Member Spotlight: Andrew Beckman

Andrew Beckman

Chapter: Pittsburgh

https://www.instagram.com/redbarpittsburgh/

What was your introduction to horology?

My father got into vintage watches in the late 1990s; when I would have been in my early teens. He mainly concentrated on watches that were aesthetically pleasing to him, rather than buying for brand or resale potential. I remember him obsessing over a watch he saw on a gentleman's wrist while on vacation in Las Vegas, but he was never certain about what brand the watch was. The only thing he knew was that the watch had a cable style band on it. Since he wasn't as well versed on the internet as I was, I spent countless hours searching the web for the watch he saw. I eventually found that the brand was Phillipe Charriol, and then found the exact watch that he yearned for. After spending all of that time doing research on different watch brands, I slowly started to read more and more into horology.

What was your first watch?

I had a few Timex watches during my teen years, but it wasn't until my dad gave me a vintage manual wind Omega cal. 266 that I really got the sick disease that we all know and love.  

What fascinates you most about watches and/or horology in general?

The unique world that surrounds it. In my past, I never would have guessed that I could spend 3-4 hours talking with a random person at an airport about the watches on our wrist.

What are the kiss, kill, and marry of your collection?

I'd marry my Tudor Black Bay Black (ETA Movement), kiss my Heuer Autavia, and even though it’s a cool watch, i'd probably kill my Hodinkee/Swatch Collaboration piece. I think that I just bought it as more of a novelty piece.

Name one watch that got away.

I've had many watches that I regret getting rid of. I went through a phase of collecting where I would be enamored with a watch, and then, after buying it, I'd want to sell it or trade it for another new piece I was obsessed with at the time. I think my biggest regret is selling my first Rolex Submariner Date (black) to finance my wife's engagement ring. I should have just saved up a bit longer and kept the watch. It’s hard to get the first Rolex feeling back!

What watch do you wear most often?

Tudor Black Bay Black (ETA) on the steel bracelet. In my opinion, it is the best every day watch for the money.  

What is the first thing you notice about a watch?

A unique or quality looking strap or bracelet. Don't get me wrong, I get drawn in to a familiar dial almost instantly, but I think I first notice the band or bracelet.

How were you introduced to RedBar Group?

I first came to learn about RedBar Group through their Instagram page.

How has RedBar affected you as a collector?

It has allowed me to share opinions with other horology enthusiasts in my area. Every single person that participates in our meet-ups has their own unique opinion on everything watch related. The meet-ups have allowed me to be better educated on certain brands, movements, and how to buy.

Outside of collecting how has RedBar impacted your life?

Starting up the Pittsburgh RedBar Group has allowed me to meet and form friendships with many other watch lovers. These new friendships would probably not have happened without the formation of the group.