Anthony Bourdain made a profound impact on the culinary world during his lifetime, as he brought cuisine from all corners of the world to people across the United States via his popular television program. Bourdain is well-remembered for his adventurous spirit and charitable nature, and he would prove to be one of the United State’s most valued cultural ambassadors during the 2010’s.
Sadly, Bourdain passed away from complications of mental illness in July 2018 while filming an episode of his CNN show in France. His death would prove to be a massive blow for his many fans and peers in the culinary community. Luminaries such as Gordon Ramsay, Andrew Zimmern, and former president Barack Obama would all go on to offer their condolences and their shared memories of the vivacious and challenging chef.
Bourdain’s watch collection would go on auction the following year, with 40% of the proceeds going towards establishing a scholarship at the Culinary Institute of America. This shows that, even in death, Bourdain’s charitable nature and inimitable sense of style would still be remembered for years to come. Below, we will learn more about the early years, career, and watch collection of this late cultural luminary.
Who Was Anthony Bourdain?
Anthony Bourdain was born on June 25th, 1956, in New York City, New York. His father, Pierre, was a salesman who later became a record executive, and his mother, Gladys, was a staff editor at the New York Times.
Bourdain showed an interest in both cooking and writing in his youth, and would graduate from a vocational school in New Jersey in 1973. He would enroll in Vassar College, but left after only two years.
Early Years
Bourdain would spend much of his early professional career working as a chef at various restaurants in New York, eventually working his way up to being the executive chef at Brasserie Les Halles, a prominent French restaurant in New York City that has since rebranded as Chez Francis. Several of the dishes that Bourdain helped to introduce or refine, such as their Steak Frites, are still kept on the menu as an homage to him.
Kitchen Confidential and No Reservations
Though Bourdain is best known for his television work, he initially found fame as an author with his book Kitchen Confidential. The piece contained short, punchy vignettes about his culinary career, as well as his struggles with drug addiction. The book was praised for its unsparing look at the life of a professional chef, and proved to be a best-seller.
The success of Kitchen Confidential led to Bourdain receiving an offer to host his own CNN travel show, No Reservations. Running from 2005 to 2012, the program would become a cultural touchstone and introduce him to a national audience for the first time. He would follow up that show with Parts Unknown, which retained much of the same format of the original program, which saw Bourdain traveling around the world to eat dishes that many Americans were unfamiliar with. Because of these programs, he was often considered a cultural ambassador for America by many people across the globe.
Today, his legacy as a man who inspired people to try new food, go to new places, and meet new people remains, and his programs often air in syndication on various TV channels.
What Watches are in Anthony Bourdain’s Watch Collection?
Anthony Bourdain, the renowned chef, author, and television personality, possessed an eclectic collection of luxury watches that often made appearances on his beloved TV shows. Let’s delve into the timepieces that adorned his wrist:
- Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date: A classic choice in Bourdain’s collection, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date exemplifies timeless elegance with its precision engineering and understated design.
- Rolex Datejust II: Combining sophistication with functionality, the Rolex Datejust II is a statement piece that reflects Bourdain’s discerning taste and appreciation for craftsmanship.
- Panerai Radiomir: Known for its bold and distinctive aesthetic, the Panerai Radiomir adds a touch of rugged charm to Bourdain’s ensemble, reflecting his adventurous spirit.
- Rolex Explorer I: As a symbol of exploration and discovery, the Rolex Explorer I resonates with Bourdain’s passion for travel and curiosity about the world.
- Rolex Oyster Perpetual: With its clean lines and versatile appeal, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual is a versatile choice that effortlessly transitions from day to night, mirroring Bourdain’s dynamic lifestyle.
- Rolex Milgauss: Celebrated for its resilience and technical prowess, the Rolex Milgauss is a fitting companion for Bourdain, embodying his unconventional approach and penchant for the extraordinary.
What Separates Rubber B From Other Watch Straps?
Rubber B was the first company worldwide to develop custom rubber watch straps exclusively for Rolex timepieces, and since then, the company has added several other prominent watchmakers to its product portfolio. Rubber B also creates custom rubber watch bands for watches produced by Panerai, Rolex, Tudor, Omega, and Audemars Piguet.
As an innovation-motivated company, Rubber B aspires toward the pinnacle of leadership in the rubber watch strap market. The company shares the same factory in Switzerland, where many high-end watch manufacturers produce their own OEM straps. Brands such as Hublot, Richard Mille, Vacheron Constantin, and Louis Vuitton manufacture their brand straps at the same factory.
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All of Rubber B’s watch straps are made from 100% vulcanized rubber and are crafted exclusively by experts in Switzerland. Orders are shipped out within 24 to 48 hours of receiving them, and Rubber B also offers shipping options to its international clientele as well.
Do You Need a Custom Rubber Watch Band For Your Luxury Watch? Visit Rubber B Today
For those who would like to learn more about Rubber B’s complete list of products, shipping policies, and pricing, or have questions about their custom rubber watch straps, please visit the Rubber B website today for more information. One of their valued team members will be happy to answer any inquiries promptly.
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