Omega's Plan To Fight Rolex's INSANE Growth.

[@TheoandHarris]

Michael loves his standing desk and you would to! In addition to the 50% off sale, viewers can get an extra 10% off by using code THEOANDHARRIS for orders over $500 at bit.ly/43ECFrn

[@BenNS1971]

Don’t forget that the swatch group saved the Swiss watch industry

[@johnswick7108]

I know were in the KZbin comment section so i don’t expect a book but I’ve never heard this. Care to elaborate a little bit? I know they bought many companies. Anything outside of that?

[@mohnnadmercedes8246]

Rolex is king broooo 😂 Just kidding to me i dont give a hoha about it as long as the watch fits my preference with affordable prices and easy to service with good customer care Other than that I don’t care about corporate stuff

[@BenNS1971]

@@johnswick7108 well it is a blanket statement and it is significantly more nuanced. We’d also have to include the Royal Oak and the creation of the luxury sports watch in steel, that Rolex ended up developing to perfection. But back to swatch… as you know, due to the launch of the quartz movement, the Swiss watch industry was going bankrupt and a conglomerate was created by joining SSIH (Omega, Tissot, Hamilton and Lemania) with ASUAG (Longines, Oris, ETA, etc.). To be more precise it was actually ETA that saved the industry by developing their quartz movements and, if I’m not mistaken, they used designs form omegas GG case (design attributed by some, non-officially, to Gerald Genta) to develop the first swatch watch. There’s a great video about this on KZbin form “I Shoot Watches”. Any how, it was the success of swatch sales that allowed SMH to invest in all those brands that we all know and love, developing new mechanical technology, especially through ETA and Omega. In 1998 the group was rebranded to the Swatch Group and in the 90’s they continued buying struggling brands, like Breguet, Blancpain, Glashutte Original and others. I guess that’s about it in a nutshell. So, SMH (Swatch Group), AP and Rolex were, in my opinion, the main players that saved the Swiss watch industry.

[@Disinf3ctant]

​@johnswick7108 the Swiss watch industry was getting so hammered by Quartz that most manufacturers didn't have the money to develope their own movements and were essentially on the brink of bankruptcy. Swatch provided their cheap and reliable ETA movements in different specs and complications to heaps of brands for years. Until very recently actually. Now we're snobby about ETA movements but it's saved most of the brands you know about

[@Caleb_Djk_18]

True

[@robpelletier2103]

Is Rolex still a watch company? Haven’t been able to buy a new one at an AD in years.😆

[@Cinoism]

They are making as many as they can, Chinese buyers just ruin it for everyone because they see it as investment.

[@gavinwhite9743]

Omega should simplify their range, work on their bracelet game, and make less special editions( so they actually feel special). A tighter focussed game would allow better finish. So for instance, lose the overarching seamaster, which means nothing, and is synonymous with the 300m. The aqua terra should stand alone for instance. Sort out the bracelet on the 300m, and lose the ugly helium valve. I’m an Omega fanboy, and they do the vintage inspired very well. The bracelet on my speedmaster pro sapphire sandwiche is stunning, tapers beautifully and is comfortable. Whoever designed that bracelet should be moved to the seamaster range. This brand has the heritage and potential to be bigger( although some smaller watches please) and better.

[@SIZZO76]

Bracelet is iconic. No need to change anything. If you don’t like it but something else .

[@GrumblingForesight]

Looking at how silent they’ve been in the launch department this year, I have a feeling that they’re cooking up something as well as learning from their mistakes last year of not being able to produce their novelties fast enough to make them available. Knowing Omega, they might be working a nee line of movements. They could be incorporating the Spirate balance to be able to promote tighter accuracy standards than Rolexes or making their movements thinner to address the popular complaints about their watches. I sure hope they’re working on those thinner movements 😅

[@jadomi2076]

And a quick adjust for their bracelets...

[@GrumblingForesight]

@@jadomi2076 if I recon correctly, the current models of the Planet Ocean, Seamaster diver 300, as well as post Dec 2022 Speedmaster Professional have had this feature within their clasps. I agree though, it’ll be great to have this standard across all of their lineup.

[@Antenox]

If Swatch Group wants to compete with Rolex and be on that same level, it needs to rename itself the Omega Group

[@rassf1]

I find myself liking your videos more and more over time. Very interesting discussion. Great analysis.

[@aymantahboub5322]

Omega is doing fine. Rolex on the other hand exhibited a phenomena which i think started unintentionally but snowballed to this ridiculous situation. Some people with money created some demand spikes, creating shortages, which created even more demand bc people love what they cant have.. and so on and on. I think thats hard to replicate.

[@xMaoxoaMx]

I wish Omega would look at their own history, and revive their Constellations and Seamasters from the 60's and 70's. The vintage designs paired with modern movements would be a instand buy for me.

[@steveokie93]

I'd appreciate an enhanced Seamaster, without the helium valve but with an automatic one. A bracelet redesign with some taper would be great. It feels like they're eager to sell watches before I can see them up close, which doesn't resonate with me. I miss the old Omega days, where pricing was fair and discounts were offered. Now, it seems most outlets shy away from discounts, trying to compete with Rolex.

[@JW-qf2fx]

discounts for what?

