Why "Flexing" is Ruining Watch Collecting

Why I am over Flex Culture & my final thoughts on the Timepiece Gentleman disappearance, charity stunt & Anthony's apology. I feel like over the last few weeks there's been a real spirit in the air: That people are SICK OF FLEX CULTURE taking over our gorgeous hobby! We see it everywhere from the "hype inflation", to the adverts we see, and the content we see.
But I think I can say: I AM OFFICIALLY OVER IT! I'm over the exuberant displays of wealth and luxury, I'm over showing off 5 platinum Daytonas, and iced out Nautilus'. I'm just over it! And I want to get back to what this whole thing is about: the joy of collecting and sharing these amazing timepieces!
Now, I don't want to make it seem like if you have a platinum Daytona, you're the worst. Because you're not! Collect what you love! It's just the over flashy, the overtly trying to show off that I think watch fam is just OVER. It's played out. It's had it's time, now let's let it die.
I also don't want this to seem like I am having ANOTHER go at Timepiece Gentleman, because I am not! I really don't want it to seem like I am kicking them when they're down. I know Anthony has apologised, and people like Archie Luxury has forgiven them. (I personally am not there yet. Just too much damage done and actions speak so much louder than words! So waiting for the actions before I cast anything out there). I just think PTG is the perfect case study for this whole "Flex Culture". That's what they've built their whole brand around! And I think that's what has made this whole stunt so hard to stomach.
Anywho! Maybe you agree with me, maybe you disagree! That's ok! Thank you so much for watching this video. I'd love to know what you think down below! And let's keep loving watches!
HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH ME:
Insta - watch.gringa
Email - [e-mail]

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Hey guys! I am trying to get back to all the comments on this one, but the comments went NUTS! bahaha! I'm so sorry if I've missed yours!

[@michaelcarr3883]

A couple of live streams with Oisin and Archie and now you won't speak to the rest of us. I'm kidding of course. As your view, subscriber and comment numbers grow like they are it will get increasingly hard to reply to the high percentage of comments that you do. I think your regulars in the comments section are smart enough to realise this. I am afraid it is one of the prices of success and you seem to be heading that way.😎👍

[@jolin8493]

We are a group of men who already conspire against you, collect money together, will find another loud moth bitch, and pay her BIG time money to promote female sized watches and bash you, a male watch thief!!!! You are hereby warned! #MyMaleWatchCollectionIsOnly Mine (I never forgive YOU for the dings my wife made on the lugs on my Pepsi...NEVER! Mark my words!)

[@watchpapi]

@@jolin8493 😂😂😂😂 the struggle is REAL.

[@watchpapi]

@@michaelcarr3883 here’s hoping!!! Onwards and upwards 💪🏽 🚀

[@gregcapella5941]

Nice video ---- Pope Tier Rules !!! --- I am BINGE WATCHING all your video this weekend (AND ALL THE ADDS) !!!!!

[@earthgirl7267]

The gentleman who sold my husband and I our house, is a multimillionaire. We've known him for over ten years. He drives a bucket of bolts, older model Honda Accord, and his watch collection consists of Seiko, Timex, and Longines. He said he just enjoys a simple life.

[@teslapete4461]

the flexers and tpg's of the world have unfortunately been jaded so badly that they only judge a person by their wrist...there's many multimillionaire's who fundamentally won't waste money on luxury items and don't even wear a watch. my great grandma had enough money when she passed that $1M of her inheritance went to a local school, a bunch to a church and the rest to her daughter. she lived the simplest life in a tiny house, rarely turned the lights on to conserve energy etc...

[@conservativemovement]

Dave Ramsay also talks about very wealthy people who keep it low key and keep it classy.

[@JudoP_slinging]

Bill Gates wears a Casio Duro

[@andrewnewton9083]

@@JudoP_slinging gates is a lizard 🦎 who wears a skin suit

[@stuartclubb4302]

Call it what it really is: "Uncultured, insecure, douchebaggery". As we have seen, when the curtain is suddenly moved aside, its often the case that the Lambo (or R8?) is leased, the watches are business stock bought with borrowed money or on consignment, the yacht is somebody else's. And even the "mansion" is rented (Bilzerian?). Oh, and the girls are definitely paid to be there.

