In this edition of "Downtime," we catch up with Mario Peserico, Managing Director of Eberhard & Co. who is now in his fourth decade with the brand known for merging mechanical innovation with distinctive design, as seen in the Chrono4, the first chronograph with four aligned counters.
During Peserico's tenure, the company has continued to captivate an international audience with iconic collections like the Tazio Nuvolari, a tribute to the legendary racing driver, and the Scafograf, a fan favourite that won the Sports Watch Prize at the 2016 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
Today, we set aside watches to explore Peserico's personal passions and interests beyond the world of haute horlogerie.
Ciao Mario. So, tell us: What’s your favourite book?
‘War and Peace’ by Leo Tolstoy, a novel written during a great period of time when Russia was exporting culture, not just war.
Your favourite movie?
I don't have a specific favourite, but I love action movies.
Your favourite music group?
America, Eagles and Supertramp – they all remind me of my youth.
Your favourite food?
I'm fond of all types of cuisine, but my favourites are Italian, Japanese, Spanish and Peruvian – always paired with a glass of Burgundy wine!
Your favourite drink?
A Negroni – though one often leads to another!
Your favourite holiday destination?
Sicily, where my wife and I built a house. It's a perfect escape from everyday business life.
Your favourite TV show?
Before managing Eberhard & Co., I used to play rugby – a passion of mine – and even wrote about it for the Italian national newspaper ‘Il Giornale’. I love healthy competition in sports, so I’d say any TV show featuring rugby or swimming.
Your favourite piece of clothing or sartorial accessory?
Shoes – they’re an immediate indicator of elegance.
Your favourite activity that you do in your free time?
Spending time with my 7-year-old son – no need to explain why!
Tell us something about you that might surprise us.
I can be ridiculously honest!
What’s one item (not a watch) that you can’t live without? Or that you can’t go anywhere without?
The keys to our house – I'm sure my wife would forget hers!
What is on your ‘bucket list’ (an activity, accomplishment or destination that you hope to do or visit before you exit this world)?
I hope to one day live on a continent outside of Europe to experience an entirely new and different way of life.
Who is someone who has inspired you in your life and/or career. How did they inspire you?
My father was an art connoisseur. His creativity keeps on inspiring me.
Name a famous person or historical figure, dead or alive, that you would like to have lunch with. Why?
Jesus – I’d love to see my favourite food tripled!
What was the first watch you remember owning? What was special about it?
A watch my father gave me. It wasn't just the watch he gifted, but also a lifelong passion for watches.
And finally, a wrist check: What watch are you currently wearing? And what do you like about it?
I'm currently wearing the iconic Chrono4 by Eberhard & Co. Even after more than two decades, it's still unique and remains our best seller.
For more information about Mario’s company, please visit the Eberhard & Co. website.