[@steveokie93]

@@JW-qf2fx I have often been offered discounts just while looking at omega watches at the boutiques, but this is something that I’ve noticed hasn’t happened this year. Use to get offers 10%-20% just while window shopping new models without asking to try on. I was also wearing a newer omega while this happed for the record.

[@miabeatz80]

Discounts depreciate a brands value 🤔

[@steveokie93]

@@miabeatz80 they do. But now I don’t feel like the watch is worth what they’re charging because they’ve always discounted and they just raised all their prices. The cats already out of the bag. lol

[@miabeatz80]

@@steveokie93 it's clear you don't "value" the improvements they've made so you won't be buying from them. However, many people do see the value and according to many grey market watch vendors Omega is their top seller. Many pre-owned Omega are selling for much more than original price. Example the ninetees bond 300 sold for $1k MSRP back then now $3k average.

[@lonewolfemcquade8133]

I used to like Omega but I don't like the brand anymore. They will never touch Rolex. I used to own a Seamaster and the bezel and bracelet were crap. The bezel turned with one finger pushing it and the bracelet? Is in desperate need of a refresh but Omega keeps on raising prices. That? They know how to do and waste $ on that shit marketing.I love vintage Omega but modern Omega can take a hike.

[@hugohernandez3651]

I have always loved Omega's watches. With that being said, there is no way they will take a piece of the market share from Rolex. While Rolex now controls their distribution channels after buying Bucherer, the Swatch group insists in making plastic toys with legendary names on the dial. Two different ways to do business and make money.

[@patrickjean-philippe7679]

I don’t see how Omagz could genuinely compete with Rolex as Rolex is established at a different level and they have all the finance they want without any shareholders to report to…

[@Antenox]

If the Swatch Group wants to compete with Rolex, they need to rename themselves as the Omega Group. Until then, Omega will always just be a subbrand.

[@nikolastojanov8749]

Rolex is basically senator Sheev Palpatine of the watch world. I believe buying Bucherer if the beginning phase of the watch version of the order 66

[@87tomcollins]

I’d argue that Rolex keeps Tudor slightly handicapped. No white dial on BB pro (easily most popular explorer II), cheesy faux aged lum on BB while sub is beautifully crisp, or just weird design choices that just seem slightly off like strange font print choice (hard to explain but I can’t be the only one). Tudor although still a great watch doesn’t look “great” next to the Rolex model with similar purpose or function. And I 100% believe this is on purpose. Omega needs to keep models models and not treat them as a “brand”. They treat Speedmaster and Seamaster as subsidiary brands with all the varieties they offer. With a Rolex you have a sub with some choices but that’s it, it’s a sub. Omega wants a Seamaster to be a diver, a chrono, a dress watch, etc. and it dilutes the perceived value of the name Seamaster.

[@miabeatz80]

I agree with many of your points. Another brand that creates the sub brand is Patek. They have the Calatrava and the Nautilus. Same with AP and the royal oak. These sub brands work because people know about the bond watch so even if it's not the same case the AT comes from the same lineage as it picks up ques from vintage Seamasters. Since Omega changed the design so many times (sigh😅) they have a more organic evolution.

[@CrookDanny]

Very new to everything having to do with timepieces but having a blast absorbing it all. I come from the worlds of cigars and advertising and I’m finding that watches scratch that same itch for history, legacy, fine raw materials, etc… Keep it up 🙌🏻

[@thirstyowlthethird9409]

Be careful. It’s an expensive and obsessive hobby. You’ve been warned.☣️☢️⚠️

[@CrookDanny]

@@thirstyowlthethird9409 good looking out lol, I can already tell there’s going to be some issues 😂

[@swampscott2670]

Richemont: I don’t see how Cartier has more cultural significance than, for example, JLC or IWC. Not that it matters.

[@miabeatz80]

They sell a ton of other products not just watches that's how. Lol😅

[@kyledriscollmusic]

in honor of this historic Rolex vs Omega moment, I am now accepting donations of Rolexes and Omegas and etc

[@SIZZO76]

😂😂😂

[@bobjosephs8376]

The Swatch Group is not David with worldwide sales of 7,5 billion trailing Rolex/Tudor at 9.7 billion The big spread is Omega to Rolex with Omega being less than 30% of the size of Rolex. Swatch has the financial ability to do whatever they want to grow the brand, but there is no gurantee that it will work. I was amazed to read this fact from Morgan Stanley Although about 94 percent of sales can be attributed to the Rolex brand, Tudor also beat the industry in 2022 with sales of about CHF 550 ... I thought Tudor was much bigger

[@nickbount]

Wouldn’t the easiest way to fight back be for Swatch and Richemont to pull their brands from Bucherer? Rolex would have just paid an expensive cash flow multiple for Bucherer and now be stuck with large retail spaces with only their own (non-available) watches to sell

[@patrickjean-philippe7679]

The Hans Wilsdorf Foundation owns Rolex and Tudor but it is also a real estate behemoth so if brands pulled out of Bucherer I would not anticipate many issues.

[@acewings221]

The best way for Omega to fight Rolex is to lower their prices back down to normal levels

[@swampscott2670]

No. The opposite.

[@BobbyDazzler888]

@@swampscott2670that would backfire.

