Dark Secrets of the Watch World

We open up about our secrets of the luxury watch world.
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[@barrettwbenton]

Damn...this was a hell of a round-table opener for the new season. George's story was touching, Adrian's was wild, bur Andrew's...opens up a whole Pandora's box about microbrands and the ethics of supply chains that's hard to turn a blind eye to. Y'all keep rocking effing harder, and I'm always here for it.

[@AboutEffingTime]

Thanks for the thoughtful breakdown Barrett ✊🏼

[@MasterChief37]

Why just single out micro brands, the already well established brands are more than likely doing the same, especially with so called influencers. As watch enthusiasts we should be immune to this, it’s the non watch people that are the target.

[@barrettwbenton]

@@MasterChief37 Fair point: certain designer labels (we know who they are) are likely guilty of the same practices.

[@aidinmcinerney6512]

Props to Adrian for discussing the side of youtube watch content 99% of channels won't, lilely because they've partaken themselves

[@marcusorme261]

No names but have unsubscribed from another popular Watch channel for a cringy advertorial. Destroys all credibility for me

[@MasterChief37]

@@marcusorme261 if it’s the person I think you’re thinking about they haven’t posted new content for a couple of months.

[@cianmurphy52]

Name and shame! Speculation is everything. We're here for the gossip!!😁

[@thor_86]

Yes, name it

[@reesebroekhoven3962]

Like the time teller and that I believe it was core wat watches it was a watch with flames on the dial he upsold that "review" so clearly he was bought for it it was ridiculous.

[@EFAMILIO]

I respect Adrian so much more after watching this. Turning down that kind of money shows his true dedication to creating real content with real meaning behind it. He truly deserves more respect.

[@dempand4515]

Agree best episode so far. Adrian's slightly dishevelled, distracted approach underpinned by a fundamental integrity. George's confidence masking the doubts and fears that plague us all. Andrew's humanity and decency tempering his undoubted passion.

[@Podcastage]

Andrew - Holy smokes. Thank you so much for speaking about your experience with that. My respect for you has grown immeasurably. As a consumer it’s easy to ignore how we’re able to get products at such a low price point, but I fear your story is not as uncommon as we’d all like to believe. Thank for sharing and thank you for taking the high road. You’re a good man.

[@HRM.H]

One thing that makes this podcast so much better than 99% of watch related channels is the fact you guys all have different perspectives and opinions. Its like the horological top gear trio. Im also very glad you guys dont do any pandering, something which is very noticeable in most watch related channels..

[@marcusflack1523]

Yep we are definitely anti Panda. 😊

[@jamesallen2953]

Right. Now I’ve watched the whole thing I just need to say “thank you.” It’s so refreshing to watch watch content without bullshit machismo, that’s not flexing on price or value and just talks authentically from the heart. You chaps have created something very special here.

[@marcusflack1523]

Thanks James Wow that means a lot to read.

[@watcheswithabdullah]

This was such a powerful episode! For George... regret for not trying is far worse than knowing that you at least gave it a shot. It'll get you the closure that you've needed. And Andrew's story is making me re-think the whole value proposition aspect of watches. As for Adrian... that was hell of a tough spot to be in. It's easy to just say what's morally right when looking from the outside, but when you're in that position of making that decision... it's a whole other game! You guys are awesome!

[@Iyamcole]

GEORGE both designs absolutely have blown me away. Just seeing where your head is at makes me so incredibly excited for the future of your brand! I just want to say I think BOTH designs would justify the price. I hope you'll be able to make those watches happen in the future

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

The 3 of you together is Effing awesome. You bring the cool factor back into watches 😊 Thank you George, Adrian and Andrew for what you bring to the watch community. 😊

[@i.am.hodgie]

George, you NEED to make that original chronograph vision happen. 20 years on, after everything you’ve learned, you can and should make it happen.

[@MasterChief37]

Who is going to spend that amount of money on a watch by a brand which is basically a couple of steps above Daniel Wellington?

[@i.am.hodgie]

@@MasterChief37 obviously not someone who spends his nights playing Halo

[@MasterChief37]

@@i.am.hodgie I haven’t played Halo since 2005. My username is irrelevant to the conversation. Bamford doesn’t have cache to sell premium priced watches against already well established brands. Nobody will pay £10 - 20k for a Bamford watch, except maybe some of George’s wealthy friends and family.

