When Core Timepieces embarked on a two-day trip to Barbados for a photo shoot featuring our Seven Sins model, we weren’t just looking for the perfect backdrop. We were seeking an adventure that would embody the very spirit of our brand—bold, immersive, and full of passion. From playing dominoes in Oistins Fish Market to learning a local sport called road tennis, the trip became an unforgettable journey that perfectly captured the essence of both Barbados and the Seven Sins watch.
Oistins Fish Market and Seven Sins
As we touched down in Barbados, the excitement was palpable. The island promised vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and the perfect settings for showcasing our timepiece. The bustling Oistins Fish Market quickly became our chosen venue. Known for its lively atmosphere, Oistins is not only a marketplace but a cultural hub where locals gather to trade fish and enjoy each other’s company. The sun was shining brightly, casting a warm glow over the scene as we set up for our photo shoot. We were lucky to have a friend who lives here and they took us around to the local spots and his favorite restaurants and bars.
The market he took us to was alive with vibrant colors, the rhythmic chopping of fresh fish, and the friendly chatter of locals. The air was filled with the aroma of sizzling seafood, and everywhere we turned, we found moments of authenticity that reflected the spirit of our Seven Sins watch. We captured the essence of the island with images that told stories of adventure and camaraderie.
As the sun began to set, we laid out our gear, capturing the Seven Sins model diving and surfing under the fading light. The watch’s bold design felt at home against the rugged yet inviting landscape. Each shot was a fusion of natural beauty and craftsmanship, with the titanium case catching the light just as the waves crashed onto the shore. The Seven Sins model is all about embracing or rebelling against your daily sin and exploring your passion. Daring, adventure, and resilience—traits the locals mirrored in their everyday lives.
Dominoes, Fishmongers, and Road Tennis
While the photo shoot was our official reason for being in Barbados, it was the locals who made the trip memorable. Our friend Winston knew I played dominoes back home in New York so he introduced us to his friends. After wrapping up a day of shooting, we found ourselves sitting with fishmongers, chefs, and mechanics in the market, joining in on a lively game of dominoes. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and friendly competition. Each domino piece that hit the table was accompanied by shouts of triumph and playful banter.
The conversations flowed as easily as the beer and rum, and we were struck by the warm hospitality and openness of the people we met. Their passion for their craft, whether cutting fish, working on boat engines, or crafting a Michelin star meal at the local hotel was evident as much as their passion for playing dominoes, We felt at home and the atmosphere resonated with us. We learned about their daily lives, their families, and the traditions that shaped their community. This connection reminded us that, just like our timepieces, every story is built on love and care.
In the midst of our games, the fishmongers shared tales about their work, explaining how they sourced the freshest catch each day. The pride in their craft was palpable, mirroring the dedication we pour into every Core product. It was a beautiful exchange of culture and appreciation that highlighted how time, much like these interactions, is best spent with others.
What’s all the racket?
After an evening filled with food, drink, and competitive dominoes at the Oistins Fish Market, we found ourselves back at our hotel on Surfer’s Point. The laid-back vibes of the outdoor bar were just what we needed to wind down. However, as we sat there, something caught our attention—distant yelling and cheering carried by the warm Caribbean breeze. At first, we brushed it off, but the sounds kept growing louder, and curiosity got the best of us. We ordered another round of beers and decided to investigate.
Crossing the street, we found a crowd gathered around what looked like a tennis court, but not quite. The energy was palpable—two athletes were locked in an intense, fast-paced game that had the spectators on their toes. As we edged closer, we quickly realized this wasn’t regular tennis. There was no net, just a wooden board dividing the court, which was much smaller than what we were used to seeing. The players weren’t using traditional rackets either—they had wooden paddles in hand and were going all out.
