7 Annoying Things I Hate About the Watch Industry

[@Eseqko]

My favorite you didn’t mention was “here’s the same watch we’ve been selling for the last 5 years, but with a different bracelet/seconds hand/bezel color. Also on the social media point, what is frustrating are all the “BrandUSA/BrandEurope/BrandUK/BrandJapan/BrandAustralia” sub accounts with different content and no unified message of the main brand.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Haha like I said, could have mentioned more. I do think there are the some issues here, but I think it would be bad for me to call it out since I think most of us applaud the classic designs and don’t necessarily like new. Look at the code 11.59 haha. Totally agree about the alternative social media branding.

[@syntaxlost9239]

Well, in their defence, the cost and time investment it takes to develop a new movement is considerable. Testing especially, since it involves a lot of waiting. There's not a lot else that can be done to keep things fresh in the meantime.

[@Rauthaz]

Word, my brother.

[@emelycardenas5973]

#1 Annoyance: As a woman, having to go to the “Men’s” section of watch sites in order to find the cooler watches and then finding that 70% of their selection is 42mm in size or more....

[@katiewong2051]

Thank you for your comment! Take Omega as an example. I really wanted an Omega Seamaster 300 so I scrolled through the catalogue. What did I saw? Half of them are 42.5mm, with almost the rest of them being embroided with diamonds. Only one watch isn't and it was a 34mm variation with stainless steel and a white dial. That's it.

[@mariabrowne8103]

Yessss!!!

[@manoman0]

Check UNDONE. They have male-ish watches for women. Also, if it annoys you, write an email to respective watch companies.

[@leeza2706]

Ahh yes!!! really want the Mondaine STOP2go but it only comes in 42mm 🤷‍♀️

[@mosespray4510]

I'm a small man. Not a hobbit mind you, but even a 40mm watch looks too big on me, so I share your frustration. Shoes come in different sizes. Why not wristwatches?

[@mikejones-dx8bx]

I hate how the massive conglomerate watch companies are squeezing the independent watch repairers like myself. It's increasingly difficult to source parts and information for watch repair. This is being done in hope that owners will send watches to their in-house service.

[@AlessandroGenTLe]

I feel you. I do mechanical wristwatch repair / service myself as an hobby (mainly on my collection and thanks to the relatively cheap replicas that I got years ago that let me learn how to tinker without too much worries) and I just get mad that I can't buy a damn hand or reversing wheel because they want to rule the market. And for people that do this for living it's even more tragic.

[@JohnClarkW]

I would much rather pay my local watchmaker to repair my watch, even if it cost the same amount. I have gone to the same watchmaker for 25 years, and I see him at least a few times a year, and his is the last retail business that I still have a personal relationship with. He knows my priorities, and understands that I don't want my watch case polished, or if I do, I will ask. I really just want the innards to work correctly and efficiently.

[@diegoog3654]

Where are you based?

[@mikejones-dx8bx]

@@diegoog3654 Manhattan

[@alexp3752]

As a watch enthusiast for half a century I agree with you. I used to spend a great deal of time (pardon the pun) in Geneva, and was fortunate enough to know several members of the families who actually built the industry. At the beginning, almost all the firms were 100% family owned, but in the 1980's the business changed in that a great deal of investment was needed not only to expand, but utilize CAD and CNC digital equipment to achieve even higher quality standards. I love independent watchmakers. The problem is that the manufacturers are not required to supply them with parts, equipment and documentation required to service their pieces properly. This is huge problem for those who have significant collections of fine movements or complications. The investment in facilities and people to perform deep overhaul work is impressive, and many times essential. While I continue to use the services of my trusted craftsmen, as I have two pieces in service today, for specialized service of ultra-thins, I have no alternative other than to send them to the manufacturer where they have the expertise. My watchmakers have expressed their thoughts in that the trade may be viable for perhaps another generation and then it will be finished. Watches today are not nearly as popular among young people today with their smartphones. How sad.

[@Justinpiano1987]

Gosh man, hit the nail straight on the head. I want my kids and grandkids to have the same passion for horology that I do, but if these brands don’t get with the times, a big change will come... and not for the better.

[@philbunt3870]

53 yrs old, use laptop every day to view the stuff I like, have not purchased a magazine for years..

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Haha love it! I don’t think you’re alone at all.

[@philbunt3870]

@@TeddyBaldassarre Nope, me neither!! Have just been made redundant at work, so have to face the real world for a while, no watch purchases until some money comes in, but will keep watching!!

[@TomasLonga]

@@philbunt3870 Same here. The only time I hold printed magazine is on the airplane to see the Duty Free :)

[@YouGetSoAlone]

Same here, Phil.

[@GenWivern2]

Same age group; I get The Times (for free) every Saturday and the watch ads in the magazine have not changed one jot in decades. Come to that the products haven't moved on much either. Complacency is the um ... watchword.

