English actor Eddie Redmayne reveals all about his upcoming film–The Aeronauts–as well as his secret pet peeves and ultimate style icon: his dad
With numerous unforgettable performances both on stage and in film, Eddie Redmayne is fast becoming a Hollywood legend. He won every major award for his heart-rending 2014 portrayal of physicist Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything.
We met the English actor in Shanghai at the global launch of the Planet Omega exhibition, a travelling showcase of artefacts from the brand’s past, during which he wore his favourite timepiece, the Omega Globemaster.
See also: Meet Ini Archibong, The Man Who Designed Hermès' Latest Watch
What’s your pet peeve?
I like to be on time and get frustrated when people are late. I think it stems from being musical. If you’re just a minute or two late for rehearsal, you’re dismissed from the room. I suppose in that way watches have always been important to me. They also hold sentimental value; my dad had this beautiful Omega De Ville.
Tell us about your dad.
He’s really elegant. He still works in London, so he always wears a classic suit with some kind of flamboyant handkerchief. He has to help me with my style—when I try to be flamboyant it can go pretty wrong because I’m colour-blind.
Tell us about your coming film, The Aeronauts.
I’m playing a historical scientist, James Glaisher. He and his partner, a wealthy young widow, mount a balloon expedition to fly higher than anyone in history. When I was preparing for the role, I discovered that Glaisher’s dad was a watchmaker.
What would you be if not an actor?
I studied the history of art at university and used to do printmaking when I was younger. So maybe I would have pursued something in the art world. My wife worked as an antiques dealer for a while, which sounds like fun. I find old objects beautiful.
See also: 6 Watches Worn By Elite Athletes, From Rafael Nadal To Tom Brady