Style Strategies
⇾ Cameron Ross Steiner, the Collectors Gene Founder
He talked to us about what he’s buying, wearing and hunting for next
Some people collect watches. Others collect art, furniture or obscure objet that only make sense once you hear the story behind them. Cameron Ross Steiner is interested in all of it. A true curator, he founded Collectors Gene as a place to explore collecting as a kind of living art—connecting craftsmanship, culture and the stories embedded in the things we choose to keep. For years, that curiosity also fueled his podcast, which wrapped last year after 100 episodes of thoughtful conversations with some of the most discerning collectors, experts and tastemakers in the game.
“I've collected things my whole life,” Steiner tells me. “From Hot Wheels as a kid to rare objects, watches and now art ... my taste is ever-changing. I am discovering new avenues, designers and makers every day!” These days, that instinct for discovery is increasingly focused on turning Collectors Gene into a destination in its own right. “Currently, I am working on really expanding the retail presence of the shop while also growing the social channels,” he says. The goal is to become the go-to destination for all things collectibles and gifts. Which made us curious: When someone spends this much time thinking about what's worth collecting, what does he actually buy for himself?
Describe your personal style in five words or less.
Effortless, relaxed, accessorized, thoughtful and ... curated.
What’s the best thing you’ve bought under $20 recently?
I found an incredibly rare vintage bracelet by S.T. Dupont.
What was the item that was the hardest to pull the trigger on?
I really try to buy with my heart, eye and instinct. However, a couple vintage Cartier watches I bought took some considerable time and extended thought.
Something you’re looking to buy at the moment?
A vintage Hermes HAC and more art!
Three favorite brands, currently?
Todd Snyder, Aimé Leon Dore and New Balance.
9060 sneaker,
$159.99 at New Balance
Speaking of New Balance, what's your footwear rotation look like lately?
The New Balance 9060 in beige/pink, Birkenstock Boston clogs and Paperstraight Heritage Derby in brown grain.
Boston suede clog,
$169.95 at Birkenstock
Heritage derby,
$399 / $199 at Paper Straight
Do you shop more online or in person?
I usually do my best shopping online.
What city has the best shopping?
For me? Paris. The best flea markets, the best galleries, and such a breadth of taste. I am mainly buying objet and smalls because they are easy to travel back with.
Hermes Silver plate and brass “H” cedar-lined box, $3,890 at Collectors Gene
Necessary extravagance?
Vintage boxes from Hermes for storing cords, remotes, etc. Vintage Gucci Rooster egg cups that now serve as ring dishes. Cartier cigar scissors. Business class for long hauls. A silver S.T. Dupont travel picture frame.
What’s a purchase you regret ...
and what did it teach you?
I've bought a lot of furniture that I thought I loved. It taught me to take my time and that the best rooms aren't all completed at once.
Is there anything you refuse to spend money on?
Overly expensive shoes.
What’s something you buy multiples of (either by design or by default)?
Pants. Especially with a toddler, if a good pair of pants gets ruined, I need a backup. Pants are one of the hardest things for me to find, so when I score a pair that I like, I try to grab a couple.
Something you own that just gets better the longer you have it?
Vintage barware, my watch collection and vintage auction catalogs.
Give us a shopping tip or hack that readers can use.
Never hesitate to negotiate, buy what you love, ask questions and go to flea markets.
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