EPISODE 138: R.T. Custer (Vortic Watches) on making old new again, plus new Panerai and Rolex
In this week’s episode, Andy chats to R.T. Custer, the man behind one of the most interesting American watch brands, Vortic. We find out how a college project into American-made turned into a viable business which almost didn’t make it because of a prolonged legal battle with one of the Swiss industry giants. In 2020, Vortic walked away from the five-year legal battle as the victor, and has wasted no time getting down to business, upcycling old pocketwatches into new wrist-friendly watches. Andy finds out about the realities of preserving the great era of American watchmaking and some of the lessons RT Custer has learned along the way. On top of that, Felix and Andy finally see watches IRL again, including Rolex, Rado and Oris. They also chat about how Panerai is leading the way in sustainable watchmaking.
The episode is sponsored by Panerai; check out the latest eSteel models, and the Submersible QuarantaQuattro collection at a boutique near you, or just head to panerai.com
Artem Straps are still making some of the most exacting sailcloths in the business — check them out here.
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