As a former linebacker for two NFL franchises, as well as an Emmy-winning producer and host for both Fox Sports and the online series Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man, Emmanuel Acho is without question one of the most multifaceted collectors we’ve had the pleasure of speaking with yet. 

When he’s not offering unfiltered takes on the hottest topics in sports, or providing advice on how to live a more purposeful life through his New York Times bestselling books, Acho finds himself engrossed in the vast world of watch collecting – a true watch guy if there ever was one. 

In our exclusive interview, we sat down with Emmanuel to explore his introduction to the world of watch collecting, his ultra-rare gem-set Rolex Yacht-Master, as well as his love of the hunt.

In Conversation with Emmanuel Acho

Bezel: How did you get into watches?

EA:  It all started with my dad – he bought a Rolex back when I was 11 years old and it immediately caught my eye. After instantly becoming fascinated with the brand I started to look into other watches, as well.

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

EA: My first watch was one of those Casio calculator watches, which was a Christmas gift. All of the sudden I started doing a lot better on my math tests – you could say I was excited!

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

EA: Lately it’s my rose gold Rolex Yacht-Master with the factory pavé diamond-set dial and Oysterflex bracelet. I bought it when I was last in Paris, and still have yet to see another example on someone else’s wrist in the wild.

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Bezel: Can you share 3 watches in your Wants on Bezel right now? 

EA: Right now I’ve got my eye on these three:

1. Rolex Daytona “Rainbow” Ref. 116595RBOW-0001
2. Rolex Daytona “John Mayer” Ref. 116508-0013
3. Rolex Day-Date 36 “Jigsaw Puzzle Motif” Ref. 128239-0056

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Bezel: Why do you continue to enjoy collecting watches? 

EA:  Now more than ever, I really live for the hunt. I’m always looking to collect unique executions within the realm of modern Rolex, and love every last moment it takes to find the right ones.

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- Isaac Wingold, Senior Editor

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