British tenor Freddie De Tommaso seems to have impeccable timing both on and off the stage. In a recent performance at the Royal Opera House in London, the 31-year-old stepped into the role of Cavaradossi in “Tosca” at the last minute, saving the evening and earning thunderous applause from the audience.
But it’s not just in his career that De Tommaso’s timing shines. The rising opera star is also a passionate collector of watches, a hobby that he sees as a connection to his past and a way to mark milestones in his personal and professional life.
Growing up in Tunbridge Wells, De Tommaso was exposed to opera through his father’s restaurant, where he was surrounded by the music and the elegant timepieces of the restaurant’s patrons. When his father passed away, De Tommaso and his brothers inherited his collection of watches, including a coveted Rolex Datejust that sparked his interest in collecting.
As his career has taken off, De Tommaso has been able to indulge in his passion for watches, acquiring pieces that he once only dreamed of owning. From a Rolex Daytona to a Rolex GMT Master II “Pepsi” watch, each timepiece holds a special significance for him, marking achievements in his singing career and personal life.
But De Tommaso’s watch collection is not just about luxury and status. He also values the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into creating these intricate timepieces, much like the dedication and skill required to excel in the world of opera.
As he continues to rise in the opera world, De Tommaso has a few watches on his bucket list, including a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso and a Patek Philippe Nautilus. For him, collecting watches is not just about telling time, but about celebrating the moments that make life truly special.