The crowd soon noticed us standing at the edge, intrigued, and before long, the players and spectators alike came over to introduce us to this distinctly Barbadian sport—road tennis. It turns out the game is essentially tennis but with a twist. Played on a smaller court with a wooden paddle and ball, it’s a no-frills, high-energy version that’s deeply rooted in the island’s culture. The locals explained a few rules, and with its simplicity, it immediately made sense: it’s tennis, just more stripped-down and raw. The players’ passion for the game was infectious, and their intensity mirrored something we at Core Timepieces value deeply—balancing precision and elegance, making complexity appear effortless.
The crowd wasn’t just watching; they were living the game, cheering on every shot, every sprint, every clash of the paddle with the ball. Their enthusiasm was impossible to resist. Within minutes, Kerim found himself on the court, paddle in hand, and ready to give it a shot. He stumbled through the first few serves, but with the patient guidance of our new friends and the roaring encouragement of the crowd, he quickly found his rhythm. Laughter, cheers, and friendly teasing echoed around us as he volleyed back and forth, growing more confident with every swing. Road tennis had officially drawn us in.
What began as a casual walk across the street turned into one of the most memorable parts of our trip. The simplicity of road tennis, combined with the intensity and passion of the locals, left a lasting impression. It wasn’t just a sport; it was a reflection of the Bajan spirit—a perfect blend of laid-back charm and fierce enthusiasm. In that moment, we realized that the balance we saw on that court was the same balance we strive for at Core Timepieces. Just like the game, our watches are a fusion of simplicity and intensity—where craftsmanship meets passion, and where every detail matters.
Since returning home, we’ve even set up a makeshift road tennis court at Kerim’s house, playing a few matches when we can. But it’s not the same without the electrifying energy of the crowd and the warm ocean breeze. A return trip to Barbados feels inevitable, not just to relive those moments but to dive even deeper into the island’s culture—one that resonates so closely with the values we hold at Core Timepieces.
Barbados gave us a sense of connection to a place where passion, culture, and craftsmanship are celebrated in every aspect of life. And just like our watches, road tennis reminded us that even the simplest of designs can carry the most profound impact.
A Culture of Passion, A Brand of Boldness
Everywhere we looked in Barbados, we saw passion—in the food, in the art, in the people. This aligns perfectly with what Core Timepieces embraces. Our watches aren’t just about keeping time; they’re about living in the moment and forging connections, just like the ones we made on the island. The Sins model, with its rebellious spirit and unique design, felt at home in this vibrant environment. Barbados, in its authenticity and love for life, is a place that truly reflects the Core Timepieces ethos.
During our time in Barbados, we experienced the island’s rich culture firsthand. From the colorful murals that adorn the streets, reflecting the history and heritage of the local community, to the rhythmic beats of calypso music playing in the background, the energy was infectious. It inspired us to capture not just the beauty of our watch but the essence of the lifestyle it represents—a celebration of freedom, creativity, and adventure.
As we moved around the island, our team also sought out various scenic locations, capturing the Seven Sins against the backdrop of Barbados’ stunning landscapes. Whether it was the majestic cliffs of the Atlantic coast or the serene beauty of the Caribbean Sea, each photograph was infused with the island’s spirit. We envisioned the watch not only as a timekeeping device but as a companion for those seeking adventure, elegance, and a touch of rebellion.
Reflections on the Journey
The two days spent on this island weren’t just a photo shoot; it was an immersion into a culture that celebrates passion, connection, and craftsmanship—values that define both Barbados and Core Timepieces. The conversations, the games of dominoes, and the laughter shared over road tennis reminded us that time is most meaningful when it is shared.
As we left the island, the Seven Sins had not only been showcased but had also absorbed a bit of Barbados’ spirit. We took with us memories that would forever be part of our story, rich with lessons learned from the locals and the experiences that shaped our journey. Each watch we create will now carry a whisper of Barbados, a reminder of the warmth of its people and the beauty of its culture.
Our adventure in Barbados was a celebration of everything Core Timepieces stands for—a brand that values quality, craftsmanship, and the stories that bring us together. We returned home not just with stunning photographs but with a deeper understanding of the connection between time, passion, and the joy of living.
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