Nixon collector Arnaud Gailliard has been chasing timepieces with personality since 2008. Arnaud’s story is as much about memories and community as it is about cases and movements.
In this interview, he shares how a small village in Somerset, UK became home to a serious Nixon stash, why he’s always on the lookout for pieces with a story, and which OG models he’s hoping to see make a comeback.
Interview with Nixon Collector Arnaud Gailliard
Tell us about yourself including age, name, where you live and what you like to do for fun.
My name’s Arnaud, I’m in my early 40s, and I live in a small village in Somerset, UK with my wife Amy and my almost 4 year old little boy Clovis. For fun, I usually hunt down sneakers (another big collection), digging through vintage shops, or keeping an eye out for interesting watches, always Nixon though! I love collecting pieces that have a story behind them.
When did you first get a Nixon? Do you remember what it was and why you got it?
My first Nixon was back in 2008, a silver Player which I still have. My best friend at the time was sponsored by Nixon, and I remember seeing the Player on him and instantly wanting one. It had this perfect mix of simplicity and attitude. That was the piece that started everything for me.
What watches do you have in your collection?
My collection has grown nicely over the years. I’ve got a mix of Time Tellers, Players, Descenders, Ascenders, and a few automatics, plus some smaller gems I’ve picked up along the way. I like a good variety but always come back to the classics.
What’s your all-time favorite Nixon watch and is it in your collection?
My all-time favourite is the Capital Automatic, and yes, I’m lucky enough to have one. Fun fact: I actually picked it up for just £20, which still feels unreal considering how much I love that watch.
What OG models would you like Nixon to bring back?
I’d love to see more of the Capital line return, and I think the old-school Rovers deserve a comeback too. Those models had a vibe that’s hard to replace.
Have you ever gifted someone else a Nixon watch? Was it new or one from your collection?
I have! I’ve given one of my Time Tellers Acetate to my little brother for his birthday last year. They’re such easy watches to wear and he loved it.
Anything else you’d like to add about your Nixon collection?
For me, collecting Nixon isn’t just about the watches, it’s about the memories attached to each one, and the community within collectors. The brand has been part of my style since my teens, and every piece I’ve added has its own story. I still get the same excitement unboxing a Nixon today that I did in 2008.
