Josiah Citrin is the Michelin-starred chef behind some of Los Angeles’ most noteworthy restaurants, pushing the boundaries of modern California cuisine by way of Citrin and Mélisse, among other celebrated spots.

In Bezel's exclusive interview, we sit down with the chef, restaurateur, and collector to discuss his introduction to the world of watches, his obsession with fine details, plus the most prized watches in his personal collection

In Conversation with Josiah Citrin

Bezel: How did you get into watches?

JC: My grandfather sparked my interest – he had an early gold watch by IWC, that I can remember being so in awe of when I was young. Simple elegance at its finest. ‍

I think chefs are naturally attracted to the craft and fine details synonymous with watchmaking. This considered attention to detail is similar to our passion for creating dishes and menus. A fine memory rooted in simplicity is difficult to achieve. 

Bezel: Do you find yourself making use of your watches in the kitchen? 

JC: Definitely–when I got my IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph “Top Gun” Ref. IW3880-01, I would often use it as a timer to cook steak on the grill, making full use of the flyback function to immediately begin timing the following rest period. However, not long after I got the watch, Siri came out, and it just proved easier to say “Hey Siri,” even for a purist like me.

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

JC: My first watch was a TAG Heuer Aquaracer, generously given to me by my best friend Raphael. His girlfriend had given him one, so he wanted me to have one, too – a very kind gesture.

Bezel: How did your collection evolve from there?

JC: My next watch was a Rolex Datejust Ref. 17014 “Oysterquartz,” which I received as a Christmas gift. I liked the quiet beauty of its white gold bezel, not to mention its unique, integrated bracelet.

I’ve never really had a specific focus; I’ve more so just gravitated toward what’s caught my interest. After the Oysterquartz, my next watch was a 1991 Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610, which I purchased from a friend of mine in Beverly Hills. I paid for half of it in cash and traded dinners at my restaurants for the remaining fifty percent. 

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

JC: At the moment, my favorite watch would have to be my Ulysse Nardin Marine Aqua Perpetual Calendar Ref. 333-77. It’s one of just 500 examples, and it’s just so complex. All of its details are so dialed in yet so simple and elegant looking. I’m in love with its bezel and dial, especially when graced by the gentle touch of sunlight.

Bezel: Is there a grail watch you hope to acquire one day? 

JC: That would have to be Patek Phillipe Grand Complications Ref. 5316/50P-001. It’s truly an outstanding example of horological excellence. 

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

JC: Absolutely. 

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 126509-0003

A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Timezone Ref. 116.039

Patek Phillipe Aquanaut Ref. 5167A-001

Bezel: Why do you continue to enjoy collecting watches? 

JC: I truly love the process of deciding what it is I want next, and then the months of research, admiration, and growing appreciation for all the creativity, thought, and engineering that went into creating that watch.

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