In our regular column “Downtime”, we talk to brand leaders about their interests and passions when not at work. On the menu is basically everything other than watches, though it is hard to avoid talking about those little mechanical wonders we wear on our wrists.
Today, we sit down with Thomas Baillod, founder and CEO of Neuchâtel brand BA111OD. The La Chaux-de-Fonds native has not only developed an innovative approach to marketing and distribution, but has also managed to make what is thought to be the most affordable Swiss-made tourbillon on the market.
Hi Thomas. So, tell us: What is your favourite book?
‘La part de l'autre’ (The Part of The Other) by Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt. As well as being beautifully written, it deals with the duality present in every individual and how a simple detail can turn a life upside down... and those of so many others.
Your favourite movie?
‘The Green Mile’ which examines injustice and the limits of empathy.
Your favourite music?
What really gets me going is salsa. Marc Anthony is still the reference in this field.
Your favourite food?
It’s a toss-up between Lebanese and Thai cuisine. But if I had to choose just one dish, it would be fondue. Sorry, raclette. Actually, fondue...
Your favourite holiday destination?
Italy. You could go back there every year for 50 years, but you would never be able to see it all!
Your favourite TV show?
The daily news on RTS (Radio Télévision Suisse). I'm a big consumer of news and information.
Your favourite activity that you do in your free time?
Hiking and nature walks.
Tell us something about you that might surprise us.
When I was 25 years old, I gave salsa lessons!
What’s one item (not a watch) that you can’t live without? Or that you can’t go anywhere without?
My Victorinox Swiss Army Knife! I use it mainly for two purposes: for its tooth pick and to cut off labels. Literally and figuratively, I can't stand labels.
What is on your ‘bucket list’ (an activity, accomplishment or destination that you hope to do or visit before you exit this world)?
I've always dreamt of going to Samarkand in Uzbekistan. I don't know why but this place has always fascinated me.
Who is someone who has inspired you in your life and/or career. How did they inspire you?
Albert Jacquard, a philosophical biologist whom I had the good fortune to meet when I was a student at business school in La Chaux-de-Fonds. His humanist approach and his way of popularising science deeply inspired me.
What was the first watch you remember owning? What was special about it?
A Kelek given to me by my father. A watch that I treasure in my collection and that will one day belong to my eldest daughter.
And finally, a wrist check: What watch are you currently wearing? And what do you like about it?
A BA111OD GMT tourbillon. I still can't believe I've managed to produce such beautiful and affordable watches!
For more information on Thomas' company, BA111OD, please visit the brand’s website.
