I will NOT Pay to Play

[@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR]

This is a very difficult subject . I’ve been making shows for 4 years now. It’s affected work life, family life and I’ve dedicated a lot of hours and days making content . I don’t begrudge anyone taking either a fee or receiving a watch as a gift in exchange for a review as long as the integrity of the review remains true to the reviewer. That the review is totally the opinion of them and the show has not needed to have been vetted before publishing. I only review watches I like, watches I’ve either bought, borrowed or contacted the brands to build a relationship with . I’m proud of the reputation I’ve built , the channel I’ve built, the community I’ve built and a pathway to see one day!!!! Hanging up the tennis racket and going into a more full time reviewer role. Transparency is the key Marc at the end of the day .

[@HansWatches]

Love your show🎉

[@tomislavm2873]

You are too loud for me

[@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR]

@@tomislavm2873you’re way too quiet for me!

[@ericreither3666]

“as long as the integrity of the review remains true” Marc’s point is exactly this; the integrity of the review will inevitably be distorted when $$ is exchanging hands. Some industries and fields have rules to combat this; the watch industry does not. Caveat emptor.

[@lonegroover]

Interesting, because some of your recent pieces come across like ads.

[@WatchChris]

I have featured Islander on my channel a few times! In fact Islander is featured in a video coming out on Sunday! I own an islander I paid for and I love it. I've had this conversation with Marc a while ago. My KZbin channel cost me more money than it makes. I might be one of the few out there who does not make money in KZbin... I have a simple rule. I feature watches that I like on my channel. And it doesn't matter to me how I get them. I take loaners. A lot of the time I will just buy a watch because I know I'll end up wearing it and it's important to me that I feature great watches on my channel. I wear my Islander all the time! I have a full-time job that is very demanding. I also have a family and three kids. I Make KZbin videos because I love talking about watches. It's nice to make money at a hobby, but it shouldn't be the focus otherwise it becomes a job. Great video Marc.

[@islandwatch]

Thanks Chris. I appreciate it!!!!!

[@grobhughes]

Subscribed! Look forward to watching your videos. Thank you.

[@fredstahl2823]

I think your content is awesome

[@WatchChris]

@@grobhughes Thank you! appreciate it!

[@WatchChris]

@@fredstahl2823 thanks so much!

[@theurbangentry]

Well said fratello. I've been talking about this for many years now in maybe half a dozen videos, so you know where I stand. It has mainly fallen on deaf ears unfortunately. This is one of many reasons "reviewing" watches of making content about them for me always remains more as a part time thing. Besides, I find it impossible to talk about watches I am not interested in, let alone spending weeks working on a video about them. What is really sad however, these paid to play "publications" and "content creators" have teams of specialists on the pay role and collude with google to push their content on this platform via the algorithm, burying all my fellow real independent channels. It's messed up, but that is why I mainly watch the Italian KZbin channels now as they have not been corrupted by it and hopefully will remain so. Great video. I hope you stick to you guns on this one. O&U! P.s. This didn't even show up in my feed or my notifications, how convenient for them, I wonder why!!! 😅

[@islandwatch]

LOL, thank you!!!!!!

[@ericreither3666]

The fact that TGV won’t accept $$ to review sets him apart from the crowd and gives his content credibility.

[@vincesacca5025]

You're the best watch reviewer I have ever seen. Your shows are so interesting, educational and packed with a lot of fun. You're pure entertainment. Goodbye for now my friend.

[@BradyPuryear]

@@theurbangentry the idea that you don’t show favoritism to brands you’ve partnered with is disingenuous. Plus Mark has said in his videos with you he is a sponsor and you promote islander watches. 🤷🏼‍♂️ there is nothing wrong with it but you guys don’t need to pretend that you don’t have bias towards brands who you’ve made money with.

[@styleandpattern]

@@BradyPuryear Well said!

[@flemmingsorensen5470]

Pls keep doing what you do - your integrity is the foundation of your business.

[@islandwatch]

thank you

[@comeoncents3288]

I agree. I also love my Islander Manhasset Automatic in Green Pearl. I believe you learned valuable Les from how your father did business.

[@rioriggs3568]

I don't get it... you want folks to take multiple hours of their time to review your watch, edit a video, write a script, etc.. but you're not willing to give them the $200 watch. Is there something I'm missing here?

[@SunbriteInstall]

I 100% agree !! I will always purchase watches and straps from Long Island Watch !! You are a stand up Guy

[@comeoncents3288]

@@rioriggs3568 yes and it is called being authentic.

[@Happyfacehotwheels]

You don't review watches. You sell watches. You aren't a salesman pretending to be a reviewer, and I appreciate that. People don't work for free, and the reviewers are really just advertisers and influencers. Just like anything else, do your own homework and don't trust any one person.

[@NoNonsense316]

Well said! 👍

[@siraulokarin]

Mark is old school. What he describes is the new way of advertising. Not any different from back in the days when you'd pay a newspaper or magazine to put an ad in their publication. Concept is the same now just in different digital formats. 😉

[@forlornhope1521]

Paying for ad space to promote your product is a bit different from a content creator saying send me a free watch and I'll tell my subscriber base it's awesome, the new Seiko killer, biggest value for the money, etc. regardless of the ACTUAL quality of the watch. In the back of mind I know this is probably what's happening when I see a watch review from a KZbin video. Mark is one of the few creators that doesn't give me that impression. Urban Gentry, MWC, and maybe one or two others are the only ones that I feel show integrity and honesty in thier reviews

[@gorillasinthewrist]

I suspect transparency is the key, if you know a review is sponsored, you can form your opinion in that knowledge. As a small review channel, I do it for the fun of it, it’s a hobby, I was given one watch but the rest of the time I buy them myself.

[@dannyfree1120]

100% right. He's never once claimed he doesn't sell watches for a living. I trust his words and the products he sells

[@highintensitypt]

2min 34secs in and I had to pause the video to write this comment. What started with watching the Watch & Learn tutorials, I was able to gain enough knowledge and confidence to try and attempt my first mod. 2 years on from that I was making custom builds with my own logo on the dial and 2 years on from that (this week) & I received my first pay check as a full time watch technician. Mark from Long Island, you sir a true pioneer in the field, thank you for what you have given the community, thank you for the many more videos in the future & thank you for teaching me a life changing skill set.

