Collectors Gene Radio: Episode Summary – Brian Calvero, Founder of Period Correct

Podcast Information:

• Title: Collectors Gene Radio
• Host: Cameron Ross Steiner
• Episode: Bryan Calvero - Founder, Period Correct
• Release Date: May 14, 2025

Guest: Brian Calvero, founder of Period Correct, a brand that seamlessly blends motorsport heritage with modern design sensibilities, catering to both car collectors and design aficionados.

Introduction to the Episode

In this enriching episode of Collectors Gene Radio, host Cameron Ross Steiner welcomes Brian Calvero, the visionary founder of Period Correct. The conversation explores Brian’s deep-rooted passion for collecting, his journey in establishing a lifestyle brand, and his extensive personal collection that spans automobiles, furniture, watches, and more. The discussion aims to uncover whether Brian possesses the elusive "Collector's Gene" that so many enthusiasts seek to understand.

Brian's Journey into Collecting and Branding

Early Passion and Career Beginnings

Brian opens up about his early days, emphasizing how his passion for cars and design naturally evolved into creating a lifestyle brand.

Brian Calvero [02:13]:
"Period Correct for me was more of a lifestyle... what was that common ground."

Before launching Period Correct, Brian gained invaluable experience running Case Study Group, distributing streetwear brands across the nation. This venture provided him with a comprehensive education in the apparel industry, learning the intricacies of sales, culture, and brand timing.

Brian Calvero [03:09]:
"That was practically like my biggest education in apparel... learned the industry inside out."

Founding Period Correct

Inspired by his travels and interactions with passionate individuals, Brian sought to create something that reflected his and his community's love for cars, architecture, and exceptional design.

Brian Calvero [02:53]:
"Period Correct was kind of born from that... design something that represents what we're into."

The Essence of "Period Correct"

Beyond the Literal Meaning

Brian delves into the significance of the term "Period Correct," explaining that it transcends mere accuracy in design to embody a comprehensive lifestyle appreciation for vintage aesthetics and historical integrity.

Brian Calvero [04:25]:
"Period correct to me is a lifestyle... appreciation for these glass mid-century modern homes, great design."

Personal Definition and Lifestyle Integration

For Brian, "Period Correct" is about maintaining and celebrating the essence of different eras through various collections, whether it be cars, furniture, or watches. This philosophy fosters a sense of joy and connection with like-minded individuals.

Brian Calvero [06:14]:
"Period correct is just a lifestyle thing for me."

Personal Collections and Influences

Early Influences and Memories

Brian shares heartfelt memories of his mother’s influence on his collecting habits. Her passion for vintage fashion, ceramics, and jewelry left a profound impact on him, fostering his love for organized collections and design.

Brian Calvero [07:22]:
"My mother helped me build a stamp collection... I took a lot of inspiration from those designs."

Diverse and Eclectic Collection

His personal collection is a testament to his varied interests, including a 997 GT3RS, Renault R5 Turbo, Bentley Continental R, Rolls Royce Phantom, and memorabilia from figures like Vasek Polak. Brian emphasizes that each piece represents a story, creating a cohesive narrative throughout his collections.

Brian Calvero [11:32]:
"I ended up buying two from that dealership... it's about chasing dreams within financial constraints."

Emotional Connection and Letting Go

Managing a vast collection comes with its challenges, including the emotional aspect of selling beloved items to make room for new acquisitions. Brian balances his passion with practical considerations, ensuring his collection remains meaningful and manageable.

Brian Calvero [20:02]:
"I'm selling a lot of the early finds that used to bring me so much happiness and just letting them go."

Building and Growing Period Correct

Design Philosophy

Brian articulates his dedication to design, emphasizing that Period Correct is more than a brand—it's a reflection of his aesthetic values and passion for high-quality, timeless designs. He believes that cars, architecture, and everyday objects can collectively define a lifestyle that resonates deeply with enthusiasts.

Brian Calvero [22:11]:
"When your DNA aligns with a collaborator's, it starts with the people first... sparking conversation with like-minded individuals."

Collaborations and Community

Brian highlights the importance of genuine collaborations, rooted in personal relationships and mutual respect. His partnerships with renowned brands like Ruf and Antisocial Club are examples of how shared passions can lead to successful and organic collaborations.

