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Titan Black – A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting with the Managing Director of Titan Black, Mr. Luke Waite. For those of you who aren’t familiar with their work – Titan Black are masters of enhancement of some of the finest timepieces in the world today. They mainly specialise in Rolex customisation, applying a variety of modifications to bring you an outstanding creation whose rarity and allure speaks for itself. Not only is a Titan Black wristwatch already branded a masterpiece in its own right due to its legendary genetics but also on top of this, its superb black (DLC) finish and customised features makes it patently exceptional.
So, Mr. Waite, first things first – thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer a few of my questions and enlighten our readers on the inside world of Titan Black’s customisations.
So, first off, when was Titan Black founded?
Titan Black was founded in 2007 but the company wasn’t registered until 2009.
What would you say was the main drive behind starting Titan Black?
My business partner and childhood best friend and I, co-founded the company together after we found Rolex had no custom design division and didn’t offer bespoke watches. The combination of my long association with the watch industry and my partners design foresight the foreseen niche in the market, we embarked on this project together.
How long have you, yourself, personally been into horology?
I have been involved in watches all my life, as have my family. We have had watch businesses for 45 years, owning shops in Switzerland, Spain and the UK.
So, if I had a timepiece that I wanted “blacked out”, how long does the DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) process take?
The DLC process takes approx.3 weeks but normally we quote 4 weeks to allow for contingencies.
What would you say is your favourite customised timepiece that you guys have created?
My favourite piece, or piece I’m most “proud” of, is the Chelsea FC Daytona we were commissioned to make for the players to celebrate the Champions League victory in 2012.
What do you think Titan Black brings to the market place of customised watches that is different to other similar companies out there?
Well, Titan Black is divided into three categories of operation. Firstly, you can buy from our range of limited edition pieces. Secondly, you have the freedom to create your own design using the most sophisticated online facility to build your own bespoke Rolex. Lastly, you can use our watch finding service. We build private collections of modern limited editions or ultra rare classic pieces – travelling to auctions and private collectors all over the world to seek out our clients’ wish lists.
We are not fixed to just the blacking out of watches. Half the projects we work on involve no coatings at all. The level of customisation is completely up to the client, from just dial restoration to a complete redesign overhaul. We can create anything our customers can imagine!!
Is there anything you wouldn’t consider customising?
I have turned down the opportunity to work on both vintage Rolexes and Patek Philippe’s on a number of occasions. My respect for the brands run deep and some boundaries are just not meant to be crossed. We work on a case-by-case basis.
What is the most peculiar customisation request you’ve ever had?
I wouldn’t say we have customised anything peculiar but one very unique request was for the reproduction of one of the world highest ranked console games. A METAL GEAR SOLID inspired Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore watch.
This is a game I’m very familiar with and would love to post a feature on it at some point for bexsonn.com?
No problem, we can get that sorted out for you.
What would you say Titan Black’s masterpiece is?
I like to consider all our watches masterpieces. We really pride ourselves on our finishing and attention to detail.
What is the most expensive timepiece you’ve ever customised?
We customised an Audemars Piguet Offshore Tourbillion in white gold. I know the RRP is well over £100k sterling.
Wow!
To view some of Titan Blacks work pop down to their showroom at Grays Mews or alternatively for more information check out the official Titan Black website – enjoy the below pictures!
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