[@RelativeTime]

I think I've been running my channel for about 6-7 years now. I like to think I'm sort of in that middle ground now... I'm not really small, but I'm not big either. It's still a fun hobby, yet it's also sort of a business at the same time I'd love to do this full-time, but there is no way that could ever happen unless I drastically change things. Drop my quality, up my quantity of videos, and start charging a reviewer fee. Or go "full affiliate". Neither of which I want to do. So I kind of see all sides of it, and it's complicated. There are a number of channels I don't trust, and I think are gaming the system for pure profit. Yet there are a number that are good ones as well. I think the trick for brands that want to expand is finding good ethical reviewers who are willing to review the watches. The same is true for us reviewers as well, I've had a few bridges burned with some brands for speaking my mind, and I'm ok with that. Because at the end of the day, I don't want to deal with a brand that gets mad when I point out something. It's not worth my time. Yet I enjoy talking to brand owners who want to hear what I have to say and don't just want to use my channel for free advertising. One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of brands let reviewers keep watches because it's easier that way. It's cheaper/ more effective than running Facebook ads. They don't have to pay for return shipping. They don't have to figure out what to do with a used watch or keep track of a watch that's moving between reviewers. Believe it or not, I've had to remind brand owners months after the review that " I still have your watch, and what do you want me to do with it". But either way, my advice is if you are happy with the way things are going, don't give out anything. Honestly, I'm not sure how much that would actually help. As you actually have more reach with your channel than 95% of the watch reviewers out there. So sending something off to someone who would get you another 500-1000 views, probably isn't worth the cost of shipping. And for those who don't know me or my channel, it's never been required to keep anything to do a review. It's always appreciated, but I make sure brands know it's not a requirement.

[@islandwatch]

And that's what makes you a good guy. I appreciate the feedback. However, even if you did take compensation, I wouldn't fault you, either. The system is broken. Without money, the economics don't support it.

[@DumasMoran]

For what it's worth, I totally read your post, hearing it in my head, in your speaking voice. Pauses and all. I think that says something about the marks you're making.

[@RelativeTime]

@DumasMoran lol. Thanks. It actually does mean a lot to me

[@grobhughes]

Great channel, I appreciate all the work you put into your videos. Top quality.

[@cedarcanoe]

Much appreciate your honesty Shane! Greetz from Sweden

[@robpointon348]

Glad to hear your take on it. Stick to your principles.Fully behind you. Cheers

[@richardlocke7264]

I was in sales for 36 years...I was always a "boy scout" stay honest, you hold on to your morals. Sleeping at night is worth something. I'm proud of my work and my life.

[@islandwatch]

thank you for that.

[@techmadgeek]

It's not like offering the reviewer a trip to the Bahamas. I'ts providing a product for review. Even a boy Scout would understand the watch is not going to have a huge resale value for a busy reviewer, who will normally give them away afterwards.

[@HonestWatchReviewsHWR]

Here's my opinion on this topic, as someone who has a smaller channel. I'm sure this is the case with many other reviewers too... But I have a mixture of watches on the channel ranging from ones I've bought, got at a reduced price, free or even on loan. I include the 'Paid Promotion' tag in videos where I either received the watch for free, or got a discount. This is the only way we can keep producing videos regularly. As otherwise it would just become far too expensive. I know this, as I used to buy them all for a long time. As the channel got bigger brands started to contact me and ask if I'd be interested in reviewing their watches. Some offer to pay for reviews... I personally don't accept payment for reviews, as I feel that brands expect a positive review then. And I always point out the positives and negatives with every watch I review. I've even had brands ask me to take down videos before, for watches they sent me for free, as they weren't happy with me pointing out the negatives. Obviously I refused. I do accept free watches... I know some people would argue that that is basically the same thing, but the way I see it is the brand has to pay to ship the watch over to me for review and if it's a loan piece, ship it back as well. Being in the UK, that normally means international shipping. So, it adds up. With my channel mainly focusing on more budget watches, I guess some brands think it's not worth the time and money to send it back, so they just say that you can keep the watch. Also that means that they will get continued coverage from Instagram pics etc too. I actually still have the majority of the watches that I've received for free, as I use them to do comparison reviews and also I just like to have a lot of different watches to choose from... I could never be one of these people that only has 3 'luxury' watches. I prefer to have lots of more 'budget' watches instead. That being said... I do have a website to try and sell some of the watches I have, as it's getting out of control now (first world problems, I know). I give a percentage of the money made from sales to charity. Specifically MNDA, as it's a charity close to my heart. Due to having a family member that passed away due to ALS.

[@JG-ib7xk]

But you're acting like the watch companies have a duty to ensure you can keep making videos. That you can only make videos of you receive free watches, therefore they should give you free watches because it's their job to keep you in work. There are plenty of watch reviewers who don't accept free watches. They just loan them and send them back. That should be the starting point for all watch review channels.

[@HonestWatchReviewsHWR]

​@@JG-ib7xk I'm not saying that they have a duty to do that, but if they want to keep getting reviews of their watches done, regularly... Then it's just not feasible for us reviews to be buying every watch we review. Also, I said above, sometimes it just doesn't make financial sense for brands to ship watches back and forth, if they are budget pieces. As that ends up being the price of the watch or more sometimes. Or do you think that we reviewers should be paying to return the watches after getting them on loan? If that's the case, then you're saying that not only are we not allowed to make any money from the work we do on our channels, but we should in fact be paying to get these watches in too. I think you'll find that there are a lot of channels, especially the bigger ones, who not only get free watches, but also take payments on top of that for reviews. This for me is where I have an issue. Especially as a lot of these channels don't disclose that fact either. They just say it's a "sponsored" video.

[@MirrlyonTime]

I’m one of the small channels that you have sent watches to review which I have sent back, well actually bought some and even sold another to my buddy Timmy. If you don’t want to send watches in a pay to play way that’s totally fine! I’ve even had to pay to have them shipped back to you because you can’t do return labels from Canada (at least at the time I got a couple watches). I only review watches I like, usually the asthetic first until I get them in hand. Anyways, you have always been honest and up front and so long as a reviewer does the same, there shouldn’t be an issue.

[@davidtrachtenberg7095]

Stay with what you are doing. There are many channels that I won’t even go to any more….it is so obvious what motivates them. I want information about watches without bias. I’m thankful for your channel.

