Badshah's Hidden Passion for Swiss Watchmaking Unveiled
In a surprising revelation, Indian rapper Badshah has shared his deep-seated love for watchmaking, even contemplating a drastic career change to pursue this passion in Switzerland. During a recent interview, the artist known for hits like Tareefan opened up about his fascination with horology, shedding light on a side of his life that goes beyond music.
From Music to Mechanics: Badshah's Watchmaking Dream
Badshah confessed to host Kamiya Jani from Curly Tales that his appreciation for watches has evolved significantly over the years. "I was thinking of leaving everything and going to Switzerland to learn watchmaking," he revealed, emphasizing the seriousness of his consideration. This statement highlights a potential shift from the glitz of Bollywood to the precision of Swiss craftsmanship.
The rapper explained that his collection, though modest in number with only 10 to 15 pieces, is comprised of extremely rare and expensive timepieces. "The craftsmanship that has gone into making those watches is extremely fascinating," he noted, pointing to the intricate artistry involved. Badshah further elaborated on the dedication of watchmakers, stating that some produce as few as 10 watches annually, all handmade and mechanical, not quartz-based.
The Artistry Behind Badshah's Favorite Timepiece
Among his prized possessions, Badshah singled out a watch from the brand Greubel Forsey, specifically the GMT Balancier Convexe. "It's handmade and got around 500-700 components," he described, adding that it takes approximately eight months to complete a single piece. This level of detail underscores the painstaking effort invested in luxury watchmaking.
The Greubel Forsey GMT Balancier Convexe is not just a timekeeper but a marvel of engineering and design. Key features include:
- A miniature terrestrial globe that rotates in real time over 24 hours, serving as the central element.
- Multiple timekeeping indications such as local time, universal time, a second time zone, and day-night distinction.
- A signature 30-degree inclined balance wheel, suspended beneath a polished steel bridge.
- A newly integrated 72-hour power reserve that enhances functionality without disrupting the dial's aesthetics.
Housed in a titanium Convexe case measuring 42.9 mm, the watch offers improved ergonomics and a sculptural profile. It can be worn on a titanium bracelet or a hand-sewn rubber strap, blending technical prowess with visual elegance. With a price tag of Rs 3.89 crore, this timepiece represents the pinnacle of the GMT complication, according to Greubel Forsey.
Badshah's Growing Influence in the Watch World
Badshah's passion for watches has already made headlines, notably when he became the first Indian to own the ultra-rare Rolex 'Barbie' Daytona, one of only 10 pieces available globally. This acquisition cements his status as a serious collector in the luxury watch community.
Reflecting on the broader significance, Badshah remarked, "So many have given their lives to making watches, this small thing on your wrist that takes so many man-hours to finish." His words resonate with the dedication and artistry that define high-end watchmaking, a field he now openly admires and contemplates joining.
As Badshah continues to balance his music career with his horological interests, his story inspires fans to explore passions beyond their primary professions. Whether he ultimately pursues watchmaking in Switzerland or not, his candid revelations have added a new dimension to his public persona, showcasing a thoughtful and meticulous side often hidden behind the stage lights.
