Watch market - Why no one wants JLC - Omega vs Tudor: Q&A

[@craigwoolbert2443]

Dude- more of these. The lighting, editing and style of this video rocked. I could feel the snow here from Southern California.

[@BarkandJack]

Thanks Craig, glad you liked it mate. These sorts of videos are tricky, but fun to make.

[@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR]

I have never snowboarded nor skied and never had the desire to want to. But after watching this I’m ready to get the goggles on and chuck m’self down a black run!!! Great takes matey. Good to see you well!

[@verynormalman]

I support you 100%. You need to start with the black runs. Do the others later. Remember to maintain your independence and never go on a freebie with Oris.

[@BarkandJack]

Haha. Let’s do it! 🏂

[@BarkandJack]

It’s easy to maintain independence and go on press trips. Brands want honest opinions. That’s the thing I hear to most “say what you really think” and “we like your content because you’re open and honest”.

[@verynormalman]

@@BarkandJackSurely there's a dangerous line here? Part of the problem with "About Effing Time" is the blatant commerciality of your content. It started as a joke, but it became really dull. I was interested as I have a PO 38.5mm but you didn't mention that in your content. That was an oversight. All PO's are huge??? NO!

[@BarkandJack]

@@verynormalman I don't think there's a dangerous line, it simply comes down to integrity and intent. There are plenty of content makers (youtube, blogs, publications, newspapers) who will make content on anything provided they are paid for it. And they are happy to say whatever is needed to get paid. Sometimes it's hard to spot these. There are other people, like myself, who just make content on things they find interesting. Of course there's brand to topic bias at play: I love Tudor, Oris, Rolex, Omega, if they launch a dive watch, I'll cover it. But everyone has a bias from a newbie blogger to Nicholas Foulkes. I go on far more press trips than the ones I share. Typically 1 month, but I only make content if the product is interesting. This Oris trip is a perfect example, the watch that was launched was boring, and there wasn't an interesting story, hence why I didn't make any content on it at all. This was the watch that was launched: www.oris.ch/en-GB/watch/father-time-limited-edition/01-754-7741-3161-set The typical publications made content on it, usually because they have an agreement with the brand to do so. I don't because I'm independent. This was why AET worked well, we had one guy who has relationships to protect from an advertising point of view, one guy who had relationships to protect from a commercial point of view, and then me with the freedom to say what I want.

[@alexpiptom]

Good to see the videos back! JLC increased their prices way too much

[@chrisjones6439]

It could be they were too cheap in the first place.... I agree on paper their price hikes have appeared aggressive, but they should never be in the same price bracket as Omega, Tudor etc

[@lihanou]

@@chrisjones6439 but now who would spend 22k on a JLC gold dress watch when they can get a VC or second-hand PP? They weren't even competitive enough at their old price, and they tried to ride the covid watch hype train.

[@robin2thek]

@@chrisjones6439 you think cost of making the watch has anything to do with the watchprice? do you know the magin of watches? wake up dude

[@lihanou]

@@chrisjones6439 Also their finishing is very mediocre (not bad) for the price, but a league under vacheron and PP. They are not on the same calibre. Blancpain finishing is better than JLC, not just on the case but also the movement is fully decorated.

[@shreyasr1989]

@@chrisjones6439doesn’t matter if they gets 0 people buying their watches they are overpriced . It’s simple as that

[@mountainjay]

This is SO much better than About Effing Time. Love the snow on location. As far as winter and watches go the Seiko SPB333 is a chill contender ❄️.

[@mountainjay]

*George and Andrew are great, I just prefer this style of video- classier.

[@fontyyy]

George "how can a lever a TAG Heure promo into this video?", that George?

[@toms8517]

It’s good to see you just drinking coffee and talking watches again.

[@Mark-lj1dj]

I ordered a gray NATO strap for my Seamaster through Bark and Jack. It arrived very quickly and is stunning. Highly recommended 👌 cheers Adrian

[@BarkandJack]

Thanks so much Mark 🙌🏻

[@pauln0371]

As a daily all rounder Id personally go with an Aqua Terra. JLC not being trendy is one of the main reasons why I want one. That and the quality. Shame they have increased the prices by an absurd amount..

