Jirayu wearing Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in Moonshine Gold.
THAI heartthrob Jirayu Tangsrisuk has had a special connection to Omega even before he was appointed “Friend of the Brand”.
As with every other Thai person, he was given a nickname by his parents at birth, a one or two syllable name that is easier for everyday use.
“My mum picked ‘James’ because she likes James Bond,” he tells StarChrono.
And Jirayu’s stylist, who steps forward occasionally to adjust his outfits during our interview, chimes in to point out that Omega is James Bond’s brand of choice.
The fictional international spy Agent 007 has been sporting an Omega Seamaster on his wrist in the Bond films since 1995, an iconic partnership that highlights the fashion flair, adventurous spirit and reliability of both the character and the watchmaker.
Back to the present and real-life star Jirayu – he was announced as the first male “Friend of Omega” in Thailand last year thanks to his stature as one of the most influential figures in his country, including fashion-wise.
He is “an embodiment of a distinctive masculine style”, according to the Swiss watch brand when announcing the artiste’s new role.
Jirayu wearing the Omega Constellation Meteorite. — Photos: YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
The actor, singer and model, who will turn 31 in September, speaks to StarChrono when he drops in for the opening of Omega boutique at The Exchange TRX in Kuala Lumpur.
It is his first visit to Malaysia, he says, and this interview is also his first ever to be conducted in English. He replies in English, but at times turns to his manager for help to elaborate on some details.
In between fielding interview questions, Jirayu shifts his 180cm-plus frame effortlessly into various poses for the camera.
He looks directly into the camera, lowers his gaze or casts sidelong glances, all the while mindfully showcasing the watches he’s wearing -- Seamaster Diver 300M Paris 2024 special edition, Constellation Meteorite, Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in Moonshine Gold and Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in steel on steel.
“Seamaster Diver 300M is my everyday go-to watch, because it matches all outfits.
“For special occasions, Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in Moonshine Gold will be my first choice,” Jirayu shares.
(Above) Jirayu wears the Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in steel on steel.
With the brand origins dating back to 1848, its rich heritage and innovations make him feel deeply honoured to be part of the Omega family.
In a nod to Omega’s 1931 slogan “Exact Time for Life”, Jirayu lives to seize the moment.
“Time is precious. It can only go forward, never backward,” he points out.
Jirayu ventured into the entertainment industry in 2013, after starting out as a model.
He became a household name with his first role in a Thai television series Suphapburut Juthathep, and since then, it has been a whirlwind decade of dramas, movies, music albums and singles.
While he has a composed and warm presence, he lets slip a goofy side every now and then, such as when he playfully tries to hold a watchmaker’s loupe with his eye (and it promptly falls).
His dream to star in a comedy will come true soon.
“I was never offered a role in a comedy in the past 10 years. I am not sure why, maybe the producers think my look is only suitable for a calm, good-looking and wealthy character.
“But I finally got one now. I have been preparing for a role in comedy for 10 years, and I am really looking forward to it,” he says, adding that shooting will begin in June.
The period drama titled Chao Khun Phi Kap Nang Kham Duang will see Jirayu as a government official offering a marriage deal to a provincial girl, played by Thai actress Bella Ranee Campen.
With 6.7 million followers on Instagram, he is one of the highest-paid actors in Thailand.
Jirayu’s lanky physique and charming grin have also landed him many commercial deals.
Last year, he attended the Dior Homme Menswear Fall-Winter 2023-2024 show at Paris Fashion Week.
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Paris 2024 special edition.
Whenever he gets to take a break from his demanding career, Jirayu will catch up on sleep, read (the current book he is reading is Adam Grant’s Hidden Potential), or simply just sit and enjoy the present moment.
He also loves to escape the tropical heat to ski on snowy hills.
His last skiing trip was in January to Niseiko, Hokkaido in Japan, where he indulged in the pristine white landscape, chilly air and culinary specialties.
“There was nothing much to think about, just wake up, play and eat,” he reminisces.
Jirayu seems to have it all – good looks, a successful career, diehard fans who are now like family, and endorsement deals that fuel his fame.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in steel on steel.
He counts himself as “very lucky” to be surrounded by supportive people and fans.
“This is what I enjoy most about being a star...although I really shouldn’t call myself a star, I am just an actor,” he says.
Is there anything else Jirayu wishes to achieve in life?
“Do more charity.”
It was luck that brought him to where he is today, he says, and he wants to give back to society.
Every year, he plans for a charity project and involves his fans in contributing to needy children, hospitals and the like.
Proceeds from his 2021 mini album were also donated to charitable causes.
“I am currently passionate about helping schools and hospitals, and providing clean water in rural areas,” he adds.