[@-Jason-L]

Inflation

[@acewings221]

Bullshit, in less than a year the moonwatch has gone up by 1k. That’s not how inflation works buddy

[@Syhbw]

also reduce number of SKUs and limited editions

[@watchfanatic1939]

I think Elvis the mini schooler said it best most people buying Rolex are buying a name and a look, nothing more. I think we need to stop catering to Rolex and actually thank omega/swatch for actually taking consumers in to account and ensuring everyone can enjoy their timepieces and venturing out to explore new territories with their watches. Rolex is really a one trick pony which preys on the undereducated and those who want praise from their friends.

[@CBraunTX]

The problem is Omega just makes terrible decisions. Why is the speedmaster 13mm thick when the Daytona in 11.9mm? Why does your flagship diver have a helium escape valve and bracelet that doesn’t taper or have a clasp with otf adjustment? The Hydroconquest has that for under 2k? It’s just odd management that seems to think name alone is good enough.

[@eric106071]

Good point

[@aymantahboub5322]

I like the idea of a 39mm seamster 200 😮

[@damianvictory7250]

Michael Kristy trimmed his one thousand Wows in one episode to just one! Now that’s watchable progress right there.. bad broadcasting habits are hard to change but he’s fighting hard and seems to be winning! Unlike Omega!

[@jimtrani927]

what are the Speedster vs Daytona production numbers? Is Omega making too many watches?

[@davenordsieck6444]

This is going to sound so simple that it’s stupid: they should improve their watches across their catalogue, make them objectively better than Rolex’s lineup, and then sell them for a much better value prop. Put almost any one of Omega’s watches against the Rolex equivalent, and I’d rather have the Rolex. But some lay-up changes could erode that. SMP300 is a perfect example. Ditch the HEV, size it down a little, and modernize the bracelet. It would be a better watch on paper than the Sub, and thousands less. Do common sense refresh on each watch, and price it well enough to make people question how much of a premium they are really willing to pay for the crown. Omega has no chance of matching the prestige and cultural clout of Rolex in the next few decades, so don’t even try.

[@cdm765]

Simple is not the same as easy. No one is capable of making a better watch than Rolex at that price point.

[@miabeatz80]

​@@cdm765I gotta say it's unrealistic to think any company would pour tons of money into r&d to make a better product than a competing company only to sell it for a much lower price. It's like saying Lexus is gonna make a faster better handling more reliable car than bmw and Mercedes then sell it for cheap. 😂 Omega has increased in success over the years and held a number two spot for a while. Yes Cartier is leading now but not by much especially given the fact that most of Omega new stock from last year isn't even available yet. We simply aren't giving them credit for their accomplishments. They have improved movements in every model to exceed Rolex standards with Metas along with creating a new movement this year with unrivalled accuracy. What more do we want. I too have a Christmas list of ideas to make some models better but we gotta give them some more respect.

[@davenordsieck6444]

Y’all are missing the point. They’ve already put in so much of the R&D work such that they already has several movements that are better (co-axial, jumping hour hands), and that are better decorated and displayed. They can, and often do, beat Rolex on both specs and price. But they have some missed opportunities and unforced errors on design. They will NOT close the gap of prestige and cultural power any time in the foreseeable future, but they CAN and SHOULD improve their designs, sizing, bracelets, etc so that they do not feel like the watch you settle for when you can’t find-afford the Rolex. They should close that gap until the consumer is left with no other conclusion than they want the Rolex name even if it costs more and isn’t actually a better product. Btw I have both an Omega and a Rolex, both of which I adore. Not crapping on either brand.

[@cdm765]

@@davenordsieck6444 Omega simply can’t nail a design. Speedmaster is the only exception. The market is also flooded with far too much inventory which lowers brand perception and makes steep discounting the norm.

[@miabeatz80]

@davenordsieck6444 When you say they can't nail a design how is it that the Seamaster is the most compared dive watch to the sub since 1995 and probably the second highest selling???? Also the pro plof is also a timeless design that is mostly unchanged since it's origin. Coming from a collector's point of view (which you sound like you are) Omega having a ton of models would be a problem. However for the buying public they just want more variety. Having more variety is what's allowed them to sell high revenue to make up for the lower prices per watch compared to Rolex. Cartier also has a ton of designs and this is why they are also competitive as well.

[@androidaccount7743]

Omega's plan is to create more overpriced plastic garbage pieces.

[@swampscott2670]

Omega needs to improve their watch servicing - at least in the US. That should be part of a positive experience. At the moment it’s not. With Rolex it is (when dealing directly with a service center, not some franchise store…)

[@patrickjean-philippe7679]

Definitely, Omega must improve their service centres and turnaround worldwide…

[@neilmartin7776]

Things that Omega could do to catch up are: 1. Trim down their existing lineup. There's too much bloat and no coherence/story between lines. 2. Improve their website. It's awful, and cluttered (see point 1). A simpler design with the watch and then an overlay of dial/bezel/ strap options would be more user friendly (like Rolex's). 3. Cartier has its Collection Privee. Vacheron has its Metier d'Art. Omega is capable of producing truly high-end horology - so have a separate collection for that, for people to aspire to. It's like Gucci - you aspire to one of their tailored pieces one day, but you'd happily buy a t-shirt now. Omega could do the same. 4. Customisation. It works for Nike. It even works for Bucherer, so it's not unprecedented in watchmaking. The case and movements are stock, but users could choose to mix and match dials/bezels/straps. These days it's all about personalization, and Omega could offer that. These are all fairly easy and relatively inexpensive ways Omega could use to differentiate themselves from Rolex and appeal to a wider audience.