[@islandwatch]

Thank you, I will

[@JusttheWatch]

First off, thank you for bringing this up. I've been meaning to make a video about this from the reviewer perspective, so I'll add to the conversation here. I agree with everything you said, and 100% respect your policy, but at the same time I almost always request to a free watch in exchange for a review. This absolutely creates some bias in the review, which I try to mitigate by heavily screening which watches I accept, and doing my best to fairly criticize flaws I find. This part has become easier as my channel has grown, because I'm overwhelmed with offers of free watches for reviews, so burning a bridge with one brand doesn't effect my channel too much anymore. The fact of the matter is, a lot of us are in a very different situation than professional Micheline star reviewers, because we don't have an employer footing the bill for our meals, or paying us for our time. Like I said, my typical arrangement with microbrands is that I ask to keep the watch that is reviewed. I draw the line at accepting cash for a review. I do accept cash for sponsored advertising on videos, but that's been pretty rare so far. I make exceptions to my free watch policy if I think the watch is popular enough that it will get a lot views if I review it, because views are what I actually get paid for from KZbin. The reality is I do this on my (very limited) free time. It takes me a minimum of 8 hours to produce a review to production standard I shoot for. This has become a part time job for me and helps provide for my family. KZbin doesn't pay me by the hour, they pay me by the view, and microbrand watches, almost by definition, are less well known than other watches, and in almost all cases will generate far less views. A Microbrand review on my channel now typically gets about 10,000 views. Other types of content I do will typically get between 20,000 and up to a million views. The videos that I've done that go crazy on view counts are never microbrand videos. If my goal were to maximize return on my time, or to maximize my channel's audience and subscriber base, I wouldn't ever review a microbrand watch. But I do. More often than any other content I review microbrand watches. And I do it because microbrands are making really cool watches, they're run by really cool people, and I enjoy checking out their watches and interacting with them. And typically when I review one of their watches, it helps their brand out quite a bit by giving them a lot of exposure, exposure which would probably cost them thousands of dollars in targeted advertising if they wanted to buy it. Exposure that I'm spending hours of my time to give them, even though I could have used those hours to produce a video that would be of greater benefit to me and my channel. This is a problem created by the KZbinr landscape. It's not a a purely bad problem, it's just a different way for reviews to happen. It offers different benefits and different drawbacks to reviews published in traditional media. All that said, sign me up for an Islander review on your terms, because I think you're making some of the best value watches out there right now, and you've been one of my favorite watch channels since before I started mine!

[@islandwatch]

I really, really, really want people to know I don't fault them for what's happening. I get it, truly. I'm blessed to have the income stream supplied by the sales of the store. I really just want to bring it to light. . . I sort of wrestled with even doing it. I shot it 4 times, finally getting it right in one take. It's the larger conglomerates that get to me. . . a price list. Really? A price list?!?! Anyway, I consider you one of the good guys! I appreciate you reaching out!!!!

[@JusttheWatch]

@@islandwatch I didn't feel in any way like I was being attacked in your video, I thought it was a great take. The price list thing is pretty ridiculous! I actually get asked for a price list pretty frequently by brands contacting me, seems like its becoming the norm.

[@rangerlongshot]

@@islandwatch I worked at a major daily newspaper for 24 years. No one ever accepted anything free. If you did you would lose your job. That's Journalism 101. You are 100% correct in calling this out. As a serious watch collector for 30+ years I have little use for KZbin channels run by folks who bought their first mechanical watch in 2020. The inherent corruption in the system is crazy and will not be self sustaining. Integrity is everything.

[@vincesacca5025]

Thanks for your opinion and being so candid. This has been going on in the World forever and the way of doing business for thousands of companies. It's nothing new by any standards. People everywhere are following the dollar to China and other slave working countries to make as much money as they can. I don't care how much someone praises a watch or how popular they are If I don't like the watch, I am not buying it.

[@vincesacca5025]

@@islandwatch It's been going on forever in our World. Everyone is running to China and other slave working countries to make as much money as they can. It's followed the dollar.

[@wordrebel]

I purchase my watches whenever possible from Long Island Watch for many reasons but none are more important than this: Marc is honest and strives to find ways to be more transparent at every turn. I can trust not only his word but the fact that he would only stock things that he believes are going to last, even if they aren't his cup of tea. Keep up the great work!

[@michaelj8793]

Never compromise your morals my friend what you have done over the years has been fantastic we always appreciate your honesty and ridiculously fair prices and customer service that is second to none Be well Big blessings and of course Wheels up 👍

[@islandwatch]

thanks!

[@wikster6630]

​@michaelj8793 I totally agree with your customer service comment. Marc is the best! I've purchased 4 Islanders from him so far. And I bought one off of eBay when I missed grabbing a limited edition collaboration. It was missing a link on the bracelet when it arrived. I contacted him about possibly getting one, he sent one free of charge. Can't beat that! Cheers

[@spikedog1218]

You didn't start the business to be told what to say, or leveraged into promoting this or that. Most viewers are with you on this. We trust the people we listen to and buy from. I always try to buy from you because of this trust. Marc you're the good guy.

[@GaugeReality]

Nothing in this world is free not even an Islander watch. The game is the game

[@explained4242]

Youre right Mark, it's a beoken system. I don't know of a solution. But you have the support and love of almost all the watch community. People wish they could be strong enough to be morally like you. Keep it up man!

[@Dark_Star999]

I was wondering who was going to address this topic and I'm glad it was someone I was subscribed to. I've seen new watch channels, smaller ones included, asking to review even the "limited edition" and "obscure" pieces at no cost to the reviewer, and then later sell them off at exorbitant prices. It's happened with the AVI-8 x Capcom 1942 Game Collaboration very recently with their limited edition watch. It never released yet, and was being promoted on Social Media. There were many comments asking for a free watch INCLUDING asking about a review unit. ON A LIMITED TO 200 PIECES WATCH (3 versions, 200 Pieces Each IIRC) I saw that watch being sold a few days later on Ebay by new Ebay Accounts and even the KZbinr/Press accounts that had exclusive "Review Unit" Items unavailable to the public for sale, at massive price hikes. It's a trend for scalpers to be pretending to be reviewers and buying Social Media accounts with bot followers. It's not new that people with overinflated egos who think they are entitled to an open door to every company that sells a product *deserves* a review unit, like they are "Doing Your Business A Favor". It's Ludicrous.

