Episode 25: Johnny Dowell, AKA King Nerd on Purdey, Leica and Rolex
Today on the show our guest of honour is full-time independent engraving royalty Johnny Dowell, also known by his Instagram/engraving/wrestling name of King Nerd. While listeners might be familiar with Johnny’s work on watches, through stunning engraved Urwerks, Linde Werdelins and the like, we find out out how one starts on the unconventional career path to becoming a professional engraver. For Johnny, that journey began at prestigious gunmakers James Purdey & Sons.
From shotguns, Johnny made the jump to JLCs and Panerais, eventually moving into solo practice. Since stepping out on his own, Johnny has gone from strength to strength, working with some of the biggest names in the business, including an enduring creative collaboration with Bamford Watch Department and a very cool custom series with the artist, Mister Enthusiast.
In other news, Felix calls out Hamish Blake, Andy peeps some new Breitling (again) and gushes over the Chronomat (again).
Show Notes:
King Nerd’s Snoopy on Hodinkee
King Nerd and Mister Enthusiast’s Submariner
King Nerd in GQ, feat. Linde Werdelin and Gavin Bond’s Leica
How to follow us:
Instagram: @ot.podcast
Facebook: @OTPodcastAU
Follow hosts: @fkscholz + @andygreenlive on Instagram.
Submit an application to our quasi-professional watch match making service, by email: otthepodcast@gmail.com
If you liked our podcast - please remember to like/share and subscribe.