[@StevenBaekelandt]

Make it a charity project: charge more than cost and gift the profits to a good cause. You have your watch, do a good deed & get over your self doubt.

[@seancratty7276]

​@MasterChief37 disagree, I would pay the price point. Limited volume can justify a higher price all day, coupled with those designs.

[@nate2188764]

George, you should make that watch. Whether it is a smash hit or a bust you won’t regret that you made it in 20 years. The passion is obvious in your voice. Side note, my father was recently in England and I asked him to stop by Branford and get me a sticker or something. He stopped by and said he told the woman there up front he was just sent there by his son. Apparently she brought him in anyway, treated him amazingly, hooked him up with all sorts of stickers, tshirt, bamford tote, etc. He was so impressed he called me and raved about it. The whole experience got him into watches and he bought a Chris Ward a week later after binging a bunch of AET. Thank you all, he and I have this awesome hobby to bond over now! Just wish I could have been there. I’ll be visiting as soon as I can!

[@marcusflack1523]

Dude that’s such an awesome story. Wow. Hahahaha. Your a legend.

[@masonsnakes4721]

You do see both sides of George's "coin". He knows he CAN make the watch(es). He knows someone will probably buy them. What is remarkable is that he is honest and driven enough to NOT do it because he knows it might not represent "value" when stacked against competitor products. Yes he can make it. yes it should sell. Does that mean HE feels that the buyers got a fair value for the whole proposition? That's the hurdle he has to get over. And that's admirable.

[@raymond-thecrumpledlecturer]

One of your best ever episodes. Perhaps the best ever. These episodes where you bare your secrets and experiences stand apart. Adrian's story about Undone remains another highpoint for me. I think that George's "Vanity vs Sanity" aphorism is similar to some observations that Malcolm Gladwell made in his book Blink, where he argued for the value of experience and instinct as a guide to effective actions and decisions. All of your stories had that in common, and it was a real pleasure to listen to each of your experiences. George, the 20th anniversary piece was beautiful. I am not mechanically aware enough to understand what the pushers on the watch's left hand side did, but the entire piece spoke of quality. However, you made the call to not do it, and on some level you will be proven right in the long run. Thank you again for a great episode. Bravo.

[@marcusflack1523]

Bloody hell. That’s some awesome insight my friend. Always a pleasure to see what you think.

[@raymond-thecrumpledlecturer]

​@@marcusflack1523Thank you Marcus. Still wading through the competition entries?🤣

[@joewhite6875]

Holy bleep, Andrew. Your pain about that story brought tears to my eyes. Appreciate the vulnerability from you three. Stay human, brothers. Great stuff

[@georgepinchbeck4525]

I'm going to be honest, I've taken a break for about 4 episodes but WHAT a way to return to the channel. This was an absolutely incredible and thoughtful episode and is definitely the kind of content I love. Complete and utter respect to all three of you for sharing your stories. Particularly seeing George's genius and what would (and still could😉) have been, it really put into perspective the overwhelming world of watches.

[@richmondpp]

Agree, I did the same, this was an excellent episode.

[@nicknicola1009]

Guys - Thank you so so much for today's episode. All three of you opened yourselves up in a way you very rarely see in this genre and put your feelings on display for us al to see. I honestly felt your sadness and angst as you each told your story and shared it with you. Three absolutely exceptionally top guys who have earned my total respect. It can't have been easy making this stream but its an absolute belter. Thank you

[@yojimbo21]

Thoughts: Amazing how humble George is considering his successes and background. Andrew and Adrian are incredibly supportive. I almost regret calling Andrew a ______. Adrian’s integrity is mind blowing. I don’t know many watch people who would have turned down that opportunity. The adverts remain as entertaining as the content. Andrew vulnerability is touching. It’s amazing how your relationship allows for you to share these stories. All of these stories demonstrate who you are as people. Would buy each of you a pint or two (Marcus gets a shot and a pint). Thank you.