[@realalexmackenzie]

After Swatch allowed one of THE icons of dive watches to be pimped out for a few bucks (last week's plastic FF release), I may never again buy another of their brands. I think they are short-sighted. I think Rolex respects their brand FAR too much to do anything some classless. Richement seems to have more respect for their stable of brands as well. Swatch has lost the plot and it will bite them in the posterior one of these days.

[@miabeatz80]

Love watch with emoji symbols and colorful bubbles on a dial exude high levels of class 👌😂

[@realalexmackenzie]

@@miabeatz80 Fair observation, but at least it is their watch and not a design rip off or weird collab. Further, it is still the same level of quality and craftsmanship that you get in the more "serious" Rolex.

[@miabeatz80]

@@realalexmackenzie the Rolex colors that Omega used aren't a lower caliber build quality than the original colors so I don't get your point. Also Rolex doesn't own a patent on colors. The Daytona which is the most popular Rolex is a Zenith design and original movement from them so you're point isn't very valid. Btw Rolex hasn't done a collaboration in years so it's a false comparison. Top brands like AP and Patek also do collabs so it's not a gimmick just because Rolex doesn't.

[@austinjon31]

Leaping off Michael's idea, Omega may consider fighting casio & Citizen in the digital/quartz accuracy space however, with more finesse (sexy bold designs)

[@machiquinones8901]

Off topic but I love that collared plaid! Where’d you get it

[@btmontres1423]

Love the level of discussion you guys bring to the watchsphere. We get to step into this zone and see things from a perspective we don’t have ourselves. Would be rewarding to see Omega build more momentum too, there’s a portfolio to work with that doesn’t need to lean on the Speedmaster. Every time I look at the Constellation it just misses the mark, waiting to be reborn, reinvented, and transformed.

[@Harpreet06]

Did the moonswatch really increase omegas sales exponentially??

[@speedwolf5212]

What Omega really needs is new in-house designers.

[@androidaccount7743]

What they need is to leave the Swatch Group.

[@miabeatz80]

Are you implying when you say "in house designers" that Omega designers work outside the company or come from Swatch group? 🤔

[@patrickjean-philippe7679]

That’s an interesting perspective. Are Designers pooled across the Swatch Group ?

[@j0hnpa0l0]

What model gshock is the yellow one?

[@AndreaDoesYoga]

Interesting strategy, Omega 🤔⌚, love your standing desk Michael!

[@tonib.6243]

good to know that Christian is a fan of oligarchy and Saudi investing, attaboy

[@joelmoore3804]

If Omega started a sub-brand, they should name it Alpha! That alone will make people buy them. Seriously though if Omega wants me to buy one of there new models, they better start making them thinner. They will not for under my cuff, which means I won't wear them. They can't keep doing three handers at 13mm, that's just ridiculous.

[@denisspratt926]

Swatch could do what FCA/Stellantis did with Ferrari though. Let Omega become independent. After Ferrari became independent in January 2016 they have become a financial success. Making their own decisions and developing their own cars without others making decisions. That might work for Omega too.

[@neilmartin7776]

Never going to happen, unfortunately. Omega is the Swatch Group's golden goose, and by far its most important brand.

[@denisspratt926]

@@neilmartin7776 Yeah I know. But it could be fun to think about what could happen if they did.

[@neilmartin7776]

@@denisspratt926 I'd love to see it happen. Although they're not in the same league as Omega (financially, or brand recognition), I'm excited about the futures of Girard Perregaux and Ulysses Nardin now that they've both gone independent - I think they'll both start to draw on their respective back catalogues and produce some really good stuff. An independent Omega could be something really special.

[@tiegoz]

Perhaps Omega need to lie more in their marketing like Rolex, maybe they could claim they made the first waterproof watch, or the first self-winding watch, or the first watch with a date window on the dial, or maybe they made the first watch to reach the summit of Everest, or the first professional dive watch. Or they could just stop the high quality finishing on their movements and remove the sapphire crystal back so it can no longer be seen - calling it a 'tool watch' would get around that. Or just maybe Omega have been getting it right and wearing a Rolex makes the owner look like a scam victim.

[@grandcosmo]

I love Omega watches and hope that they don't increase their market share. Having more people wear the same watches I do is unappealing.

[@TheRabbitHasLanded]

i dont think i seen any omegas in public tbh, mainly just the random rolex, apple watch, and no watch

[@Sovnarkom]

I worked at AT&T when they were purchased by SBC Global. SBC later changed their name to AT&T. Swatch Group should either rebrand with a product neutral name (like Alphabet and Meta) or revert to using Omega branding at the group level (like when AOL bought Time Warner). Doing the same thing with Breguet or Blancpain might devalue the prominence of their dress watch range.

[@PabloTBrave]

Tbf rolex and omega put me off as they are everywhere on everyone. When i go out i want to be unique, there are fabuolous brands that rival or beat the big two with excellent quality, finishing, value, unigie designs, often making their own moments, dials and cases, yet sell only a few tens or hundreds of thoudands of watches a year not million .

