The global luxury watch market is expected to reach an estimated $50.3 billion by 2029, a testament to the enduring appeal of fine timepieces. Yet, beyond mere market value, the true essence of watch collecting often lies in personal connection and unique storytelling. In the accompanying video, we are offered a privileged look into Drew Coblitz’s watch collection, a masterclass in personalized horology and automotive passion. His discerning eye for both rare vintage finds and bespoke modern creations provides invaluable insights. This exploration extends far beyond typical luxury showcases, delving into the deep narratives behind each piece.
The Art of Personalization: Drew Coblitz’s Custom Creations
One might assume luxury watches remain untouched, pristine. However, Coblitz challenges this notion. His approach to collecting integrates a playful sense of humor. This results in truly unique items. An excellent example is his Rolex Submariner, famously known as the “Kermit.”
A “Kermit” with Character: More Than Just Green
The Rolex Submariner with its vibrant green bezel earned its “Kermit” nickname from enthusiasts. This particular watch was a 2020 reference. It initially featured a darker green, often called “Starbucks.” By mid-2023, Rolex shifted to a lighter, more vivid green. This change reignited the “Kermit” association. Coblitz seized this opportunity. He wanted to add his own mark. His watch now bears a “terrible Kermit” drawing on its case back. This engraving was done right at the 1916 Company store. It adds an irreverent, personal touch. Many collectors might hesitate. Yet, Coblitz embraced the idea of a celebratory, personalized watch. This makes it forever his own.
Moreover, the customization extends to the clasp. It features the phrase “pop and lock it.” This refers to a dance move. It is also a reminder of his goofy car-related dancing. Such modifications are bold. They make the watch appealing primarily to its owner. This embodies the spirit of bespoke luxury. It moves beyond mass production. It creates an heirloom piece imbued with personal history.
Vintage Treasures: When Fate Intervenes in Watch Collecting
While some watches are customized by choice, others seem destined. Drew Coblitz’s collection beautifully illustrates this. His Rolex 1016 Explorer is a prime example. This particular model hails from the late 1960s. It features a 7206 Rivet bracelet and 58 end links. Such details are important to vintage enthusiasts. However, the true star is its dial. Time itself created its unique character.
The Unreproducible Tropical Dial of a Rolex 1016 Explorer
The Rolex 1016 Explorer is a classic. It is a highly recommended starting point for vintage Rolex collectors. Its 36mm case wears larger than its size suggests. Prices typically start around $15,000. They can rise significantly for exceptional examples. Coblitz specifically sought a tropical dial. These dials change color over decades. The original black finish oxidizes. It turns various shades of brown or bronze. This occurs due to specific chemical reactions. Rolex used different compounds in its production. There was a particular three- to four-year period. During this time, many 1016s developed this unique patina. Each tropical dial is like a piece of art. No two are exactly alike. They exhibit diverse textures and hues. Some appear lacquered. Others show a powdery finish.
Coblitz discovered his tropical 1016 via Adam Golden at Mental Watches. Golden initially refused to sell. Yet, Coblitz persisted for months. He understood its rarity. Eventually, the watch was acquired. It was then revealed to be an unpolished “unicorn.” Its original bracelet, hands, and case were pristine. This piece represents a customization by fate. It is irreplicable. Its condition only added to its allure.
The Intersection of Horology and High-Performance Automotive
Drew Coblitz’s passions are not confined to watches. His love for cars runs deep. It naturally intertwines with his watch preferences. This connection is profoundly evident. His customized cars share a spiritual link with his unique timepieces.
The Emory 356 Outlaw: A Mechanical Masterpiece
The Emory 356 Outlaw is an extraordinary vehicle. It reflects Rod Emory’s acclaimed work. He crafts these bespoke builds in North Hollywood, California. Coblitz’s project took six years. He signed up in 2019. Delivery was taken in California in May of this year. This car is a symphony of modifications. Its superior red paint code is special. Every panel has been subtly reshaped. The interior is fully customized. However, its engine is the most impressive component. This is not a standard 356 engine. It is also not a four-cylinder 911 engine.
Instead, it features a 2.6-liter four-cylinder motor. This “Polo style” engine began as a six-cylinder. The central cylinders were expertly cut out. The outer two were then brought inward. Rod Emory designed this engine. He refined it with Jeff Gamroth. Gamroth is renowned for building race motors. This specific engine boasts twin spark ignition and a dry sump system. It produces an astounding 262 horsepower. This is over 100 horsepower per liter. The car itself weighs only 1950 pounds. This power-to-weight ratio creates a wildly fun driving experience. Its intake sound is distinct. It fills the cabin under acceleration. Like Coblitz’s watches, this car could never be mistaken for anything else.
