NEWSLETTER #13
ALESSANDRO SQUARZI

Alessandro Squarzi

Entrepreneur, Stylist, Owner & CEO Fortela.

Alessandro Squarzi.

Ciao Alessandro, thank you for this interview. We are here at your beautiful new Fortela boutique in Milan. Could you tell us about the story behind this brand?

After selling my previous brand, I took some time off, travelled a lot and expanded my personal archive. I then started creating garments inspired by the fits of archival clothing that I realised did not exist at the time.
You can recognise a Fortela garment from afar, and that’s exactly what I wanted.

The new Fortela boutique in Milan.

As a true fashion enthusiast and expert, you have a particular passion for vintage styles, which characterise your creations. Where does this passion come from?

Firstly, we don’t chase fashions; our goal is to make the style more consistent and solid.

My passion for the 1950s and 1960s is the driving force behind this. Fortela reflects that era, incorporating military, Western and Italian influences in terms of both style and fit.

Alessandro Squarzi.

I know that you have held, and still hold, other roles at various fashion houses?

I have been advisor for several brands, most recently for North Sails for instance.

However, right now, I am extremely focused on the Fortela objectives.

Alessandro Squarzi.

You’re always travelling – USA, Japan, France. Which culture fascinates you the most?

When I travel, I love observing people. I am very curious, and I am always fascinated by local cultures.

The one that impresses and fascinates me the most, however, is definitely Japanese culture.

Let’s go back to Italy, a country that I have been in love with for many years. What quality do Italians have that sets them apart?

The phrase “Italians do it better” is true.

The difference is that we live in the most beautiful country in the world, where culture, food and human relationships are all unique. I realise this every time I travel, because the best thing is always coming home.

The Fortela boutique.

You have published beautiful books about your passions, such as textiles, fashion and watches. Why did you choose these topics? What do you enjoy most about writing a book?

I enjoy sharing my passions.

My biography is also coming out soon. I’m not doing this for ego, but to tell my story and share my world with like-minded people.

Time to wear, the book dedicated to Alessandro’s watch collection.

Let’s talk about watches. Your taste is both interesting and eclectic. Could you explain what makes you choose a watch?

As many people know, I love the object itself, rather than the brand.

I love finding old watches at flea markets and wearing them. I like the design itself: the case, the dial and the hands. If an object evokes an emotion in me, I find it fascinating.

Could you tell us about your “ugly ducklings”?

My “ugly ducklings” are exactly that: watches that I found in flea markets from lesser-known brands that I really enjoy wearing.

I will soon be launching a website where they will be available to buy.

Do you still remember your first watch? Do you still have it?

Yes, of course. And I still have it.

It is a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 6263 Big Red, complete with box, warranty and purchase receipt.

I know you also really love the Omega Speedmaster? Why?

It is one of the sports chronographs that fascinates me the most.

Its story, whether true or legend, is a great tale. I really enjoy wearing it in everyday life and when I travel. I can wear it on my wrist for days on end without ever getting tired of it.

Do you know our Moonwatch Only book?

Yes, of course, and I have it!

I’d like to ask you a difficult question: what is your favourite watch?

I have to say that my absolute favorite one is the Rolex Submariner 5512.

Rolex Submariner 5512.

Let’s try this, you have to choose:

A watch for a long trip?

Omega Speedmaster.

A watch for a fancy dinner party?

Patek Philippe Ellipse.

A watch for wearing every day at the office?

Patek Philippe Aquanaut.

A watch for a weekend away with friends, whether in the countryside?

Seiko Captain Willard.

A watch at the countryside?

Again, Omega Speedmaster.

A watch for driving a vintage car on a trip?

The Porsche Design Chronograph 1, an iconic chronograph design featured in the first Top Gun movie.

I know you also like vintage cars. Your favorite one?

My absolute favourite car is the Porsche 550 Spyder.

Porsche 550 Spyder.

Do you see a connection between vintage cars and vintage watches?

Absolutely!

I have a great passion for classic cars and vintage watches, which I am happy to share with my followers and friends.

Last question: what are you wearing today?

A Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 6262.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 6262.

Thanks Alessandro, congratulations for your unique style and taste, and best luck for all your projects!