Watch collecting has introduced us to all kinds of different worlds — cars, photography, fashion and more recently, art. There seems to be a common thread that seamlessly intersects these different hobbies, interests and industries which often leads to overnight friendships that on occasion, end up being lifelong bonds. You hear it a lot, but it’s so true — it’s not just about the objects that we curate and obsess over — it’s about the people.
This past week, we had the pleasure of hosting Michael Hulett, a fixture in the realm of fine arts since he came bursting onto the scene over a decade ago as the Director of the world-renowned Peter Fetterman Gallery. With over 90 successful exhibitions under his belt, Hulett has parlayed his talent, experience and ‘eye’ for moving works of art into what is now known as The Hulett Collection.
For two nights, our Analog:Shift headquarters was transformed into a full-fledged Hulett Collection exhibition displaying works from the likes of Henry Cartier, Kenneth Josephson, Rick McCloskey, Lawrence Schiller, Louis Stettner and Bruce Davidson. As Hulett put it during a quick moment with the down-to-earth gallerist, “There are some Gods amongst men in terms of 20th century photographers.”
Photographs by Elliott Erwitt — THE HULETT COLLECTION
When asked what it was about black and white film photography, and more specifically, traditional silver gelatin prints, that makes up the majority of his gallery at The Hullet Collection, Hullet simply said, “I believe that when an image is in black and white, it has nothing to hide behind. It’s got to be a great image. As far as the silver gelatin process, there’s a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ that imbues the photographic print with its old soul.”
The Hulett Collection x RedBar Event
In attendance were some familiar faces including our friends over at RedBar New York chapter, as well as avid followers of The Hulett Collection. There were indeed some interesting timepieces out and about, and of course, spirited conversations about watches were had. But what intrigued us the most during the exhibition was how many watch-curious individuals that attended who were initially there just for the art and photographs.
Breaking out the watches!
I couldn’t help but notice several common threads between art and watch enthusiasts. For one, there’s an appreciation for all-things analog. Whether it’s a photograph developed from film or a watch movement brought to life by a master watchmaker, there is an appreciation for handmade artisanship. Hullet mentions, “It’s that human element, that artisanal process that creates that special magic.” Then there’s the interest in design and how it either speaks to you, or it doesn’t. Again, a common experience found in both art and watch collecting. And finally, there’s the collector’s gene — an inherent trait that motivates us to track certain pieces down, enjoying the journey of it all in the process.
Pure race vibes and with the Daytona in view, it's as good as a portrait of Paul Newman gets — Photographed by Al Satterwhite
If that wasn’t enough evidence to connect the two, then an iconic photograph of Paul Newman, wearing his Rolex Daytona and a Goodyear fire suit displayed as a part of the exhibition should speak to Hullet’s enthusiasm for both art and watches. “Photos and watches, they all end up becoming visual touchstones to points of your life or to points in history that don’t exist anymore. It becomes your only portal to that time.” Hulett said.
All in all, it was an incredible event and one for the books! Below, we’ve included all the sights and scenes from our recent collaborative exhibition with Michael Hulett and the RedBar Group. If you’re into interesting watch spotting, fantastic photographs, or both; we encourage you to take a gander!
"Art doesn't have to be serious. I like taking the seriousness out of it. It should be enjoyed, a fun adventure to find a piece that speaks to you." — Michael Hulett
Expect the unexpected at these types of events; especially this awesome Patek Philippe Sculpture.