[@marcusflack1523]

Bloody awesome. I get an extra shot. 🎉🎉🎉 thanks for being here in the comments. Means a lot to us all

[@pammikewilliams3026]

Adrian, ”integrity” is priceless and once lost never retrievable. I applaud you.

[@marcusflack1523]

Captain my captain

[@Yoobaldy]

Best video yet, being vulnerable to share the secrets, personal doubt and insecurities, challenging of morals and coming through and in such a genuine way. Loved it!

[@marcusflack1523]

Wow that means a lot to read.

[@rickfanning5647]

Adrian - in late 20/early 21 I was dealing with an awful back situation. Pain was constant, so were thoughts that it might never get better. Bark and Jack was one of the things I watched to take my mind off of things. I watched every one - even went back to the London days. You got me through some dark days. Thank you for what you do and how you do it. I know this isn’t $300k, but it’s real.

[@marcusflack1523]

Bloody hell. It’s incredible to read stories like this as we will never know how significant the things we do in life are for all types of people. Thanks for your honesty. And I hope you back recovered. I know that pain only far too well.

[@rickfanning5647]

@@marcusflack1523 thanks for the kind words and for asking. It was a long road full of physical therapy, but yes, it is much better. People really do appreciate what you do, maybe even more than you know.

[@flemmingsorensen5470]

Your best episode yet - and that says a lot 👍 Theres no effing BS with you guys, and its a honor to be "in the company" with such people.

[@drkrauser]

Love the idea of George giving his take on many styles or watches, like chronographs and perpetual calendars. One style I never see is a weekly calendar like patek's calatrava 5212a. Love the layout for people in business, but see no one else doing them. Since few have Patek money, a bamford version would be killer

[@donmongoose]

It's a credit to the chemistry between you 3 that an episode as deep and serious as this one is as enjoyable to watch as an episode where the 3 of you rush around on a find-the-best-watch challenge. Thank you for sharing these stories and I hope the experience also brought you all some level of catharsis. And that 20th anniversary watch George designed is absolutely stunning.

[@brucemacdonald3141]

Really enjoyed this episode. I think George should make that watch of his dreams. Life is short, and the future is uncertain. He needs to ask himself: “when I’m on my deathbed, will I wish I’d made that watch.” Only he can answer that question.

[@Youcantleavethisempty01]

Big props to these dudes for their vulnerability and honesty. It’s stories like these that reveal true character. Much respect. ❤

[@ritethumstik]

Absolutely fantastic stuff, gentlemen. Your transparency and honesty are what makes us love what you do. Thank you for being unequivocally and unapologetically yourselves. We have your backs, no matter what 🙌🏼

[@marcusflack1523]

Wow that means a lot to read.

[@michaelm8709]

George that perpetual calendar you shared was insanely beautiful, so many great details, understand your concerns about the cost and price and why you ultimately decided not to move forward. If you ever revisit that decision I believe many of us would jump at the chance to acquire one. I own a Bamford piece that you did with Andrew and the Time and Tide crew. Love that piece so much. also, wanted to thank you and Adrian and Andrew for sharing all your experiences and the journey for each of you around these painful moments. You guys are awesome, keep up the great work.

[@AboutEffingTime]

Thanks for all your support on all the levels 🫶🏼

[@Ruetremblay]

Bravo, you guys! What an episode. Wow…I so appreciate your candor and humility. Hold you 3 in even higher esteem after watching this. 🤝

[@marcusflack1523]

Wow that means a lot to read.

[@bussikuski]

Thank you guys for opening up, great episode. Wrt Andrew's story: the human brain and sense is a magical tool. When you have that feeling of things are getting dark and f**ked up, trust that feeling. Always.

[@AboutEffingTime]

🙌

[@gervers]

George, what you do takes more stones than I have and your gut has served you well so far. Stick with your gut and make these watches when you are ready not when anyone else wants you to make it. Unbelievably great episode! Thank you to all of you!

[@robhastings1005]

A thought provoking discussion, raising many questions as to the practices, ethics, and processes existing within the watch (and a great many other) industries. Very much respect the fact the chaps were prepared to share. Have a lovely week everyone.