[@BarkandJack]

It’s hard to beat an Aqua Terra. Good looking, solid and a killer movement.

[@foodsillustrated]

Lucky enough to own a JLC world timer - definitely the most refined of my watches and knowing that only someone who really understands watches would notice it is reassuringly pleasing

[@vincentschneuwly9783]

"The power of Swiss Franc" sorry but I am Swiss, living in Switzerland and I can tell you that we had the same price hikes those last years. I bought a Reverso last year and prices went up about 30% within the last 18 months...

[@pianopourtous9345]

Hi, regarding prices, I am leaving in Switzerland and even in our country the price of Watches has increased a lot, too much, as inflation here is low. So it is not really the fault of the strength of Swiss Franc. By the way, welcome in Zermatt 😊.

[@jonathanscott5252]

Add me to the voices who say you missed the boat on the JLC Polaris. A stunning watch that has huge buzz right now… oh… and i have a Reverso that I love (full disclosure… I also have a Cartier Tank).

[@carloc8763]

Always a pleasure when I see a new video out. About the second-hand market, a little story. I travel to Treviso (small town close to Venice) quite regularly. There are two or three jewelries which sell nice pre-owned watches. Until recently, they would have one or two pieces on display. Last time I was there (before Christmas), one of the them had at least fifteen Rolexes (from Subs to GMTs to Daytonas), others had Patek, VC, Zenith. From someone with cash, something that finally looks a bit more like a buyer's market.

[@animal355]

Great location Adrian, I love the absence of sound when in snow covered mountains. There is such peace. I appreciate the effort and time you took to do this from such a great place. I must visit this place at some point.

[@sackman1886]

Funny, I completely agree with you on Citizen and Seiko. Seiko is starting to move their prices up market, while Citizen is producing some great enthusiast watches. Seiko also needs to realize that micro brands are shipping with bracelets that are easily 10x the quality of what they are using for less money. My Halios Universa has one of the best bracelets PERIOD, and it cost me $700. I paid almost $1k for my SPB213, and the bracelet and clasp are trash. They need to up their game if they are going to keep upping their prices.

[@watchmewatch9]

About Effing Time you dropped an Adrian Barker video. 😉

[@BarkandJack]

🤣

[@alexhamilton2710]

Great to see you back Adrian, also hats off to the video editing - very high quality. Awesome drone shots as normal

[@JoeDAgata]

Agree - what camera are you recording with?

[@69fastfurious]

@@JoeDAgatanice drones but more of another mate filming 😉 By the way Adrian you need do more content! Forget About Effing Time 🕰️ é passar! Amigo Adrian no need for 2 more dudes and only one has all the power… 😊 Keep up with your awesome videos/reviews about awesome watches! Still waiting for lower customs 🛃 taxes could buy 2 for price dam taxes 😊

[@Valera_Scotland]

Shame you don't make that much content anymore, but wishing you well with whatever exciting endeavours are happening this year... cheers Adrian. AFT I get myself a 3861 hesalite speedy I think (although that would involve selling my IWC Mark 16 on metal bracelet.... so I'm considering my options.... I may wait and just get a Speedy in the long term without selling the IWC....damn these watch dilemmas)

[@RedwoodAggie]

Great to have one of your videos up, even just a Q&A. I liked seeing your "live" thoughts in action for the P39 vs. MkXX recommendation. It was like a little insight into your thought process, which adds credibility to the recommendation. I completely agree on JLC. I considered a JLC when I ended up getting an Explorer II, specifically the blue Polaris automatic. While a nice watch, I did not feel it offered as much of a value at $8,400. At the current $10,500 price it's completely ridiculous, "Watch maker's watch maker" or not.

[@ThedoctorGONZO86]

I love JLC for not having hyped pieces. A brand for reel watch enthusiasts.