[@Alan1234x]

One thing I learned in California: money can’t buy class.

[@michaelbardeggia5908]

I feel the same way. It’s all about being happy and content with what you have. Hey I’m a watch geek too, and maybe some day I’ll buy a 5k + watch. But for now my focus is an enjoying what I have :).

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Amen to this! Even to own a watch over 1K is absolute LUXURY. WATCH FAM JUST TURNS US INTO CRAZY PEOPLE.

[@JoaoGomes-ce4th]

“Grey market, flexing, bullshit” that literally sums up what TPG was in 3 words!

[@emersonc2136]

Totally agree. They flex then have the face to ask the public for money. They are really full of it

[@nickchang5293]

They’re just a huge cloud of fairy dust, all front and no back

[@Mikey_NoCap]

Could not resist, but technically that is 4 words! Only kidding bro, you are spot on with the TPG reference, the stupid sword to open his post and the gong in the office did me in, from that point on I just watched for the comedy value and the inevitable train crash.

[@Mikey_NoCap]

@@grand_caliber Didn’t even need a worm on that hook to reel you in. Keep fuelling the fire and those of us who were originally getting tired of it all will get some extra keyboard warrior power. ps, folks don’t use lol anymore, they just use tpg 😂 🔥

[@teslapete4461]

@@grand_caliber You're literally being a troll in the comment section, the same thing you ridiculed your viewers for in the dumpster fire of an interview with Paul Thorpe...wtf? Why don't you unhide my honest 1-star review on Google Mr. Transparency?

[@MarcoFerranteWatches]

Couldn't agree more. So many people in the hobby trying to show off wealth and hijack the hobby with their living the fast life lifestyle influencing. It's such a terrible example to set and not even remotely close to what the real watch fam and enthusiasts care for. Watches have always been about a love for history, horology and artistry. I hope people just entering the hobby come to find such channels. Gringa awesome content as always. And yes, always focus on life and yourself first! As for the Papi, I am with him. All these new watches you see people getting makes you want to chase that dopamine rush of getting a new watch and inevitably gives you the itch. It's never ending!!!

[@PALWE]

Hi Marco , you know me well 😂 I agree with you in to an extent, but not all watches are about horology. I think when you’re building a collection, in other words owning more than 2 or 3 watches for different occasions or to mark significant events or goals , then it becomes about showing off or flexing if they don’t have horological significance. This is something that’s happened in the last 5 or 6 years with Instagram. Don’t forget that people have been buying Rolex omega and Breitlings , in the main, for many decades and in the past it wasn’t seen as living the fast life or influencing. People just wanted a luxury watch that was also seen as a jewellery piece. Most people in the past just bought one or two and wore the hell out of it, died and handed it down. These people weren’t watch enthusiasts, like you, or flexers. They were the norm. An ok place to be.

[@ceojosetabar521]

You said “sounds like every cheating boyfriend” lol I’m dead that was mad funny !!!

[@JayandSarah]

"every cheating boyfriend - EVER!" lmfao, best line I have heard in a long time.. and the cut and delivery - was absolutely genius. like, genius marketing. lol, punny. Fawk I'm too gold.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

LOLLLLL. AND I STAND BY IT “bear with me. That’s not who I am! All I ask is that you give me the chance to truly be myself” {4 months later……} “I will never do it again!” 😜😂😂

[@complicatedtime]

I loved the days 20 years ago in “brand-supported collectors forums” discussing history, calibers, amplitude impact in timekeeping, innovation of complications, how specific alloys & temper of repeating gongs affect tonal quality…how the Swiss watch industry evolved from the 70s to today, and how different brands had different strategies to survive to today….