[@lapelcelery42]

This is the best episode of the podcast yet. A very honest and humble presentation from each of you. Let this be a good example of the ideal that when good people allow themselves to be vulnerable, they are repaid with yet more support.

[@marcusflack1523]

I completely agree.

[@TheDjdeaf]

George! I have to say the 20 anniversary watch just looked amazing! In this case I can only say: "the two most powerful warriors are patience and time". The time for "that" watch will come, listen to your gut!!

[@The_Sceptical_Stoic]

What an immensely thought provoking and frank episode from you guys, thank you all for sharing this with us. Clearly some of the experiences you talked about were very difficult to share, which makes it all the more poignant. I've said this before, but I'll say it again, the genuine comradery and chemistry between you three is so beautiful to see, and this is what makes it so rewarding watching you guys, whether it's clowning around at Watches and Wonders or sharing a moment like this with us, your fans. I can say, this is by far the best channel and content I see on KZbin.

[@marcusflack1523]

You are a legend. Thanks for the awesome compliment. Goes a long way.

[@DarrenBates]

Gentlemen, what a fantastic hour of watch content. I absolutely love the ethics on display here and the manner of conversation and debate you have with each other. So many people in our hobby need to start conducting ourselves like this.

[@DaniloFreire]

That was a great episode, I would say it is my favourite so far. Much respect to you three, great to know that sanity has prevailed. Keep up the good work, lads!

[@JBFire97]

Great episode. Integrity so important. That perpetual calendar was lovely! Thank you all for your time and sharing your experiences.

[@PJM16]

Fantastic episode, guys! Big-time vulnerability and authenticity, which is hard to find these days. Thanks very much for sharing each of your stories. Absolutely love the channel, podcast, etc. Keep it up!!!

[@williamsmith9561]

There is no such thing as honour amongst thieves, but there is honour amongst friends. Kudos guys.

[@marcusflack1523]

Yessssss

[@jgc3434]

George, I think you should make the anniversary watch. It's not vanity at all to put so much love and passion into what you do.

[@vc.moser.ferrier]

This show has become soo great to watch. George, I think, you deserve getting honest opinions as a feedback: You have a huge talent for designing. I like elegant watches most but still the old chrono design is much more exciting than the new one. It looks to me like being something like a Certina with a quarz movement. I know it wouldn't be but I just try to be honest about how it feels to me, I hope this isn't hurting you - thanks for being so open about your thoughts and feelings.

[@kiwbi5980]

so glad we have a new season 🎉

[@BarkandJack]

Thanks for watching 👍🏻

[@Dan-56]

I could never afford one of George’s 20th anniversary watches, but my God what a beautiful design ! Truly “lust worthy”.

[@stoic900]

Great episode. You all showed great maturity and emotional intelligence by supporting each other

[@nedflanders3769]

George I love your designs, especially the dark blue dial 20th anniversary one with all the complications. If you could make it cost effective, I’d definitely be interested.😊

[@richmondpp]

Listening to George chatting about his watches, makes me want to buy a Bamford. Love when people are honest and passionate about the things they care about.

[@dustinsharp1716]

Hopefully that anniversary watch won’t wait for another decade! Maybe a 25yr celebration, but sure George knows his business! Keep up the great content

[@stringoes]

One of the best episodes yet guys, thanks for sharing the stories!

[@DXPetti]

So happy to see that lads back in the studio! Haven't finished the episode yet but golly, seeing George's face go red, go into his shell as he talks about his two projects...I just want to give you a great big fucking hug man. A big hug and shout JUST DO IT. Yes it might be vanity, yes it might be expensive (but so is so many watches), this is your soul you are putting into a cave and locked away. Let it free. Don't worry about what the world things. Remember, this is for you. If others come along for the ride and buy, fabulous. If not, who cares, you made you, you made your soul into a timepiece!

[@AboutEffingTime]

🤟🏼🤟🏼

[@expatAussietez]

The takeaway I get from all you is that you trust your instincts and that you all have integrity so kudos gentlemen, thank you for sharing and and letting us peer into the this world momentarily 👏👏

[@justthepip]

Your best one yet. Brilliant work fellas, thanks for sharing

[@renaissancesk]

Both Bamford concepts are badass. Pull the trigger on the perpetual calendar. The demand exists without a doubt!

