Roman Josi: The Nashville Predators' Captain with a Timeless Passion
Roman Josi is celebrated as the calm, cool, and collected captain of the Nashville Predators, widely recognized for his unwavering consistency, exceptional leadership, and stellar defensive play on the ice. His journey to becoming one of the finest captains in the franchise's history is marked by impeccable timing, composed gameplay under pressure, and astute decision-making as a leader. Beyond his illustrious hockey career, Josi harbors a deep passion for something entirely distinct from his athletic niche: the art of watchmaking and collecting luxury timepieces.
Swiss Roots and a Heritage of Precision
Hailing from Switzerland, a nation where watches transcend mere accessories to symbolize rich cultural heritage, Josi's connection to horology runs deep. Swiss watchmaking embodies precision, patience, and long-term craftsmanship—qualities that resonate with his professional discipline. This intrinsic link to his homeland's traditions fuels his enthusiasm, leading fans to affectionately dub him a 'Swiss watch mogul', despite his primary career in sports.
Investment in NORQAIN: A Strategic Move
Josi's commitment extends beyond casual collecting; he is one of seven shareholders in NORQAIN, an independent Swiss watchmaking brand. In 2018, he became a significant investor during the brand's early stages, aligning with its founder, Ben Küffer, whose family boasts over 40 years of watchmaking expertise. NORQAIN offers a diverse range of luxury watches, and Josi's personal collection features several notable pieces from the brand, including:
- NORQAIN Wild ONE Skeleton in Grey: A high-performance sports watch designed for durability and style.
- NORQAIN Wild ONE NHLPA Limited Edition: A specialized timepiece released in a limited run, celebrating his hockey affiliations.
- Freedom 60 Chrono: A vintage-inspired model that blends classic design with sporty details, reflecting Josi's elegant taste.
Over time, Josi has been frequently spotted wearing these classic pieces, showcasing a preference for elegance over fleeting trends. He gravitates toward brands with heritage, favoring clean dials and timeless designs that highlight his appreciation for craftsmanship and mirror his confident, understated personality.
From Collector to Cultural Ambassador
As Josi's NHL career has flourished, so has his watch collection, with each piece symbolizing milestones in his life and profession. Whether at formal events or family holidays, his choice of timepieces is always noteworthy, serving as tangible reminders of his achievements. In a sports world often dominated by trendy endorsements, Josi's dedication to watch collecting stands out as a rare and refined pursuit.
The nickname 'Swiss watch mogul' encapsulates more than just his hobby; it reflects his disciplined, subtle approach to supporting a craft deeply rooted in his country's history. Without owning a brand himself, Josi has become an unofficial ambassador for Swiss watch culture, demonstrating how classic pieces retain their charm and deserve to be preserved for future generations. His journey from a passionate collector to a respected figure in horology underscores a unique blend of athletic excellence and cultural pride.
