Imagine giving up everything to pursue a passion for something as intricate and timeless as watchmaking. That’s exactly what Indian rapper Badshah contemplated, revealing a side of himself that goes far beyond his chart-topping hits. But here’s where it gets fascinating: his love for watches isn’t just about owning them—it’s about the artistry, history, and sheer dedication behind these tiny marvels. Badshah recently made waves as the first Indian to own the ultra-rare Rolex ‘Barbie’ Daytona, one of only 10 in the world. Yet, in a candid conversation with Kamiya Jani from Curly Tales, he shared that his fascination runs deeper than collecting.
‘I don’t have a lot, maybe 10 to 15, but they’re incredibly rare and expensive,’ he explained. ‘What truly captivates me is the craftsmanship. A few days ago, I seriously considered leaving everything behind to go to Switzerland and learn watchmaking. Did you know some watchmakers produce only 10 mechanical watches a year? No quartz, just pure artistry. It’s mind-boggling how many hours go into crafting something so small yet so significant.’ And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just a watch; it’s a testament to human dedication and precision.
When asked about his favorite piece, Badshah highlighted the Greubel Forsey GMT Balancier Convexe. ‘This watch is extraordinary,’ he gushed. ‘It’s handmade, with 500 to 700 components, and takes eight months to complete.’ Priced at Rs 3.89 crore, it’s a masterpiece in every sense. But what makes it truly special? Here’s where it gets controversial: is a watch worth nearly four crores just a luxury, or is it a piece of art that transcends its function?
The GMT Balancier Convexe features a miniature Earth rotating in real time, encased in sapphire crystal, surrounded by layers of timekeeping indications—local time, universal time, a second time zone, and day-night distinction. Its 30-degree inclined balance wheel, suspended beneath a polished steel bridge, is a signature touch. A 72-hour power reserve adds practicality without compromising its aesthetic balance. Housed in Greubel Forsey’s titanium Convexe case, the watch is both compact and ergonomically designed, blending technical brilliance with sculptural beauty.
But here’s the real question: Is this watch the ultimate expression of the GMT complication, as Greubel Forsey claims, or is it simply a status symbol? Badshah’s passion invites us to ponder the value of craftsmanship in an age of mass production. What do you think? Is a watch like this worth its staggering price tag, or is it an indulgence too far? Let’s debate in the comments!
