Fashionable Fellas

Louis Brody

 

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Tell us about what you collect. When did you get started?

I see a lot of different watches almost every day. My collection is very broad, from vintage to brand new. For instance, in my collection I have a 1952 Rolex Pre-Daytona up to a modern Patek Philippe Nautilus to a Rolex Day-Date Platinum, an Audemars Ghost, and everything in between. I got started pretty young being interested in watches but started a real collection about 20 years ago.

 

Have you had any unexpected finds?

Yes. The Rolex Pre-Daytona, and the most major one isn’t a watch; it’s actually a Patek Philippe solar clock from the 1950s, also in the original box and article from when it was released by Patek.

 

 

Where do you usually find your items?

All over the world. People call daily wanting to know if I’m interested in certain watches and just for general information concerning a watch.

 

Do you view your items as a wearable art or as a financial investment?

I don’t really look at it as a financial investment because the market on most brands changes a lot, but some are definitely a work of art. The issue is the more complicated it is, the more things that can go wrong with it.

 

 

What advice would you give to new collectors?

Start small and be very cautious of imposters. Make sure you’re buying from a reputable jeweler and get everything checked out before you buy. I strongly discourage buying anything off the internet. You never know what you’re getting.

 

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

It’s a fun hobby always seeing new things, and in my world, you never know what’s coming in the door. But like I said above, just make sure you’re getting authentic and all-factory watches. If you pick or desire certain watches, just do your research or have it checked out before you purchase it.

 

PHOTOS BY ANH BAO TRAN-LE

 

Dallas Joseph

 

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Tell us about what you collect. When did you get started?

Growing up in the late 1960s, my dad owned a jazz club. Back then, men and women dressed up when they went out at night, and appearance was part of the experience. I admired my dad for many reasons, but one thing that always stood out was how well dressed he was. He wore ties most nights in the club, and as a young boy I noticed the confidence and professionalism that came with that style. Because of that influence, ties have been part of my wardrobe for as long as I can remember.

 

Where do you usually find your items?

My wife and I love to travel, and wherever we go I make it a point to visit local clothiers and men’s shops. Walking through stores in different cities and countries allows me to see a variety of styles, fabrics, and craftsmanship that I might not encounter at home. Many of the ties that I own were discovered while traveling and carry memories of those places and experiences.

 

 

Are there any items that you would like to add to your collection someday?

I would love to add a custom necktie crafted entirely to my specifications. The ability to choose the exact length, width, fabric, lining, and fold count would allow me to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece that reflects my personal style.

 

Why is your collection important to you?

My collection is an important part of my professional life. There is a saying in sports: “If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good.” I think there is some truth in that. Getting dressed for work serves as a mental cue, much like an athlete’s pregame ritual, signaling that it is time to perform at a high level. Wearing clothing that makes you feel confident improves your self-esteem, reinforces a positive self-image, and gives you a sense of control over how you present yourself to the world.

 

Do you view your items as a wearable art of as a financial investment?

I view them as wearable art rather than an investment. The enjoyment comes from the aesthetics, craftsmanship, and self-expression.

 

PHOTOS BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

 

Stacy Beaty

 

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Tell us about what you collect. When did you get started?

I love high fashion. Clothes, watches, and shoes. Ever since I was in my teens, I have liked nice clothes. I always had a keen sense for detail, so I believe that’s why I gravitate towards the finest pieces.

 

Do you have a favorite item?

My favorite item tends to be the newest addition to my collection. I just purchased a pair of Stefano Ricci Himalayan Crocodile loafers in Miami. They are some of the rarest shoes you will ever see. All of my clothes come from either Stefano Ricci or Kiton. Ricci’s main facilities are in Florence and Kiton’s are in Napoli.

 

 

Where do you usually find your items?

My wife and I have traveled all over the world including numerous trips to Italy, specifically Milan, Rome, Portofino, Florence, and Capri, as well as Paris where I have made great contacts. I have relationships with sales associates that I have met in Switzerland, Hong Kong, Macau, and Tokyo. In the states, it’s New York, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Miami for the most part.

 

Have you had any unexpected finds?

My wife and I were in Lucerne, Switzerland, and I found a watch that I had been looking for but hadn’t been able to find. It is a Bovet 1822 Orbis Mundi World Timer. Bovet makes less than 1,000 watches per year.

 

Why is your collection important to you?

As I mentioned, I have loved high fashion for years. I attribute it to the details that I am challenged with on a daily basis with my job where I swim in details, which bleeds over into my personal life. Henceforth, I look for the handmade products with extreme details which typically take hours and even weeks to make. Every piece is significant because when I wear it, it takes me back to when I purchased it and I’m reminded of the wonderful memories.

 

Do you share this hobby with any family or friends?

I have a good friend who just expanded his closet as he has many pieces that are one of a kind. We travel together and it’s always fun to shop at Stefano Ricci and Kiton.

 

PHOTOS BY FINAL FLASH PRODUCTIONS

 

Matt Wilson

 

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Tell us about what you collect. When did you get started?

I collect needlepoint accessories, especially belts. I started around 2022, drawn to the way a belt can be both useful and expressive – much like a men’s necktie or a woman’s scarf. It’s a small part of an outfit, but it can carry a surprising amount of personality. Over time, my collection has grown from needlepoint belts to sunglass straps to needlepoint luggage tags. I’ve also become more attentive to color balance, stitching, and how a design looks when worn. Often times needlepoint belts look better with the added character that comes with heavy use. And that is what we want.

 

 

Do you have a favorite item?

Belts are my favorite because they make getting dressed feel more personal without requiring much effort. You can wear a simple shirt and trousers, add an interesting belt, and give the outfit a point of view. Belts are the closest thing to an expressive women’s silk scarf in that they, at least my favorite ones, tell a story. One particular favorite is my Monteagle Sunday School Assembly needlepoint belt and the other needlepoint items in the collection. I think the belt explains and tells the story of this beloved 140-year-old Southern retreat better than any 10-page dossier.

 

Where do you usually find your items?

These days, I have pieces custom made overseas through relationships connected to my work. Being involved in the process is one of the pleasures of collecting. I can start with an idea, adjust the colors, refine the scale, and watch it become something I can wear.

 

Why is your collection important to you?

Needlepoint lets me add color, wit, and individuality without overcomplicating what I’m wearing. I’m drawn to pieces that feel distinctive rather than disposable – things with enough character to make me smile and enough durability to become part of my routine. My favorite fashion brand is FUBU from the ’90s. I love how they were completely dialed in and totally in tune to their audience, and I strive to apply that same philosophy to my own sense of style.

 

PHOTOS BY ANH BAO TRAN LE