Your profession is intriguing. Why and when did you first become interested in it?

I became a watchmaker due to the deep passion that my family in Rome, Italy, has passed along through my generations. This included my father, grandfather and uncles. Growing up in a family of watchmakers, I had the opportunity to learn the art and craft of watchmaking from a young age. From my childhood, I spent hours in my father's workshop, observing him skillfully work on the intricate gears of watches.

I began my own journey into the world of watchmaking in 1996. I fell in love with the art for its unique blend of precision, beauty and history. Each watch that I have had the honor to repair has a story behind it, often dating back many years. This connection with the past and the ability to breathe new life into these precious pieces of history is what has always fascinated me about the craft of watchmaking.

Beyond my own personal passion, I chose to continue the family tradition by becoming a professional watchmaker because it allows me to create something tangible and enduring. Every time a customer brings a watch to me for repair or restoration, I feel honored to be able to contribute to preserving its history and beauty for future generations.

Furthermore, watchmaking is a profession that demands continual dedication and learning. Even after 30 years of working this unique craft, each day presents me with new challenges and opportunities for growth. This ongoing evolution and the chance to refine my skills constantly motivate me to improve and be the best watchmaker I can be.

I understand that you are interested in forming an organization that would enable young people to train (like a trade school) to enter your profession.

Why do you think this is needed?

As an experienced watchmaker, I strongly believe that establishing an organization aimed at providing training and education for young people interested in entering our profession is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, the art of watchmaking is a traditional craft that requires specialized skills and knowledge. However, with the advent of modern technology and changing trends, there is a risk of losing these important skills if they are not properly passed down to the next generation. By establishing a professional watch-making training organization specific to the craft, we could ensure that the rich heritage and expertise of watchmaking is preserved and handed down to aspiring watchmakers and those young men and women seeking to learn a very interesting and rewarding craft.

Secondly, the demand for skilled watchmakers remains high, but there is a shortage of qualified professionals entering our field. By offering structured training programs, we can help bridge this gap and provide young people with the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in watchmaking. This benefits potential watchmakers by offering them a viable career path, but also meets the growing demand for skilled professionals in the industry.

In addition, watchmaking is a highly specialized field that requires hands-on training and mentorship. While theoretical knowledge is essential, practical experience is equally crucial for mastering the intricacies of the craft. By establishing an organization dedicated to training, we can provide aspiring watchmakers with access to state-of-the-art facilities, experienced mentors, and real-world learning opportunities, thus equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the industry.

I believe that establishing a professional organization focused on training young people in the art of watchmaking is essential for preserving our heritage, meeting the demand for skilled professionals and ensuring the continued excellence of our craft. By investing in the next generation of watchmakers, we can secure the future of our profession and uphold its legacy for years to come.

With the current society and economy focused primarily on educating the population in technologies, the internet, gigs and side hustles (short-term jobs), why do you believe young people should consider your profession. Some might consider it to be antiquated. Is there truly enough economic demand for real watches nowadays?

While it is true that modern society places significant emphasis on technology, internet-related skills, and short-term job opportunities, I believe there are compelling reasons why young people should still consider pursuing a career in watchmaking, despite its perceived antiquated nature.

Firstly, the art of watchmaking offers a unique blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and precision that appeals to individuals seeking a fulfilling career path. While technology may dominate many industries, there remains a timeless allure to the artistry and intricacy of mechanical watches. For those who appreciate beauty and heritage, attention to detail, and the satisfaction of creating something tangible with their hands, watchmaking can provide a deeply rewarding career experience.

Moreover, the demand for high-quality, luxury time pieces continues to exist even in this digital age. While smart watches and digital devices offer convenience and functionality, they cannot replicate the beauty, craftsmanship, and status symbol associated with luxury mechanical watches. As a result, there remains a significant market for premium timepieces, driven by collectors, enthusiasts, and individuals who value tradition and heritage.

Additionally, the skills acquired through watchmaking training are highly transferable and in demand across various industries. From precision engineering and micro-mechanics to problem-solving, watchmakers develop a diverse skill set that can be applied to roles in manufacturing, engineering, restoration, and beyond. Furthermore, the scarcity of skilled watchmakers, particularly in U.S., means that those with specialized training and expertise are often in high demand, commanding competitive salaries and job security.

