Exclusive Interview With George Bamford | Casio G-Shock 5610 x Bamford London Limited Edition
We’re extremely excited to bring you a new collaboration between Bamford London, the world’s only original customisation company, and Casio G-Shock – with the launch of the limited edition G-Shock 5610.
Exclusively available from Beaverbrooks, this VERY limited run of watches is a stylish nod to the original G-Shock and a celebration of Bamford London’s signature styling. And if you managed to get your hands on one, count yourself extremely lucky, as it sold out almost instantly.
Designed around the iconic rectangular case shape, the Casio G-Shock 5610 Limited Edition watch boasts advanced functionality with a Multi Band 6 Radio Controlled technology, ensuring the most accurate timekeeping. It’s also solar powered for maximum reliability.
Housed in a slim, shock resistant resin case, we love the distinctive aqua blue and black finishes, a signature of Bamford London. It’s the perfect timepiece for G-Shock fans and those who want the charming personal touch of Bamford detailing.
We caught up with CEO and founder of BWD, George Bamford in an exclusive interview, to see where his inspiration came from, why he partnered with Casio & Beaverbrooks and how he got into the watch industry. Plus – discover the first watches that inspired him…
So, George, why did you choose to partner with Casio G-Shock?
“I’m a massive Casio G-Shock fan. From an early age I used to have a Casio G-Shock and I was totally obsessed. This for me is one of the original watches, so I was delighted to have the opportunity to be able to add our own inspiration and design input to this true classic.”
And why choose Beaverbrooks as the exclusive retailer?
“Why Beaverbrooks? You have a great relationship with Casio. I’m so happy and pleased to be working with two great companies and brands on this.”
We’re so pleased to be working with you too! So where did it all begin? Where did your passion for design and personalisation come from?
“The aesthetics in the everyday world have always caught my eye. Starting off as a photographer and attending Parsons, School of Art and Design in New York, I have always been quick at figuring out what should and shouldn’t be in the picture. I am lucky to have learnt from great people along the way and worked with great brands which has allowed me to understand different areas of design.
Through these experiences I have built upon what I enjoy and what the world of design can offer. For me, that is what personalisation is…finding something you enjoy and building your own style.”
When did you first become interested in watches?
“From an early age I have been obsessed with watches and how things work. The first watch given to me was a TAG Heuer Formula 1 and I didn’t want to put it down. I’m sure that was a lightbulb moment for me - my fascination with watches from an aesthetic perspective and engineering perspective only grew from there.
When I got a Breitling Navitimer in 1995, I fell in love all over again. I set myself to tearing it apart and had it all in bits in about a week. Putting it back together was another story. It ignited my passion for watches and started my collecting journey.”
Two great watches. From there, how did you find yourself in the watch industry?
“Through curiosity. I loved going to flea markets - trading watches, changing straps and creating my own unique versions of some amazing watches. It has always been part of my DNA to understand colourways, cases and what could look amazing.”
From flea markets to the world’s ultimate destination for luxury watch customisation – love it. So, George, what timepiece are you wearing at the moment?
“Of course I have the new Bamford G-SHOCK on my wrist. In our signature black and aqua blue colourways, it is so cool and I am so happy how it has sold out in certain locations so far. I am really pleased Beaverbrooks are getting an allocation as well. The whole project has been amazing.”
We can’t get enough of the aqua blue! Are there any watch trends you expect to see in 2021?
“I am probably biased but I think personalisation will be one of the key conversations in 2021. We, as a society, have become more focused on the rare product and something that differentiates us from others. Being part of the crowd isn’t such a great thing at the moment and during lockdown, I looked at everything I have got and asked myself if it made me happy.
For me, just a small change like changing a steel strap to a leather strap makes me smile so I think it is whatever makes you happy. I know the great British brand Bremont are trailblazers in personalisation and I think personalisation will continue to come to the forefront.”
We love what our friends at Bremont are doing, their watches are beautiful. Last question George… What’s the one piece of advice you would you give to anyone wanting to break into the watch design industry?
“Trust your gut and always ask yourself if you would be happy wearing it. Also, always to edit down. Design your ultimate and then edit it down to the essentials.”
We are very excited to be the exclusive retailer for this special collaboration between Casio G-Shock and Bamford London.
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