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Man of the Hour: The Human Side of Watchmaking

The TV series Man of the Hour reveals the personal journeys, passions, and untold stories of legendary watchmakers, transforming horology into a deeply human and inspiring art form.

Por: Raquel Seijas
Wei and FPJ at Musée des Arts et Metiers
Wei and Francois Paul Journe at Musée des Arts et Metiers / Photo Discovery

In a world where luxury is often defined by exclusivity and craftsmanship, few industries capture the imagination quite like haute horlogerie. Yet, behind every exquisite timepiece lies a story not just of gears and precision, but of people—visionaries, families, and dreamers who pour their souls into their craft.

 

Man of the Hour, the groundbreaking documentary series now airing on Discovery Channel, peels back the curtain on these extraordinary lives, offering a rare glimpse into the human side of watchmaking.

Wei and Karl Friedrich Scheufele / Photo Discovery

A New Lens on Horology

Man of the Hour is not the typical documentary. Hosted by Wei Koh, the charismatic founder of Revolution and a lifelong watch enthusiast, the series blends humor, heart, and unscripted authenticity. It’s a celebration of the artisans who have shaped modern watchmaking, but more importantly, it’s a journey into their personal worlds—their struggles, triumphs, and the values that drive them.

 

“Many of the people featured in Man of the Hour are not just watchmakers I admire, but dear friends whose families I’ve had the privilege to know,” says Wei. “This isn’t just a documentary about horology; it’s about sharing the lives, laughter, and stories of people I care deeply about.”

Wei and Alex Rosenfield of Urban Jurgensen / Photo Discovery

The Faces Behind the Masterpieces

The first season of Man of the Hour introduces viewers to the luminaries of independent watchmaking, each with a unique narrative that transcends the workshop.

 

  • Episode 1: François-Paul Journe (F.P. Journe) is the independent visionary who redefined modern watchmaking, blending innovation with timeless elegance.
  • Episode 2: Karl-Friedrich Scheufele (Chopard) represents a family legacy, where heritage and innovation walk hand in hand.
  • Episode3: Denis Flageollet (De Bethune) merges science, nature, and artistry, creating timepieces that are as philosophical as they are mechanical.
  • Episode 4: Urban Jürgensen: Passionate watchmakers and connoisseurs Alex and Andrew Rosenfield, along with Kari Voutilainen, join forces to revive this historic brand.
  • Episode 5: Rexhep Rexhepi (Akrivia) embodies resilience, rising from refugee to revered master, his story a testament to passion and perseverance.
  • Episode 6: Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey (Greubel Forsey) are dedicated to achieving horological excellence.
  • Episode 7: Jean Arnault (Louis Vuitton), who, alongside master watchmakers Michel Navas and Enrico Barbasini, explains the present and the future of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton in Meyrin, Geneva.
  • Epsiode 8: Maximilian Büsser (MB&F) transforms watches into radical works of art, pushing the boundaries of imagination.

These are more than watchmakers; they are storytellers, philosophers, and artists whose lives are as intricate as the movements they create.

The Cultural Tapestry of Time

Watches are cultural artifacts, investments, and heirlooms. Man of the Hour taps into this zeitgeist, exploring how timepieces have become symbols of identity and aspiration. From younger collectors rediscovering mechanical craft to seasoned connoisseurs curating legacies, the series speaks to a global community united by a shared fascination.

 

 

“Man of the Hour opens a window into the artistry of watchmaking, but more importantly, it captures the spirit of the people shaping it,” says Lynn Ng, Head of Content at Warner Bros. Discovery. “That combination of culture, character, and creativity is why we’re so excited to share it with viewers.”

A Series That Resonates

In an era where authenticity is prized, Man of the Hour delivers something rare: an unfiltered look at the people behind the brands. It’s a reminder that luxury is not just about what we own, but about the stories we inherit and the connections we forge.

 

For collectors, the series offers a deeper appreciation of their prized possessions. For newcomers, it’s an invitation to discover a world where craftsmanship and humanity intersect. And for everyone, it’s a celebration of the passion that turns metal and time into something extraordinary.

 

The premiere of Man of the Hour is scheduled for November on the Discovery Channel in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and South Korea, with additional countries to follow.

Wrist check of Wei with Wes Lang / Photo Discovery

Q&A: Beyond the Dial

  • What makes Man of the Hour different from other watch documentaries? It focuses on personal stories, humor, and emotional connections, not just technical details, making horology relatable and inspiring.
  • Who is Wei Koh? Wei Koh is a watch expert and Revolution founder, known for his passion and deep relationships with watchmakers, bringing authenticity to the series.
  • Which watchmaker’s story could be the most inspiring? Rexhep Rexhepi’s journey from refugee to master watchmaker stands out as a powerful tale of resilience and vision.
  • How does the series appeal to non-watch enthusiasts? By highlighting universal themes—family, creativity, and perseverance—it connects with anyone who appreciates human stories and craftsmanship.
  • What is the cultural significance of watches today? Watches are now seen as art, investments, and heirlooms, reflecting personal identity and cultural values in a rapidly changing world.

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