While the perception of watchmaking as antiquated may persist in some circles, the reality is that it offers a unique blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and economic opportunity that appeals to a diverse range of individuals. By recognizing the enduring appeal of mechanical timepieces and the transferable skills acquired through watchmaking training, young people can discover a fulfilling and lucrative career path in this timeless profession.

Please tell us about yourself. Why did you and your family decide to move from Rome to Brooklyn? What was the motivating factor?

My family and I moved to Brooklyn from Rome with a strong desire to help people in need and to contribute to the improvement of the local community. This decision was the result of a deep inner calling and our commitment to serving others. My wife works providing legal counsel to those in need.

Our hearts are filled with compassion for those facing daily challenges, whether it be poverty, loneliness, lack of opportunities or other difficulties. We feel we must do everything possible to alleviate their burden and bring hope and comfort to their lives.

As soon as we set foot in Brooklyn, we immediately began working with the Catholic Church in assisting the needy. We distribute hot meals to the homeless, organize community events to raise funds for struggling families, and dedicate our time to visiting both young and elderly individuals afflicted by the prevalent illness of our time: loneliness, bringing them companionship and listening through the Gospel.

Additionally, as part of our family mission, I have provided free watchmaking training to young people who desire to learn a craft or trade. It has been incredible and rewarding to see how these ambitious men and women are now participating in job interviews with companies in the industry and have a new perspective on life after learning new skills.

Every day, we wake up with a fervent desire to make a difference and leave a positive impact on the lives of the people we meet. Although there are challenges and difficult moments along the way, the gratitude and smiles of those we help make every effort worthwhile.

Our time in Brooklyn trying to live the life we believe God has led us to is not just a period of service, but also one of personal growth and spiritual enrichment. We are honored to be part of such a vibrant and resilient community, and we learn a lot from the people we encounter along our journey.

What is your ultimate professional dream and goal?

My ultimate professional dream and goal revolves around two key aspirations: tradition coupled with genuinely positive innovation. Growing up in a family of watchmakers, I developed a deep appreciation for the rich heritage and tradition of this timeless craft. My dream is to continue honoring this legacy by nurturing the next generation of watchmakers, which is really needed, ensuring that the artistry and craftsmanship of mechanical time pieces endure for years to come.

In addition to my commitment to tradition, I have been nurturing a long-term project over several years. This project involves the creation of a limited-edition collection of watches that embody all the hallmarks of classical horology while embracing modern concepts of biocompatibility and sustainability. While still a work in progress, this collection aims to marry the timeless elegance and craftsmanship of traditional watchmaking with contemporary concerns for environmental impact and wearer well-being.

By striking a balance between preserving tradition and embracing innovation, I hope to leave a lasting legacy that not only honors the past but also shapes the future of watchmaking. Whether it is through mentoring aspiring watchmakers or pushing the boundaries of creativity and sustainability with my collection, my ultimate goal is to create something truly special that resonates with both current and future generations of watch enthusiasts.

What else would you like to tell us?

There is one more aspect of my journey in watchmaking that I would like to share, and that is my leading role within the profession. Beyond the technical skills and creative endeavors, what truly fuels my passion for this craft is the connection it fosters between people and time itself.

As a fourth-generation watchmaker with over three decades of experience, I have assumed a pivotal role within the watchmaking community. My extensive knowledge and expertise in the field have positioned me as a respected authority, sought after for guidance and mentorship by both seasoned professionals and aspiring watchmakers alike.

Watches are more than just mechanical devices that tell time. They are representative of human ingenuity, perseverance and the passage of time itself. Each tick of the clock represents a moment in history, a memory captured in the rhythm of life. As a watchmaker, I have the privilege of playing a small yet meaningful role in preserving these moments, ensuring that they continue to tick on for generations to come.

Moreover, watches often hold deep personal significance for their owners. They mark milestones, celebrate achievements and serve as reminders of loved ones and cherished moments. Repairing or restoring a watch is not just about fixing a broken mechanism. It is about restoring a piece of someone's history, reconnecting them with their past and perhaps even inspiring new stories for the future.

In essence, watchmaking is about more than just gears and springs. It is about craftsmanship, heritage and the enduring human desire to capture and cherish the fleeting moments of our lives. It is a privilege and an honor to be a part of this timeless tradition, and I am grateful for every opportunity to share my passion for watchmaking with others.