[@pjr2730]

Gshock is the way . sell all your omega and rollex watches dont fall for the hype

[@erik0073]

People always compliment my Gshock when I wear it.

[@jompfish]

Omega had been behaving a pack of heyna circling a male lion making too much noise with zero damage done 😂

[@Sandouras]

You “curators” do know that omega is an older brand than Rolex right?

[@Blastoise-rx3qv]

Omega is cool cause you can do this thing where you walk into their store and give them this thing called money and then they have this thing called a watch that is available to purchase and then you give them money and they give you a watch??

[@syncswim]

They should 1) Split off their sales and marketing strategy from the rest of SG and function independently, if they don't already; 2) Get the Hayeks to do some hardcore stock buybacks and get the cawing investors out of the board room; 3) Focus on movement tech and invest more in finishing, two areas where Rolex's product falters or is just merely ok; 4) Develop some kind of next major innovation on the Co-Axial movement - something bringing long-term accuracy closer to Spring Drive territory etc., 5) Formulate a strategy around making the Aquaterra/Railmaster/Constellation as central to their brand identity as the Seamaster and Speedmaster. In essence, you have to figure out how to have better unique sales propositions than Grand Seiko before thinking about Rolex, because right now in the eyes of the semi-watch literate Grand Seiko is winning out for the role of "it's really honestly way better than Rolex, but no one knows it yet."

[@MerlintheMaineCoon]

What about the new Tudor..? Ok, that’s only a few hours ago.. 😂😂

[@Laguna2013]

Reminds me of Ben Stiller's late father

[@TheSuperGenius]

Omega needs to: #1) Cull their catalogue down by 50% & improve the remaining models further. (How about having most watches come with a bracelet & strap, ala Santos / VC Overseas!) #2) Kill the Connie & De Ville lines, they have below zero street cred. #3) Make an excellent new dress watch line, featuring rectangular/square cases. (Reverso's/Tank's/Santo's sell!) #4) Bring prices back down to reality. #5) Much, MUCH more marketing... Far too many people, have never heard of your brand!

[@mitchkan5671]

Yes agree Omega should ressurect the legendary Lemania brand , which swatch owns already . LEMANIA made some incredible watches of their own and made some of the most notable watch movements and supplied to omega patek etc ....

[@christopherhoglund4962]

What is the sum percentage of all Swatch Group brand watch exports?

[@melocoton7]

IMO Omega needs to step up their marketing game. They’ve been asleep for the last 50 years. Quality is right up there with Rolex. But the “regular” watch buyer that doesn’t give 2 shits about history and calibers etc will get a Rolex. I love both brands. Omega is great value for money and you can walk out of the boutique with one. That equals many plus points already.

[@THX-C]

Much love to G-Shock Squares! Omega needs to recapture what it had during Mid-Century. Currently, their dive watches have sponge-like bezels. Rolex, on the other hand, knows how to makes bezels - they click and if Omega either made a Seamaster with a bezel as good as Tudor or made a Dirty Dozen watch, I would be interested - Swatch Group hinders its brands by not letting Omega make a watch they think should be in Hamilton’s territory. As you’ve said, Rolex is an inspirational story of an independent - one with a LASER focus to control both production and now selling its watches. Michael, I like the idea of an exciting Omega sub brand and Christian - nice metaphor of the old gangster. Their calibers are really good and it’s a shame.

[@CharlesLao]

Why so focus on Swatch Group? I like Richmond Group better and hoping that they will pull something crazy 😂

[@leeharding8306]

I honestly think I could run Omega better myself than the idiots who are running it right now. So many models miss the mark apart from the one that was perfect from day one, the Speedmaster although Omega has had a good go at messing that up a few times over the years. 🤦🏻‍♂️ the Seamaster needs a huge overhaul. The bracelet the thickness the thin lume on the hands that fades after ten minutes and the shocking bezel action 🤦🏻‍♂️ the Aqua Terra date window mess and the lack of micro adjustment on the bracelet 🤦🏻‍♂️ they even released the Speedmaster without a micro adjustment and then did one latter🤦🏻‍♂️ other than changing a few colours around what have Omega released recently 🤔 they are good at constantly putting the pieces up though 😬 sales must be slipping because they are making a huge mess of everything 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@tramenari]

Omega already has it's own version of a Tudor equivalent to Rolex... Longines.

[@torqueofthedevil8145]

Omega need a reality check, they will never be better than Rolex

[@Valera_Scotland]

My absolute favourite brand. Just got the 2541.80 Seamaster....11mm thick, under £2000, stunning blue wave dial, very elegant case... Honestly, i can't see myself ever wanting to spend 5x on a Sub. To me, omega is just more handsome and desirable. Even if rolex was freely available to buy i would go omega (I do have rolex experience, having bought and sold an Explorer 39 and a green 36mm OP.... they are great watches... BUT to me, omega just has more "heart")

[@miabeatz80]

It's fun to compare the two most popular watch brands we love. However, I don't think either brand competes with each other on the level we would like. If Omega came out with a new update to the Seamaster. A perfectly styled diver ie (proportions, bracelet, material and far superior movement) compared to the submariner people would love it and buy it. However, would they pay more for it than a submariner? IMO I say no. As we ask ourselves what would it take for Omega to surpass Rolex it's two things. To sell more and sell at a higher price simultaneously. They can't. Nor any other brand do both. They can only do one of the two. Which would still leave them in second place.

