Timing Is Everything

For chef-owner JULIEN ROYER, Blancpain’s philosophy mirrors his approach at Odette, where craftsmanship and precision are the essence of every detail.

- By SAMANTHA FRANCIS

Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe might seem like an unusual choice for a chef, but it is Julien Royer’s favourite timepiece from the Swiss luxury watchmaker.

The ceramic diving watch features a sunburst blue dial, a unidirectional satin-brushed blue ceramic bezel with a ceramic insert, and Super-LumiNova hour markers for optimal visibility.

In addition to being water-resistant to 30 bars (300m), it is well-suited to handling messy kitchen environments too. Royer, chef-owner of the three-Michelin-starred Odette and Claudine in Singapore, as well as the one-Michelin-starred Louise in Hong Kong, values its versatility. “I can wear this watch all the time—during a tennis game, formal events, and even in my kitchens,” he quips.

Royer considers it an honour to be Blancpain’s Friend of the Brand through its Art of Living partnership, which marks its 40th anniversary this year. The programme bridges haute horlogerie and haute gastronomie, uniting them through a shared commitment to craftsmanship, product quality, and a deep respect for terroir and tradition.

Blancpain has long fostered relationships with some of the world’s greatest Michelin-starred chefs, collectively representing more than 100 stars. In 1986, the brand honoured Frédy Girardet with a personalised engraved Blancpain Léman Collection Complete Calendar watch, after he was named the world’s best chef.

Three years later, it celebrated Girardet alongside Paul Bocuse and Joël Robuchon by gifting them the same timepiece when they were named Chefs of the Century by the prestigious Gault & Millau guide.

Royer, who became part of this distinguished circle in 2019, discusses his partnership with Blancpain, his restaurants, and the legacy he is building.

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