[@bornabosnjak810]

Ridiculous how perfectly timed this is for me. I got a BB58 *YESTERDAY* after a long time of saving and waiting, and went out to dinner wearing it. A few tables over I see a guy with a 15202 (which to be honest I'm not too fond of anyway), and for the rest of the night I couldn't help thinking how I need something even more rare, expensive, cool whatever, not even realising that I'm totally neglecting this awesome fucking watch that I finally get to enjoy. Weird how the mind works sometimes, great video.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Our stupid brains eh!! I remember some of the joy was taken out of my BB58 for me when people started commenting “people only get Tudor when they can’t afford Rolex”. And I thought 😞 oh. But I’ve learned: THOSE people are the lame ones. The BB58 is an AMAZING WATCH! OMGGGGG you’ve gotta tune into my Sunday video! It’s basically a love story on me and the BB58 LOL! A year on the wrist! How shes ageing! It’s an amazing watch honestly!! Wear it in good health! It’s exceptional that we can afford and collect such beautiful things!

[@watchpapi]

Congratulations!! Such an awesome watch!…. 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@watchpapi]

Which colour???

[@bornabosnjak810]

@@BrittPearceWatches I actually had this conversation. When I told them I actually don't want a sub I was met with the best IRL surprised Pikachu face I've seen. I'll be there on Sunday!

[@bornabosnjak810]

@@watchpapi Thank you, thank you. It's the original gilt, the blue is lovely and definitely better in person than in many photos, but it doesn't do it for me

[@corychecketts]

This is an important topic. Thanks for talking about it. I’ve discovered for myself that I have to continually ask why I want/like something. If it’s for some sort of perceived status then I try to sit on the issue for a while until I can logically calm my emotions down. But if it’s something that I genuinely love for whatever reason, be it community, design, history or more, I figure out a plan to make it happen. The biggest issue that I’ve found with watches and cars is that people who aren’t into them for the sake of liking them, think that you’re into them for status. I’ve had dozens of conversations with people about this and it’s true for almost any hobby. Anyway, I’m rambling. Keep up the great work.

[@deant5006]

I like this segment. "10 min of clarity with the Watch Gringa"

[@nitsan]

Totally agree. Wearing a 160 buck Casio and happy with it. To be fair it's a really nice titanium one.

[@TheAscheinfield]

First time watching. Very enjoyable and entertaining. “Reading the room” is a gift and many in this industry fail to do that.

[@jimlittle5769]

I watched about 5 minutes of one video from Timepiece Gentleman and that was enough for me. Never watched another.

[@jockdodson9093]

I could get through it either.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Sometjing about it always sat in a weird place with me! At first I found it interesting. Then just started feeling a bit slimy

[@jimlittle5769]

@@BrittPearceWatches good morning Gringa. Its a reality show. Right away makes me not want to watch. It also promotes, encourages and praises flippers/flipping. Not much to like there. Add that to the fact Anthony acts like, and excuse me ahead of time for the word, a dbag. Thats 3 strikes against it. Plenty of great watch content available out there to watch, don't need that guy.

[@jockdodson9093]

You know, early on I liked his story. Excon redemption story. Talked about watches, not hey look at me and how much I spend.

[@jimlittle5769]

@@jockdodson9093 eventually, a person's true nature comes out. It is inevitable.

[@parkerholt8097]

Gringa, this is great and needed to be said! Let me tell you a saying we have in Texas that applies to not only the dorks of TPG but the whole flex culture in general. The saying is "All hat and no cattle" meaning when someone buys a fancy expensive cowboy hat to give the air of being a cattleman, but they don't actually have any cattle... that's where the wealth is... get it? Those Platonas for example? Other peoples consignments! These guys and the flex crowd in general are all living on credit, all borrowed, leased and leveraged. They don't own shit. Love it G. Ps. Don't forget Napoleon syndrome drives this too LOL.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

“All hat and no cattle.” LOL love that saying.

[@parkerholt8097]

@@eyeheartsushi2212 I so do, too. A favorite!

[@walkerb1734]

I’ve been to the ‘dark side’ and back. I went through a phase when I always had to have the most expensive, rare, and highest status watches. At one point I owned a Platona, 2 Aquanauts, an ALS, etc…. It all just got too much. It took me away from what I love about watches…the appreciation of these mechanical works of art. Today, I am so happy just wearing my Tudor BB58 blue. It’s not unique, but I love it so much and smile every time I put it on. Sometimes, less is more!

