17 questions to a well-dressed man – Giuseppe Aquila
Photo credit: Giuseppe Aquila
I’m since many years obsessed with fine writing instruments. Funny enough this is a passion that seems to be connected with my other passions, beautiful clothing and fine watches. One of the best fountain pen makers in the world for me is Montegrappa which is managed by the very stylish Giuseppe Aquila. A gentleman who loves writing instruments as well as watches and beautiful clothing. Montegrappa is making all their pens in Bassano del Grappa which is a picturesque town in the Italian Veneto region. Their pens are works of art and as we know it with tailoring as well, they offer a bespoke option in which you can have a pen made completely the way you want it. A process Giuseppe must be familiar with as he goes to a bespoke tailor himself for his suits. And when you see Giuseppe in a suit you recognise that immediately, his Italian, or to be precise, Neapolitan style stands out and shows off the craftsmanship and the passion for beauty that we can only find in Italy. And everybody who visited Italy at least once, will know what I mean. It is therefore an honour for me that Giuseppe Aquila wanted to answer the ‘’17 questions to a well-dressed man’’ and the answers he gave you can find below.
What are you wearing today?
I’m very comfy at home, so sweatpants and a t-shirt.
If you had to choose to spend money either on a suit or on a watch, what would you choose?
A suit.
What jewellery could a man wear?
A pen obviously and a watch.
Tie or a bowtie?
None.
Do you remember your first jacket?
Yes, I stole it from my father. It was a blue blazer.
What is your favourite watch?
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore chronograph or Patek Philippe Nautilus.
Fountain pen or ballpoint?
Fountain pen.
Have you found the perfect garment yet?
During lockdown, what I’m wearing today. When on business, a bespoke suite made by my Neapolitan tailor, Luigi Solito.
Explain your biggest passion in one sentence?
The sea.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Being on a yacht enjoying sea, sun, wind, good food and wine in company of friends and family.
Who is the best dressed man in the world for you?
It was Gianni Agnelli.
The best book you ever read?
I read a lot but a book that gave me great motivation is The Alchemist by my dear friend, Paulo Coelho.
Which city should one go shopping?
Milan or Naples.
Tweed or flannel?
Tweed.
The most elegant restaurant in the world for you?
For me it is not so much about elegance but rather about the quality of the food and the ambience. I’m a fan of Davide Oldani’s.
Describe your style in three words?
Comfort, simplicity and Italian-ness.
Best purchase you did in the last 6 months?
A new car.