In this premiere episode of Watch World, I sit down with Jonny Garrett, the founder and CEO of William Wood Watches, at Woodbury House in Mayfair. Our conversation is genuine and warm as we discuss creativity, family history, future plans, and a strong commitment to giving back—especially to the firefighting community.
Jonny shares how his brand pays tribute to his late grandfather, a hero of the British Fire Service, by transforming upcycled firefighting gear into luxury timepieces. We also dive into the revival of British watchmaking, his unconventional journey from banking to watchmaking via Kickstarter, and the art of storytelling that sets his watches apart. And when LA’s firefighters are battling wildfires, Jonny’s innovative spirit shines through with a charitable initiative that supports those on the front lines.
What Faye takes away from the interview with Jonny is that he has a fire within—never to be extinguished—as he takes his brand to new heights.
So get into the episode now and see the story behind this week's watch.
Key Takeaways
• Every brand has its own unique story.
• William Wood Watches transforms upcycled firefighter gear into stylish timepieces.
• Giving back is at the heart of the brand, with a strong focus on supporting firefighters.
• Building a brand is rarely a straight path—expect twists along the way.
• Authenticity and honest storytelling make a real connection.
• The watch industry is tough, and a strong social media presence is essential.
• Securing the right financial backing can be challenging for entrepreneurs.
• Partnering with charities that truly help communities can boost a brand’s growth.
• The firefighting community has embraced the brand with pride.