If you're tapped into the world of watch media, you're likely already familiar with Georgia Benjamin, whose infectious enthusiasm and lighthearted approach to collecting are nothing if not abundantly evident. Sharing her passion for all things horological by way of her Instagram feed, Georgia is most definitely a must-follow, if you haven't already.

In Bezel's exclusive interview, we sit down with the collector, influencer, and watch world personality to discuss her introduction to the world of watches, her obsession with thorough research, plus the most prized watches in her personal collection.

In Conversation with Georgia Benjamin

Bezel: How did you get into watches? 

GB: It was the hunt for my 30th birthday present to myself that really made me catch the watch bug. I’m a very curious person, and love learning about design throughout history. It took a year and a half to search for not just the watch itself, but to deep dive into what exact model, size, metal, and specification I wanted. Since that mission, I’m now forever excited about the infinite opportunity for learning – I don't think I ever want to stop discovering.

Bezel: Why a watch to mark the occasion? 

GB: Turning 30 felt like a big milestone for me. It was during the peak of COVID, and I'd also been working furiously, so and I wanted to commemorate both the start of a new decade and my professional success with a little something special.

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

GB: The very first watch I bought was the two-tone Cartier Santos Galbée. It must have been 8 years ago now – I was living in New York and could barely afford it at all. I remember spotting it in a shop window, rushing back to my apartment to grab a few pieces to trade so I could buy it. From there, my friend and I went straight to the Cartier Maison on 5th Ave to have it resized, and they brought us champagne as we waited. One of my most magical days in New York.

Bezel: Can you sum up your horological tastes in one sentence? 

GB: Vintage yet timeless, design-forward with an interesting backstory, ideally on bracelet, and hopefully a conversation starter.

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

GB: That would have to be the Rolex Day-Date "President" Ref. 18038 that I bought for my 30th. That's partially a result of the hunt, but more so because to me, the Day-Date in yellow gold is one of the most timeless timepieces ('scuse the awful pun). It has a black dial with factory-set diamonds, and the most unique patina, which is only visible to the wearer. It also dates back to my birth year, which makes it all the more special.

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

GB: Absolutely:

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Chopard St Moritz "Rainbow" Ref. 25/4334-24

Cartier Tank Louis Cartier

Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016

Cartier la Dona de Cartier Ref. WE60040H

Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch "Silver Snoopy Award" Ref. 310.32.42.50.02.001

A. & Söhne Lange 1 Moonphase Ref. 109.032

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classique Ref. 260.5.08

Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 3800/1JA

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

Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 Ref. 4200H/222J-B935

Cartier Tank Asymétrique Ref. WGTA0043

Cartier Santos Demoiselle Ref. W25063X9

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref. 56303SA

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Bezel: What advice would you give to new collectors just getting into the game?

GB: Read and learn as much as you can. Figure out what YOU like and what YOU are going to wear every day, and do not get too distracted but the opinions around you.

Bezel: Why do you continue to enjoy collecting watches?

GB: The excitement for me is sparked by the curiosity of learning – I get so excited when I see a unique watch that I know nothing about, which sends me deep diving down a rabbit hole of research. When there's to be found nothing online, I'll even search for out-of-print watch books that contain pertinent information. I also love observing brands as they put out new pieces paying homage to historic icons; I would love a Cartier Baignoire on bangle, which is a re-edition from their first release in 1957.

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Have someone in mind that you'd like to see featured?  Interested in submitting a story of your own?

Reach out to us at editorial@getbezel.com.

- Isaac Wingold

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