[@MrShinobi797]

This is why I like the Micro Brands. Yes, they're not most ppl's cup of tea...but consider this : 1. Middle Men are excluded, giving you lower mark up price for your timepiece. 2. You can ACTUALLY BUY what's advertised online. 3. Value for Money proposition pieces. 4. Better Marketing ( Take my money please ). 5. Better Customer Service and Customer Support. The list just goes on.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

And one more point, they are willing to take risks with both designs and marketing their products to consumers. At least the good ones do

[@hazevthewolf178]

Yes. Totally agree with you.

[@desmondoreilly1210]

...also worth mentioning, you're buying something that's not omnipresent. Rolex produce 1 million watches a year, they're everywhere, despite their price point.

[@JohnClarkW]

I totally agree, my most recent watch purchases were Spinnaker Fleuss, Karlskrona Midnattssol, Phoibos Wave Master. I also like Dan Henry, Helson, Maen, Boldr, and Helm, but they are all doing some interesting things. The only knock on some of them, is their inventory and availability. The biggest brand I have purchased from in the last two years was a Henry London Knightsbridge Moonphase.

[@thebritishindian1]

MrShinobi797 Do you have any good recommendations for micro brands? Although I love watches and know the major brands and some smaller ones, the micro brands are something I’m just finding difficult to find information about.

[@hazevthewolf178]

My favourite KZbinrs are people like you who talk about their passion. Edit: Just back from Rolex's website and feeling as if I were trying navigate through a maze. I've been on the Internet since 1997...

[@LinhNguyen-ev8wq]

This video explained why mvmt type brands are so successful. Traditional brands are so stuck in the past that blows my mine as well. Good job on the video.

[@senix4177]

>Cartier destroys watches to sustain value "I think we're reaching a breaking point here" Nice one Teddy :P

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

;)

[@VinceRegan]

I would hope history has shown smart people that destroying inventory to support prices is a horrible idea...read up on pigs during the 1930s in USA for the worst example.

[@christopherliang6879]

@@VinceRegan well I heard a lot of the meat was at least given out for free. Destroying finished watches on the other hand it just complete atrocity

[@BillSmith1]

So, the big question is, Cartier melting the re purchased watches down or just stripping the parts out for later use?

[@philipmeiring3582]

1. Seiko refusing to put bloody sapphire in more of their watches!

[@matthewvillarroel8708]

AMEN, these brands do NOT seek out younger watch enthusiasts. It’s a shame, because fashion brands are saturating the market with crappy movements that appeal to younger people. I think watch brands should take notice of their younger audience because if they don’t, their older audience will eventually die off and they will lose their footing.

[@burkholdst.rudderberg3574]

The classic brands, rightly so, do not typically seek out the younger watch enthusiasts by radically changing their look; they "allow" the younger enthusiasts to seek them out! Also, when I purchase a Patek Philippe, I want that watch ( perhaps a Perpetual Calendar ) to look like a PATEK PHILLIPE and not like a wrist clock worn by a high school freshman! Don't worry, when the young kids buy their Michael Kors, Invictas, MVMT POSs, and see how cheap the watches are ( and how no one gives them any respect ) they will seek out Zenith, Omega, Audemars Piguet, Jaeger Lecoultre, or even Seiko, Orient, or Vostok ! As far as the older customers dying off: Vacheron Constantin has been selling their timepieces for over 250 years, can we assume they have some seriously old customers?

[@agram4700]

I think they do that because they wouldn't profit as much if they sought out younger people. Younger people (highschool and university students) don't have much money and when they do they spend it on a phone/laptop/travelling. This makes sense because when you're on a budget a mechanical watch that can't even tell time correctly isn't your top priority. Older people on the other hand have some saved up cash and they want to spend it on something that makes them happy even though they don't need it at all.

[@FerdinandZebua]

Yes. Younger generations will increasingly recognize luxury brands as nothing more than gaudy "brands" that rappers & celebrities flaunt to show their material "wealth". Luxury brands will become not symbols of achievement, but rather symbols of excess. When younger generations come of age, they will _avoid_ luxury watches (as opposed to _merely ignoring them_ as they do today).

[@mountainhobo]

"Luxury brands will become not symbols of achievement, but rather symbols of excess. " -- ROFL. Move to Venezuela. Seriously, who do you think all the rappers appeal to? My generation? Are you kidding? They appeal to young people because they are dumb.

[@sect0rialsect0rial2]

@Truthfears Guilty it's because we had shitty parents. thanks dad.

[@blainecole5452]

Mr. Baldassarre: Your points were simple yet profound. Some watch companies seem like out of touch politicians, giving us what they want, rather than what we want.