[@Mega-zi7ys]

Correct! And for people who can truly afford them. Rolex has become a watch for posers hence always worried about resale values Bec many are actually in over their heads in trying to be showy. Jlc ppl don't care about the resale and can buy yet another jlc if they suddenly feel like it . It's for the real deals. Many pp owners also have jlc

[@Robert.Dickson]

One of your best videos in a while IMHO. Totally agree with you on Seiko pricing recently. I don’t think they are reading the room.

[@BarkandJack]

Thanks a lot mate.

[@HydrogenAlpha]

Great to see you back. Makes me realised just how much I missed your content.

[@BarkandJack]

Thanks much mate. Really appreciate that 🙌🏻

[@jayhoughton4174]

I love Zermatt and Adrian Barker watch videos, double hit! Although currently in Meribel practicing my xc skiing for the vasaloppet in a few weeks 😀👍

[@Kompyutershchik]

Good to have you back Adrian! Enjoyed the video, great content

[@steenfraosterbro3268]

I do consider the Polaris JLC's "Speedy/Sub" model. And it will look amazing with a B&J strap

[@justinbuska3499]

I mean, JLC has a sports watch offering with the Polaris but is nowhere near as popular as a speedy, sub, BB58, Seamaster, Santos etc which is why the brand as a whole is less popular compared to those others. If JLC wants to move up in in the pecking order, the Polaris, or a different sports offering, watch needs to sell much better. Otherwise it will continue to be an enthusiast only brand.

[@pw8764]

@@justinbuska3499 - JLC are quite happy to be an enthusiast brand - the Polaris a great watch and range, everything from a date, to a chrono to a perpetual calendar... stainless or gold... rubber, leather or bracelet - the key thing is it's not a Rolex, Omega or Tudor - it costs more, and that's why JLC owners like and buy them. Put simply, they're better made watches and worth the premium - plus when another watch enthusiast sees one, they know all of the above.

[@welcomewrist]

I feel like an update to the Polaris with a smaller size could add some interest into JLC.

[@robpelletier2103]

I’ve been to Andermatt, very beautiful and wonderful Watch boutique in the Chedi. Zermatt is definitely on my bucket list. Fantastic seeing you back on the screen!

[@rhgrabowski3855]

Adrian - I stand with you regarding the Tudor Pelagos 39! A great, all round three-handed watch. A purposeful sports watch.

[@Anonymouslyme1]

Good to see you back, always enjoy your content 👍🏻

[@alexius8111]

i love JLC and their polaris is the sports watch you are talking about in my opinion. Polaris memovox has an alarm that can ring underwater and its 300 m water resistance . Its expensive for me personally but i would but that over a IWC, tudor , rolex any day. Their dial is beautiful enamel (boutique editions) and they also do a perpetual calendar. its just lovely on a bracelet , rubber strap , or leather. try it out if not yet ..

[@RobinHood-us7sg]

👏🏻

[@samon_kurowassan]

That strap brings out the beauty of the Polar dial of the Explorer II. You're tempting me to add another to my list 😢

[@jamesn9221]

Love the shots of Zermatt. My fav place too in the world, had the pleasure of visiting last march and it was heavenly

[@jeffreytotaro7051]

Great video Adrian, as always, but really stunning production value too. Backlit video looks amazing, sounds is spot on, drone footage icing on the cake! I hope JLC prices come down, I have my eye on a Reverso pre owned. I think the Reverso is a great watch and will start conversations more often than Cartier. Love the Cartier too however... age old rivalry.... keep 'em coming!

[@VMIyanks04]

Oh dang!!! What a gorgeous video Adrian and team! Just epic!!! I did a watch exodus for January from too much watch content and was so happy to be greeted by this video upon my return!!! I’m excited to see what you have in store for 2024!!!

[@brianjkelly1551]

Brilliant , real content . Love it Adrian . Well done 😊

[@oh_io.watches]

I laughed out loud when you made it all the way from a down sweater to a t-shirt 😂 Enjoyed your thoughts and the stunning scenery.

