Josh was 5 years old when he received his first watch as a gift from his grandparents. It was a Mickey Mouse watch that he wore for years before finally retiring. “My fascination with mechanical timepieces began in my early teens with a chance encounter at a local antique shop. I spotted and picked up a nice looking steel dress watch which ended up being a beautiful and rare King Seiko Chronometer from the early sixties. When I discovered the history of the line and learned more about the movement inside I was hooked.

A vintage watch is a both a connection to and a reminder of the past. It’s a very emotional thing. My personal passion revolves around chronographs and time only pieces of the 1930’s through 60’s, diving watches of the 50’s and 60’s and military watches of the same era.”

Here, we chat to Josh to find out more…

When did you launch the brand and what was the reason behind it?
I’ve bought, sold and collected watches for years, but decided to build a brand around what I was doing in early 2016. I officially launched Stetz & Co. to the world in July of the same year. I’m blessed to be able to make a living doing what I love.

How many people are involved in the company and what are their roles?
We’re a small family affair, with me hunting and photographing watches, and my wife helping with marketing. I’ve slowly learned to outsource what I’m not great at and focus on my strengths and what I love in the business, which for me is the thrill of the hunt and learning the nuances and history of each piece. I absolutely love finding and authenticating an old timepiece and sinking into its history.

If you could start over with the business, would you do anything differently?
I realised quickly that I couldn’t do it all myself and I think that’s a great lesson for anyone starting their own business. Recognise what you’re good at, focus on building your skill in that and outsource what you don’t enjoy.

What is the hardest challenge you have faced since you started the company?
Realising my own limits was a challenge. I eventually learned that easing my grip and allowing outside experts to really make it shine is how a business goes from good to great.

Tell us one fact about you that people wouldn’t know?
Most people when they first meet me are taken with my height. Seems silly, but it’s kind of fun to watch how people react when they realise I’m almost 6’6’ (198 centimetres to my British friends). That, and I’m a sucker for tacos.

Where do you plan on taking the brand this year?
We’re always looking for fun new ways to enhance the brand. Plan to see some really unique high end pieces pop up. I offer what I personally like on the site, which isn’t always congruent with the mainstream. But I feel there are others out there who see in the pieces what I see in them. It’s all about design and craftsmanship and offering something different.

To date, what has been the highlight since launching?
I’ve sold some watches to a few notable figures. I won’t share any names, but I was honoured to play a small part in their collections.

Three beauty products you can’t leave the house without?
I don’t leave the house with them, but there’s an Italian brand, Proraso that makes the best shave cream, and Ursa Major face tonic. I’ve tried dozens and years later I’m still in love with these.

Style means….?
I think style at its most basic level is about presenting yourself in a way that’s authentic to who you are and that encourages you to be the best version of yourself.

If you had to, what piece of clothing from your wardrobe would you wear everyday?
Hands down my Ted Baker brogue boots. I have a pair in both black and brown.

Best place for a coffee?
There’s a small coffee shop in downtown Sarasota on the corner of Main St. Truthfully I’m not sure on the name but it’s absolutely transcendental.

Most memorable piece of advice given to you?
There is beauty everywhere, even in the most unlikely places. Life is all about slowing down long enough to see it and enjoy the journey.

Guilty pleasure?
A good, smoky Islay scotch (or two).

Find out more…

Our website is www.StetzCoWatches.com which links to all of our social media. We have a lot of fun with our insta @stetzcowatches

Author

Northern girl Laura is the epitome of a true entrepreneur. Laura’s spirit for adventure and passion for people blaze through House of Coco. She founded House of Coco in 2014 and has grown it in to an internationally recognised brand whilst having a lot of fun along the way. Travel is in her DNA and she is a true visionary and a global citizen.

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