[@SilencedMi5]

Teddy, I think you really are helping to bring the discussion to the forefront on some of these issues. One thing I have noticed about the boutique sales model for exclusive and restored pieces is that it tends to ignore those who aren't simply flying out on a charter or their private jet to the Hong Kong boutique to snatch up before lunch. I feel that by and large this aspect of the model will not change much. Great video, keep up the thoughtful and thorough productions.

[@raiperez2]

Not actually the industry, but the community in general is plagued with snobs and it's really sad. The fact that you and other person share the same passion should be something that pull us together but instead we fight over the most miniscule of details. I much rather talk to a dude wearing an "invita pro diver" and loving it for what it is than someone wearing a submariner that can barely tell the hour and just bought it because it was a "rolex"

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Amen to that dude. I think the differing opinions is what makes this fun but I think that turns into unnecessary conflict and personal attacks. It probably does impact how the brands operate in the end.

[@Fonetiker]

This could be seen as what you posted about, but would anyone who really cares for watches buy a Invicta? On the other hand, yes, no fun with the "its a rolex, thats all I care for"-people either.

[@nmot97]

@@Fonetiker invicta pro diver is cool, the others aren't

[@JamesMcCarty]

I love my Invicta Diver Pro. I bought it on Ebay just to get another automatic when I was first getting into auto watches and because it has the window so I can see the movement. The thing is amazing. It keeps time almost to the second for as long as I wear it and it looks cool. It is versatile with many strap options and just a solid time piece. Aside from Invicia's "gaudy" branding on many of their watches, they make a hell of a good watch.

[@Cling30]

Because it was a rolex people are not the snobs I think? I thought the snobs are the people who knows which watches have money and slanders cheap watches.

[@treedillinger5801]

You don’t think Kylie Jenner can just post a picture of her cheek? The entire family business was started by her sister’s cheeks 😉😁

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Not that cheek 😂 lol

[@syndicatedsatellite7288]

Inner cheek or outer cheek?

[@ibitdalv3238]

You win this comment section, sir

[@alalamari]

LOL!

[@marcdecock7946]

I read today papa Jenner has a room full of evidence that would have had OJ convicted for murdering his wife... Somehow I don't believe it, because Kim didn't put any of it on Ebay as yet...

[@Rosakru]

Top rate Teddy, all great, and valid points. As one of those middle-aged consumers, having a personal touch to a more hand crafted product remains the most important to me.

[@ELMS]

Wow, there was a lot there, Teddy. Funny point about the magazine ad budget. I’m 65 and haven’t bought a magazine in 5 years.

[@stefpix]

If Richemont / Cartier can buy back and destroy $600 M equiv to preserve market value, I imagine the profit margin must be huge while cost of production of their watches may be really low or negligible.

[@DarthMalaks_Missing_Lower_Jaw]

Good point. Means the prices they're selling their watches at are waaaaay inflated.

[@casualsuede]

You mean they are the MVMT of the heritage/luxury watch world?

[@mountainhobo]

I can tell you why marketing departments advertise in print media. They target magazines that business people traveling on planes get. They are captive and well selected audience, and they will stare at those ads out of boredom.

[@youngalwyn1124]

When I first saw the thumbnail but before reading the entire title, I expected it to say “Seven annoying things I hate about my hair.” 😂

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Hahaha the hair actually looked good when I strategically ran my hands through it to tease the look of being annoyed.

[@RABBITGAMINGBGMI]

Hahaha same here

[@xBurningGiraffe]

If this would’ve been the case, I still would’ve watched it. I’ve definitely got 7 or more things I hate about my hair lmao.

[@mitchellmcmullen]

You talked about the used watches serviced buy the manufacturer. That would be cool. Like how Mercedes has certified used cars. 👍

[@iceberg4736]

same with them not respecting the classic car market. Porsche is renowned for their classics, as is MB also.

[@phillipgwin1277]

Very good points Teddy! I have been frustrated by the way major watch brands treat the ADs and the trouble that causes with grew market. They definitely need to do something about this

[@vulcanpie]

Thanks for doing this video. The passion you have for this industry shows in your attention and attitude I have enjoyed many of your content and this one has made me much more glad to have found you. Unfortunately I don’t have very deep pockets and will have to be one of those guys that enjoys many lesser expensive models so I can change up my look each day to fit my mood.

[@DavidDatura]

You’re best, most informative and heart felt video so far. Keep it up! I was also starting to look into opening an AD myself, but the hurdles the brands themselves put up, just makes it seem to be too much of a hassle. And it’s a dying business model, no matter how much I like the idea of having a home for selling my favorite watch brands.

[@Yossi152]

I love this channel, I've learned a lot about watches here. thanks! Your point about not supporting vintage watches is spot on. My grandfather gave me his 1976 Omega Constellation F300 Electronic (ST 198.0076). I can't find the right battery to put in it! How frustrating!

