In our regular column “Downtime,” we talk to brand leaders about their interests and passions outside of watchmaking. Up for discussion is everything other than timepieces, though it’s hard to avoid talking a little about those mechanical wonders we wear on our wrists.
Today, we sit down with Pascal Raffy, the charismatic owner and CEO of Bovet, a brand that, thanks to its exquisite hand-engraving, artisanal dials and exceptional complications, stands as a beacon of haute horlogerie.
Raffy opens up to us about his favourite books, movies, music and more, giving us a glimpse into what inspires him beyond the world of fine watchmaking.
Good morning, Mr Raffy. So, tell us: What is your favourite book?
My favorite book is ‘The Journey of Time’ from Bovet, the book that celebrates our 200-year anniversary. The book chronicles this most beautiful experience.
Your favourite movie?
‘Invictus’. A lot of insight, filled with true meaning. The continuous effort, its humanity, its deep sense for justice, moving with the same philosophy and vision.
Your favourite music or musician?
Frank Sinatra is my favourite musical artist. ‘My Way’ is my favourite song.
Your favourite food?
In fact, it’s not about my favourite cuisine, it’s my favourite dish – I choose seafood over any other food.
Your favourite drink?
Still water, but very cold. It’s not even noon, and I’ve had three litres already!
Your favourite holiday destination?
Spain. I love Valencia province: unbelievable food, nice people, good friends.
Your favourite TV show?
America's Got Talent.
Your favourite podcast?
I don’t listen to podcasts. I listen to music instead, classical to pop, it’s a very wide spectrum, my choice depends on the day, the weather, the emotion.
Your favourite piece of clothing or sartorial accessory?
Shoes. I love shoes. I love classical shoes with the right shape, the right design, the right polish, the right colour.
Your favourite activity that you do in your free time?
Spending time with my family. I also walk in the forest around the castle of Bovet, to the mountain above the Swiss flag, surrounded by nature. It allows me to think, to brainstorm and to feel lucky to have such a beautiful place to experience.
Tell us something about you that might surprise us.
I am very shy. When you have on your shoulders the responsibility of a great extended family, you overcome to protect your family.
What’s one item (not a watch) that you can’t live without? Or that you can’t go anywhere without?
A necklace around my neck on which I engraved the names and the dates of birth of my children.
What is on your ‘bucket list’ (an activity, accomplishment or destination that you hope to do or visit before you exit this world)?
There are two places on my bucket list: I would love to go to Alaska one day and the other extreme is to go to Patagonia. I will do it, however, without my mobile phone!
Who is someone who has inspired you in your life and/or career. How did they inspire you?
My father. He ingrained in me the need for education, will, determination, wisdom and above everything, respect to others.
Name a famous person or historical figure, dead or alive, that you would like to have lunch with. Why?
If I have to choose one human being, it’s Bill Gates. I think that gentleman understands everything. His behaviour, his successes, his humanity and that permanent wisdom.
And finally, a wrist check: What watch are you currently wearing? And what do you like about it?
I am wearing the Recital 28 Prowess 1. For me, it represents all the prowess that went into it – the achievement, an incredible team, the ability to go from an idea in the courtyard of our castle, then afterwards all the hard work with the artisans.
It represents how we can go from an idea to a finished timepiece that is ground-breaking, mixing artisanal handwork with the highest technical aspects.
For more information about Pascal Raffy’s brand, please visit the Bovet website.
