Imagine standing in a room filled with the most iconic timepieces in history, each one telling a story of craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless elegance. But here’s where it gets fascinating: how do you narrow down centuries of horological brilliance to just twelve watches? That’s exactly what Ben Clymer tackled when curating Icons of Time alongside Gary Striewski at the UBS House of Craft. In a riveting opening night discussion, Gary probed Ben on his curation process, revealing not just the masterpieces that made the cut, but also the heart-wrenching decisions about what had to be left out. This wasn’t just about selecting watches—it was about crafting a narrative that honors the past while inspiring the future.
The conversation dove deep into the provenance of the featured pieces, shedding light on the stories behind each watch and the meticulous thought process that shaped the exhibition. And this is the part most people miss: the emotional and intellectual journey of curation, where every inclusion and exclusion carries weight. Ben also shared insights into his personal path to this moment, from his early passion for watches to his role in bringing the Hodinkee vision to life. Yes, even his own grail watch made an appearance in the discussion, adding a layer of intimacy to the professional narrative.
What makes this exhibition truly stand out is its ability to bridge the gap between history and modernity, appealing to both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. But here’s a thought to ponder: In a world where trends come and go, what makes a watch truly iconic? Is it its rarity, its design, or the story it tells? Ben and Gary’s dialogue invites us to reflect on this, sparking a conversation that extends far beyond the walls of the UBS House of Craft.
Watch the full video above to immerse yourself in this captivating dialogue, and stay tuned for more exclusive coverage from this year’s House of Craft. But before you go, we want to hear from you: What would your Icons of Time exhibition look like? Which watches would you include, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this conversation ticking!
