Collectors Gene Radio: Gary Striewski - From Seiko to SportsCenter With ESPN's Resident Watch Guy

Release Date: November 20, 2024

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Collectors Gene Radio, host Cameron Ross Steiner welcomes Gary Striewski, ESPN and SportsCenter anchor known affectionately as ESPN's Resident Watch Guy. The conversation delves deep into Gary's passion for watch collecting, exploring his journey from admiring his father's Seiko to building an impressive collection that complements his high-profile career.

1. Early Beginnings: Inspired by Family Legacy

Gary's fascination with watches traces back to his childhood, inspired by his father's distinctive timepiece.

Gary (A) [04:55]: "This Seiko World Timer that I just went out and got from my watch box, this is the watch that I saw on my dad's wrist."

Growing up in Colorado, Gary admired his father's gold-plated Seiko, worn alongside military fatigues. This juxtaposition of practicality and style left a lasting impression, igniting Gary's lifelong passion for watches.

2. Breaking the Ice: First Foray into Collecting

Gary recounts his unconventional approach to purchasing his first significant watch, showcasing his determination and passion.

Gary (A) [00:00]: "I broke every unwritten rule as it relates to, like, going in and establishing a relationship with your local store."

After a gym session on a chilly February night, Gary visits a local watch store in West Hartford, Connecticut, dressed in a soaked Carhartt hoodie and sweats. Despite his atypical appearance, the store owners recognized his genuine interest, allowing him to purchase a coveted Rolex Submariner, marking his entry into serious watch collecting.

3. Evolution of the Collection: GMTs and Beyond

As Gary's career flourished, so did his watch collection. He emphasizes the importance of diversity and personal taste over sheer quantity.

Gary (A) [22:36]: "I think I'm a dial guy. I try to. I ask myself that. And I want, like, diversity in my collection."

Gary highlights his preference for watches with unique and eye-catching color palettes, such as the Rolex Day-Date and Moonswatches. He discusses the resurgence of the 36mm Day-Date, advocating for its timeless appeal compared to larger, more ostentatious models.

4. Watches in the Spotlight: Integrating Passion with Profession

Gary seamlessly blends his watch collecting hobby with his role at ESPN, enhancing his professional content and fostering deeper connections.

Gary (A) [34:03]: "What I like about it [watch collecting] is you can sort of in part live that identity. Live that James Bond identity..."

By incorporating watch discussions into his ESPN duties, Gary creates unique content that resonates with both sports enthusiasts and fellow collectors. This synergy not only enriches his professional persona but also opens doors to exclusive allocations and collector communities.

5. Building Relationships: The Heart of Collecting

Gary underscores the significance of relationships in the watch collecting community, viewing them as the cornerstone of his expanding collection.

Gary (A) [36:00]: "The number one benefit of becoming a collector... it's like the connections and less connection, more relationship that you're able to build with the people who also enjoy the community."

Through genuine interactions and shared passions, Gary has cultivated meaningful friendships with dealers and fellow enthusiasts, facilitating access to rare timepieces and fostering a supportive network.

6. Expanding Horizons: Car Enthusiasm and Porsche 911

Beyond watches, Gary's love for cars, particularly Porsche, complements his collecting hobby, reflecting his appreciation for craftsmanship and legacy.

Gary (A) [37:49]: "I drove it today. I drive it, like, once a week... it's like 100% gratitude..."

Gary proudly owns a Porsche 911, describing it as a symbol of his achievements and a testament to his dedication. He discusses the meticulous process of acquiring limited-edition models and the joy of integrating them into his lifestyle.

7. Collector’s Dream Rundown

In the concluding segment, Gary shares insights into his collecting aspirations, favorite pieces that eluded his grasp, and future acquisitions.

• One That Got Away:

  Gary (A) [48:21]: "I think that's the one I think that got away a little bit."

  Gary reflects on a coveted Rolex Aquanaut 5167 1A, expressing regret over not securing it earlier due to personal constraints.

• On Deck Circle:

  Gary (A) [50:29]: "I think something like a Tag Heuer, a Carrera, but something different like the Skipper because of the color."

  Looking ahead, Gary is eyeing the Tag Heuer Carrera Skipper, impressed by its unique color scheme and connection to Formula One, aligning with his professional and personal interests.

• The Unobtainable:

  Gary (A) [52:14]: "There's nothing that I've ever seen that I'm like, there's no way. I'll ever sniff that."

  Gary remains optimistic about acquiring even the most elusive pieces, believing that dedication and relationships can eventually bridge the gap to unattainable treasures.

8. Reflections on the Collector’s Gene

Gary offers a thoughtful perspective on the nature of collecting, challenging the notion of an inherent "Collectors Gene."

Gary (A) [63:54]: "I don't think so. I think everybody is born with an appreciation for things... we are born with an appreciation of, like, beautiful things."

Gary believes that while individuals may not be born with a specific collector's instinct, the innate appreciation for beauty and craftsmanship naturally evolves into collecting as personal interests develop.

Conclusion

Gary Striewski's journey from admiring his father's Seiko to becoming ESPN's Resident Watch Guy is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of meaningful relationships in the collecting world. His story emphasizes that collecting is not merely about possessing items of value but about the connections, memories, and personal growth that accompany the hobby. Whether through watches, cars, or other collectibles, Gary exemplifies how these passions enrich one's personal and professional life.

Gary (A) [64:40]: "This hobby is for everybody, no matter your price points... There are plenty of people in the hobby... who would be glad to accept anybody for whatever reason they're in this hobby for."

Notable Quotes

• Gary on Building Relationships:

  "The number one benefit of becoming a collector... it's like the connections and less connection, more relationship that you're able to build with the people who also enjoy the community."
  [36:00]

• Gary on the Hunt vs. Ownership:

  "It's the hunt, for sure. It's not even close... you'll never, ever replace the feeling of, like, kissing the girl for the first time."
  [61:29]

• Gary on the Collector’s Gene:

  "I don't think everyone is born with the gene, but we are born with an appreciation of, like, beautiful things."
  [63:54]

Final Thoughts

This episode of Collectors Gene Radio offers a rich exploration of watch collecting through Gary Striewski's experiences and insights. It highlights the intersection of personal passion, professional opportunities, and the enduring value of relationships within the collector community. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, Gary's story serves as both inspiration and a roadmap to cultivating a meaningful collection.