[@P4ONK7ORD]

As a proud owner of 3 Islander watches as well as business owner myself, your thoughts left me intrigued enough to leave this long comment. I completely get where your mind is at and your integrity is admirable, which is a huge part of why I love my islander watches. I’ve emailed back and forth with you several times and I appreciate the way you do business. Having said that, several times I’ve pondered “why aren’t Islander watches more mainstream, I can’t believe they haven’t blown up yet etc”. It all boils down to Brand Recognition and as much as I hate to admit it myself, playing the game is the only way to get there. I think you need to focus on the big picture, it’s just the modernization of advertising. Back in the day we’d pay to have our product featured in a magazine or TV commercial. Send out some watches for review and consider it an advertisement/marketing expenditure.

[@crowellp]

I just bought an orange Citizen Brycen from you. It arrived yesterday and I'm wearing it right now. You gave the watch a very favorable review while making it clear you have it for sale. To me that simply meant you sell watches you like and would wear yourself. Your review and my purchasing the watch from you made the whole experience more fun. I bought it from you because I like your work and I want to support what you do. I'm now seriously considering one of your Islanders as a next or future purchase. You're doing something right and I hope you keep it up. Thanks!

[@mikesvirtualhikeandtours1721]

100 Mark!! Keep doing what your doing.

[@islandwatch]

Thanks! Will do!

[@Augolfguy]

I actually just bought my first islander piece and I watch all your videos because you don’t participate in the pay to play game. Also when I have called or reached out in the past you have personally responded and assisted in answering my questions. That counts for me. Keep up the great work

[@craigkovach8475]

Marc you're very influential in your way. Your honest straightforward style is universally appealing, and you show us lots of watches which is what we like most and keeps us interested in the hobby. And you wanna talk influence? Right after watching this I went and threw my orange rubber strap on my Doxa silver dial Sub 200!

[@islandwatch]

LOL, nice!

[@xyzzzxyzzz6409]

Marc, you have personally helped me and I never gave you a dime. Keep doing what you are doing. What you do is worth more than all the treasures in the World.

[@alanwright4448]

This is one of the very few channels I watch for pleasure. So many other channels have become like shopping channels or adverts. Keep doing what you're doing and the way you do it. Making a few more bucks isn't worth compromising your principles. Easy for me to say when it's got nothing to do with me! Trust your gut, if it feels wrong, stay away! Regardless of all of that, love the channel and your videos, you're one of the really genuine guys out there.

[@WaterJake]

Good to hear it! It's particularly tough for a new brand trying to get themselves started on a budget. Those I know who are trying to get a brand off the ground are finding this side of the industry the hardest part to deal with. A reviewer you have to pay isn't writing a review, they're writing an ad.

[@cnbrown]

If it’s truly about integrity, the answer’s obvious: No, you shouldn’t change your stance. The question is basically “should I let go of my principles to make more money?”. How much money are your principles worth?

[@islandwatch]

exactly, and it's priceless.

[@ericreither3666]

@@cnbrown I agree with this, and suspect that many of Marc’s customers support him precisely for this reason. Yes, giving out watches as “thank yous” - definitely not bribes! - would lead to more exposure, but potentially at the risk of losing his core group of supporters. It’s quite the conundrum, and I certainly wouldn’t begrudge the guy for giving in, but I hope he sticks to his guns.

[@gerardhiggins1]

Keep on doing what you do Marc. I emailed this man with a watch question a few weeks back and the response was almost immediate. Customer service and appreciation are nearly extinct these days. We need more like you but I'm not holding my breath.

[@deepakagarwal3408]

The best reviews I see and trust are from those people who at the end of video say hey I love this watch and I was really sad to send it back. I appreciate knowing there isn’t a quid pro quo. Keep doing what you’re doing.

[@jtr159]

You hit the nail on the head with this video. That said, I work for an electronics company and I send out dozens of review units weekly. How we've solved this particular problem is that we don't ask for the sample back, but we ask the reviewer to sign a "sample receipt" document that clearly states they're not allowed to sell the sample. We don't mind that they get to keep the sample - heck, if they post about it more that's just better for us - but if they have a problem with not being able to sell it, then we have a problem and we won't send review units to that particular reviewer anymore.

[@Zotrax1946]

I understand the dilemma, truly. Yet I believe that you and your company represents a unique and extraordinary approach to the business, and we the customers (and viewers) are benefiting immensely from it! You’re the most trustworthy person in the watch industry, and I hope that your personal values will triumph the financial ones. Either way I am happy with your success, and will be an avid and loyal customer of Islander watches!

[@DavidKemp-u5r]

Never Compromise Your integrity. It was your instinct and hard work that has taken you to this level. You are universally respected across KZbin, and THAT, is what will take you to your next level.

[@Dan-56]

Don’t change what you’re doing, your honesty and integrity is why we keep coming back and making purchases from you 👍! And you certainly don’t need paid reviews to try to impress us about how good your products are, we know if it’s coming from you it’s top quality.

[@SB-Kiwi]

Nice honest upload simply sharing your thoughts as someone on the inside. No finger pointing and full of understanding and empathy. Well put and most appreciated. Thank you.

[@johnearle7776]

You are an honourable merchant and online presenter. Keep up the good work Mark.

[@JonnieSlade-fh2cg]

@@johnearle7776 Marc is super awkward but he's a righteous mug

[@johnearle7776]

@ I have a Seiko Turtle. I had a nasty fall at work, and broke my bracelet and scratched the bezel quite badly. He sent me a new bracelet and a ceramic bezel at a good price considering I live in Canada. My local watch guy charged me $70 to switch out the old bezel for the new one. That was more than what I paid for the bezel. He’s a good guy.

[@Robert.Dickson]

Watched a lot of your videos from the early days-particularly loved your ‘Watch & Learn’ ones. Thank you for your honesty and I admire your integrity.

[@AB-sw4kb]

They call it "access journalism" and you're right: it is common across many industries. I respect you for being honest about this practice. People who value honesty can see how much you care

[@10lauset]

I've been watching you and Mr 'Gentry' for many years now and regard the both of you as enthusiastic straight shooters telling me how to appreciate watches, and I haven't worn nor bought any watches in decades since retiring. It's purely for my entertainment. I remember one channel showing how to source parts for watches for assembly and sales in the same way as semiconductor or even EV manufacturing.....entirely for my pleasure at 75 years of age. Thank you for keeping me entertained.

