In this captivating interview, we delve into the world of PS Horology's founder, Peter Speake, and his unique perspective on time and watchmaking. Through a series of thought-provoking questions, we uncover the personal journey that has shaped his craft and his views on an industry steeped in tradition and innovation.
The Power of Perspective
Peter's relationship with time and watches began with a pivotal moment - a shift from servicing modern timepieces to restoring antique and vintage watches. This transition, he reveals, was an eye-opener. It exposed him to the vast history and creativity of watchmaking, a world of technical and aesthetic diversity that had been hidden from his view.
"It stopped being a job." - Peter Speake
This transformation highlights the importance of perspective. By stepping back and seeing the bigger picture, Peter gained a deeper appreciation for the craft, turning a job into a passion. It's a reminder that sometimes, we need to look beyond the surface to truly understand and value something.
The Human Touch
When asked about the quality he values most in a watch, Peter emphasizes the human element. He speaks of the time and care that goes into creating a watch, the hours spent by skilled artisans working by hand, long before the advent of modern technology. This human touch, he believes, is what gives a watch its soul.
"The time is in the object. You can feel it..." - Peter Speake
This appreciation for the human element in watchmaking is a refreshing perspective in an age where automation and mass production often dominate. It's a reminder of the value of craftsmanship and the unique connection we can have with objects that bear the mark of human hands.
The Mesmerizing Tourbillon
Peter's favorite complication is the tourbillon, a mechanical marvel that visually represents the passing of time. The tourbillon, with its intricate rotation, captivates and fascinates, offering a unique and mesmerizing display of time's progression.
"It is a visually mesmerising animation of the passing of time." - Peter Speake
This choice reflects Peter's appreciation for the aesthetic and the artistic side of watchmaking. It's a complication that not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a layer of beauty and intrigue to the watch.
Trends and Traditions
When it comes to modern watchmaking trends, Peter takes a step back and observes from a distance. He acknowledges the cycles of fashion, from sports-inspired designs to vintage revivals, but believes that true innovation often lies beyond these trends.
"Trends describe what most people are doing, and that's not where watchmaking tends to move forward." - Peter Speake
This perspective highlights the importance of staying true to one's vision and not getting caught up in fleeting trends. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most innovative and meaningful creations come from a place of authenticity and individual expression.
Coherence and Care
For Peter, the sign of a watch made with care is its coherence. It's not about a single detail or the price tag, but about the overall harmony of the piece. A watch that is coherent, where the decisions and elements work together, is often a sign of a maker with a strong point of view and a deep understanding of their craft.
"Coherence... is usually the sign that someone with an actual point of view made it." - Peter Speake
This idea of coherence extends beyond watchmaking. It's a principle that can be applied to various creative pursuits, emphasizing the importance of unity and intention in any creation.
The Impact of Industrialization
Peter identifies the industrialization of watchmaking at the turn of the 20th century as a pivotal moment in the industry's history. This shift from individual craftsmanship to factory production changed not just the method but also the very essence of watchmaking.
"Something else was lost." - Peter Speake
This loss, he believes, is what independent watchmakers today are trying to recover - the skill and knowledge that resided in the hands of artisans, now largely replaced by machines and specifications. It's a fascinating insight into the complex relationship between tradition and progress.
Connecting with Younger Generations
One of the biggest challenges facing the watch industry, according to Peter, is connecting with younger generations. He acknowledges that the traditional arguments for watchmaking - heritage, craft, and investment - may not resonate with a generation that has grown up with technology.
"The argument needs to be made differently." - Peter Speake
This challenge presents an opportunity for innovation and adaptation. It's a call to action for the industry to find new ways to communicate the value and appeal of watchmaking to a tech-savvy audience.
Inspiration from Japan
Japan has had a profound influence on Peter's thinking. He speaks of the country's deep respect for detail and the concept of shokunin - a craftsperson dedicated to mastering a single skill with moral and technical weight.
"That idea sits close to what I recognize in watchmaking at its best." - Peter Speake
This connection between Japanese culture and watchmaking highlights the universal nature of craftsmanship and the shared values that transcend cultural boundaries.
The Value of Process
When asked about a watch he wishes he had created, Peter takes a philosophical approach. He emphasizes the value of the process, the specific problem the maker identified, and the decisions made over time.
"The value of another maker's work is inseparable from the process that produced it." - Peter Speake
This perspective shifts the focus from the end product to the journey, highlighting the importance of the creative process and the unique insights and challenges that each maker faces.
The Power of Reflection
Peter's response to the question of which watch he wears when nobody is watching is intriguing. He reveals that he doesn't wear a watch in such moments.
"None." - Peter Speake
This choice suggests a deep connection with time and a desire to be present in the moment, free from the constraints of a timepiece. It's a reminder of the importance of reflection and the value of time beyond the tick of a watch.
The Influence of Nicole Nielsen
Nicole Nielsen, a largely unknown figure in the public eye, has had a significant impact on Peter's view of watchmaking. Nielsen's consistent aesthetic position across a long career, despite the lack of commercial significance in individual attribution at the time, is a remarkable feat.
"That consistency is remarkable." - Peter Speake
Nielsen's work serves as a testament to the power of personal expression and the value of staying true to one's vision, even in the face of changing trends and commercial pressures.
Advice for Young Collectors
Peter offers valuable advice to young collectors, encouraging them to consider the long-term relevance and the satisfaction of living with a watch, not just owning it.
"Does it bring you genuine satisfaction to live with, not just to own?" - Peter Speake
This advice goes beyond the watch itself, encouraging collectors to consider the deeper connection and the personal meaning that a timepiece can bring.
In conclusion, Peter Speake's insights offer a unique and thought-provoking perspective on watchmaking. His personal journey and reflections provide a deeper understanding of the craft, its history, and its relevance in a modern world. It's a reminder that behind every watch lies a story, a process, and a human connection that makes each timepiece truly special.
