Interview: Founder and CEO of WatchMatic

In the quiet landscape of Sheridan, Wyoming, a different kind of craft is taking shape. It is not about buildings or roads, but about creating safe spaces for mechanical objects that carry history, value, and emotion. At the center of this work is Chris Tran, Founder and CEO of WatchMatic, a company built around one clear question. What really happens to a luxury watch when it leaves the wrist?

Tran does not see a watch winder as a simple rotating box. To him, it is a place of protection. His thinking blends solid engineering with a deep respect for traditional watchmaking. Instead of treating storage as an afterthought, he has reshaped it into an essential part of ownership. This mindset has helped WatchMatic connect with collectors who see their watches as long term companions rather than short term purchases.

The company grew from a simple insight. While luxury watches were becoming more advanced and more valuable, the systems used to protect them had barely changed. Tran stepped into that gap with a practical approach shaped by durability and clear thinking. His goal was not to follow trends, but to solve real problems faced by collectors around the world.

Interviewer: Chris, people often describe your approach as building a fortress for watches. Where does that mindset come from?

Chris Tran: It comes from respect. A mechanical watch represents centuries of knowledge and countless hours of work. Seeing one placed in a weak box with no real protection never felt right to me. Security should match the value of what you are protecting.

When I started WatchMatic, I wanted to give owners peace of mind. These safes are not only about steel or locks. They are about removing worry so collectors can enjoy their watches instead of stressing about damage or loss.

Interviewer: You now offer free global shipping, even for safes that weigh more than 400kg. Why take on that challenge?

Chris Tran: Because security should not depend on location. A collector in Europe or Australia deserves the same experience as someone in the United States. We redesigned our logistics from the ground up to make this possible.

Interviewer: Magnetism is a major concern for collectors. How did you approach that issue?

Chris Tran: Magnetism is often overlooked, but it can slowly destroy accuracy. Many basic winders use motors that sit too close to the movement. Over time, that causes problems.

We chose Japanese engineered motors with individual shielding. Each motor is designed to limit magnetic exposure. We also focused on control. Our systems allow precise adjustment of Turns Per Day so the movement is never pushed too hard. The goal is protection without force.

Interviewer: Looking ahead, where do you see watch preservation going?

Chris Tran: I want WatchMatic to become the standard mindset, not just a product. When someone buys their first serious watch, I want preservation to be part of that moment.

We are working on better fire resistant materials and advanced biometric access. But beyond technology, the real goal is education. Preservation should feel natural, not optional.

Interviewer: What advice would you give to someone starting a collection today?

Chris Tran: Think long term. Watches carry stories, and those stories matter. But they can be lost if the watch is neglected. Invest in proper care early. It is far better to protect something from the start than to repair damage later.

With steady growth and a focus on doing things right, it has become more than a manufacturer. It serves a global community that values reliability over noise. As trends come and go, Chris Tran remains focused on one idea. Protect the legacy, and time will follow its course.