[@007Chancellor]

I've kinda gone the opposite way - and my watches reflect this. I had three Rolex watches. An Explorer II (1655), a Submariner, and a Polar Explorer II. One day it hit me how much these were worth...and I sold them all! I replaced them with a couple of Steinharts, and so far have vacationed in Rome and took a scuba vacation in Jamaica with the proceeds. And I have plenty of cash left over so I can enjoy even more QUALITY time travelling with my wife. And honestly - the Steiny watches are just fine, TYVM. 😉😄👍 I love 'em!

[@brianmsahin]

Great video. One just enslaves oneself if one engages in flexing. Rolex fans are also enslaved. Everyone talks about "having a good relationship with their AD" which translates into "constantly kissing an AD's arse so you're on the list. Lol. As I posted elsewhere today, for Rolex slaves, the AD is their god, the personification of Chronos, the god of time on earth. They must kneel to him, praise him, love him, or else suffer the hell of the grey market. They sell their souls for a $2,000 watch with a ginormous marketing bill on top. It's exactly the same as the $2 Chinese made Daniel Wellington that people pay $250 for. The scale is just different.

[@BillLaBrie]

Rolex is the DW of the rented yacht crowd.

[@gregorylausch]

So genuine and needed in this community. Well said and looking forward discussing watches with you in the near future!

[@ikeformayor]

Honestly love these thoughtful talks. You're channel threads the needle between earnestly wanting people to be better and totally drunk hysterics. Kudos!

[@friskjidjidoglu7415]

Loved this video. Your assertion of common sense and what normal people see, and your humor make this video one of my favorite watch-related videos. 8:59 i like that he’s apologizing in front of a wall of glossy prints of ultra-luxury wristwatches

[@markwilliams3432]

Well said Gringa. Borrowing from an old saying, "Are you wearing the watch, or is the watch wearing you?" The larger issue is that social media is ruining us, making us more superficial, more narcissistic, with shorter attention spans and less likely to think before we post. Now, every idiot has a voice (and idiots speak a lot more than wise people do.)

[@MTbone7]

Even worse is flexing when it's other people's money

[@TheBlueOwlX]

Yup, I’ve definitely experienced this. I quit social media for a while. It has really helped me. Now I use Twitter and Instagram again, but I’m much more conscious about who I “follow”.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

You couldn’t pay me to go back to Twitter.

[@tfpp1]

My single-digit watch collection consists entirely of Casio, Seiko, Timex, and Orient. 50% is Casio.

[@yakumotatsuro4886]

i can confirm NOT having social media anymore is so much better in every way than having them

[@stemikger]

Well said. My entire watch collection consists of 18 Timex watches and a few Vostoks, sturling and Victronix. I got the Victronix for 15 years of service at my job. So, I don't think I ever spent more than $300 on any of them and several cost under $100. I bought them because I really like how they look and feel they capture who I am as a person and how I live my life. No flexing here. On a side note, my other passion is investing and let's just say I became a millionaire following the principals of another Timex wearer. He was the late John "Jack" Bogle. He had a net worth of $60 million and wore a 20 year old Timex. Oh and he drove a 18 year old Volvo. Never flexed a day in his life.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

OH AMEN TO ALL OF THIS! This is so class! Money can’t buy class, can it?! ❤️❤️ love this story! And I love people who just truly get joy from their watches! ❤️👏🏻

[@daveblood00]

No houses, boats, cars, art, etc. Just salt of the earth guy who never spent a single dime in excess. Nor his wife.

[@daveblood00]

It's amazing people believe this garbage. Fiker is a billionaire and you think he only has a Volvo and a Timex. They have publicists that release this garbage. These are the people that back politicians that take our rights. And you celebrate this fiker cause you think he has a Timex. Jeez.

[@schumanndrake9166]

Best part of TPG is it led me to your channel. Great content--thanks for being genuine!