[@notenoughtime7274]

Great video. Best yet. Keeping your integrity in life is priceless Respect to the 3 of you Can’t wait to see the Bamford chrono Moonphase… I’d also love to see an AP Code 11:59 Bamford edition…

[@TommyRibs]

Great video guys. This is a great channel and I personally enjoy the content. Thank you.

[@UltraDoug]

Brilliant episode. Really enjoying your content. Cheers 😎👍🏼

[@watch_girl_life]

Isn’t this a great story of being authentic with integrity. I am sure people and brands are trying to leach from your success all the time. Thanks for sharing your secrets and keeping your integrity.

[@RoaroftheTiger]

So far Your Best Episode. Well Done for Taking the Right Path, Andrew.

[@BTLwatchcollector]

Thank you for sharing these stories and inviting us into your inner circle, I felt like sitting at the table with you. The bond between you guys feels so natural and following your journeys is just the right thing to do. I have nothing but huge respect for you as watch world professionals / connoisseurs / enthusiasts... whatever, even so as great personalities and decent human beings. 🙌 Bruh, now you just made me sound effing corny...

[@AboutEffingTime]

Bruh we’re with you

[@carlbelmonte]

The veracity of the emotions would make this episode one of the best you guys have done to date. Props to you three; hope this project go to further heights!

[@MrZanzibar123]

"Sanity vs. vanity" is deep. Love that watch, George, but (as a professional philosopher) can't begin to afford it. Good for all you guys for having integrity! ("What doth it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul?" Too many sell-outs in this world.)

[@stewartfalk1977]

What a fantastic video showing all sides of the watch industry, alot of consumers don't realise the true extent to what is involved within the industry unfortunately.

[@xavshelby967]

Best episode so far! So deep so genuine so interesting discussion. Great job guys!

[@11-kemasabdurrahmanayassy29]

George has always been my favorite host, his passion shows

[@Th3Guido]

Great episode guys! Thanks

[@gerrypickledunnion7386]

I am Effing in awe of u guys the AET team. That episode was as touching as it was informative and incredible that all three of u have been through such a sensitive struggle without each of u knowing it, but as u mentioned it has brought u together and made this channel what it is....Your knowledge and amazing integrity is fantastic and in watching this vid i was amazed that none of u shed a tear as i was very close to it myself i must admit, so bravo and more more more please.⌚⌚👌

[@AboutEffingTime]

What a comment - thank you from all of us

[@ianmedium]

I really like the design elements to Georges first effort and perhaps there is a way to still do something very similar at a much reduced cost if your prepared to go quartz with one of the companies you already collaborate very successfully with, GShock! The case reminds me of their carbon core guard watches that have metal shells. Oh, and trust your gut, your experiences are the foundation of your intuition and gut feelings.

[@josips4281]

Awesome and heavy episode guys. We all have skeletons in our closet. Much like watch collecting, delayed gratification is the best when it hits. All your choices have led you to this point. Keep on rocking 🤘

[@TheTown1864]

Incredible episode, love all of your honesty.

[@aashisgurung7992]

George you did the right thing! Got to trust your gut instinct. So far all your collection makes sense b347, b80. These seems like a natural progression from the products you’ve brought out so far. Very Batman/Gotham esque. Keep up the good work guys!!

[@watchdulum]

Havent watched it..but i know the next 1 hour will be the best for my week. Thank you guys ❤

[@saucemac8384]

Adrian has shown the type of person he is, turning down that big money offer. You have to have some moral fibre.

[@marcusflack1523]

Bloody oath

[@user-mo6ji5nq1r]

Great episode. One of my favorites.

[@btmontres1423]

Thanks guys for another fantastic episode. IMHO the vibe all of you provide is a kind of synergy that comes from a sincere effort to share your joint experiences...some of them rich in detail and not for the faint. This is insightful and I do appreciate the lessons here. And what do we think of George's decision? Not trying to cop out and I have so much respect for what you do, but I believe the answer is that it's your heart and you have to follow it: may time allow you to reach deeply into the wisdom stored there.