Rolex Daytona “Le Mans”: The Ultimate Car Guy’s Watch
From the Emory Outlaw, we transition to another iconic piece. The new Rolex Daytona “Le Mans” perfectly bridges the gap between cars and watches. Introduced for the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, this watch holds immense appeal. Its red “100” on the bezel is a direct nod to the historic race. It also celebrated Ferrari’s comeback victory. This watch is arguably the perfect modern timepiece for a car enthusiast. Its white gold construction gives a warmer hue. It also showcases a display case back. This feature is typically reserved for precious metal Daytonas. This detail underscores its exclusivity.
The “Le Mans” Daytona features a Newman-style text on its sub-dials. Lollipop indices further enhance its vintage aesthetic. Its movement also operates as a 24-hour chronograph. This directly references the endurance race. Coblitz appreciates its reliability and robustness. These are hallmarks of Rolex. It can be worn hard, unlike delicate vintage pieces. This watch perfectly complements his vintage 6241 Paul Newman Daytona. It offers the vintage feel with modern wearability. It is built for a life in and around high-performance machines. The modern Daytona provides a robust alternative. It endures daily wear. Many collectors choose a “six-digit” Rolex for vacations or active use. This protects their older, more fragile pieces.
The Zenith of Collecting: The Paul Newman Daytona
For many collectors, a Paul Newman Daytona represents the ultimate grail. Drew Coblitz realized this dream. His 6241 Paul Newman Daytona is considered his favorite watch. It is perfect in aesthetics and condition.
Acquiring a Grail: A Story of Persistence and Trade
Finding a Paul Newman Daytona is incredibly difficult. They are rare. Allocations for vintage watches do not exist. Coblitz acquired his 6241 from a friend, Jeff Isringhausen. Isringhausen runs Isringhausen Imports. He knew Coblitz was searching for this specific model. The watch presented was pristine. Its dial was a “10 out of 10.” The case was gorgeous. The bezel was nice. The price, however, was substantial. To facilitate the purchase, Coblitz made a significant trade. He sold a black-on-black stick shift Ferrari 360 Modena. This car-for-watch exchange occurred approximately three and a half to four years ago. This exchange highlights the fluidity of high-end collecting. It also shows the deep commitment to acquiring a dream piece. The 6241 remains Coblitz’s “one watch.” He would keep it if he had to sell everything else. Its significance transcends monetary value.
Art, Community, and the Future of Custom Watches
Collecting extends beyond individual pieces. It encompasses relationships and personal narratives. Drew Coblitz finds immense value in this aspect. His TAG Heuer Carrera Dato collaboration illustrates this beautifully.
TAG Heuer Carrera Dato by Wes Lang: Wearable Art
The Carrera Dato is a unique piece. It features a dial print by artist Wes Lang. Lang is known for his distinctive, often macabre, artistic style. This collaboration produced a limited run. Five pieces were made in stainless steel. Fifteen were crafted in full gold. Coblitz met Lang at Journe events in Los Angeles. Their connection deepened over shared interests. They bonded over pizza. Lang is also a passionate watch collector. His artistic perspective on horology is unique. Coblitz sees this watch as wearable art. It allows him to carry a piece of Lang’s creativity. The dial features a burning skull motif. It resembles the Indianapolis Motor Speedway logo. This design deeply resonated with Coblitz. This timepiece is a testament to friendships. It represents opportunities for unique collaborations. It is not about exclusivity. Rather, it is about the story. It celebrates the shared journey. This interaction is far more enriching than simply acquiring another item. It showcases how a network of enthusiasts can enhance a collection.
Future Endeavors: The JLC Reverso Customization
Looking ahead, Coblitz has more custom projects planned. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is next. Its reversible case back offers a blank canvas. This design invites personal expression. Coblitz envisions another humorous drawing. He is considering phrases like “flip it and reverse it.” This echoes his “pop and lock it” engraving. The Reverso’s unique design allows for hidden personalization. This appeals to his sense of fun. It is another example of integrating his personality into his timepieces. Such projects highlight a refreshing approach. It contrasts with rigid, traditional collecting. Drew Coblitz’s watch collection is a vibrant testament to personal style.
Unwinding with Drew Coblitz: Your Q&A on Timepieces and Collecting
What makes Drew Coblitz’s watch collection unique?
Drew Coblitz’s collection stands out because it combines rare vintage watches with modern pieces he has personalized. He often adds humorous and custom details to his timepieces, making them truly his own.
What is a ‘Kermit’ Rolex?
A ‘Kermit’ Rolex is a Rolex Submariner watch known for its distinctive vibrant green bezel. This nickname was given by enthusiasts because of its color.
What is a ‘tropical dial’ on a vintage watch?
A ‘tropical dial’ refers to a vintage watch dial that has naturally changed color over many decades, typically from black to various shades of brown or bronze. This unique aging is caused by chemical reactions in the dial’s original materials.
How does Drew Coblitz connect his love for cars with his watch collecting?
Drew Coblitz often collects watches that have a strong link to automotive history or racing, like the Rolex Daytona ‘Le Mans.’ He also customizes both his cars and watches, creating a shared personal style between his two passions.