[@Dung8aj]

Been following you since 2017, and met you at a watch event in London 2018. Great to see your channel grow Adrian. 🎉

[@jamiebarrett8095]

Love the video. Always the best when it comes to the Q&A videos! Cheers!

[@MrHitthespot]

“A fan of good looking watches that wear well”. Very well said. Rolex, Omega, Tudor, Seiko, etc. all make some great watches. I have an Omega Seamaster Pro 300 that I love. Would Also love to have an Explorer or the Explorer 2 in white.

[@paulcole]

Wife just surprised me for my bday with a brand new AD explorer 2 white dial, apparently I chucked one on in Milan and she liked it I thought nothing could replace my Batman as my fave (⚫️🔵) as it’s my teams colours, but gotta say there’s something classic and understatedly cool about it. Never had a white dial anything either. Already more compliments than my Batman too So don’t listen to the haters Adrian, bland is IN & chicks think they’re cool too 😎😉😂

[@alecc4006]

JLC got ahead of themselves and priced a lot of people out, I don’t think there is a market for “very expensive but not quite patek”

[@mgraham1996]

The Planet Ocean comes in 39.5mm too but it’s often overlooked. It’s one of my favourite watches👍🏻

[@ianforber]

I agree. I have one with a blue dial. I’m not sure I’d choose it as my only watch though. Aqua Terra or Explorer or Mk XX would be better

[@BishopDewar]

I'd love to get my hands on a JLC Grand Reverso Duo in Rose Gold...that watch is just fabulous in my opinion...!!

[@Bemjji]

Your 100% right about the planet ocean, it’s too thick. Even the bezel. Have you ever looked at the planet ocean profile? That bezel is obnoxiously tall.

[@greggbull9543]

Great backdrop, Zermatt is one of my favourite places, 2 quick points…1. I wear my JLC Reverso only when wearing a suit which is a shame but I still get loads of compliments but I do believe that the Polaris is a great sport/diver as is the Master Control a nice daily sport watch. 2. I find that after collecting watches for the better part of 35 years that my favourite watches are the ones that fly under the radar, I love my Glashutte seventies and my Zenith El Primero open heart but they are not talked about enough, I would buy another Glashutte or JLC before adding to my Rolex collection….I guess I’m just odd that way. Great videos and content. Cheers

[@markbowman7240]

good to have you back Adrian

[@dBsdecibels]

You do that snowboard meet there, and I'd probably join (from America)! Always wanted to try riding the Alps! That would be tempting indeed! ....would need to get back into shape though, lol.

[@ViolinistWilliam]

These are my favorite videos from you. By far

[@Carl_Donaldson]

Love how you're still dropping the explorer 2 shots in videos, still looks mega

[@mazin13]

Regarding JLC, I would like to mention the reverso squadra home time. A sporty looking reverso. A very underrated model. Prices are decent on the secondary market too.

[@arturassuksta8837]

That Reverso is perfect, its sporty and also can be a dress watch, so versitile and cool looking open case back, realy such a underated watch

[@Denhdenno]

Great to see you back, awesome video and scenery. Was worried if it went any longer you’d be wearing nothing 🫣🤣. Started off with a puffer jacket 🧥, body warmer, and t shirt. Ended up with just a t shirt 😮. Keep up the great vids 🤳

[@barryvercueil2346]

Incredible video. Gorgeous scenery. Looking forward to the Gshock video. Cheers.

[@ChisholmHunterOfficial]

He’s back!!!! Let’s gooooo 🎉❤

[@stevens1041]

Hey, my favorite watch guys in one spot!

[@chrisgray4785]

Recently ordered 3 of your natos and proper impressed with the quality 👍🏻

[@GerardBarkandJack]

Hello, it's great to hear you're enjoying your new straps. We've got plenty of new products coming in 2024 as well, so keep your eye on the shop if you fancy any others!

[@BarkandJack]

Thanks so much Chris 🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@99jasonhooper]

Great video - missed these and thanks for reading question - looking forward to seeing the two new watches.

[@v.s.4948]

Excellent video! Loved the editing... so good!