[@jjjfffppp]

I've purchased many many watches from your store over the last 6-7 years. Keep doing what your doing.

[@StevenJayOh]

Stand your ground. We need more high integrity people in the world. Keep up the good work.

[@tuxedomanor]

Love your take on this Marc! Your integrity is off the charts! I would never let somebody else’s opinion on a watch negatively or positively influence my decision ..

[@masdojo]

As someone who has bought 15+ Islanders from you, and quite a few other brands as well from LIW, it's your honesty, integrity and customer service that keeps me coming back and doing business with you, Marc! You are a stand-up guy, and I, as well as many others, appreciate that very much! ⌚

[@jumpkeys]

Please do not stop what you are doing. There is something pure about you and the company, and frankly why I buy your watches. Everything feels honest. Keep up the wonderful job!

[@paulsutphin7813]

I always appreciate the straight talk and honest business approach, mixed with a sense of humor and appreciation for the way-too-many ironies that run through the watch biz; makes it easy to want to do business with you guys (in addition to the fun value watches!). Islander's success is based on this approach, as well as product merit and the great value proposition, not paying to play. (This first appeared, btw, a long time ago in the music business, aka payola; the internet and rise of influencer culture (an oxymoron in most cases) is making this an insidious suck for modern life). As the Brits say, keep hitting with a straight bat, and a lot of us will enjoy being long-term customers. And great to see your team at Windup in NYC, -- missed you on your day off!

[@raymcd4543]

The Islander and Squale watches I’ve got from you are a joy to wear!!!! I believe you are very trustworthy and provide fantastic service and should keep doing business the way that you do it!!!! It makes sense that in order to be featured in a physical or online publication that one has to pay to play which I think is a disservice to the customers but unfortunately that’s how many different businesses operate.

[@HobbyOfHours]

Missed you by a day at Windup, would have been great to interview you! I support this completely. The line between advertising and review has been blurred by the many new media outlets afforded us and it can be challenging to tell one from the other. As someone just beginning to review watches loaned in from brands, I would only ever expect free shipping in and out of my hands. That's it. Keep it clean, keep it classy and smile when you look in the mirror. Keep flying high, D

[@NoNonsense316]

Marc, you've always been honest with us, your viewers. Your integrity is more important than garnering favor through fake reviews. Keep up the good work.

[@curry76]

Thanks for this video, it was a reminder for me that I love supporting small businesses such as yours! Especially when it's run by someone of your integrity! This video prompted me to purchase your Islander Black Pilot watch! Thanks so much for everything that you do!! I can't wait for the watch!!!!

[@Dadication3]

Your integrity is why I shop at your store. Well said Mark.

[@thefearofaflatplanet]

Fair play for speaking out. I often see a flood of reviews for the same watch and I’ve always been a bit sceptical about it all. Keep doing what you’re doing and being you - the world is a better place for people speaking the truth like you. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@marcthibault8723]

Totally agree... camera gear is the same... it's become a big game. Most of these influencers are just shills for whoever pays them...

[@islandwatch]

yup

[@theyhateme8763]

let me guess you belived there was a waiting list at rolex too?

[@reax2237]

MOST?? ALL??

[@marcthibault8723]

@@reax2237 Most All what?

[@deegan463]

Keep doing what you're doing Marc. So far I've only gotten bracelets from you but you are a class act, responding to my e-mails first thing the next morning, and the bracelets I've got from you for my Duro, SRPD, and SRPG are second to none.

[@jbl500]

Mark, i agree with you. I have about 50 watches to review. Because I like them, I purchased all of them with my own money. I applaud your integrity. Hopefully, soon, I will purchase one of yours for my personal use and then eventually do a review.

[@JustCruzeN]

Respect, the crossroads of learning that everything is paid for now a days. Good review bad reviews its all bought not earned. You're showing great integrity and doing the right thing. Great principles and youre standing on it. That's what being a man is all about

[@SMH24.7]

Dear Marc, Your gut feeling is absolutely right...there's something that's corrupt and "slimy" about pay for play...that's why I would call it a "slippery slope." Stay away from the "nudge-nudge, wink-wink" people out there. There's a shadowy (and sometimes overt) element of disonesty "baked into" their process. And these people will come back asking for more, and then act like you owe them something. They would cheapen your brand. Neither you nor your customers want that...! Unfortunately, part of the "success" (if you want to call it that) of online reviewers is based on the impulsiveness and naivete of those who look at their content. Discerning buyers know better. Remember, it's "buy the seller first, then buy the watch." You have personally proved there is wisdom in that sentiment, time and time again. Best wishes always and thanks for your honesty from a happy customer. 😃

[@Neverstopdreaming568]

Nice Marc. Rolando here. That’s why I continue to purchase from you. Your Integrity means more. Every review I read on island watches and you, all agree that you are awesome to work with and I have experienced it many times in my recent orders. I understand people need to make money, but integrity goes a long way.

[@135ipocketrocket2]

Appreciate you! As an over 20 year collector with nearly 800 watches, it's been dismal buying YT hyped watches that are a big disappointment because the promotion was not honest. You are the real deal Sir! Just received two more Islander watches I bought and they are, once again, incredible. Better to be honest than fake. 👍

[@samayoa95]

800 watches? Can I be your friend? 😂

[@JohnClarkW]

Marc, you doing the right thing is a big part of why I always recommend your watches. So many online reviews are bought, and it isn't just the watch business. I am a headphone and IEM guy too, and some of the KZbin channels get no gear from certain brands, because of prior reviews.

[@islandwatch]

thank you!

[@forlornhope1521]

Honesty and integrity are becoming a relic in today's world. Like the old saying in journalism "never let the truth get in the way of a good story". Thank you for staying true to your beliefs

[@JonnieSlade-fh2cg]

@@forlornhope1521 are you an honourable man, Stevie? 🤔

[@johnmexico61]

I think you’re doing great. Please keep doing it the way you do and the way you’re comfortable. Love the channel and Long Island Watches. Thanks!

[@tylerjames646]

Big respect for staying true to your morals. I say, keep doing what you are doing.

[@derjan6666]

Keep doing it like you did the past 5 years! Really love the brand you built and all of your videos !