[@daymondtalley9500]

Great video. You hit this one out the park. I hate the watch websites, hate the AD’s, especially the ones that are to busy pushing diamond rings and don’t know anything about their watches.

[@timothycollins2613]

Great points, I couldn't agree with you more. The social media/website aspect especially hit it spot on for me, as I hate the cumbersome user experience that especially high end luxury brands have. It feels like the way these brands work is just stuck in the past, and that's why I'm sadly seeing declining interest among people my age (17-18 yo) when it comes to actual watches. I am sad to say this but Daniel Wellington, Vincero, and MVMT watches know how to advertise in today's digital age, half of my friends wear one of their watches and think they got a great deal. When I spent $500 as my birthday present on a beautiful Junghans, they were astonished that I would waste that money on something that they felt they could get for $100. These established brands are making great products, but don't know how to interact with their customers. Thanks for the great content, Teddy, I am sure you're gonna be the next TGV in the watch community, your production quality is off the charts and your content amazing. Have a good day! (It'd also be amazing if you could check out my watch page on instagram, @german.watches :)

[@michaelmaxwell6187]

Teddy, ive seen you be passionate about watches many times but THIS is different! I loves to see this reality check on the industry!!!! You clearly were on the verge of genuine anger. Good on you. Keep it up, brother!!!!

[@TheSnackWagon]

Thank you for posting this, as it confirmed many of the obstacles I've been facing while trying to do research on my my grandparent's watches (for repair, insurance and re-sell valuations). As a woman who has long appreciated the art and craft of timepieces and growing both my collection of pocketwatches, (Waltham, Molnija), and antique dress watches (Elgin, Gruen, Borel), my fascination for new and old continues to grow - as does my frustration around lack of reliable info, trustworthy vendors and shady repair specialists.

[@philippladner2921]

You're summing up what I tried to articulated after visiting Baselworld and my experience with watchbrands on- and offline in general. Kudos from Switzerland to that metropolian area in Cleveland for elaborating those sharp thoughts!

[@joshuawolfe8865]

Awesome video. Regarding the vintage market, I like that it is enthusiast driven. Companies and brands are focused on looking forward (as they should be) whereas the collecting community is focused on the history, details, and minutia of the past. This may be cynical of me, but if the brands took greater control of the vintage market, they'd just screw it all up. When I go to the forum posts or the blogs, I know I'm getting information from a group of people who are only motivated by their love of watches or of a particular brand. There is no way Hamilton or Omega as corporate brands, the two vintage brands I focus on, would ever have the financial incentive to build as robust a resource that we enthusiasts have built for free that is also free to access. Much the same way I prefer watching your channel over the corporate brand channels. Great topics, very well thought out and has given me a few new things to consider. Thanks for doing what you do Teddy.

[@greywolf369]

Wow...just wow. I'm a new watch aficionado and a big fan of your content (thank you). It's kind of alarming by these companies lack of awareness in this digital age. Very eye opening and I completely agree with you. I don't want find the industry just limping along. Teddy Baldassarre you have started a revolution

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Brands will start to listen the more we speak up...

[@blaketaylor9317]

Really insightful video, man. These are all things that have driven me crazy in my head for a long time now and it's definitely gratifying finally hearing someone say it all out loud. Really thoughtful content.

[@jhernan1]

One of these watch companies need to hire you. Great video.

[@Oliveiragfak]

This video is maybe one of your most original content and opinion of your vlog. Not many of this information told by other watch bloggers apart maybe some on Federico talks watches. Some brands like Audemars Piguet are already changing their selling model and experimenting direct selling also. Good job and good subject

[@mccloudmungofa7431]

Oh my gosh Teddy you’ve nailed it. Someone needed to do this video. Ive been an enthusiast for about a year or so now and living in Africa so you can imagine what the whole AD situation means. I relate to all your points and unbelievable that theres no support on vintage. Ive resolved ill collect a bunch of good quality Seikos that can be bought online and shipped to me. Guess luxury brands dont need new customers🤷🏾‍♂️

[@64wing]

You make some good points, Teddy. I've been doing some analysis of the distribution models of "luxury" brands and agree that we're going to witness a shift in the somewhat-near future. It won't happen until but just one brand is willing to upset the standard model and modernize. This will be a potentially risky step from a share preservation approach to one of either market development or penetration from a growth strategy standpoint. Either way, they must realize that the people who will be able to purchase their pieces in the coming years react very differently to traditional avenues than the generations which preceded them. Cheers, sir!

