Where Utility Meets Artistry: The Philosophy of Artemas Quibble Belts
The Genesis of Craftsmanship: A Passion for Precision and Design
Jason Ross, co-founder of Artemas Quibble, embodies a lifelong passion for the intricacies of industrial design and fabrication. His keen eye for detail allows him to discern quality in the most unexpected places, even a simple plastic spoon. This deep appreciation for how objects are made forms the bedrock of Artemas Quibble's philosophy, where every belt is a testament to superior manufacturing and thoughtful aesthetics.
The Avant-Garde Accessory: Redefining the Belt in Modern Fashion
Artemas Quibble may be a lesser-known name to some, but its impact on high fashion is undeniable. Since 2019, their distinctively artistic and avant-garde belts have graced the covers of prestigious magazines, adorning the waists of style icons such as Brad Pitt, Donald Glover, Keanu Reeves, and The Weeknd. Founded in 2012 by Ross and Natasha Chekoudjian, the brand specializes in belts that perfectly balance rugged durability with sophisticated elegance, and practical function with captivating design.
A Unique Creation Process: From Found Objects to Heirloom Pieces
What sets Artemas Quibble apart is its truly individualistic creation process. Each belt's design begins with the hardware, meticulously reverse-engineered from Ross's extensive collection of vintage metal objects discovered in thrift and antique stores. These unassuming pieces, never originally intended for belts, are expertly modified and re-engineered into functional buckles in the brand's St. Louis studio. Ross and Chekoudjian then carefully select the perfect leather from the renowned Herman Oak Tannery to complement the hardware. The buckles are subsequently cast from solid metal, rather than merely plated, by skilled jewelers in New York City, produced in limited quantities. This dedication results in a product that feels exceptionally distinct and possesses heirloom quality, surpassing most other belts on the market.
The Tangible Difference: The Allure of Solid Metal
Natasha Chekoudjian emphasizes the sensory experience of their creations, stating, \"There's something inherently special about working with solid metal.\" She notes that customers can feel the difference when they interact with the pieces; their substantial weight gives them a luxurious, jewelry-like quality that resonates with those who appreciate fine craftsmanship.
Expanding Reach: The Journey to Direct-to-Consumer
Through careful control of their production, Ross and Chekoudjian have refined their manufacturing processes. This evolution has recently enabled them to make their sought-after belts more accessible to a growing community of menswear enthusiasts. With the assistance of collaborator Moses Moreno, Artemas Quibble proudly launched its inaugural online store, marking a significant milestone for anyone eager to integrate these wearable works of art into their wardrobe.
Unwavering Vision: Preserving Creativity and Quality
Chekoudjian sees their direct-to-consumer model as a superior approach, offering enhanced control over their output. This strategy allows them to personally oversee the hand-finishing of each piece, ensuring consistent quality. This new phase of growth is meticulously managed to uphold the brand's core values of creativity, elegance, and distinctiveness. Ross articulates his driving principle: \"I only create things to achieve beauty. And if that beauty is subtly hidden, it's even better. Even if pursuing that unseen beauty incurs additional time and cost, I'll always choose to do it.\"