[@MarcTsawwassen]

I own several watches, but I don't own an Islander. Now I want to buy one because of ethics of the company

[@rays1495]

Thanks for making this video. I appreciate the discussion and the comments it has elicited from many watch KZbinrs.

[@BarkandJack]

It’s an impossible situation and one I’m constantly battling in my head… Reviews should be honest and without money exchanged. But it costs money to make reviews. Many people only review things they like, so inherently their reviews are positive. A positive review results in sales. Even when you don’t take money and review a product, many viewers assume the review is paid for anyway. I’ve made many videos that cost me more money to make the video than I’ll earn through YT ads and B&J product sales. So really the ONLY person who wins is the watch brand.

[@EscapeWheel]

you make a really good point here. I run a small channel and mark ALL my videos as "paid promotion" even when I purchased the wat...because, well, I'm getting paid in some manner, whether it be YT ad revenue, affiliate links, or selling the watch after. I still get the occasional person saying they can't trust the reviewers. not much we can do about it...just be consistent and stand by what you say and be as fair as possible no matter the watch. p.s. always enjoy your content, Adrian. keep it going. I wish some of my reviews took me to far away lands like yours :)

[@islandwatch]

It sure is and I totally get it. I think the system just sucks but it's a system society came up with. I don't fault anyone for it. I think the purpose of the video was more to draw the curtain back a bit.

[@ericreither3666]

I suppose, if “winning” is only determined by dollars and cents - rather than the satisfaction of discussing a topic of genuine interest with likeminded hobbyists.

[@derbagger22]

​@@islandwatch it's 21st century advertising. To be honest, I'd rather that than repeated ads on apps like IG where I hate getting ANY ads, even if it's for things I like...

[@BarkandJack]

@@ericreither3666 The whole discussion here is about money - being paid for content or doing it for free, receiving watches for free or paying. Believe me, you don't do reviews/make content about watches unless you have a genuine deep interest - as I say, there are many times I make content that costs me money because it's driven by interest rather than a commercial decision.

[@kylebrown1820]

This is absolutely an issue in every industry. I think as long as you are careful about who does the review and transparent with your customers you should be fine. Thanks for being open about this.

[@arserio13]

I’m on your side. Keep doing what you have been doing.

[@TempusLouis]

Mark your watches speak for themselves, they are awesome time pieces, high quality at a very fair price. Five years in the game your company has done amazing designs in many categories. After watching and following you for 2-3 years I personally pulled the trigger on the Bridgehampton Chronograph, im getting it on November 6th and the wait is agonizing. Keep up the great work sir 👍

[@zoolanderhansel]

i watched a review of a microbrand watch (Erebus) by another youtuber recently. The review was basically a spec listing, but you can tell its a paid promo. The reviewer didn't show any enthusiasm. So you can totally tell the guy was just doing the "review" as a favor. I wish reviews were done out of genuine interest. But this is the culture of youtubers, reviewers "help out" other reviewers' product. Nothing genuine about their reactions.

[@watchrolling]

I think your videos do much more for your brand than any reviewer ever will. We've come to expect your straight-forward approach and I for one appreciate it. You have the "watch and learn" series which is more FREE educational content than any other channel provides. That alone drew me to your channel and to purchasing an Islander for my wife because it's apparent you want to provide watch enthusiasts with an excellent product.

[@ChronometerCheck]

You've achieved success without relying on big-name publications or paid promotions. It's an admirable approach, in many ways your watches peak for themselves, but I think transparency from reviewers is equally important. Knowing whether a review is sponsored or not helps viewers make informed decisions and evaluate the watch (and the fairness of the review!) more objectively. We all understand that sponsored content exists, and as long as it's disclosed, I don't think it's a problem.

[@islandwatch]

Thanks Anthony

[@JonnieSlade-fh2cg]

@@ChronometerCheck what's this, the mutual admiration society?

[@ChronometerCheck]

@@JonnieSlade-fh2cg Yeah, it's actually called MAS and we meet every Sunday

[@ChronometerCheck]

@@JonnieSlade-fh2cg Yes, it's called the MAS. We meet every Sunday

[@JonnieSlade-fh2cg]

@@ChronometerCheck you should think about amateur yuk yuk nite

[@troymay8966]

I watch your channel religiously. We actually met at the windup nyc last year, where we discussed some watches I'd purchased, one of them being my flighty. I happened upon one of your videos on a German made mesh that fits the Flight Master, I bought it and up until today it sat in a draw. I like my watches more than a little tooly. The watch on that mesh is amazing. An honest recommendation, a very satisfying result. Your faith in your catalog shines through. Thanks.

[@SecronSeven]

The justonemorewatch guy must be furious 🤣

[@JonnieSlade-fh2cg]

@@SecronSeven I don't dig just one more watch 👎

[@SecronSeven]

​@@JonnieSlade-fh2cg​@JonnieSlade-fh2cg neither do I, at least not any more. Bought and paid for. I still watch because the channel is important to the hobby, but yeah, I don't take anything he says seriously. I don't feel like I can trust him.

[@acftmxman]

I appreciate your candor and integrity. It is the reason I do business with you. I hate how pay to play is so pervasive in all industries. Especially now with so called “influencers”. Side note, I don’t understand the term because they don’t influence me at all. If I watch or read a review it is because I am already interested in the product. What I am more interested in is the build quality and what’s inside. That lets me know if the product is worth it or not. Just keep doing what you are doing. Making quality watches at affordable prices with the best customer service. The rest will fall into place. And by the by, I’d rather be flying as well. Let us know when you get your private’s.

[@vincentmartinez2068]

I believe that an honest review should be exactly that, an honest unbiased review. The Good, the bad, the likes and or dislikes and no money or gifts should be exchanged between either parties. Personally I also think that all the items reviewed should also be returned to the manufacturer. Allowing someone to keep the item reviewed in my eyes is seen as a gift and potentially seen as a bribe which could most definitely influence the outcome.

[@speedracer2please]

Meeting you and seeing Islander and the other independent brands at Wind Up really opened my eyes to what a watch can be, and what you're really getting for the money. I'm much more interested in Islander than any big brand after that. I think if you keep getting watches into people's hands directly, more people will feel the same. Keep it up!

[@BenOwen152]

You're not wrong, everything you said is true, but that said, it is how the review market works for better or worse. It's part of how watch channels monetize their work. You can choose not to participate, but you're really only hurting yourself and your business. That stand will not change the market, it will only limit your company's exposure (as an owner of a few Islanders, I want everyone to know about the brand!). Like it or not, it's just how it is. It's impossible to beat reality.