[@ShahLusso]

Great rant & hits a lot of really good points...especially the UI/UX on some of these sites, but hopefully more of them follow Omega's approach, even though they still have work to do, that archive they have is probably the most complete one I've seen of any watch brand. But I guess at the end these companies are probably going to find out the hard way when our generation becomes their target market & they find themselves caught off guard, fingers crossed it doesn't come to that though. Another thing that amazes me is that they haven't really embraced the 2nd hand market either, they should at least start looking at it like the car industry with certified pre-owned models (like Ferrari Classiche) so that at least they can get in on the action and manage their brand beyond just selling to ADs

[@Steve-vl9ed]

Great video and timely given my recent experience. Spoke to many Tudor ADs in my quest to buy a BB58 and I was shocked at the lack of communication between Tudor and the ADs, and the fact the ADs are too intimidated to do anything about it. It’s nothing more than arrogance on the part of the brand.

[@JohnBuckmaster-sw3wm]

Teddy, Thanks for another great entry! I have been building my collection for awhile now… Although it’s all entry level in mid range other than my beloveds vintage Omega... I find myself gravitating towards mid range micro brands even though I would very much like to consider some of the high-end established manufacturers… Reason being? Because the information is there and the stock is there to make the purchase… And just like you said the websites from any of the mid range my car brands are outstanding and allow you to purchase right on the site… I get so frustrated with that Rolex website that it’s probably discouraged me from making my first Rolex purchase. It’s hard to spend 6-8k For one of their entry level models And not have the ability to choose the configuration of that model and have The inventory to look at in store of the particular one you want within that model. Super super frustrating… Spending that much money on a luxury item needs to be made easier…

[@EsbjornWristwatchReviews]

Fantastic and very constructive criticisms. Really hope some of the big brands paid attention to this..

[@pedrosaenz2800]

Omega has one thousand limited editions....

[@Bonno95]

Pedro Saenz Just like the Limited Edition Vauxhall Corsa

@@Bonno95 aha good one

[@speelmeneer6404]

Pedro Saenz, but hé brands like Hublot and Richard Mille sell more limited editions then standard production models.

[@gelmibson883]

LOL right...

[@christopherliang6879]

yeah that's pretty annoying

[@artimusgarcia-cuellar8026]

That explains a lot! I was wondering why I had to go to a authorized dealer and why I saw brands online at a huge discount. I also agree that the websites for major brands suck. Gotta give it up to Casio for keeping it simple.

[@wolfgangnz3]

Lots of great points. I would be surprised if some of the watch companies don't reach out to you as a consultant for their marketing model.

[@TheJEdwardPaul]

Best video you've produced. Really felt your passion for watches and improving the industry. All the things you mentioned are why microbrands are flourishing and will likely become (probably not for another generation) the next big brands. Love your work! Keep it up.

[@aidangarrett7295]

You already know, Teddy. I'm always here early. Loving the content as always! You're well on your way to 100k!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Always appreciate it Aidan. Let’s make it happen!

[@lesstover649]

Bunch of GREAT points sir, I'm 53 yoa and have noticed some interesting things over the years. First, I have been to authorized dealers and most often the staff knows very little about the watches they are selling. Second, magazines are completely outdated, why even bother? Third, even though younger people may not have as much disposable income I would think that companies would want to target them as they age with promoting online and entry level models. Keep up the good work sir. BTW- bring back the girlfriend....;)

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Great points about the training at ADs. Very true for some. Courtney will be back in sure

[@christopherliang6879]

I actually think younger generations are a great market for entry level luxury watches, the one's that are truly around 1000 dollars. Many younger people have allowance and have their expenses all paid for so their income (if they work part time, i.e. college students) can all go towards non-essential goods. Just go look at all of the fancy stores on a weekend, most people shopping are under 30. I know so many people spending thousands of dollars on Guccis, Armanis, or even Supremes. If the watch companies can convince the younger generation that a thousand dollar watch that you can wear for decades is worth it, they should be able to get a significant amount of income.

[@topher2u2]

This is a great video and you've pointed out significant flaws in the old strategies that are present in watch makers and retailers alike. Thanks Teddy!

[@collwynjones5075]

This is the first time I've seen one of your videos, you've managed to articulate exactly the things that have bothered me with the industry for a while. I subscribed instantly!

[@jettsilva]

I'm actually writing a book about the watch market and some not so nice things some watch brands does to their clients, like, take advantage of the ignorance of their clients. Good job Teddy.

[@willardhooton920]

Somehow you never fail to bring insightful content Teddy!

[@adrienne4934]

Very good video with totally valid complaints. Thanks Teddy, and keep up the good work.

