He says that there is nothing wrong with aspiring to either. His issue was not what society expected of him, but that's all they expected from him: "It really bothered me that people didn't openly or widely attribute intelligence to my black skin." My interest in becoming an engineer was partly purely scientific, but also rebellious, as a way to say "I'll prove you guys."

He explains his roles, including Noah, an intelligent and driven slave who is searching for freedom in Antebellum Georgia in Underground. Levi Jackson, opposite Janelle Monae as Mary Jackson, played a civil right activist in Hidden Figures who was trying to support his wife in her efforts to become a scientist in the 1960s. He explains that he would selfishly like to have roles with meaning and depth that go beyond his personal benefit.Rolex Day Date Replica "That really resonated with me when I was on the Hidden Figures promo tour, where you could see little girls watching the film and talking about their dreams of becoming an astronaut or engineer. They realized they can now do it because they saw it."

He has many talents, including acting, painting and designing. He smiles when I admit to being surprised at his passion for and knowledge of watchmaking. It's obvious that this is not surprising to him. "When I'm able go into the specifics of what makes an watch unique or important, I'm quite proud, because most people don't expect it." I don't look like a consummate watch guy.

Hodge has clearly benefited from subverting expectations. He is able to understand others' intentions because he can empathize with them. "As an actor, my job is to focus on these characters to really define their intent. What motivates people to do the things they do? In terms of horology, and design, my primary responsibility is as a maker to set the stage for new experiences.Replica Panerai Luminor Submersible Watches How will you engage with this product you believe you know in a new way? How can I make it familiar to you so that you immediately connect with it and feel its resonance?

As we stand up, the conversation turns to the Tradition 7097 that Hodge wears. Before I know it Hodge has moved from one display to another in the Rolex Day-Date Replica Boutique, asking the manager of the boutique insightful questions and examining each model carefully. He's right, he does not look like a consummate watch expert. His poise and eagerness to learn are reminiscent of the most studious Swiss watchmaker sitting at his workbench. This former Trenton boy who once painted on his mother’s white walls is sure to do more in the future with his sincere passion for his craft.