Watchmaking and gastronomy share many parallels: both are artisanal crafts that demand a harmonious blend of tradition, creativity and authenticity – and, at their core, deliver pure pleasure, whether through a perfectly timed mechanism or a flawlessly balanced dish. Guillaume Galliot of the three-Michelinstarred Caprice understands this well. The Frenchborn executive chef embodies precision, patience and an uncompromising respect for craftsmanship. Here, he shares his favourite timepieces, spanning rare independent creations to iconic manufactures, each tied to a personal story or resonating with his culinary philosophy – valuing artistry, heritage and technical mastery over flash
Christophe Claret Pièce Unique “Three Stars”
This one-of-a-kind timepiece was created especially to celebrate Caprice’s three Michelin stars. I met master watchmaker Christophe Claret in Hong Kong and a shared admiration quickly formed: Christophe for Caprice’s cuisine, and me for the extraordinary craftsmanship behind Claret’s watches. The watch took three months to create and features three stars on the dial, symbolising Caprice’s highest accolade. It is truly one of one, existing nowhere else in the world, an intimate dialogue between gastronomy and haute horlogerie.
F.P. Journe Invenit et Fecit Calibre 1300.3
While not the most technically complex watch in François-Paul Journe’s repertoire, this piece is one of his most iconic. I’m drawn to its purity of design, impeccable craftsmanship and distinctive colour palette. Like a perfectly composed dish, its strength lies in balance and restraint, hallmarks of Journe’s philosophy.
Daniel Roth Numero 4 Chronograph (First Generation)
A cor nerstone of independent watchmaking. To me, Daniel Roth is one of the most underrated yet influential watchmakers in history. As one of the first true independents to produce watches entirely from scratch, Roth paved the way for many of today’s independent maisons. This first-generation chronograph, finished completely by hand, is exceptionally rare and historically significant. Now that the brand is under LVMH, such early pieces have become increasingly valuable. For me, it remains one of the finest examples of visionary watchmaking.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked Black Ceramic
One of my favourite modern interpretations of a classic. The openworked design places the spotlight on the selfwinding Calibre 3132, showcasing the dexterity of Audemars Piguet’s artisans. Crafted in black ceramic, the watch combines technical precision with ageold skills, resulting in a piece that is both bold and refined – elegant with unmistakable finesse.
Greubel Forsey GMT Sport
An extraordinary expression of contemporary independent watchmaking. I admire the watch’s remarkable complications, lightweight titanium construction and sculptural presence. It exemplifies Greubel Forsey’s signature blend of technical innovation and flawless finishing – magnificent both mechanically and visually.
Cartier Santos 100 XL Black Dial Automatic
A watch i wear often, including to work. Classic yet sporty, refined but never pretentious, the Santos holds deep personal meaning. When I first arrived in Asia over 22 years ago, one of my chefs wore a Cartier Santos, its understated elegance leaving a lasting impression. Years later, when I could afford one for myself, this was the watch I chose. It remains my daily companion: timeless, practical and effortlessly classy.
Also see: Watches & Wonders 2026: Day 4 highlights