[@scottbrandon9390]

I had a friend who was an authorized dealer for Breitling. He was only given certain models to sell at start. The more specialized or limited editions were harder to access. Another friend was an authorized dealer for Rolex. He would have a hard time stocking certain models, even though customers would frequently request it. For example, he never got a Cellini or Yachtmaster in stock, and only had four Daytonas in the more than 10 years he was an AD. He also had issues with Cartier, in that it was no problem getting certain models with metal and dial color configurations, but harder for other types. Yet I could go to another AD an hour drive away and get the Cartier or Rolex I wanted. Another complaint is the difference between a Luxury watch brand boutiques selling just Omega or Rolex, versus a jewelry store who sells say six luxury brands. Many of the independents feel they are not getting everything in the catalogue. For example, my AD for Omega cannot get many of the models listed in the catalogue, even though head office says they're available. Rolex has a waiting list for ADs with some models being 7 years wait list. Yet a friend went to the Rolex store in Dubai (four floor boutique) and they had every model in stock that he was after. The other problem with retail is finding a physical AD in your area. I have no Ball watch ADs in my area. Same for at least five other Swiss brands.

[@konstantinosferderigos807]

You are very good at what you do as apposed to the companies that make the watches. I hope they give you the opportunity to do what you do best because the whole industry can benefit from your vision. Keep up the great work!!!

[@SoCalWatchReviews]

Teddy one of your top videos IMHO! Agree with you 100% about getting reliable info on vintage watches! As a fellow youtuber I can relate! Just did a collab with Sam from “The Casual Watch Reviewer”, in that video talked about the run dates of a particular model (got the info from a forum) and boy was I wrong!!! Keep it up my man!!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Thank you so much... I feel your pain completely

[@SoCalWatchReviews]

Teddy Baldassarre thanks for taking the time to reply to my comment !

[@kronos319]

Hey Teddy. Great video as always! You mentioned you went through the AD application process. Could you please elaborate in another video (or in a reply comment) so we can all have a better understanding of the process. I think it would help all of use to better understand why ADs behave the way they do. Love the channel! :)

[@eddieg9506]

Teddy, great video. Went straight into your strap store and I think it's a good start, especially the leather options. I was very happy to stumble upon, and was about to purchase the shark mesh bracelet but I didn't see a brushed option, to go with the watch I need to put in on. Please add this option and I will happily support your store. Take care and keep up the good work! Thanks

[@herbmerced7780]

I love Sinn....terrible website...tried to ask a question about a watch on Oris...still waiting....great video...your assessment is on point!

[@Ivy3nj0yer]

Wow, you've really upped the game in regards to your store. I love the new straps. Congratulations, Teddy! Keep it going, man.

[@raserx63]

Teddy B. The new Seiko Vice President Of customer engagement. 😁

[@craigblykins]

One of these high end brands needs to hire you Teddy, because you are spot-on with your analysis of the status quo, and you have some great ideas on how to move the brands forward.

[@mccstuff]

This is a very interesting and informative video. Probably my favourite that you have made, your passion really came through. PS Vinyl records sound unlike anything else, they sound fantastic providing providing you have the right equipment (Doesn't have to be overly expensive).

[@kwilson1865]

In my opinion the most surprising stat was that the high end luxury brands spent 55%+ on some type of print advertising. I personally don’t subscribe to a single print version of any publication. I subscribe to plenty of digital version of publications because it is easier, I always have access to the materials, it’s more cost effective, easy to archive, etc etc. You did a great “read” on the current climate of not only the watch industry but many long standing, generational businesses. Keep up the great work producing content that is meaningful and easy to engage.

[@ilopu5]

Brilliant analysis. Another point is that most brands sell the idea that you are buying an over engineered watch to last generations. Yet, the moment a model, or worse a whole range, are removed from production, the manufacturers withdraw all visibility for such models or range. They are treating watches like high street fashion. Customers paying big money expect manufacturers to maintain support for these watches. ..whose value is meant to transcends generations and not last just a few seasons.

[@MidEnginedFan]

Wow...very thoughtful and interesting video; I'd say this is your best one. Extremely valid points and echoes my disappointment with many brands as well. This video should be mandatory for serious brands who want to make it into the market instead of being one-hit wonders. It's a wakeup call for established brands -- if they can see past their ego.

[@derekshearer9049]

Brilliant, well said. You have a deep passion for watches. Maybe someone is listening. Cheers

[@DarthMalaks_Missing_Lower_Jaw]

And regarding not marketing to younger generations because they don't think younger folks won't buy a watch--it's a self fulfilling prophecy. If you don't market, you won't sell.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

So true... also all this generations nonsense is overrated. It’s changing times just as it is changing people.

[@nicholasortiz5880]

Haha, I appreciate how passionate you are when discussing your points. At times, it really looks like you're truly flustered about these issues. You actually look kind of pissed off 😁

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Haha I mean no one is happy on a sinking ship 😂

[@nicholasortiz5880]

@@TeddyBaldassarre Another valid point 😂

I love these videos more Economic focused. It's also what appeals in this industry, not just the end-product, but also how the perception of a brand and his business model, do affect the way different people behave. Not sure I said that well, but you got my point. Great content, bravo.