Brian Calvero [31:46]:
"It always starts with the people... collaborations with Ruf were organic and natural."

Overcoming Business Challenges

Balancing creative aspirations with business realities is a recurring theme. Brian discusses the frustrations of scaling his brand amidst financial constraints but remains optimistic about the future growth of Period Correct as his dedication continues to resonate with his audience.

Brian Calvero [35:34]:
"Building a brand based around something you've been passionate about and not being able to scale... it's frustrating sometimes."

Future Aspirations and Collecting Goals

Expansion into Architecture and Design

Looking ahead, Brian dreams of expanding his collection to include residential architecture, inspired by legendary architects like John Lautner, Ray Kappey, and Richard Neutra. He envisions designing his dream home to showcase his collections in meticulously curated spaces.

Brian Calvero [55:13]:
"My biggest dream is to design and build my home inspired by the things I've been talking about... each room designed to house different collections."

Dream Collaborations

Brian fantasizes about collaborations with iconic entities such as Zagato, envisioning unique design integrations that honor both brands' legacies. These aspirations reflect his commitment to elevating Period Correct through strategic and meaningful partnerships.

Brian Calvero [55:48]:
"I would love to have that conversation... make that official... they make the best bodies in all of these."

Collector's Dream Rundown

1. What's the One That Got Away?

Brian recounts an emotional experience involving a rare Porsche 911 he almost purchased. Despite having the financial means, timing and competition led to missing out on this prized vehicle, serving as a valuable lesson in the unpredictable nature of collecting.

Brian Calvero [52:09]:
"That was something that I actually could have bought... that was one that got away."

2. What's Next in Your Collecting Journey?

Brian expresses a continued interest in expanding his furniture collection, particularly focusing on pieces by George Nakashima. He aims to deepen his appreciation and acquisition of mid-century modern designs.

Brian Calvero [54:40]:
"I would still love to collect... George Nakashima furniture is something I'd like to elaborate more on."

3. What's Unobtainable?

He dreams of acquiring iconic cars like the Ferrari 330P4 and Dino 206 SP, admiring their design but acknowledging their current scarcity and the challenges in obtaining them.

Brian Calvero [55:23]:
"I love the design of that car... the Dino 206 SP... design wise just speak to my heart."

4. Exhibition Opening Room

Brian envisions an exhibition featuring a vintage Porsche, a meticulously designed watch by IWC, and a Nakashima chair, each symbolizing different facets of his collecting passion.

Brian Calvero [47:46]:
"There would have to be a car, an amazing watch, and a Nakashima chair... tell a story like right then and there."

5. Who Do You Look Up To in the Collecting World?

He admires collectors like Mark Hadawi and the owner of Visvim, who embody a well-rounded approach to collecting, integrating diverse interests seamlessly into their lifestyles.

Brian Calvero [58:36]:
"Mark Hadawi... the owner of Visvim... both guys I really look up to in the collecting world."

6. The Hunt vs. Ownership

Brian prefers the ownership aspect over the hunting, finding greater satisfaction in enjoying and researching his collections rather than the search itself.

Brian Calvero [60:57]:
"The ownership... that's where the pure joy is for me."

7. Do You Feel That You Were Born with the Collector's Gene?

Absolutely. Brian believes that collecting is an intrinsic part of his identity, evident in his lifelong passion and the comprehensive nature of his collections.

Brian Calvero [62:09]:
"I still have all the old little toys, the basketball cards, the stamp collection... it's part of my archive, and I don't think that'll ever stop for me."

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Brian expressing heartfelt gratitude for being part of Collectors Gene Radio. He reiterates his passion for collecting and his commitment to sharing the Period Correct lifestyle with a broader audience. Brian looks forward to future collaborations and aspirations, embodying the true spirit of a dedicated collector.

Brian Calvero [62:56]:
"I'm really honored to be here and kind of, like, share my story among some of your other guests... it's an honor."

This episode offers a deep dive into Brian Calvero's multifaceted approach to collecting and branding, illustrating how passion, community, and design integrity intertwine to form a distinctive lifestyle brand.