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Kevin O’Leary from Shark Tank, widely recognized as “Mr. Wonderful”, likened the craft of watchmaking to modern art, highlighting the meticulousness, commitment, and creativity involved in the production of watches. According to O’Leary, watchmaking is not merely about functionality but represents craftsmanship that rivals high art.
In a YouTube post shared on December 8 with a clip from one of his recent interviews with Morning Brew Daily, he said,
"Watchmaking is like contemporary art."
This perspective is rooted in O'Leary's admiration for the commitment of watchmakers and his own journey as a collector, which has connected him with a global community of horology enthusiasts.
Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary take on watchmaking
Watchmaking as Contemporary Art
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In a Morning Brew Daily interview on November 29, 2024, O’Leary articulated his philosophy about watches:
“There are watchmakers around the world… they appreciate better than a Warhol. You can wear them. They’re extraordinary in terms of what they represent—the craftsmanship.”
He elaborated on the discipline required to master watchmaking, likening it to a lifelong artistic pursuit. For the Shark Tank investor, this craftsmanship places watches alongside other forms of fine art, adding to their appeal as both functional objects and artistic expressions.
O’Leary’s engagement with the watchmaking world extends beyond collecting— he actively supports young watchmakers and the horology industry. He emphasized how the global community of collectors and creators brings together people from diverse backgrounds, creating a unique cultural network.
Practical reasons behind his watch habits
In an interview with The Wrist Enthusiast in April 2024, O’Leary shared the practical aspects of his watch collection, particularly his habit of wearing two watches at once.
“I have so many people working with me now in Abu Dhabi. I don’t like to wake them up at 2 in the morning 'cause I keep forgetting how many hours it’s shifted,” he said.
One watch is set to New York time, and the other synchronizes with Abu Dhabi time, to ensure smooth communication across time zones. Beyond this practicality, the Shark Tank investor mentioned that he rotates watches frequently throughout the day, showcasing six pieces daily— two in the morning, two at lunch, and two in the evening.
Despite owning an extensive collection, O’Leary stated he has never sold any of his watches, highlighting their irreplaceable value and emotional significance.
A collector’s philosophy
In his conversation with CNBC Make It in March 2021, O’Leary described his collection philosophy as a “one-way ticket.”
“It comes into the collection; it’s never leaving the collection. I’ve had insane offers [but] I can’t replace them.”
He highlighted that his dedication to collecting has earned him recognition from watchmakers, granting him access to rare and unique pieces. O’Leary underscored his genuine appreciation for the art of watchmaking has deepened his connection to the craft, allowing him to contribute to its preservation and evolution.
Connecting through horology
The global horology community plays a central role in O’Leary’s journey as a collector. He reflected on the relationships he has built with fellow enthusiasts in his Morning Brew Daily interview:
“The people I’ve met through watch collecting are unbelievable. They’re from every country, every religion, every gender… We meet up every once in a while in Geneva or Asia or wherever.”
O'Leary mentioned that gatherings like these unite collectors, fostering a shared passion for horology while celebrating its cultural and artistic significance.
Tune in Fridays at 8 pm ET for fresh pitches, bold business moves, and unexpected twists on Shark Tank. Every episode can be streamed anytime on Hulu.