[@WarriorChampion47]

Nobody can fight Rolex … they build this empire in many decades. It’s everyone’s dream even people who are not educated knows what a Rolex is .

[@dibs6579]

the exact reason omega fails to gain market share from Rolex. Rolex continues to innovate their cases and push the boundaries (at least they used to). Utilizing ceramic, updating dials with new materials, and cleaning up the design. Rolex does this all while maintaining the overall design language and making a continuous growth of their watch. Omega failed here. Vintage seamasters look absolutelv nothing like new ones. And new speed masters are almost one to one copies. But now it's too late because gradual change shows company growth. And here an overhaul of design would mean disconnecting from their identity and pushing the new too far away. It's a failure of the brand to innovate their design in a meaningful way over the years.

[@miabeatz80]

I agree with some of your points. FYI Omega is the one dealing with ceramic not Rolex. Also Rolex have experimented with dials for years not just recently. Rolex wouldn't necessary be called the innovators of the watch industry IMO within the last 30 years. By that I mean no revolutionary movements or case designs. The small incremental changes have worked for them. It's a bit easier when most their watches have a similar case design. Omega I would say have finally found a Seamaster design that works but does need a diet lol😅

[@dibs6579]

@@miabeatz80 I would disagree with what you said. The speed master still ships with an aluminum bezel and the unification of Rolex case design is their strong suit and brings a strong design language across its entire lineup. Omega has failed to change their designs and experiment. Movements aside omega has done so little to deviate from their original design that a new generation speed master is lackluster and boring. Rolex on the other hand constantly evolving their lineup that without realizing in 40 years you have a design that is still connecting to the original Daytona but has a completely refresh and new feel to it. Rolex absolutely push the boundaries of material and case design. They may not be attainable to the masses but they are a much better run company, better design thinking, and case engineering that challenges the best of Swiss watchmakers. Omega has failed to capitalize (not in dollars) on one of the greatest stories in watches and are too afraid to make a single change to their speedmaster. If only they evolved it’s design it would be a true competitor to the Daytona. But as it stands I don’t justify the price they demand for it

[@miabeatz80]

@@dibs6579 if you think the current speedmaster hasn't evolved to it's peak level you're wrong. Key difference from original speedy 1) crown guards 2) lyor lugs 3) slightly bigger dial 4) slimmer case 5) slimmer bracelet with micro adjustment 6) automatic movement 7) ceramic bezel on Ed white and anodised aluminium on regular (harder metal) 8) sunken Chrono registers. 9) animated case back on silver Snoopy. All these changes while retaining the spirit of a timeless design. You don't prefer Omega which is fine but you're not analyzing the details. Also with the Seamaster they IMO have perfected finishing of ceramic cases on a class leading level. To allow ceramic to look almost as if it's metal and first to do ceramic dial with engraving. Take a look at the Apollo 8 speedy. Lazer ablated skeleton case. Put some respect on Omega quickly 😂

[@FightingMango]

Omega has taken the piss with their price increases recently. Thick cases and movements. Overhaul the freaking Seamaster. Taper the bracelet. Make a thinner case and movement. I started my journey with a Brosnan Seamaster but the new Seamaster stuff is just too big

[@elot]

How about I don’t lose 35% of the value of the watch when I walk outside their boutique. That would help Omega a lot.

[@miabeatz80]

That would be nice but watches in a certain price point lose average of 30% across the board. Only way to alleviate that problem is to limit supply. Then we'd be complaining how we're on a wait-list for a speedy 😂. Oh yeah and the price for entry would quickly increase.

[@skg5]

Well told story. The hate towards Rolex is stupid. They are the best for a reason. I’d take my Rolex to the moon and back before a speedmaster or a G shock.

[@pbtony0340]

no more rolex for me dont like the bs games... Omega is the way to go !!

[@johnflores2667]

To much philosophy, not enough statistics. Old guy, young guy, good guy bad guy, omg show market share over a period of Time.

[@williamwhite1982]

If Omega would stop making oversized watches with things like exhibition case backs and fake patina, they would do better at competing with Rolex.

[@lucorrez9991]

Good luck 😊

[@mmmmmmyeeeaaahhh3880]

that highlighter g shock is not the business lol

[@michaeldemarco899]

Do you guys want to know the exact reason why Omega cannot, and will not ever compete with Rolex the reason simple because common people who don’t know watches know Rolex and they know usually when someone has one on it means that they have made it. Most common people do not know omega but us collectors love omega. I have both omega watches, and Rolex watches. I can tell you that when I wear my Omega’s out I almost never get complemented. While they are beautiful, watches, and stand out, they are not Rolex. They are not Rolex the only way they can become Rolex is to create buzz and exclusivity

[@vladimirodinets]

Change clothes much between videos? Three videos past 2 weeks from one day of shooting? Common guys 😂 Still love you two!