[@MrBev19]

Love your videos Adrian! Let’s have a big year buddy.

[@djknucklez1]

I was in Zermatt last year with my wife in Spring and it's just as amazing all year around. No place like it.

[@alannavarrete8338]

Very close to purchasing the pelagos 39, need a rugged dive watch that can take a beating and last. Had an SPB143 but hated the weight. Am I making the right purchase with the P39?

[@jonathansmith283]

no one could capture a more pristine, beautiful backdrop . be safe A. ~ JDS/CT

[@Tarzanonspeed]

Glad to see hand held is back! Missed you buddy

[@jstogdill]

My reverso is my favorite watch. But I’m comfortable being odd.

[@RobinHood-us7sg]

👏🏻

[@FS-zn9xe]

Me2

[@kevinkohler2750]

I'm surprised you didn't mention the JLC Polaris as an option for someone looking at either an Explorer or a Sub. I wish JLC would do an updated Mark 11, 36-38mm case, fully-lumed dial, for around the price of an Explorer. I think it could be a hit.

[@A.T.148-Scot-HK]

Richemont won't allow it. Too much overlap with IWC. That's why I hate all Richemont brands these days. Well, except Lange and Cartier I guess.

[@kevinkohler2750]

@@A.T.148-Scot-HK Good point! I didn't think about the parent corp. This helps to explain why JLC isn't producing the another watch I'd want, and entry-priced Reverso similar to the Tank Solarbeat.

[@A.T.148-Scot-HK]

@@kevinkohler2750 that's the problem with modern JLC. They're cemented in positioned by Richemont as somewhere between Rolex and Vacheron/Patek - They won't allow them to make lower priced watches to compete with stablemate IWC/Panerai, and they can't allow them to make watches too high-end in fear of cannibalising sales from Lange and Vacheron. The end result is a brand in no man's land - save some money and get a Rolex or pay a little more for a Vacheron. Their best modern watch to date is the Duometre and they've not done anything with it for over a decade now. All they do is reissue old designs with new dials. I used to own a lot of JLC but sold them all and moved on to other brands.

[@craig2100]

Great discussion Adrian

[@danold6443]

I know this is off topic, but can anybody tell me why the Tag superdiver does not get a mention vs Omega Deep Ocean/ Tudor Pelagos etc. I know that Tag is a hated brand online but that watch is a beast in its specs that should be at least judged against the main. As for nato straps...got two B&J ones in rotation so am happy. Keep up with the vids.

[@PineapplePizza1]

@5:40 could not be more accurate. Seiko charging insane prices for the same lackluster movements and crystal.

[@joeplatz7289]

Great Q&A, very much agree with comments on "in house", geneva seal, etc.

[@seaweed719]

Planet ocean has a 39mm version. I thought should know this. I would pick a JLC reverso over a Cartier tank or santos anytime of the day.

[@leemartin2978]

I think JLC tried the Veblen principal of marketing , but then added vat and then a handling charge , and it was a very large increase pretty much over night . Maybe anyone that was close to buying decided it was now out of reach and some fell for the principal ? I’ve no idea which way their sales have gone , and I doubt they’re the best source of funding out the truth . I guess if the prices stay at the higher level it must be working , but I stopped looking at them

[@tricky92x]

A video dedicated to your G Shock collection sounds awesome. Looking forward to the drop.

[@GabrielLigon]

Super clean video! Well done as always!

[@JShelby2021]

Thank you for the awesome insight and content!! If you had to choose between your SMP 300 white dial and the Explorer ii polar, which would you choose? I'm in that predicament now and I know you have and enjoy both models.

[@Ensor-Doone]

Can you show us more videos of you with watches in snowy and winter environments, thanks.

[@dannyfree1120]

I've never seen a JLC I wanted. I can't afford any either, so it's a happy equilibrium we've found ourselves in.

[@MtNgravel]

Polaris series are nice in my opinion

[@dannyfree1120]

@@MtNgravel just googled it. Very nice watch. Personally I'd buy an IWC and omega railmaster for the same price combined. I'd never begrudge anyone buying JLC. the quality is not in doubt

[@corychecketts]

Spot on assessment about Seiko and Citizen.

