Meet Andrew Beltran | Co-Founder Original Grain Watch Co.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrew Beltran and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andrew, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
When my brother & I started Original Grain circa 2013, it was all about the Grind! How many hours could we put in to “make sure” our business was successful. When starting a company there is no doubt the extra hours are needed, but 15+ hrs a day for 6+ years began to wear on both my brother & I. As youngins we were committed to learning as much as possible about branding & running a business – Also needed. It wasn’t until the world stopped in March 2020 when we realized these were the first few days we’ve spent working out side of the office walls. It slowly became very productive & balanced. We found extra time towards the end of our days to find hobbies or other studies.

I like to think our 9 years of experience has allowed us to get more organized in prioritizing what truly needs to be accomplished each day: That goes for our staff & ourselves. When those tasks were completed I began reading books about aviation 15 months later I’m a private pilot & loving the adventure it brings to my life. I’m able to use Aviation to capture photography or take an in person meeting when Yellowstone National Park is calling.

I like to think in my 30’s i’ve seen a natural maturing of my brain. Studying & problem solving have become easier & less chaotic in this journey of life. What used to be a non-stop grind until your eyes are bleeding is now controlled, flexible and precise. I’ve like this flow of work & its allowed us business to be more stable than ever.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Original Grain differentiates itself from other watch or jewelry companies by using authentic materials that tell stories of their own. Its more than a timepiece it’s a piece of time. We launched in 2013 on Kickstarter with a dollar and a dream, We did 2 campaigns that raised nearly 1mm – that was a lot for a 22 yr old. We learned quickly it was not a lot as an e- commerce brand & we needed to adapt quickly to an online model.

Prior to starting OG watches I served in the US Marine Corps, its funny how a lot of the core values have helped shape how I approach business. At first I could work harder than anymore , Marine Traits. As we’ve matured its my approach to business , transparency, honesty, clear communication that helps align a team to conduct the mission. I credit the many senior Marines that lead me throughout my days in the Core. I hope my legacy can be left in similar fashion.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When touring San Diego , I always make a stop at Mt. Soledad to pay tribute, A nice walk through Old town to grab some souvenirs for family back home. Take a few bikes down the PB boardwalk & make sure to cap off a few sunsets from sunset cliffs OB.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Ive been asked this questions before, who is your idol or who did you look up to as a kid. To be honest its always been my brother Ryan Beltran, He has always lead & held us 4 brothers accountable to our upbringing.

Website: www.originalgrain.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajb_11/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-beltran-15344597/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/originalgrain

Image Credits
Jose Coli, TJ Kolesnik, Veteran Aiden Demolli , Flickman