[@scottt.4596]

IMO, Omega will NEVER EVER win a watch segment battle with Rolex except for the relatively inexpensive iconic chronograph segment (with the Speedy Moon Pro.) The historical problem with Omega is that it didn’t allow its iconic models to evolve strategically with incremental improvements. Omega allowed each of its successful models to change dramatically between generations. Rolex did not. Because of this, Rolex offers seven icons while Omega offers one highly desirable iconic model. The second big problem for Omega is Nick Hayek and his policy of no longer offering LE watches. Each and every Speedmaster enthusiast that I know loves LE Speedy’s!!! Most have bought, and would continue to buy, multiple LE References per year. Hayek listened to the complainers (who would have never purchased a Speedy) over the true Omega enthusiast. Just today Omega released the 45.5mm/19mm THICK Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Chronograph Deep Black ETNZ Edition to Celebrate the 37th America’s Cup. I’m guessing Omega will sell less than 50 over the next year while I’m confident Omega could sell 2012 Speedy Tuesday 3’s in less that five minutes. Makes no sense 😒

[@GrumblingForesight]

Yeah, people complained for years about Omega’s LEs but cant deny that they do put the brand in the headlines multiple times throughout the year and drum the hype for the brand. Compare that to 2023 where Omega had like what, 3 smallish headlines? There’s the Spirate launch, the Mikonos Seamaster summer collection launch, and maybe the release of the titanium world timers. That’s it. They could benefit from releasing some LEs again.

[@pipolebnene]

Omega needs to finally design new watches and not do 100 different seamasters and speedmasters and bank on getting more marketshares like that

[@Jomar1863]

? = Porsche Rolex = Mercedes Omega = BMW

[@BobbyDazzler888]

Rolex is ordinary particularly its movements. More like toyota or lexus.

[@TheColnago]

Omegas marketing is weak and confusing compared to Rolex. Always has been. They sponsor B Actors posing with the product vs Rolex focusing on people that accomplish something in their lifetimes that people actually care about. All the watch wizardry and movement dorkery in the world will not resonate with weak marketing that falls short and does not connect with their audience.

[@JacReviewsStuff]

This year Omega increased their prices by 10%

[@ggavin9934]

Other than Rolex lies, embellishes, and distorts their "achievements", not that there's anything wrong with it, if enough suckers fall for the propaganda. And it seems like there are a lot of them out there. Fine watch but seriously, the marketing is just top notch. 😏😏

[@ivankerr3570]

Omega need to grow some and withdraw all Group stock from Bucherer. If all other brands do this as well then Rolex will end up with a group of shops and no stock to sell.

[@impexRQ]

And Omega will fill it with cheap plastic toy watches 😂😂😂

[@mariog7213]

History guys. At one point omega was king. Before that longines, PP, and others and it took decades to dethrone them. If history serves as an indicator, omega won’t be the one to dethrone Rolex…it’ll be a company like Oris that operates independently and cares more about making great watches at reasonable prices than making status symbols

[@milosradivojevic5887]

Why do I feel that when ever a point is made in favor of Rolex there is a but... "Independent single brand company... oh wait yeah there is Tudor", "Sir Edmund Hilary was wearing a Rolex... oh wait it was actually Smits", "Rolex on the wrist of English channel swimmer... oh actually did not complete the swim", "amazing watches... but actually you can buy them only if you buy ton of jewellery"... for me it is high quality watches, but not a good brand, a lot of marketing without merit and the brand promoted and worn by so many people who don't even know what they have on the wrist... on top of it personally the esthetics of "my father's watch of the nineties" is just not appealing to me... I am a "my grandfather's watch is so historically more important and good looking" type of guy... just sad compared to Patek, AP, Omega, Blancpain, JLC...

[@firstnamelastname-ys3mz]

Omega needs to add helium escape valves to the entire line of Aquaterra

[@mquevedor9]

Rolex is the Kardashian of Watches, famous for being famous. Omega is a way better watch

[@larrygaurano3400]

Tell me you’re a Rolex fanboy without telling me you’re a Rolex fanboy. 😅

[@planetdee3587]

The reason in my opinion that Omega will never match Rolex is because it is too "young" in image and its watches. It reminds me of BMW and MB around my area. Young people want BMW and older want MB. But we all get old eventually and as we get older we desire what older people like because older people are often the ones financially better off. So Omega in my opinion needs to change all their watches. Maybe make one version of each of their current watches (one size, one color) and call it their heritage line (and completely downsize it). Then make a new line (which won't have too many variations of each) of maybe 4 watches. A classic dress watch design, a dressy diver, a dressy casual and a dressy chronograph. Each pretty slim (11mm or thinner). Simple designs that look very classy and not in your face. A little boring but distinctly Omega. And just ride that out.

[@miabeatz80]

Isn't that what JLC does? How's that working for them in comparison to Omega sales?

[@planetdee3587]

@@miabeatz80 This is true but Omega has a more established name, I think they need focus.

[@miabeatz80]

@@planetdee3587 I agree. It's taken them a long time to come up with a Seamaster design that's future proof. I don't think the current movement would be able to fit in the Bronson case from the ninetees so the current model IMO is a good evolution of that design. I would like a slimmer case and slimmer bracelet but I think otherwise the design is a success. They have the speedy, and the pro plof which are timeless designs. The constellation could use some work.