[@petes5152]

Another well thought out video and good points made. I would make the counterpoint however that a brand like Rolex, easily the strongest brand strength and identity in the industry, has a plan and knows what they are doing. I agree that they seem to be backwards in marketing to younger generations and many don't seem to know how to properly utilize e-commerce and social media, but my argument would be that they are doing this by choice. You might not like it or agree with it, but I think they are perfectly aware of who they are marketing to, how, and why.

[@scottbrandon9390]

Teddy is correct about vintage timepieces. The ADs and brands just want to sell new models. I asked about getting a original box replacement for an Omega watch. I know the Omega head office will do this if they can. They did it for two people. However there is no incentive for an AD to do anything. So the nearest AD for Omega would not help. My solution for all this is it may be an idea just to buy pre-owned watches. There are incredible watches no longer made by the major brands. However you can buy them if you are willing to go pre-owned. There are many retailers that sell both online or in-store. You are correct about social media and web site content. Some brands do things better than others. I get frustrated and just order a physical brochure. But I think one issue is the pictures in these catalogues, which do no justice to the actual physical watch. Longines, Rolex, and Omega are good examples where the pictures do no justice to holding the physical watch.

[@drwindsurf]

Hopefully some watch brands listen and start to implement some of these ideas. Thank you for another excellent and thoughtful video Teddy :)

[@rawgab4439]

Thank you for this eye opener ...I myself always wondered why I was not able to just go on those web sites and purchase ..its annoying to have to visit an actual store ....also finally somebody explained the whole gray market situation ...thx again

[@fdadrtrttewrt]

Really enjoyed the video and you taught me something new about gray market and authorized dealers. One thing that bothers me about most of the luxury watch industry is their hostility toward independent watch makers. As i understand it they won't sell parts to watch repairers who are not within their network. So it makes it very difficult for the local repair shop to get needed replacement parts. Obviously the companies want you to be forced to send the watch to them where they charge much more and have a waiting list. I think this is extremely short sighted.

[@michaelponte7008]

My biggest gripe is the style of photography used to show watches on the brand's website (they all seem to use the same style). Thanks to people like you who make videos I get to see what the watch really looks like and most importantly how the light interacts with the watch. So many times I've looked at a watch on "X" brand's website and wasn't interested in it. Then after seeing a video of a watch it completely changed my opinion of it, not because of how it was described but how it was presented.

[@NateTrucker92]

All very good points Ted, I especially agree that higher end brands should create an online buying platform and offer a lot more support and information regarding vintage pieces.

[@eamonnhorisk7805]

Great video Teddy. Totally agree with all the points you made , well said esp with regards to their websites , hopeless in most cases. For me , if watch brands are going to use an AD network as their primary route to market and sell their product, at the very least they should ensure that stock is available to see and you should be able to purchase within a reasonable timeframe. Would you wait months and months (maybe longer ) to purchase a particular model of car you liked?

[@joka7316]

You are on point. One thing you state is how hared it is to research vintage watches. The companies don't get a cut from the used market. Is there anyway we can ban the term "Price Point" ?

[@mikejones-dx8bx]

great video highlighting the archaic practices of this industry i love!

[@Blair338RUM]

Very astute analysis Teddy. Patek should hire you as their marketing executive! Watch companies are dinosaurs.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Haha thanks Blair. The Stern family can contact me whenever lol. I will say this, they are like Rolex as they can get away with more with less since they have a perception with those familiar that they sell a premium product. We will see how long this lasts though as I feel their biggest proponents now are older demographics and rappers who cover their watches with diamonds.

[@Blair338RUM]

Exactly. And that’s a limited demographic. They just don’t get it.

[@mikec3454]

Regarding the social media presence: Brands need to take note from the Hodinkee/Cartier partnership when the Tank turned 100 years old in 2017, the "My Cartier Tank" series is incredible. An honest perspective by owners as to why they chose the watch and what it means to them. Every brand should do this - it's that personal connection with a watch that makes this hobby so enjoyable.

[@torbensvensson2093]

WORD, Teddy!!👏🏻👏🏻I hope the watch industry are listening to you!!👏🏻👏🏻‼️‼️👏🏻😍😍

[@Texmotodad]

In addition, print/magazine ads? Look at the crappy MVMT & DW's - but they have such an online presence! On a differ topic, glad I kept our B&O 4002 tangental turntable. Thx Teddy!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Good point I didn’t even bring up. DW has built one of the fastest growing companies in the world...

[@johnbradshaw8115]

Excellent video. Agree about the Rolex site. Browsing last night, I finally got frustrated and just logged out! Beautiful imagery, horrible navigation. You are now my go-to site for interesting, informative, relevant videos. Gracias from Mexico.

[@gratefulot360]

Love your passion, Teddy! Really excellent points. This video may end up getting you requests to interview with a few of the major brands. That said, you are a great example of an entrepreneur.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Nick Hayek Jr, HMU haha. Appreciate this Milton! Probably one of my favorite videos I have done because I was able to just riff.

