Tess Gigone is a Toronto-based photographer, TikTok content creator, and avid home baker, sharing her projects and perspectives with the world via her Instagram feed. After learning of her and her husband's shared passion for all things watches, we knew we had to get the full story.

In Bezel’s exclusive interview, we sit down with the creative to discuss her introduction to the world of watches, her milestone-driven approach to collecting, plus the most prized watches in her shared personal collection.

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In Conversation with Tess Gigone

Bezel: How did you get into watches? 

TG: My love for watches began with my husband, Ben, who has always been passionate about them. He introduced me to the idea of celebrating special occasions with a new watch.

For our wedding, we exchanged watches: Ben surprised me with a Cartier Tank Solo, while I found a vintage Gallet chronograph for him. Since then, we’ve been finding reasons to mark every milestone with a new watch.

This tradition has become one of my favorites, providing a beautiful way to remember the important moments in our lives.

Bezel: Given the shared significance your watches hold, do you also share your watches?  

TG: Yes! We share all of our watches. Our perfect case diameter is 36 mm - not too large for me and not too small for ben. This arrangement is wonderful because choosing and buying the next watch is a joint experience. This is the best because it allows us to have a single, larger collection instead of maintaining two separate ones.

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

TG: When I was 10 years old, my family took a trip to New York City. Before we left, my grandfather gave each of us kids some money to spend.

I saved my money until the last day, and then purchased a Swatch from Times Square. It had little charms on the bracelet. I wore it everyday and absolutely adored it.

Bezel: Ten-year-old you knew what was up. Are there any watches you associate closely with specific members of your family? Any heirlooms that’ve been passed down? 

TG: Unfortunately, I haven’t had the opportunity to inherit any family watches, as my family wasn't particularly into them. However, I do wish that had been the case! Moving forward, it’s our intention to create that legacy ourselves. We’re excited to build a collection and pass it down to future generations. 

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

TG: My favorite watch in our collection is my Cartier Tank Solo (for a few reasons).

It was a surprise from Ben on our wedding day, making it incredibly meaningful. The memories of being surprised that morning, wearing it for the first time, and seeing it in our wedding photos are so special.

Beyond the sentiment, it’s also the most practical watch in our collection. It’s classic, striking, and goes with everything. I never get tired of it and can't wait to pass it down one day.

Bezel: What do you and Ben have your sights set on next? Any milestones on the horizon you’re hoping to celebrate with a new watch? 

TG: Our daughter was born this past April, and being the new parents that we are, haven’t yet had the chance to source and buy a watch for her just yet. Our plan is to purchase a watch to commemorate her birth, which she’ll receive when she’s older. We’re considering a mini two-tone Panthère—though it's trendy now, it still remains timeless.

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

TG:   Patek Philippe Ellipse Ref. 3738/100J-012

(omg)

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

This is my lottery watch.

Cartier Panthère de Cartier Ref. 112000R 

For my baby, James. 

A. Lange & Söhne Grand Lange 1 Moon Phase 139.032

I love a moon phase.

Bezel: Why do you continue to enjoy collecting watches? 

TG:  For me, the concept of marking occasions with a watch is incredibly romantic. I love the idea of each watch having its own story.

I'm deeply enamored with the idea of inheritance and passing along items that hold such meaning. With each watch, it feels like we're capturing a beautiful moment in time, and, every time that watch is picked up, it serves as a reminder of that special moment or milestone.

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- Isaac Wingold

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