[@ellikopter]

Adrian..can you produce a 21mm FXD style Velcro strap for my Peli 39?? Can’t seem to find anything close..

[@coffe04]

Zermat swizeland ❤ I was there in October last year, great place, beautiful, my favorite place on earth

[@uzairp278]

My holy grail watch would be a JLC ultra thin moon phase.

[@verykeen2please]

I love these question on watch size trends The question should be is it the right size for the type of watch ie larger for diver and smaller dress style and is it the right size for you

[@nealdranoff6426]

Adrian, why don't you like the Mark XX on the bracelet?

[@michellep2682]

Funny, I just picked up the Summer Blue PO and love it. Not too big for my 6.3" wrist. Owned the Pelagos 39 briefly. Not my favorite. Didn't like the sunburst bezel. I love the PO though.

[@JohnBuckmaster-sw3wm]

My Grail dress watch is a JLC… the duo face!

[@manuel_winde]

Such a great watch. I love mine and wear it pretty much every day, can dress it down with some strap changes

[@luxelist]

Love the insight on everything asked, learnt a lot from this video.

[@Holmseyboy0104]

Good video, lovely production. How did you get the drone shots in Zermatt? Did you need permission? I got told off once for having a drone in the summer

[@talkkari5460]

If one don't mind owning an older model, Omega Speedmaster (Peter Blake) in titanium is as close competitor to a Pelagos as it gets. I went with Omega since it has certain charm to it when compared to Pelagos. I'm not a Tudor guy but Pelagos in titanium has just something intriguing about it.

[@kevincrawfordphoto]

Nice way to write of the trip to Zermatt.

[@scotthoughton1802]

cup of coffee and this video- great way to start off the day, good stuff.

[@Hard_7_Iron]

Planet Ocean for me….GREAT views! Life’s good! ❤

[@charlesfield9286]

Best strap I’ve ever worn is from bark Jack

[@bernal4444]

Very well put together video. Fully agree with every point you made. I wish JKL pushed the Polaris more. I think it’s such a good looking watch.

[@Aziz_H_K]

The JLC polaris its an iconic amazing sport watch i don't know why people forget about that watch also its a bargain in the secondary market

[@BarkandJack]

I absolutely love the Polaris, the new green is especially nice. They just aren’t mass market products.

[@Aziz_H_K]

@@BarkandJack yeah the green is boutique edition i just bought one a month ago almost new for 5000US dollar thy tank secondary market very good buy in my opinion

[@vh5cker]

Short and sweet. Location looks fab. Follow-up Q. New Watch rumors for W&W?

[@CaerEsthar]

Nah, I still want a JLC. The Reverso *is* legendary and the Master Ultra Thin is the perfect dress watch.

[@RobinHood-us7sg]

👏🏻

[@zerominuseleven]

Right on

[@MrFloRolf]

What camera was this shot on? 🔥 🔥 🔥

[@imadbasayev8541]

Polaris Automatic 41 or Date 42 are perfect daily wearers with bracelet/rubber/leather options. They just don't market them enough.

[@Chris-pn9yf]

Love the style of your videos Adrian.. and your straps are awesome, I have 3

[@GerardBarkandJack]

Glad you enjoy our straps - stay tuned, new straps coming soon!

[@Timjacks01]

Yes, Adrian content lands 😊👍🏻

[@sebastien6483]

I've probably annoyed you more than once but you are a legend. Great discussion🤘🏼

[@BarkandJack]

Haha. Thanks so much 🤘🏻

[@Cmdtheartist]

Nice honest video, glad it ended when it did before you were completely naked on the slopes.

[@GerardBarkandJack]

😂

[@tim462]

What do you think about the Grand Seiko sbgx263 with the 9F Quartz movement? :)

[@dc1674]

I like JLC becuase I dont know anyone who has one. The Duometre Quantime lunair is soooo nice.