Patrick Dempsey’s evolution from Hollywood heartthrob to racing virtuoso reads like something out of a script. Yet, the proof lies in tire marks across Le Mans and podium champagne stains on racing suits. The same eyes that once captured fans on-screen now light up talking about Swiss movement complications and engine horsepower. Trading scrubs for racing suits, Dempsey has earned his stripes far from the glow of studio lights. In this exclusive interview, the Porsche and TAG Heuer ambassador shares how his love of racing and watches perfectly complement each other.
ESQUIRE SINGAPORE: What do you look for in a watch?
PATRICK DEMPSEY: The weight, size, style, and practicality are most important to me.
ESQ: If you were to design a watch that's inspired by a specific car, which car would it be and why?
PAT: I would design a watch around the Porsche 356. The shape, size and simplicity—timeless elegance.
ESQ: What do you derive more enjoyment from, watches or cars?
PAT: I think that watches and cars complement each other. I find equal enjoyment with both.
ESQ: Were there any films that influenced your love with racing?
PAT: When I look back, the film Grand Prix and Le Mans are two films I find to be the most inspirational.
ESQ: Could you talk about your favourite car?
PAT: There is something about the early Porsches that make me smile, they are so much fun to drive because with that design there is such approachability of the car. When I am driving and come in contact with other people on the road, I feel a wonderful warmth from them.
ESQ: If you could have anyone—contemporary/historical figures—on your racing dream team of five; who would they be?
PAT: Juan Manuel Fangio, Sir Jackie Stewart, Jim Clark, James Hunt, Aryton Senna.
ESQ: How do you find the time to balance acting and racing?
PAT: I am currently trying to figure that out right now. It is not easy to juggle both at the same time!
ESQ: What's the best advice you have received?
PAT: Never forget where you come from.
ESQ: If you could go back in time, what period would it be?
PAT: The 50’s. I have always found that period in motorsports to be very romantic.