[@hownowvihao]

Watching this video in 2023, seems like Britt had a good read on the Timepiece Gentleman two years before things turned out the way they did.

[@drticktock4011]

Did I see a Jesus statue behind the Breitling box? I'm pretty sure Jesus would be wearing a Rolex. Yatchmaster = catching fish or calming a storm, Submariner = walking on water, GMT 2 = traveling all over spreading The Word, and Skydweller = ascension into Heaven. Throughts? Also, what would each Apostle being wearing?

[@bto7779]

This was funny.

[@Matts-ju1xo]

“The things you own end up owning you” - Fight Club

[@dylanlamb8710]

Irony of watch flexing is that only other watch geeks get it and get our passion. And, 9 times out of 10, that other person has something in their collection that is a way better flex. There’s nothing like flexing your quaint Air-King, and thinking you’re so cool…only to have a watch buddy whip out his/her Lange. But, that’s why I love this “sport”. As long as we do it in a supportive way, I think we all love to “flex”/share our pieces, and we all love living vicariously through what others share and “flex”. 👍🏻

[@dylanlamb8710]

And as soon as I comment, WF drops a new Lange 1 video 👍🏻✌🏻👀

[@lefroy1]

It is kind of weird how narrow the checklist is, of things seemingly essential to the 'nouveau watch hobbyist'; steel sports Rolex, single malt Scotch, fancy coffee. Where's the self expression in that?

[@larrysmith6797]

Guys like Tim Write have ruined the watch hobby. He's also into men's fragrances. Little Timmy talks like bon vivant wearing his Rolexes but he talks about his boss making him paint the office door. It seems few of these Rolex poseurs own homes.

[@derosa1989]

it's mostly tribal. some people need to join a 'club' (the Rolex cult, lol) whereas many people avoid this like the plague.

[@lefroy1]

@@larrysmith6797 I've always found Tim perfectly inoffensive. He's always good natured and jovial in the livechats.

[@riyadsquash]

I’d say WatchEric and Producer Michael started it much before TPG - don’t give them credit!

[@adamwong5560]

Great video! Even though it was as you said "a different then your normal pace" it is a message i think about a lot and I am glad others do also. It is difficult for a lot of us to see what is happening in themselves and the world they are in. Again great video!

[@mrgood1cor13]

This was good. Literally, everything up until the "flexing" part is something I struggle with. I was heavy into watches for some time and in 2019 I found myself having to sell most of my collection to pay my little girls surprise medical bills (because I had just been laid off and lost my health insurance). So I took a break from the watch world for about 3 years. The FB, IG, KZbin, all of it. And now that I'm starting to rebuild my collection again and back into the YT, FB and IG world, back into the groups and forums Im finding myself stressing about how I can make more money so I can buy this piece and that piece. I get down on the watches I have and myself because they aren't this brand or that brand. Im literally stressing myself out about being able to afford watches. So, today I dropped a wad of money on a new swingset/playhouse for my little one. That took a chunk of my watch money and it felt good because I know she's going to freak out when she gets it and will enjoy it for years. The devil on my shoulder still wants that next piece but I just have to keep telling myself there are more important things to spend your money on.

[@watchpapi]

That’s beautiful…… I hope the little ones love it! ❤️

[@shahzebnasir4692]

When the watch bug hits again, ask yourself if you lived in a shack away from everyone else in the woods, would you still want it or could you be content without it? Also ask yourself if you'd be happy to wear a clone/similar copy of it from another brand. If no and you want the *actual version from the expensive house then you don't actually like the watch design, you like the luxury and prestige attached to it. So don't get it since you don't actually like it. By doing this you realise how little you actually do like and how so much of what we get is because of other people. Many want the panda Daytona but most won't be seen dead in a Pagani Design clone of it because they don't actually like the Daytona or the racing heritage behind it. They like the hype.

[@mattdevenish83]

I hope this goes viral because it's 100% on the money. The sooner a market correction occurs and these charlatans move onto the next fad, the better. The problem is the manufacturers embrace the culture because it's what helps sell overpriced products. Change my mind

[@davidjung5982]

You have amazing production value and content. I can tell if you keep at it you will become big one day. Stay genuine and keep it up!

