PFP NFT projects have become the mainstream; however, SOLEX takes a different approach, using one-of-a-kind NFT watches that challenge the way we think about collecting NFTs.
A Unique Watch Collection
Elton Chen, the founder of SOLEX, has been in the watchmaking industry for more than 10 years. Elton believes that NFTs are the key to helping traditional industries digitalize their products and services. In order to put his belief into practice, Elton dropped his one-of-a-kind NFT watch collection last year on the Solana blockchain.
According to Elton, the SOLEX brand “stands out from other collections in that the NFTs can be turned into actual watches”. Aside from 3D watches that can be virtual accessories worn in the metaverse, holders of SOLEX NFTs can have their virtual watches turned into unique IRL watches made by skilled artisan watchmakers. This option to extend NFTs into the real world has attracted genuine watch collectors who are looking to hold digital assets and NFT collectors looking for real-life value.
Dedication to Charitable Causes
The aim to create value for holders has always been one of the main objectives for SOLEX. However, the mission doesn’t stop there; SOLEX has several charity components to it, including supporting those affected by mental illness. As someone who has experienced the impacts of mental illness first-hand, Elton hopes to promote the importance of mental health by donating part proceeds to charity groups working to raise awareness.
SOLEX also believes in the value of giving back and has airdropped first-edition SOLEX NFTs to less-fortunate members of the community. Elton tells us that, a SOLEX holder recently revealed that he was unable to afford a motorcycle, but because he received the free airdrop, he was able to sell the NFT for a profit and get the bike he had been saving up for. For Elton, it has been extremely rewarding to see that his NFT project has created a positive impact on society, and he hopes that SOLEX can continue to be a voice for important social issues that deserve public attention.
Clear Path Ahead
Elton recalls that when SOLEX was first launched, they didn’t have any engineers on the team. It was an extremely difficult time and they faced many obstacles and roadblocks along the way. However, Elton believes in being forthright and honest about your weaknesses; in fact, he says that SOLEX “was able to find a lot of dedicated team members in the NFT community and was able to do so by being open and genuine about [their] needs”. To Elton, the NFT community is extremely special, because there are many people willing to lend a hand.
As for the future of SOLEX? Elton has extreme ambitions. He hopes to establish a distinctive NFT marketplace that focuses on fashion accessories. Elton believes that “style” shouldn’t be limited to the real world, but should be extended into the metaverse. He also believes that blockchain technology will bring-forth innovative solutions and will help to optimize society in various shapes and forms. However, Elton still urges those stepping into the NFT or crypto realm for the first time to be adamant about “doing your own research”. People should know exactly what they are buying and why they are buying it, in order to fully engage in the web3 world.
Interview & Text / Ray Lee
Photographs / Tommy Pai & SOLEX