An Informal Q&A with Paul Pinchbeck, Director.

At the heart of every Pinchbeck timepiece is more than just precision and design—it’s a story, passed down through generations. In this informal Q&A, we sit down with Paul Pinchbeck, the brand’s director and a direct link to its rich horological heritage. Paul shares what makes Pinchbeck more than just a name on a dial—and why, for him, every watch is personal.

What inspired you to start Harold Pinchbeck Watches, and how has the brand evolved since its inception?

I have always been fascinated by our family’s watch and clock making heritage, and a random conversation with Jason in 2006 led us to revive the Pinchbeck name. We started the present company as joint directors, with the idea of making watches in England. The brand has evolved, staying true to our original principles which make us different from the other watchbrands.

What is your vision for the future of Harold Pinchbeck, and how do you plan to expand the brand?

To develop the things we are good at, in terms of designing and making exclusive watches that stand out from the crowd, rather than anonymous mass production.

What challenges have you faced in building a brand that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern business practices?

Building any brand from scratch is always challenging, and the watch world has become much more competitive than when we started, with many more microbrands. Using traditional craftsmanship in a modern business is actually a help rather than a challenge, as it’s an opportunity to stand out from the crowd.

What are some of the core values you stand by as the leader of the company, and how do they influence decision-making?

Two of the most important core values are to make quality products that last, and to give great customer service. Both of these mean we offer real value, rather than trying to compete on price.

How would you describe the identity of Harold Pinchbeck to someone who’s never heard of the brand before?

As a niche British watch company that actually makes our watches in the UK, rather than importing them, and that has a long and proven track record as well as a great heritage.

What does “British craftsmanship” mean to you, and how do you ensure that message is reflected in every watch we make?

British craftsmanship is something to be proud of, and it’s often nurtured by small independent businesses. As well as assembling watches in Britain, we source many UK-made components, and a lot are made exclusively for us. We’re pragmatic, rather than obsessive; for example we use Swiss movements because they are excellent and cost-effective.

What have been some of the key milestones in the company’s growth, and what do you see as the next big opportunity?

Over the years we have been recognised and supported by some prestigious organisations. Their support gives the Pinchbeck brand a lot of credibility. At the same time, as a microbrand we mainly serve individual customers, and we are grateful to them for their support. Every watch we make has a story to tell, so it is a small milestone in itself.

If you could describe the brand in three words, what would they be?

British, Heritage, Art

How do you ensure the company stays true to its roots while appealing to a modern, global market?

By continuing to design and make beautiful watches in Britain.

What do you hope people will say about Harold Pinchbeck in 5 or 10 years’ time?

That people will continue to say, as we often hear now, that their Harold Pinchbeck is the best watch they have ever owned, and that they hardly ever take it off.