When Daniel Craig announced that, following the release of No Time To Die, he’d be hanging up his tux and concluding his run as James Bond, speculation immediately began as to who would succeed him. Of the many names rumoured to be next in line, however, Aaron Taylor-Johnson has something that the others don’t. With a filmography including the likes of Kick-Ass, Bullet Train, and Nosferatu, he has the requisite blend of indie gems and high-profile blockbusters, but being recently chosen as the newest brand ambassador for Omega — Agent 007’s watch brand of choice — makes him appear to be following directly in Craig’s footsteps. The identity of the next Bond has yet to be confirmed, but Taylor-Johnson has plenty to keep him busy in the meantime, from promoting the hotly anticipated 28 Years Later to touring the Omega manufacture in Biel, Switzerland. Taylor-Johnson has deflected questions about his next project lately (which only fuels speculation that he is indeed in line to play Bond), but he has plenty to say about watches.
After touring the Omega manufacture, what stood out the most to you?
The visit to Omega’s factory was a wonderful experience. To have pulled the curtain back on the inner workings of the factory and see the artisans behind the craft was extraordinary. One observation that made an impression on me was the designated workshops and the serene environment that fosters calm, focus and precision, which is what you would expect from a prestigious brand like Omega.
Would you say it gave you a new appreciation for watches?
I have always had an appreciation for timepieces but especially for Omega. Now, after visiting the factory, I am in awe of the skill required to manufacture such a luxurious product.
How did you first get into watches?
My interest in watches first began with my Dad who introduced me to Omega, if you can believe it. He was working class and saved his earnings to purchase an Omega watch. My dad was a civil engineer. His dad, my grandfather, was in the RAF and was most likely issued a military Omega in 1943. Now having walked through the museum, I’d like to think that was possible.
What do you expect from your watch? This watch that you have on your wrist here—
—Yes, the Speedmaster.
What element of it speaks to you and how does it fit into your lifestyle?
My personal watch, the one I wear in everyday life is the Seamaster. Just like my father. That’s one I wear every day and have for the last three to four years. And again, I aspired to continue the legacy in my family and honour tradition.
For you at your moment in your career and at this point in your life, like, what does it mean to wear an Omega and to be a brand ambassador?
I place significant value on relationships that are genuine and built on mutual passion and respect. With that, it’s a tremendous honour to be selected as a brand ambassador, especially given my family history with Omega.
Do you always wear a watch?
I wear a watch for every occasion. Depending upon the attire, whether casual or black tie, I’ll change my watch to meet the dress code. Beyond the fashion statement, for practical reasons, I am never without a watch. I’m not someone who is attached to my phone therefore my impulse is to refer to my watch for a time check rather than my phone. You know, I’m quite nostalgic in that way. I was always taught never to keep anyone waiting. I started acting when I was very young, at the age of six, going through the grind of auditions. Punctuality and tardiness were a big thing for my Mum, in so much that she would actually set her watch five minutes ahead, and she’d change the clocks in the house as well. Through several generations of my family, Omega has been held in such high regard. Recently, my wife gifted me a beautiful vintage watch, and on the back, she had it engraved. “I love you for all time.” It doesn’t get much better than that.
