The man behind one of Singapore's finest cocktail bars shares some anecdotes on his favourite timepieces.
Joel Fraser, owner of The Cufflin Club, shares his heartfelt journey with watches and the stories behind his favorite pieces. Growing up in Manchester in 1983, Joel started working in a local pub at just 16 years old. His working-class roots laid the foundation for his inspiring career and his passion for watches.
The First Watch Joel Bought
Joel’s introduction to the world of watches was unexpected. The first watch he ever purchased wasn’t for himself but for his then-girlfriend—a Rolex Daytona. A fashion editor deeply passionate about watches, she dreamt of owning this iconic piece. When his business began to thrive, Joel gifted her the dream watch, marking the start of his horological journey.
Joel’s First Watch for Himself
While shopping for the Daytona, Joel found himself wanting a timepiece of his own. Initially drawn to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, he discovered that it didn’t quite suit him. Instead, he opted for the classy Rolex Datejust 2, with its white gold bezel and understated elegance. Joel still considers this his favorite watch, valuing its simplicity and personality.
A Vintage Treasure
Joel’s love for watches extended to vintage pieces, leading him to acquire a Rolex GMT Master with a 1978 radial dial, famously known as the “Pepsi bezel.” After researching extensively, he finally purchased the watch during a trip to Tokyo, capitalizing on the depreciating Yen. While he cherishes this rare find, he admits that the Datejust brings him greater joy and serves as a reminder of his journey to success.
The Meaning Behind Joel’s Watches
To Joel, watches are more than mere accessories; they represent personal milestones and growth. His collection showcases his transition from humble beginnings to achieving his dreams. From the Daytona to the Pepsi bezel, each timepiece holds a special place in his story.
Joel Fraser’s watch story is a testament to how timepieces can symbolize life’s journey and accomplishments.
