Josh Smith: A Musician's Passion for Timepieces

Josh Smith, a distinguished blues-rock guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, and producer, brings a unique perspective to the world of horology. His musical journey, rooted in blues and expanding into jazz and rock, reflects his open-minded and curious nature. This same spirit guides his passion for watches, where he values intricate craftsmanship, historical significance, and innovative design over mainstream appeal. Smith's exploration into timepieces began during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading him down a fascinating path of discovery, from vintage Enicar chronographs to the creations of independent Japanese watchmakers. He sees a profound connection between the artistry required in both music and watchmaking, emphasizing dedication to craft and a respect for tradition while embracing new ideas.

Smith's watch collection showcases his eclectic taste, favoring unique pieces like the Enicar Sherpa Graph and the LeCoultre Futurematic. His appreciation extends to the technical intricacies of watch movements and the historical narratives behind various brands. He finds particular resonance with Japanese watchmaking, admiring the meticulous attention to detail and dedication to excellence evident in brands like Otsuka Lotec and Masa & Co. This interview highlights how his passion for watches is not merely a hobby but an extension of his artistic philosophy, where a deep understanding of fundamentals allows for creative improvisation and innovation, much like in his guitar playing.

The Musician's Discovery of Horology

Josh Smith, a respected figure in the blues-rock scene, embarked on his horological journey during the pandemic, revealing a surprising depth to his interests beyond music. Initially drawn to the mechanical wonders of timekeeping through online videos focusing on watch repair and restoration, he quickly developed an appreciation for the historical and technical aspects of watchmaking. This newfound fascination led him to delve into the histories of various brands, understanding the nuances between different movements like hand-wound and automatic, and exploring the contributions of legendary figures such as Louis-Abraham Breguet. His extensive travels as a musician have also afforded him opportunities to explore diverse watch stores, further fueling his passion and shifting his reliance from his phone to wristwatches for telling time, a testament to his genuine engagement with the world of horology.

His entry into watch collecting began with vintage pieces, specifically an Enicar chronograph, which he admired for its historical value and accessible price point compared to other watches with similar movements. Smith’s preference for watches that complement his large hands and wrists led him to appreciate the 40mm case size of his Enicar Sherpa Graph, a practical consideration that many collectors face. He also cherishes an Enicar Sherpa Jet GMT and a unique LeCoultre Futurematic, a crown-less watch designed for the American market. This diverse collection reflects his non-conformist attitude, as he expresses a lack of interest in more commonly sought-after luxury brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, or Audemars Piguet, preferring to seek out pieces with distinctive character and compelling craftsmanship, echoing his approach to music where authenticity and innovation are paramount.

Bridging Musical Craft and Watchmaking Artistry

Josh Smith draws compelling parallels between the art of guitar playing and the craft of watchmaking, seeing both as disciplines that combine deep respect for tradition with a drive for innovation. He highlights how independent watchmakers, much like innovative guitar amplifier designers, honor established techniques while introducing their unique interpretations and advancements. This shared ethos of continuous improvement and creative expression resonates deeply with Smith, who is constantly striving for excellence in his own musical pursuits. He admires watchmakers who experiment with new escapements, dial layouts, or hand designs, viewing these efforts as a form of artistic improvisation that builds upon a foundational understanding of their respective crafts. This dedication to doing one's best, regardless of the medium, is a core value he applies to both his music and his appreciation for fine timepieces.

Further emphasizing this connection, Smith likens the foundational elements of blues music—starting with just three chords—to the basic components of watchmaking, such as the three hands on a dial. From these simple beginnings, both disciplines allow for immense complexity and improvisation, whether through musical complications, intricate harmonies, or advanced horological features. This interwoven understanding suggests that the passion for precision, rhythm, and intricate mechanics is shared by musicians and watchmakers alike. Smith's personal anecdotes, including his encounter with young watchmaker Gaku Okada and his innovative Tempo Rubato Metronome, further illustrate his admiration for those who dedicate themselves to pushing boundaries within traditional crafts, ultimately revealing a kindred spirit shared between the worlds of guitar players and watch enthusiasts.