Robert-Jan Broer

Founder at Fratello Watches

Robert-Jan Broer, Founder of Fratello Watches

Robert-Jan Broer is the founder of Fratello, an educational and entertaining online platform for watch enthusiasts. With a deep knowledge of watches, Broer started Fratello in 2004 to share his passion for horology.1

Early Life and Watch Collecting

Broer grew up in the Netherlands in the 1980s, with his first watch being a simple black Casio he got on a trip to the UK.2
His interest in watches developed in his late teens, but he didn't have the money to collect them until he was 21. His mother gifted him his first mechanical watch, an Omega Constellation, at that time.2
Broer's grandfather and great-grandfather also wore Omega watches, with his grandparents buying their Constellations in 1969.2

The Birth of Fratello Watches

In 1999, Broer started a website called omega-addict.com, which led to him getting many Speedmaster-related questions.2
To host a FAQ section and answer these questions, Broer started a blog in 2004 using the newly released WordPress 1.0. This blog eventually evolved into Fratellowatches.com.2 3
Broer initially blogged about watches while working as a system administrator, but the blog grew to the point where he could quit his job and work on it full-time around 2013-2014.3

Fratello's Growth and Initiatives

Fratello has grown to a team of 15 people, with 7 working full-time. The site now publishes several in-depth articles daily and is one of the top online watch magazines.4
In 2012, Broer started the popular #SpeedyTuesday feature, covering the Omega Speedmaster every Tuesday. This spawned a community, a print magazine, and two limited edition Omega Speedmaster watches designed with Broer.1
Fratello has also collaborated with other brands like Oris, Minase, Czapek, Nomos, and more to create limited edition watches.1

Passion for Fine Writing Instruments

In addition to watches, Broer has a passion for fine writing instruments like fountain pens.4
He sees parallels between the appreciation for well-crafted mechanical watches and fountain pens, with both offering a break from digital screens and a more thoughtful writing experience.4

Robert-Jan Broer has turned his watch collecting hobby into an authoritative online publication and watch community. Through Fratello and initiatives like #SpeedyTuesday, he has made a significant impact on the watch enthusiast world.1 3