[@jacksoncornbreadmcbride6763]

Look Bernie, some folks have integrity. Maybe you outta consider standing up for your convictions once in awhile, fella.

[@PlaylistER-t1p]

is even worse than that, when you have more than 200k followers and being so popular your actions and words have consequences, there could be lots of good smaller channels that need to rely on companies sending the watches for free, saying you dont want to pay is like disregarding the work that is being made for your watch, anyone else comes up with this kind of video and would be instantly canceled 🤦‍♂

[@JBass33]

Marc, you treated me right years ago when I first started my small watch collection. You have integrity and that is why you will always get my business.

[@colinsmith5218]

This is why I watch you and not the sell-outs (sorry for my dated terminology).

[@Blanderr]

The terminology is still relevant

[@NickABQQm]

not all watch youtubers has their own brand or even a small shop, they need to make money somehow. Watch review cost a lot. And I don't want another vpn or squarespace sponsored video😂😂😂

[@edteach3r]

Marc, 100% why my family and I buy our watches from you is because of your ethics, honesty and principled approach to doing business. This far, we have bought nine watches from you and, every time someone is looking at a watch, we first look at its availability at LIW, regardless of shipping to Canada. Your unwillingness to compromise on your principles must cost you money, but that is the very fact that everyone in my group of watch enthusiasts holds you in the highest regard. Stand firm, my friend!

[@dahak972]

You’re the whole reason I own a Casioak G-Shock. It’s the same one you got. The white solar tough. It’s nice to hear someone talk about or show a watch they have no financial ties to except paying for it themselves because they just like it. Thanks for another great video! I only use the paid reviews to see more pictures and video of a watch I’m already interested in. You can’t actually believe them though. One guy said very clearly at the beginning of his video, “This is not a paid advertisement.” Then about a minute into it tells us it was sent to him free of charge. I called him out in the comments about accepting a watch worth a few hundred dollars. He went into some serious mental gymnastics to try to explain why it really wasn’t a paid advertisement. It was bonkers.

[@MarcoMasseria]

We love you Mark! Best customer service IN THE GAME! You responded to my aggression and entitlement with patience and humility. You can't possibly remember our conversation, but I do. Stay strong and be you. 10,000 plus view in a 4 hour old video. Testament to your place in the business.

[@WrongTimeWatch]

I have never accepted money in exchange for a review. I have received watches on loan, and I have also received some watches, or watch accessories that i get to keep. I still have most of the watches and accessories that I have gotten to keep. KZbin is a fun hobby for me.

[@TGriffiths-ve6nw]

Nothing wrong with that. You are doing reviews for fun plus helping viewers get more exposure to the hobby.

[@omegadun66]

I admire your ethics, honesty is everything, good for you. You just went up a few notches in my book.

[@TopTierTicker]

It's a very interesting talking point. I personally see no problem accepting a free watch in exchange for a review. Like you say, it takes many hours to create a review. Time is the most valuable thing on the planet. Some sadly get very little of it. So if I'm going to spend time working on a review for a brand (that will result in lots of eyeballs on the brand) I want to be compensated for it. That's time that I could be spending with my family or friends! But that's when the reviewer has to have integrity. If a watch has something wrong, it needs to be said. Even if it ruins a relationship. Spinnaker has stopped sending me watches for example because I've called their finishing garbage on a few occasions now... I don't care. There's plenty more fish in the sea! And the reviewer has to be selective with which brands that take watches from. I only take stuff that I genuinely think is pretty cool and that I think my audience will enjoy seeing. That way its win win. Brand gets more eyeballs on product, I get compensated for my time, the viewers get a video that the reviewer actually wants to make. I honestly think it's quite offensive to expect people to work for free. Or for the 'love of it'. I love watches! God knows they're on my mind all day 😂 But time is valuable, and people shouldn't give it up. I've personally never accepted any form of cash payment for a review, only a free watch. Feels dirty to me for some reason. A free watch is cool, I like collecting watches! Yes, most of them get sold on, but they just gets put back into the content in most cases! Running a channel is expensive, as you know. I love what you do and I can see that this is a tough point for you. Do what feels right man! I'd love to take a free Islander off you for a review! I've reviewed about 6 of them on my channel already, obviously without any sort of compensation. It's all about having a good mix!

[@islandwatch]

Thanks for commenting. Appreciate the thought provoking convo

[@CraigPowers-b8p]

Glad that you addressed this issue, Marc. Most reviewers I watch include a disclaimer about their arrangement with the company. I generally then discount their assessment accordingly. Some do provide fairly objective reviews, but that deal is always in the back of my mind. I respect your stance , and will look more critically at reviews as a result. I’ll also look at LIW’s website more frequently!

[@DouglasRosser]

I’m torn. We all want 100% unbiased opinions but people need to eat. In the age of ordering online, the KZbin reviews may be the consumers only chance to really get a feel for a product.

[@islandwatch]

yup, I get it totally.

[@btt449]

That is an excuse to be compromised, no says you need to eat making youtube reviews. It's basically they every one is cheating so I need to cheat argument.

[@petrolhead007]

A great topic and video. Thanks for sharing these insights. Social media users need to realise that the vast majority of product reviews are advertisements. You see a particular new product being reviewed at all major social media channels and accounts creating a hype which was not possible pre-social media days. Imagine people queing for plastic omega-swatch watches and some of these models seen as "rare" or "hard to get" in the old days (no social media). Or waiting list for certain Tudor models. The watch industry has managed to exploit social media for marketing quite well.

[@LateCloser]

I appreciate watching Jody review watches and him saying that he was given the watch and does not have to return it. As long as that is stated up front, I have no issue with it. However, actually paying ADDITIONAL money to the reviewer I think is not cool. Give em a watch, let em keep it. It doesn't cost you full MSRP to make it. Yeah, you lose money up front doing it, but it's I think it's probably necessary if you're going to build a brand.

[@islandwatch]

I agree with you, and KZbin allows for "promotional content" to be tagged, and I know he always does.

