By Staff
Marcel Benson, founder of Benson Watches, is a visionary entrepreneur who turned a childhood spark into a powerful movement.
At just seven years old, Marcel received his first watch and with it, a life-defining message: you can be anything you want to be. Though he later followed a traditional path—earning a business degree from Morehouse College and entering the corporate world of consulting and financial management—he eventually found himself unfulfilled, simply going through the motions. In a bold act of reclaiming purpose, he walked away from the comfort of a steady paycheck to rediscover the optimism of that young boy who once believed anything was possible. That moment of courage became the heartbeat of Benson Watches—a brand rooted in the belief that time should be spent doing what you love. Since then, Marcel has navigated the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, infusing each timepiece with intentionality, creativity, and a message that goes far beyond luxury: freedom, authenticity, and the power to create your own narrative.
What first inspired you to start Benson Watches, and how did your personal story influence the brand’s creation?
When I was seven years old, I received my first watch—a small gift that came with a powerful message: “You can be anything you want to be.” That moment etched itself into my spirit, symbolizing not just time, but limitless potential. Over the years, that bold belief began to fade as I pursued a more conventional path—earning a business degree from Morehouse College and entering the world of consulting and financial management. I had the “good job” and the boxes checked, but inside, I felt disconnected and uninspired. Eventually, I had to ask myself: Was I living, or merely existing? That reflection reignited the fire I felt as a child—the desire to live with purpose and freedom. Benson Watches was born from that realization: a brand not just about timepieces, but about reclaiming your time and rewriting your story.
Can you describe the moment you realized that turning your passion for watches into a business was the right move?
It was less of a moment and more of a spiritual awakening. I found myself reflecting on that seven-year-old boy—bright-eyed, fearless, and full of imagination. I realized that version of me still lived inside. It was almost as if he walked into the HR office with me that day and gave me the courage to resign. I didn’t have all the answers, and I didn’t know exactly what was next, but I knew staying in a place that stifled my spirit was no longer an option. When I left, I felt the weight of conformity lift, and for the first time in years, I felt free.
How did you navigate the transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship, and what were some early lessons that shaped your journey?
The transition wasn’t glamorous—it was gritty. Moving from a consistent paycheck to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship tested everything in me. I had to hustle—picking up side gigs like trading to bridge the financial gap—but the tradeoff was invaluable. I was building my dream, not someone else’s. I learned that resilience isn’t about having all the resources—it’s about becoming the resource. One of the biggest lessons? You have to believe in your vision so deeply that even when the money is funny, your purpose still feels rich.
Building a luxury brand in a competitive market is no small feat—what were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the early stages?
One of the toughest hurdles was gaining buy-in from influential voices in our community. Competing with brands that have million-dollar ambassador budgets can feel like David vs. Goliath. But instead of chasing influencers, I leaned into authentic storytelling. I focused on creating a brand that represents real people doing what they love, not just wearing something flashy. The challenge forced us to be more creative, and that’s become part of our DNA.
What core values or principles have remained constant throughout the evolution of Benson Watches?
At our core, we are committed to inspiring people to spend time doing what they love. We tell genuine, human-centered stories that resonate across cultures and backgrounds. Benson Watches is not just a brand—it’s a movement. It’s about reminding people that their time is valuable and that they deserve to live a life that reflects their true passions.
Can you share a moment when you felt like giving up, and what pulled you through that experience?
There have been several, but one of the most challenging times came when my father’s health began to decline. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and in recent years, his condition has worsened with kidney and other organ complications. That, combined with the unexpected loss of a close friend and a dip in business due to economic challenges, hit me hard. It felt like life was caving in. But instead of breaking me, it reshaped me. It gave me a deeper perspective on what time truly means. I started seeing every second as a gift, and that realization pulled me through.
What has been your proudest accomplishment as the founder of Benson Watches so far?
Honestly, it’s starting. Having the courage to step away from comfort and step into the unknown is something I’ll always be proud of. Every watch we produce is a reminder that I took that leap—and hopefully, it inspires others to do the same.
How do you approach innovation and design to ensure each Benson Watch stands out while staying true to your brand identity?
My creative process is deeply personal. I pour my emotions, thoughts, and even music into each design. I allow myself to be free in the early stages—no boundaries, no judgment. Then I strip away what’s unnecessary until the essence of the piece reveals itself. It’s like sculpting. I design from a place of feeling, not formula. That’s how each timepiece tells a story—and stays authentic to the Benson brand.
What role has community or mentorship played in your growth as a business owner?
Community and mentorship have been everything. Mentors helped me avoid pitfalls and pushed me to keep going when I doubted myself. And the community—man, they’re the heartbeat. We’ve served thousands of customers who’ve found inspiration in our message. That feedback loop keeps me grounded and motivated. It’s not just about selling watches; it’s about fueling dreams.
What do you hope people feel when they wear a Benson Watch?
I hope they feel empowered—like that seven-year-old version of me who believed he could be anything. I want them to feel limitless, confident, and grounded in their purpose. A Benson Watch is more than an accessory; it’s a daily reminder to take up space and live boldly.
How do you balance creativity with the demands of running a business?
I keep fun at the center. Creativity flows best when I’m enjoying the process, so I make time to play, experiment, and reconnect with why I started in the first place. Business can be intense, but I try not to let that kill the joy. I remind myself daily: this is art, this is legacy, and this is mine.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to build something meaningful but are hesitant to take the leap?
Just go. Time doesn’t wait, and overthinking will eat your dreams alive. If you’re scared, go scared. Stop minding other people’s business—especially their opinions of you. Most people aren’t thinking about you as much as you think they are. Build something that makes you proud. Live a life that feels good and real to you. Take up space, unapologetically.
Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future of Benson Watches?
I want “Benson” to be synonymous with freedom. Not just in fashion or luxury, but in how people live their lives. We’re creating more than watches—we’re shaping a culture. The future is filled with bold designs, collaborations, and storytelling that celebrates the power of owning your time.
Are there any upcoming collaborations, product lines, or initiatives that you’re particularly excited about?
Absolutely—but I’m keeping those close for now. Let’s just say: if you’re watching, you’ll want to stay tuned.
How do you define success now, and has that definition changed since you started?
Success used to mean titles, checks, and status. Now, it means peace—the kind that comes from living without regret, standing in your truth, and facing your fears. Everything else is extra. That said, I still wouldn’t mind having a couple of Porsche 911s in the garage! Balance, right?
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