[@gratefulot360]

You can develop the Swatch Group of the future. Hayek is in the past.

[@Balaji___]

This was a great video! Love it when content creators can actually offer criticisms of their industry rather than being all praise

[@giantdipper]

One of the best, most insightful videos I've seen in a long time. We love this kind of smart content Teddy.

[@CJ-rb3do]

Great video Teddy. The problem with these companies is that they are stagnant. They still think they are selling and caring for the old school watch buyer: the old banker gentleman who walks in and have tea and then buys. The world changed and these companies are stuck in the old regime. At the end of the day, they are aspirational items, and they want to keep it that way.

[@scottlaughlin1528]

Excellent content as always, Teddy. The inability to try something on is one of the most frustrating things for me. I have been looking at getting a Glashütte Original PanoReserve for a few years now and was only just able to try one on this week - and even then it still wasn't the exact blue dial model I've been wanting - while flying through Frankfurt Airport in Germany, where there happens to be an AD. Frustrating! Especially when you're looking at spending $10,000+ on a piece.

[@ShizAudi]

This video is epic man; you nailed a majority of the issues with the current watch industry! They should totally hire you as a consultant haha.

[@edteach3r]

I agree with your sentiments as I prefer buying authorised when purchasing a luxury watch. The grey market is risky and I have been burnt in trying to repair a newly-purchased, grey-market Omega Seamaster. I would love to buy directly online from the manufacturer instead of spending hours tracking down an AD! For everything else, I just buy online from Marc at Long Island Watch :) .

[@jc944t]

Great video and great analysis on the some of the older brands holding on to the authorized dealer model. It is so antiquated and comes off as elitist. I'm not totally against this business model but there has to be a better balance. You need to be a consultant for some of these brands!

[@ConkreteMan]

I'd hate to see the ADs go away, but I've never bought anything from an AD so I can understand why. I only try on watches there to see what I like and almost as importantly, what I don't like. After trying stuff on I can then to somewhere like Bob's Watches website and see what's available and pricing. I went to 2 different ADs this week and I was the only customer in the store. Side note, the blue dial yacht master looks great on my wrist!!

[@RevLev06]

Teddy, you offer great insight into what it takes to market and sell watches in the digital age. I agree, where is the human touch, that face to face interaction? I see You Tube channels on watches such as yours which do offer the history, some idea of watch scale and size, but when I buy a watch on line - it is a bit of a crap shoot so to speak. I have old quartz Seikos that may be older than you, that I purchased after seeing them and holding them, that I value more than my recent on line watch purchases. Ad agencies and graphic designers are the ones who are promoting splashy print media campaigns. The luxury watch brands are rather clueless as to how to present their watch lines to the public any other way than splashy, expensive print ad campaigns. Your thoughts regarding how they can address and improve upon presenting their watches to the public is right on. I don't get into duty free international airports often enough to visit watch boutiques and I would imagine they are real loss leaders for the watch companies who rent the space in an airport and then pay to staff them - see the IWC store in Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam. Keep up the good work - I like your youthful creativity and enthusiasm. - RKL

[@jackserious3282]

What an awesome and informative video! I think these companies would seriously benefit from watching this. You have a bright future ahead of you. Keep up the great work.

[@travishasse]

Great job Teddy. I couldn’t agree more on the websites. Keep up the great content

[@Jazzbeau]

Hey, Teddy.....you need to clean the sensor on your camera.....you've got some pretty heavy dust spots lurking in your background......look right by the part in your hair, then a bit over to the right and also back over to the left. Great channel, man. Really enjoy it!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Those are nails on the background actually. Rearranged the background a while back and that was the result. I should probably invest in a better piece of glass with a wider aperture .

[@PierreMullin]

Very well put. Oddly enough, I think that it is 3rd party social media outlets like yours that are compensating for the poorly targeted marketing strategies of many watch brands. The grey market is similarly picking up the pieces for misguided pricing and distribution models. All of this helps keep the Swiss Francs flowing in spite of their antiquated business models.

[@michaelbingham2721]

Teddy you are right on with this video. I am in the process of doing the research of buying a watch that will hold value in the future to pass on to my children. I collect typewrites because of the art and craftmanship in them and I want the same from a watch I buy. If the luxury watches companies don't do a better job of creating brand value for the future, their watches will lose their lasting value and become a commodity. Rolex, Seiko and Omega, etc. should watch how Apple sells/markets a $400 - $1,300 deposable watch. Your points are all spot on.

[@pegauracheii]

Absolutely agree! The lack of content from the brands themselves is the sole reason for which platforms like Hodinkee proliferate. It is a missed opportunity on part of the brands and a loss for consumers.