[@marcusflack1523]

Wow that means a lot to read. Thanks heaps

[@BassStevie]

Brilliant episode. Thanks guys.

[@silicon_hairspring]

Absolutely amazing episode. I thought the answers were going to be a cop out like "i actually am a fan of faux-tina" but man ..these answers were riveting.

[@marcusflack1523]

And we love rivets. Just Not faux rivets.

[@JordanDoesKeebs]

THIS IS THE CONTENT WE COME HERE FOR!! Bravo boys!

[@andyholton7959]

Thank you ALL for sharing, I freaking love this show 👌🏻👌🏻

[@edjack1993]

Best episode yet. I appreciate the honesty.

[@watchdulum]

What an episode! One of the top 3 id say here. To George, hats off to you for designing such an amazing watch 20 years ago, it looks amazing on this day. Just an idea, why not take this to next level with black and yellow AET color scheme and make it an AET watch with a bit of input from each of you as the original concept is already amazing! Ofcourse with 20 years gone the technology factor may push cost down already. Have a think on this. Ill be the first one on the list ❤

[@tizombie]

Well done lads! Really appreciate the naked honesty and IMO you all made the right choice when tested. Each of your “brands” reflect your integrity and character. Thank you

[@mwade6982]

Gosh - amazing stories and kudos guys. 👏👏

[@simmysharma6845]

Wow! What wonderful stories. Kudos to all three of you. 🙏🙏🙏

[@Relaxlifeisshort2]

I love the way you guys interact with each other and how you all have different tastes. Love your shows. New subscriber.

[@mikev9287]

Enjoyed that. Interesting chat around the darker side of things.

[@AmithVasanthaKumar]

This is why I love this show and believe that at some point in the future, it will be the no.1 show in the watch world - The reason is the honesty of the 3 of you. Cheers to you guys!!

[@AboutEffingTime]

✊🏼

[@ams914]

I don't think Adrian will read this, but he should know that the ultimate wealth is a man's integrity and character. That was a great story and the right decision. Same with Andrew.

[@marcusflack1523]

The captain def reads these comments. ❤

[@michaeltroiano5705]

Next level episode, gentlemen. Thanks for sharing.

[@stanL9]

This was a great one. Thank you all three for sharing.

[@AboutEffingTime]

🙌 thanks for being there

[@TheRj1986]

Powerful stuff guys. Loved every part of it. Pull the trigger George, the watch looks amazing! 25th year anniversary piece..

[@kevinwarming7706]

Amazing episode!

[@MJ-we5if]

Glad to see everyone back to original form. I enjoy the fun stuff but really love the therapy sessions more.

[@sunildaniel1838]

This was a seriously special episode guys; thanks for sharing.

[@JustinContre]

What a great episode! A return to roots for AET! Bravo!

[@FlipFlopsQ]

Thank you for having the courage to share with all of us.

[@JG-ib7xk]

Awesome episode lads, some really important points raised that other watch KZbinrs just won't touch. George, I hope you can find it within yourself to put both those watches in to production. Andrew, I loved your watch concept and design, it could be a good starting point for an About Effing Time watch!? Adrian, props for not selling out, there are a lot of watch KZbinrs out there who don't even think twice about taking the money, and they don't even try to hide it.

[@jasonlebrun5474]

Wow Gents. This was fantastic. I'm in a 12 step program, Al Anon, and every week we hear variations of dark secrets and rumblings of inner disturbances - as you have all done here. Absolutely fantastic, I Loved it. Really enjoyed the honesty and vulnerability of the story telling. Thank you Sirs. Hope the weight off your shoulders is welcomed and feels excellent. Peace and Serenity to you three. Unquestionably my favorite work from y'all. Inspiring. Thank you. Jason

[@georgebamford]

keep on going you rock

[@markwalsh4mtr]

Best episode you 3 have ever done. Sweatshops and ethics, fantastic.

[@double00spy]

I think this is your best episode yet. Fascinating.

[@simonchiremba8299]

Finally got to watch this episode and Definitely the best episode ever!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Inspirational, motivational and you can feel the emotion behind each of them. Sanity vs vanity very interesting mindset and one to value and respect!!!

[@AboutEffingTime]

👊🏼