We asked Newgate's founder, creative director and chief designer, Jim Read, about a few of the object's that inspire him on a day-to-day basis.
Antique Barograph
My Grandfather was a radio scientist with the MI5. He’s probably where I get my fascination with British spy films from. That style has filtered into Newgate’s original short films. His antique barograph now sits on the desk in my office.
Bose Soundlink Speaker
I always have to have music on when I design, generally jazz as I think it’s the best background noise to be creative to.
My Father's Vintage Die Cast Racing Car
Both of my parents were antique dealers and I’ve inherited that passion for vintage objects, this die cast racing car used to belong to my father.
Newgate's Brass 'Ship' Watch
This is my favourite design from our original watch collection. I wanted it to look like a proper piece of nautical equipment. It took months to get the depth and moulding detail just right on the case.
Radiohead's 'Kid A' Special Edition
The special collector’s edition of one of my favourite albums.
Bose Quietcomfort 25 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones
With three kids ours can be quite a noisy house at times! If I need to concentrate on designing I’ll wear these.
Hubsan X4 Quadcopter
I bought this for the kids, but I’ll admit to secretly wanting it for myself. I’d quite like a full size helicopter someday too.
Oil Painting by Unknown Artist
Before we started the Newgate clock business Chloe and I were reframing vintage prints and paintings we uncovered at antiques markets. This is the first painting we ever bought together.
