Few men embody the effortless cool of classic menswear and vintage luxury quite like Matthew Hranek. A writer, photographer, and connoisseur of the finer things in life, Hranek has built a reputation for his impeccable taste. whether talking about watches, cocktails, or personal style.
We first met Matt and his wonderful wife, Yolanda, in Rome back in 2022, when he recommended the best Negroni in the city at Caffè Perù—and it truly lived up to the hype.
Now, we take a closer look into his world, uncovering through 7 short questions the essentials he never leaves his home without, the story behind his iconic "meat pic," and his philosophy on dressing well.
1 The essentials: What’s always in his pocket
Every man has his daily essentials, and for Hranek, they are as refined as you’d expect. He never leaves home without three key items:
My watch of the moment, a silver money clip, and my iPhone.
Simple, functional, and stylish. Just like his approach to life.
2 Style influences: The old italian man effect
Hranek’s personal style has been shaped by his travels, but one destination stands above the rest.
I would say my trips to Italy and old Italian man street style has impacted me and my personal style.
There's something about the way Italian men wear their clothes. Nonchalantly, yet always put-together and that resonates deeply with him. It’s a timeless aesthetic rooted in quality, fit, and confidence.
3 Hunting for vintage watches: A transatlantic affair
For someone with such a deep appreciation for classic timepieces, you'd think Europe would be Hranek’s go-to destination for vintage watches. Surprisingly, he tends to do most of his watch shopping in the U.S.
I honestly do not buy many watches in Europe. I have my favorites in the USA like analog Shift, Tropical Watch, Wanna Buy a Watch and Craft and Tailored. That being said I like Avocado Vintage watches out of Milan.
4 The story behind the “meat pic”
Among Hranek’s many contributions to the world of men’s lifestyle, one of the most iconic is the now-famous "meat pic." It all started in France, during a casual dinner with friends who had many kids.
There was always piles of food around, and one day, there was a tray with a mound of sausages that was just insane. So I picked up the tray with my drink, my buddy snapped the picture—that was it. We continued ever since.
5 The ultimate style advice
Hranek’s philosophy on personal style is refreshingly straightforward:
Wear things in your comfort zone and budget. Keep things simple but ultimately unique to you, but try not to look like a clown.
In an age of fast fashion and trend-chasing, his advice is a reminder that great style isn’t about gimmicks, it’s about authenticity.
6 What’s next: A Man and His Watch II
Following the success of A Man and His Watch, Hranek is diving back into the world of horology.
A Man and His Watch II is coming up. Look forward to more great watch stories.
If the first book was any indication, this sequel is bound to be a must-read for any watch enthusiast.
7 The perfect Negroni: A moment of pure bliss
Hranek’s ideal Negroni experience is as poetic as it is aspirational:
Made with care, with a friend or favorite dog, a view in Italy also helps.
It’s a scene that perfectly encapsulates his style—quality over quantity, craftsmanship over convenience, and always savoring the moment.
As a man who understands the beauty of well-made things, whether it's a perfectly balanced cocktail, a vintage watch with a story, or a classic wardrobe built to last. His insights on style, travel, and life are a masterclass in living with intention, one Negroni at a time.
Thank you Matt for this lovely interview!
Pictures: Molly Cranna, The Regular, WMBrownProject
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