Delugs Ambassador: Philologus @wildwristwatch

We are pleased to introduce Philologus Eio (@wildwristwatch) from Singapore as our Delugs Ambassador!

Read on to learn more his favourite watch brand and complication, his hobbies, why he decided to join the Delugs Ambassador Program, and more!

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I'm based in Singapore where it is always summer, though it is wonderful because it is always safe to wear watches. I am a financial investigator which sounds more interesting that it really is. There is a satisfaction to getting to the bottom of things though, and I get to meet a whole myriad of different people which is a bonus. I guess that's one overlap between my job and this passion that we all share.

When and how did you get into watches?

I've always wished that I had one of those stories about my father, or grandfather always wearing a watch. The truth though, is that I was introduced to watches by my financial planner, rather ironically. I was looking for a blacked out watch at the time and he asked me to look at Tudor. I started researching and I've never gotten back out of the rabbit hole that is watches.

Apart from watches and photography, what are some of your other passions or hobbies?

I quite enjoy cooking when I am able to. There is something extremely satisfying about being able to prepare a meal that family and friends enjoy, and can bond over. I also really enjoy learning about men's wear which is an art in and of itself. I guess these more artistic pursuits that I enjoy outside of work really helps balance out the more logical, mathematical hum drum of work.

What is your favourite watch brand and why?

I am currently in a massive Audemars Piguet phase (for most things non Royal Oak), but Tudor has to be my favourite brand. It is a bit of a sentimental thing for me given that it was the first brand that I really got into. Then of course, there's also the fact that it has everything you could want from a brand; rich history, high quality, comfortable with great proportions, and many great value for money options. Its the perfect entry luxury watch brand, in my opinion anyway.

What is the one watch in your collection you never thought you would own, and why?

If you told me a year ago, even 6 months ago that I would own an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Music Edition (37mm). Most of my collection before this has been rather classic in design. Think the Rolex Explorer 124270, the Tudor Black Bay 54, Cartier Tank Solo. The Royal Oak Music Edition has almost nothing classic about it. Its not on a bracelet which is its own complication on Royal Oaks, it has ridiculous dial to some, its smaller than the regular sizes, its thicker than Royal Oaks should be and thinner than Offshores are. But this watch some how brings a smile to my face for how fun it is. I wouldn't have thought that way a year ago though. It also set me down this massive AP phase I am in right now and I foresee many more "never thought I would own" pieces joining the collection from the neo-vintage dress watch stuff and the newer Codes.

Are there any specific watch complications or features that fascinate you the most?

A minute repeater would probably be right at the top of the list. There is something incredibly charming about building a mechanism that not only allows you to check the time visually, but audibly as well. In fact, if we consider how many told the time in the middle of the previous millenium, it often has to do with chiming of the hours and perhaps minutes, much like a minute repeater.

Do you have any daily rituals related to watches?

I don't have a daily one per se, but since i rotate my watches frequently, winding watches and setting the time is often part of my routine before heading out for the day. This process is incredibly calming and peaceful; it helps give a moment quiet before facing the hustle and bustle of life.

Why did you decide to join the Delugs Ambassador program?

Firstly, I'm extremely honoured to be a part of this program. This was something that felt very organic. I have been purchasing custom straps from Delugs for many years now, and quality has exponentially improved since I first started, It is a brand that I really believe in. I have had chats with Kenneth every now and then about his products both existing and in the pipeline and I really like how receptive he is to feedback. This program feels like the mere formalising of something that was always somewhat there, rather than something transactional which I really appreciate.

Top 5 favourite Delugs products?

Can I say just Custom anything with FKM rubber back? That'll be perfect, especially if its one of the special leathers from Heng Long. For the regular stuff though:

1. Taupe Rubberised Leather (Togo)

Rubberised leather is a real treat in Singapore or if you are in any warm, humid climates. It is largely water resistant which allows allows you to throw it on without worrying about the elements or your own perspiration. Despite that, it still retains the elegance of a leather strap, which makes it extremely versatile. I like Taupe in particular because of how well it matches most things; dark/light dials, cool or warm metals, sporty watches and dressy ones too.

2. Light Grey Nubuck

The material is extremely soft and comfortable, and the colour works with a whole myriad of watches.

3. Prism Trio (Black / Grey)

The concept is just great, since this storage solution has a unique design, doesn't roll around and can double up as a protective surface to place your watches or change things like straps and bracelets. The fact that the cushion works well for smaller wrists is a big bonus. I'd pick black and grey because it matches my house, but really, any colour would serve you well.

4. Strap Folio (Light Grey)

With the number of straps I have gotten from the brand over the years, this is a no brainer. It's a really nicely constructed product that stores all the straps you can think of; ok its only up to 72 straps but do you really need that many? Again, all the colours are pretty good, the one I have is the Light Grey & Tiffany Blue which is just a tad more distinct from the rest of the options.

5. CTS Rubber Strap

Trust Kenneth and the Delugs team to come up with a rubber strap that takes some of the best features (FKM rubber & cut-to size) out there, add on a unique proprietary butterfly clasp to give us a unique rubber strap option in the market. Its extremely comfortable to wear and like the Rubberised Leather before, works brilliantly in warmer weather.