Watchcology: Andrew McUtchen - Father, Founder, Rock Star!

https://adamrlincoln.substack.com/p/andrew-mcutchen-father-founder-rock

In an industry often marked by the loud and the ostentatious, one influencer quietly stands apart. Andrew McUtchen, a beacon in the watch community, eschews self-promotion for genuine passion and dedication. His career, adorned with significant achievements, includes nurturing his brand, Time + Tide, into a respected name while uplifting numerous other brands through his Melbourne studio, not merely with words but as an authorized dealer.

“About Effing Time” resonates deeply with me and likely with every rock ‘n’ roll watch enthusiast out there—though not strictly those smitten with music. Andrew McUtchen, with his unique blend of influence from the music industry, spins watch collecting into an art form accessible to all. This show, with its laid-back and approachable vibe, did more than review watches; it invited me, a horology outsider, to dive deeper into this fascinating world.

This piece isn’t a deep dive into Andrew McUtchen’s life but rather an appreciation for the ripples he’s created in the watch community and personally, in my own journey through timekeeping. Despite the limitations of platforms like Instagram for storytelling, I find myself compelled to share my reflections here. After all, he’s influenced me to come up with the word I use to describe my writings, #Watchcology.

Andrew, despite his significant following and the demands of running Time + Tide—a brand that boasts over 200,000 followers on Instagram alone—manages to keep a personal touch in his engagements. The fact that he, at the helm of a business and a family, took the time to personally respond to my message, speaks volumes of his character. His thoughtful reply to a near-stranger on the internet underscores the inclusivity and kindness that mark his influence.

My journey into watches, sparked by shows like “About Effing Time” and figures like McUtchen, led me to ponder my place in this community. How does one, distant from the horological hubs of the world and ensconced in daily life’s routines, contribute to and engage with this rich culture? Andrew’s encouraging response to my query offered not just inspiration but actionable advice, proving that passion for watches knows no geographical bounds.

This year marks a decade of Time + Tide, a testament to McUtchen’s enduring impact on the world of watches. The brand’s journey from daily blog posts to landmark collaborations with watchmaking giants showcases the power of storytelling and community. Listening to Andrew speak on “watchcology”—the intersection of psychology and watch culture—has been a revelation, highlighting how our timepieces narrate our life stories and connect us to others.

Andrew McUtchen’s story is one of passion transcending borders. From his early days to the bold move of relocating from Australia (Pronounced #Straya) to the UK, his journey reflects a commitment to balance, community, and storytelling. This piece is my “thank you” to him, a nod to his role in guiding me and many others through the fascinating world of watches.

And while Andrew’s aversion to food photography adds a quirky layer to his persona, it’s his profound contributions to the watch community that will linger in our collective memory.

Thank you, Andrew McUtchen. Your path inspires us to engage more deeply, to listen more intently, and to appreciate the quiet moments marked by the ticking hands of time. Here’s to crossing paths in the future and continuing to celebrate the stories our watches tell. And who knows, maybe one day I’ll be able to say I too am a contributor to the Time + Tide publication!

Cheers!

-Adam