proud of it and would joke about how it was the last and most important thing to wear. I was incepted!

Bezel: The collector’s gene definitely gets passed down through the generations – have your kids shown any interest in watches yet? 

JK: Ha! Zero. They’re 5 and 1 so I’m not expecting anything yet.

‍Bezel:  That’s probably for the best for the time being! What was your first watch and what’s the story behind it? 

JK: Following my Grandfather's footsteps, I purchased a similar Casio digital watch, and later inherited my dad's Elgin dress watch. After that I definitely caught the bug and began looking for something I could one day pass down. That’s when I started researching more, and joining a bunch of message boards in pursuit of "the crown". A few years later, I purchased an Explorer dial-fitted Air King. The madness continued!

Bezel: What’s the best collecting advice you’ve received to date?

LW:  Buy the seller, and don’t ever buy from a person or brand you wouldn’t want to be associated with. 

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‍Bezel: What’s your favorite watch in your collection?

JK: Seiko Ref. 6139 "Pogue." I fell in love with Seiko early on, and started calling myself a "Seiko Boi." To me, Seiko is the easiest and most fun brand to get into. There are tons of affordable vintage models out there – the brand history isn't hidden, and they're always a bit under the radar. I'm partial to the late '60s and 70's era Seikos. The cases are incredible, the dials are stunning, and most are less than $500.

Bezel: What are your thoughts on their latest offerings?

JK:  I'm not sure there’s any brand out there right now that’s innovating and inspiring the market better than Grand Seiko. To anyone on the fence – go see one in person!

Bezel: Can you share 3 must-have watches listed on Bezel right now?

JK: Absolutely!

1. A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Ref. 233.026

I live for Lange, and the 1815 is such a classic watch. I had one for a short amount of time and have regretted getting rid of it ever since.

2. Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 Ref. 82035/000R-9359

Anyone I see wearing Vacheron I'm like, "Oh, you get it!" The 1921 is a watch that's been on my bucket list for some time. Is this the year I get nuts?

3. Grand Seiko Hi-Beat “White Birch'' Ref. SLGH005

In my opinion, the White Birch from Grand Seiko is still the best watch for your money and more. 

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Bezel: Why do you continue to enjoy collecting watches? 

JK: I’m a sucker for history, mechanical engineering and strong opinions – loosely held. Every watch collector has a hot take, or a brand they love/hate, but we all respect each other. I often joke; these are my "baseball cards." I'm always looking for that perfect patina.

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Reach out to us at editorial@getbezel.com.

- Isaac Wingold, Senior Editor

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