Damarr Brown is an American chef, most notably recognized as the James Beard Foundation’s Emerging Chef in 2023. With the belief that “all cultures celebrate, grieve, and come together around a table,” Brown imbues passion into each of his signature dishes at Virtue Restaurant, where he currently serves as the Chef de Cuisine.

In Bezel’s exclusive interview, we sit down with the internationally renowned chef to discuss his introduction to the world of watches, the value of a knowledgeable mentor, plus the most prized watches in his personal collection.

In Conversation with Damarr Brown

Bezel: How did you get into watches? 

DB: I got into watches through my mentor, Chef Erick Williams–his interest rubbed off on me in the way it would a little brother watching his big brother immerse himself in a new hobby. 

Bezel: Having someone to help guide you through the world of watches is truly invaluable. What watch do you most closely associate with your mentor?

DB: Chef Williams advised me on the different watchmakers he admired and why; he also taught me that certain watches are investments. The one I associate with him the most is the Hublot Classic Fusion 42mm, he helped me pick it out. My first time wearing it was at the James Beard Awards. I ended up winning the award for Emerging Chef, so it’s closely associated with a great memory.

Bezel: What was your first watch, and what’s the story behind it? 

DB: The first watch I picked up after developing a true interest in watches was my Hublot.  I asked Chef Williams to help me scout out a watch because I didn’t know what I was doing at the time. Though it was a large purchase, it felt like an accomplishment–almost a milestone.

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Bezel: What was it about that brand/model specifically that spoke to you? 

DB: I loved how sleek and understated it is. The watch is simply beautifully made.

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

DB: My favorite watch is my Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, mounted on the blue rubber bracelet. I always feel like it pops with whatever I wear. It’s also quite durable without being too heavy, which I love.

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Bezel: Do you often wear watches in the kitchen? 

DB: I always wear a watch in the kitchen, usually wearing my Shinola Detrola Model D. It’s functional, durable, and perfectly suitable for a busy day in the kitchen.

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

DB:   ‍

Rolex Perpetual 1908 Ref. 52509-0006

NOMOS Glashütte Tangente 38 Datum Ref. 138

Panerai Luminor Base Logo 3 Days Ref. PAM01087

Cartier Santos de Cartier Medium Ref. WSSA0029

Bulgari Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Titanium Ref. 103068

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Bezel: Why do you continue to enjoy collecting watches? 

DB:  As someone who is fairly new to the timepiece collecting world, it’s very exciting. I’m constantly seeing what’s new and I have to pace myself on adding too quickly.

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- Isaac Wingold

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