Interview With Kristian Haagen, Author & Watch Enthusiast

As the author of 5 books on horology and a contributing writer to countless publications worldwide, Kristian Haagen is well-respected in the Swiss watch industry. Haagen travels the world, reviewing luxury watches and considers himself to be a “timegeek.” Crown & Caliber recently interviewed Haagen to learn more about his watch collection of love for mechanical timepieces.

 

What is your favorite watch for everyday wear? What do you like about it? Mechanics or style?

The watch I wear the most is my Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 5980 with blue dial. I bought it in Monaco 2009, in midst of the financial crisis. On the plane back home I was shocked about the purchase due to the high price. But it was a dream come true and I have never ever regretted the purchase. It wears perfect on my wrist and that blue dial is tantalizing!

 

What is the most sentimental watch in your collection? How did it come into your possession?

It is a Rolex GMT-Master from 1968. It was formerly owned by a famous war correspondent, author and Cuban spy. The widow contacted me after she watched a TV-show with me and my watch collection. She had no idea her late husband was my big idol for decades. This watch holds a lot of sentimental value. And is quite the looker as well.

What are you excited to wear next, or what timepiece is the next to add to your collection?

The lastest big purchase was the fantastic A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual of white gold with grey dial. The model was relaunched during SIHH 2015, but mine is the original with a slightly different dial layout. I think it is very hard to top this watch but if I was to buy another watch that could outshine it, my money would go to the A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Handwerkskunst. I know they are long sold out, but I would hunt one down. If I had the money, that is…

Is there a timepiece out there that you would never wear, but respect nonetheless?

I really like what Breguet is doing. Respect the brand immensely. But there is not one new model I can see myself wearing. A vintage Type XX would however be hard to get off my wrist.

 

What trends are you most excited about from Basel? What trends are you ready to put to bed?

I noticed a lot of straps during both SIHH and Basel and I appreciate the work put into these when done well. A strap changes the look of a watch radically. Love to have the possibility to do so.

Carbon-pattern dials and all black design. In a few years it will look just as uncool as a large rear spoiler on a Ford Escort. Think about it…

 

What are your thoughts on the Apple Watch? Will it spell impending doom for the Swiss watch industry or is it a flash in the proverbial pan?

It’s a question of apples and oranges (pun intended). I think they can co-exist. However my view on the ongoing “battle” is that the traditional watch making industry has too much momentum, too much history, too much savoir vivre, just too much emotional appeal to lose to a noisy gadget. Of course I could be wrong. But let’s see what the future brings. The die is cast. Let the best watch win.

 

Follow Haagen at:
Twitter: @KristianHaagen
Instagram: @KristianHaagen