I wear a watch for the purpose of knowing the time. Over the years, I became intrigued about the critical role engineering and time coordination played in my work life. But it wasn’t until I met a data center industry legend and now friend, John Kraft, that I refined my appreciation for thematic timepieces.
John was wearing a stunning Patek Phillipe chronograph—a wedding gift from his wife, Christine. It was especially impressive since I had previously only seen one in photos. We discussed the irony that we had not met prior to this chance encounter on a plane, but it was the polarizing words he shared that reset my view towards thematic watch collecting and time itself. He said: “Timing isn’t everything, but time is, and this watch reminds me of good times.” Since then, I have sought watches with a theme. Several have an American connection, like Ball (US Railroad), Waltham (historic US pocket watches), and rising star American watchmaker, Cameron Weiss. Others include a European brand, IWC—founded by an American (F.A. Jones)—with special edition models like the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and the 2008 German National Soccer Team tribute. I also have a piece from German, family-owned Damasko (who uses military-grade materials) and a Breguet (founded in 1775 by the father of watchmaking) Marine Chronograph.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lee Kestler is a 25-year data center industry veteran with extensive experience working with hyperscale and enterprise customers. As CEO, he is responsible for setting EdgeCore’s vision and managing the strategic priorities of the company to drive profitability and growth.
Prior to joining EdgeCore, Kestler was an Executive Director at Nextera Energy Resources focused on digital infrastructure developments adjacent to energy generation resources. From 2018 to 2021, Lee served as Chief Commercial Officer of Vantage Data Centers in a role focused on hyperscale expansion in new markets. Additionally, Kestler served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Leasing for wholesale data center pioneer DuPont Fabros Technology (DFT), where he led the go-to-market strategy within North America including the successful IPO which raised over $740 million dollars.
As founder of Kopend Ventures, Kestler focused on management consulting for several firms. In particular, he managed a 300MW development project in Palm Beach County, Florida, where he led the successful effort to get a data center sales and use tax exemption approved by the Florida Legislature.
He is an advocate of low carbon and advanced energy generation solutions and has been active in digital infrastructure industry thought leadership forums throughout North America. In 2021, Kestler was a recipient of the prestigious Northern Virginia Tech Council’s Data Center Icon Award which includes past digital infrastructure leaders such as Bill Stein (Digital Realty), Marc Ganzi (Digital Bridge), and Christian Belady (Microsoft).
