Marcel Benson didn’t just want to wear timepieces—he wanted to create them. The founder of Benson Watch Company, he transformed a childhood fascination with watches into a thriving luxury brand rooted in purpose, passion, and authenticity. His journey from a stable corporate path to watchmaking entrepreneur is one of vision, resilience, and legacy building. More than simply selling style, Benson, through his watch company, champions a movement that encourages people to spend time doing what they love. For aspiring entrepreneurs seeking clarity, courage, and creative freedom, Benson’s story is as much a blueprint as it is a beacon.
I recently spoke with him.
Take us back to the moment when the idea for Benson Watches was born?
Benson. The idea was born from an obsession that never left me. I was the kid who asked for watches every birthday, every Christmas. I wasn’t just fascinated with how they looked—I admired what they symbolized. Eventually, I found myself in a job that didn’t feel aligned with who I was. That disconnection made the vision clearer: I could either keep wearing watches that told time, or I could build a brand that helped people own their time. That’s when Benson Watches truly began.
What were some of the early challenges you faced? How did you overcome them?
Benson. There were many challenges, but capital was a huge one—always is. I started with a Kickstarter campaign, invested some of my own money, and brought in investors along the way. But the biggest shift happened when I became clear on where I was going. I stopped holding back and began telling the world my vision. That clarity attracted support. Being among the first in a space like watchmaking, especially as a Black entrepreneur, came with its own weight—but clarity and consistency carried me through.
How do your values and your personal story shape the mission of the brand?
Benson. The brand is rooted in inspiring people to spend time doing what they love. That’s the essence of freedom to me. I believe when you align your time with your truth, you meet your real self. Authenticity is medicine in a world full of noise—it allows people to show up as themselves. That kind of alignment can heal a lot of what we carry every day.
How has Benson Watches remained relevant and meaningful to your audience?
Benson. We focus on who people are, not on what they have. I call it “inner status.” When you speak to someone’s identity, not just his or her image, you create a deeper connection. That’s what sustains relevance.
How has your understanding of time, literally and metaphorically, evolved since you started your company?
Benson. I’ve learned that God’s timing doesn’t always align with our expectations—and that’s a good thing. Time has taught me patience, trust, and reverence for the journey.
How did you approach crafting the story of Benson Watches in order to connect with customers on a deeper level?
Benson. I just shared my truth. My story is a common one—someone working a job they didn’t love and yearning for more. The only difference is, I acted on my passion. I felt it was important to report back from the other side. And what better product to tell a story about time and passion than a watch?
What does innovation mean to you in the context of your work, and how do you ensure your brand continues to evolve in a saturated market?
Benson. Innovation is believing in the vision in your mind—even when there’s no proof it’ll work. That belief moves the needle. We keep evolving by staying tapped into that daring mindset.
What emotions or experiences do you hope to provoke in your customers when they wear a Benson Watch?
Benson. I want them to feel unstoppable. Like they can conquer whatever they set out to do—because time is precious, and they’re equipped. And of course, I want them to feel like they have the most beautiful watch in the room.
Being a Black entrepreneur in a luxury space presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. How have you navigated that circumstance? What impact do you hope to have on the next generation?
Benson. One day I just decided to be myself—and I realized I was the best person for that job. My hope is that the next generation doesn’t feel like they have to “be the first” to do something. I want success in spaces like luxury to feel normalized for them.
Talk about a moment in your journey when you had to bet on yourself—even when others didn’t see the vision?
Benson. Yesterday. Today. Every damn day. Betting on myself isn’t a moment—it’s a muscle I flex constantly.
You’ve become a voice for entrepreneurship and legacy building. How do you define legacy, and how does that influence your decisions as a founder?
Benson. Legacy is simply inspiration passed down. For me, that means pushing through my fears so people can witness what not giving up looks like. That’s the real inheritance.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who hesitate to take that first step?
Benson. Go. Now. If you’re hesitating, ask yourself: Whose opinion are you giving power to? Start by letting that go.
How do you stay inspired and grounded in such a fast-paced industry?
Benson. Through other creatives, my faith in God, my family, and that inner voice we all have—the one that reminds you why you started, and who you are.