[@planetdee3587]

@@miabeatz80 This is why I think they need to have less variants of their current models and slim it down but then introduce a new set of 4 or so watches that never change but ever so slightly every 10 years or so. The new line would cater to those who like more traditional classic watches. The entire Rolex lineup is classic traditional in design save for maybe 2 or 3 watches and those are often the ones nobody buys (vs the others). People often desire what the established people want or have and established older people often want simple and classy. Omega does not have simple classy in their lineup. And just throwing gold on a thick sports watch does not make it classy.

[@miabeatz80]

​@@planetdee3587 Valid points. When you look at some other newer successful brands like RM. They aren't doing anything classic. The watches are oversized outlandish colors yet highly technical movements. They aren't cornering the watch market but they are sticking to their ethos which is vastly opposite of Rolex. Same way since way back Omega has been know for larger cases ie (speedy, pro plof) you'd be asking them to change something that's been this way for decades. Even the earlier mil spec seamster were larger in diameter than the 39-40mm some people want. Rolex is the only watch company in history that sells the volume of watches it does at as high of a price as it does. To compare any other brand against that anomaly is simply unfair.

[@roybatty6368]

Lol.....Rolex is absolutely dominate and the #1 best. Omega has no chance against Rolex. Not even in the same universe.

[@ErikL727]

Is this about Omega, or about the Swatch group? That's really two different topics of conversation, yet they are used interchangeably here. The history and watchmaking prowess of Omega is not erased by virtue of having a corporate handler. That concept is sensationalist garbage, sorry guys!

[@marklawless1726]

Omega is the old guy, If it wasn't for SWATCH Omega would be no longer, There cataloged is too large.

[@Spook291]

10:23

[@Peltwerk]

They need to fix their marketing. They need to be known to non watch people. Everyone knows Rolex even if they don't have any intention of ever buying one.

[@miabeatz80]

James Bond, Olympics, US Open, moon landing, and you still want more 😂 shrugs

[@11111mhmhmh]

I think swatch is perfectly fine versus rolex, 7 billion in sales to rolex's 9 billion is fine for them, I also don't like any brand with swatch, rolex is king for a certain group of people, majority of people do not care to own a rolex, I'm one of them. plenty of other better brands like parmigiani ,carrier,vacheron, I don't want to associate with people who own a rolex, everyone I personally know who has one is a complete d-bag

[@amromajzoub24]

UnForgiven, Then EarthQauck Morocco Of Disaster Al Haouz Marrackesh and TagHazout On 5 Day Ago

[@amromajzoub24]

and Still Save Air Force British QATAR and REI Spain or BUSF

[@dcollins4292]

don't forget without Richemont and LVMH how many great brands would have become extinct? The europeans are a bit less money driven than americans. The europeans are concerned with "survival" of their traditions. Watches are an important part of european culture, history. The watch industry in europe is a great example of rags to riches story. Remember there was a time when the Brits and the Americans were world leaders in the watch industry...and remember rolex has it's original cultural and marketing dna in ..the UK...

[@deltropico7]

Getting a Rolex watch means facing snobbery for a steel sportswatch. Swatch makes consumers face snobbery over plastic watched XD

[@ryana9783]

Christian has conditioned me to expect him to break out into a trump impression at any moment. Especially when he says “frankly”. -PS no watch company under the umbrella of a conglomerate will ever obtain the level of cache that Rolex enjoys.

[@user-fi5fr9us2t]

The only option for Omega is to perfect their products. Tighter tolerances, No flimsy bracelets, more robust clasps, thinner/smaller cases and calibers, bring back the historical references and then maybe, maybe... if Rolex stands still, but they never do... So, Rolex is king!

[@miabeatz80]

Maybe I'm a bit biased as a huge Omega fan but which historical references that sold amazing did they discontinue. They still sell the speedy, pro plof, constellation, and Seamaster. Any other model would kinda be your personal favorite. We look at the fact that Omega is way behind Rolex in total sales revenue but they sell watches that average half the price of Rolex but sell almost as many units. 🧐

[@user-fi5fr9us2t]

@@miabeatz80 Omega should focus on their historical pieces from the 40' to the 60', also the old romania moments like the 33.3 and so on, not chasing Rolex withe the copy and paste models and colors. What makes Rolex great that they dictate the trends not follow, they just do their own thing...

[@miabeatz80]

@@user-fi5fr9us2t Rolex has great designs and arguable the best GMT and diver in the industry. However, they aren't without flaws. Many might say aside from a different dial or bezel color there is really no innovation coming from Rolex. Only small improvements in their movements which aren't Geneve seal nor at Metas level. The old models you speak of were not the best sellers of Omega and by reintroducing those Omega would essential switch their focus to dress style watches. IMO Tudor has copied Omega relentlessly Blue diver, focus on titanium and ceramic cases, even copied the Metas certification. Now people love Tudor.... Wonder why 😂

[@miabeatz80]

@@user-fi5fr9us2t BTW if you aren't familiar with some of the Omega lineup you may want to look at the Globemaster it is a remake of the Genta designed C-case with pie pan dial. Very well proportioned and really nothing like any other brand.

[@rickjason215]

Grand Seiko makes better watches than Omega and Rolex.

[@juniorjohnson5961]

👍