[@bobjoe1593]

The thing is, when offered a watch by a company without an established name or buzz, the other side of these influencers' job comes up- they have to make a video that gets views to get ad revenue. So spending time talking about something that is unknown is a risk they are often averse to taking. Plus, if they are like tool reviewers, they get so many review copies that it wouldn't register to them as a perk unless it's something they were already really excited for (more of another watch to figure out how to get rid of) I can see how it would be reasonable and good faith for a new company trying to get their name out there offering to pay for an honest review, if they stand behind their product and believe in it.

[@K1ngfunK]

Honestly, this was my biggest fear for the trigger of this, because Marc and Jody are and have been the two individuals I've preferred following above all others in this space. Both of them seem to participate in their own way in the method that, at least to me, seems the most transparent and morally reasonable. Knowing that both of these two are going to be at the same place at the same time for WU in NYC, I was really, really hoping Jody wasn't the individual motivating this video!

[@MirrlyonTime]

Except Jody doesn’t disclose that he receives a fee for doing the reviews above and beyond the watch. I’ve had conversations with microbrand owners that could not have their watch reviewed because of the cost he charges. So the includes paid promotion on KZbin doesn’t tell the whole story

[@marcelodelpuerto395]

I enjoy your videos and appreciate your honesty, and i am from Queens, so i like that too! That's why i bought a watch from you having other choices. I am glad you came forward with this.

[@gqukyo]

oooh, now we're all curious who's the person that pissed you off... lol

[@drewfliesbikes]

there was some heated dialogue between commenters on reddit a week or two ago.

[@adobsg7570]

@@drewfliesbikes link it please bro want to know more details

[@Jimbobrasil]

There’s a certain channel he collaborates with who is often shilling certain microbrands…

[@drewfliesbikes]

@ I can’t find it. Some nobody influencer asked him for a free watch in the comments section. Marc responded to the effect of ‘sure, buy the watch and if I see an increase in sales then we can be partners in the future.’ I’m paraphrasing here, Marc was kind in his words. The “influencer” then got all whiny and that lead to some mud slinging between reddit users. Marc didn’t engage, he even apologized for coming across harsh (which he wasn’t harsh; he was very professional). Like come on influencer dude, at least write a courteous email. I’d send a hand written letter and a video showcasing my style. Begging in the comment section is so low effort. I’d bet a new watch that his influencer channel reflects that. Funny thing is- I don’t think that’s even what lead to this video. It sounds to me like every Joe with an instagram account is begging for free product.

[@exkal215]

I agree with you 100%. Keep doing your thing. I enjoy your products fully. That’s why I own several Islander Watches. I don’t need someone’s fake review because they were paid to review a watch. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@kiwicory100]

"Just One More Watch" hmmmmmm perhaps........

[@danjanosch282]

Doubtful considering he has actually reviewed islanders and I believe Mark and Jody get along well

[@derbagger22]

​@@danjanosch282Jody is one of the most agreeable guys out there. As much as I'd like to stir the pot to figure out who Marc is talking about, it's not Jody. That was even a promo in Marc's video leading up to Wind Up...

[@richardshaw1968]

@@danjanosch282it’s something that has been put out there…. No love lost between KZbinrs.

[@AGoogleUser-h2r]

Hi mark, your my go to channel for Sekio. For this Christmas I bought a special edition Sekio DEEP blue King Turtle PADI. Your watch movements explained are on point and it is very appreciated.

[@Peter-2704]

Being a few years into this hobby, I'd use larger channels to hear about the specs and to see nice shots of a watch. However when starting out there were no large watch channels and what was available I treated as educational including your own channel. Keep your credibility and your good name in the industry. It's worth more in the long run.

[@Apophisad]

Marc, I've been collecting watches for 8 years now. You were one of my earliest subscriptions, you basically helped define everything I know about watches now. How? Your honesty, your integrity, the fact that you always genuinely cared about what you're doing here. In the meantime I unsubsribed from most of the other channels I've been following, because they lack that. And you explained in this video why that is. So this makes your channel unique. Please, don't forget or let go of that. Not just for me, but for the watch enthusiasts community as a whole. There are far too many sell-outs in this world, that the ones that stay strong, become almost some type of heroes. And you are, in a way, my personal hero, buddy. Keep doing what you are already great at.

[@timemasterhms]

The watch review space has ruined the hobby for me. It breeds nitpickers and makes the community a bunch of whinging losers

[@zplapplap]

For your health, change up your viewing habits.

[@inwood218]

Mark, I recently bought my first watch from your company at Wind Up NY a couple weeks ago. Sorry to say it was on Saturday and you couldn't be there but the staff on hand was fantastic. I picked up white waffle dialed Islander (love it) it won't be my last watch from you. I went to the show specifically to see your watches in person and also Erebus. I learned about your watches from subscribing to your channel. I am 100% on your side with your stance on how the industry is going. You have a buisness to run which provides you with your living and you have standards you want to follow. Cheers to you. My hats off. Im a golfer and you see the same thing with club reviews. Its hard to take some channels on their words because of the deals they have with said company. Keep up the great work and products. Thank you.

[@johncraig2684]

NAME AND SHAME THEM... not that a lot of them have shame

[@Apophisad]

Read the comments. You'll get who he's referring to

[@TGriffiths-ve6nw]

I understand that Marc is on a little bit of a rant but in the end who amongst us who are knowledgeable about watches and their specs and components is truly swayed by any reviewers. We know what we are looking at basically and are knowledgeable to know when we are being bull shifted. Don't we really just watch the reviews just to see the watch and it's specs in order to form our own opinions on quality, desirability and value? Are we really not just getting some exposure to the watch in order to form our own opinion?

[@jordyb9073]

Your channel has always produced quality content. The way you do it is the way it should be done. Thank you for your time Marc!

[@RandomRobReviews]

very tough topic for sure. I would say the consumer for sure needs to consider sources.

[@islandwatch]

Thanks Rob. Appreciate it.

[@maxinahunt8652]

I have my favourite reviewers. If I’m looking to buy something, watch or otherwise, I listen to my favourites and lots of others. There will be commonalities, things I didn’t know about the item, things that don’t matter to me, and of course recurrent opinions which one would take more seriously, positive and/or negative. I see your channel as primarily selling your own products. I have looked seriously at several of your products. I haven’t purchased yet but I imagine I will. However, as I watch you review your own products it helps me judge other people’s products. Online purchasing is fun and takes a completely different approach to going into a shop, trying something on and deciding. I really enjoy your videos!