Today, we start a new section within our Collector's Corner. The new section named 'The Collectors' will feature watch collectors around the globe in their element. We will be talking watches with them and of course about other luxury things they love regarding the good life. Without more preamble, let's go straight to meet our first featured collector.
Nick Boulle, is not only a close friend but also one of the heirs to the de Boulle dynasty in Dallas, Texas. Furthermore, this past weekend, Nick debuted at the 54th Annual Rolex 24 at Daytona —formerly known as the 24 Hours of Daytona— and finished second in the Le Mans Prototype Challenge —PC Class. Nick who's only 26, is Denis and Karen Boulle's son —owners of de Boulle, a family owned jeweler and authorized dealer in Dallas and now Houston that we featured here. But what makes Nick special and worthy of being featured in this watch collectors section, is his love for watches and cars. As you guys know, these are two things that we love here at Watch Collecting Lifestyle.
The extenuating endurance Rolex 24 at Daytona race, is one of those legendary races that requires a lot of preparation not only physically but mentally. For those of you not familiar with the race, the race requires four-driver teams. Teamed up with Tom Kimber-Smith, Robert Alon and Jose Gutierrez, Nick made his dream come true, making it to the podium and finishing second with his team. Racing 24 hours straight at the legendary Daytona International Speedway, Nick was accompanied by his Rolex Submariner on the wrist. After completing 698 laps and 25 pits around the 3.56 mile circuit, he spent about six hours crammed into the car whizzing around the track. The picture below —courtesy of Taylor Johnson—, shows Nick stepping on the podium after the race, sporting his beloved Rolex Submariner Date on the wrist.
Nick started racing go karts when he was 12. By the time Nick turned 20 while studying at SMU —Southern Methodist University—, he had already delivered top results in national racing events and was racing as a Volkswagen Junior Driver in addition to coaching drivers in karts and race cars. On the watch front, Nick was already a watch collector in the making. Standing by the side of his lovely Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Nick shared with us how watches have been on his radar way before he joined the family business.
What was your first real watch and how old where you?
"My first real timepiece was a stainless steel Rolex Submariner Date ref. 116610. This watch marked my high school graduation right when I turned 18 and is engraved on the case back to mark the occasion."
Why do you like watches, other than the obvious part of being part of the de Boulle dynasty?
"Other than being around them my whole life, I feel it's a matter of looks. There are few things in the world that can stand the test of time with such precision and beauty. Fine timepieces and fast cars —my other passion— are representations of what man is able to accomplish when we strive for perfection."
What watch do you wear in your collection the most and why?
"The watch I wear the most is my Rolex Milgauss LV with black dial ref. 116400GV. It’s a perfect combination of classic looks with a modern touch. Plus the green crystal is out of this world."
What is your ultimate favorite watch in your collection?
"Is hard to call only one out. I am going to go with my two favorite watches. These are my Patek Philippe Nautilus 5712R and my Rolex Submariner Date. Both watches hold a very special place in my heart and my life."
What is the dream watch you aspire to own one day?
"I lust after the Patek Philippe 5070P. I love the precision and the calculating that comes to mind with a chronograph of that caliber. There’s also something traditional and beautiful about waking up each morning and winding the crown on a manual wound timepiece. Also, this reference in platinum is very rare and quite sought after. Lastly, I like the understated look of a Patek Philippe chronograph."
Since you love cars as much as watches, what is your dream car?
Even though Nick already drives one of our all time favorite Porsches a 911 GT3 RS, he's answer to our question was: "A 1989 Ferrari F40. It has everything that you can ask for. A classic Ferrari appeal, sharp edges and ruthless speed. Not to mention that the story behind its name, is really unique. For those of you that are Ferrari fans, you know what I'm talking about."
If you'd like to be featured in our new 'The Watch Collector's' section, please send us an email. Until next time.