[@pedrorivera9779]

One of your best videos. Thanks for taking the time to share it with us!

[@CELEBFACTOR]

As watches are in one aspect a fashion statement piece, flexing will always be around. Same as with luxury handbags, shoes etc etc. For sure some need to calm down with the me me me look at me, hey look im rich.

[@derosa1989]

to be clear, "flex culture" isn't ever going to be over, it's just a certain way that some people will express their personality and show off their money, and attract a lot of people who need to pretend they have money. Of course, there have always been people who find this gross, and lots of people with large money don't "show off" like that, it's probably one of the ways they got to have money in the first place, not spending it flexing. It's not hard to see how some young people get some money they blow it on trash.

[@billtodd7693]

Great insight, well articulated! Something many of us needed to be reminded of. Thanks!

[@prawiraoka6699]

here from the AC3 channel, great quality content!

[@michaelzuccardo5414]

Great topic Gringa! I've always been into watches since I was a kid, but I never really got serious about it as a hobby until 2010. I've watched a shit ton of watch shows, and have become a watch nerd. What I can't stand are watch snobs. As soon as I hear someone say, "Oh, you gotta get a Rolex", or some other ridiculously expensive brand, I say, F....Y..! Yes, I have a Breitling, and I've owned and sold several Omega's and whatever! The point being, These watches are not necessarily any better made than $500.00 watch from a microbrand. The big price tag comes with the big branding, or hype, if you will! My point is that if I have a luxury brand in my collection, it's because I really enjoy it, and not to impress anyone else, period! Besides, now a day's if your wearing a popular luxury brand like a Rolly, most folks will think it's a fake. Love your channel!

[@rodsalvador3608]

I would love to see Ben Clymer or Jack Forster interview Anthony Farrer about flex culture. That'd be comedy gold.

[@watchpapi]

Genius.

[@Tonysoprano497]

It’s horse shit .Dont think most of these flexing dudes are actually watch enthusiasts . It’s quite simply for most ,ludicrously expensive high end fashion and a projection of perceived wealth.. find it all a bit vacuous.. Absolutely great with my personal collection and have no desire to to follow the crowd ..The problem with social media is that it greatly encourages group thinking , a follow the leader mentality , not something I’m remotely interested in ..

[@andrewgiblin3468]

That's why I find vintage watches more enjoyable than the latest PP, AP, Rolex new watch douchbaggery!!

[@Mark..P]

Great sermon Gringa and sport on. Flexing is also closely linked with watch snobbery. You see it in the comments all the when someone is derogatory about a lesser quality brand (in their eyes). There is always someone who has less or more than ourselves. I love passionate watch collectors, not watch snobs. Have a great weekend both.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Bahahah omg you are right! This was sooo sermon-y! 😂😂 day job is slipping into my normal life! 😜

[@Mark..P]

What awful grammar, this is what happens when replying without glasses on 😂

[@itsnotaboutthewatch8154]

Bingo. This is really important. Welcome to rampant digital materialism. The further up market you go, the more watch collecting begins to lose it's soul, where what the watch actually is, what it means to you, becomes irrelevant. This really became clear to me when I saw a video of a trade show of luxury watches. There is more class in a cattle auction. A LOT more.

[@jeffegan9388]

I just subscribed first time I have seen your channel great video and funny too. Keep up the great work.

[@Annoyedsince1986]

Exactly what I have been thinking. Excellent work, Gringa! My only critique? I hope TPG doesn't succeed, because if they do, then its just showing that someone like them can be successful, and part of me doesn't want that subset of watch culture and culture writ large to succeed. It's like people who rent out a derelict private jet to take pictures in and pretend they have a private jet they're flying in--it's all pretend, and it's ruining us.

[@ABCdotcom]

You're right that watching megaloaded flexing grail pieces can make one feel inadequate. A bit like lottery winners who win a few million rub shoulders with those who have 10s of millions feeling inadequate. Perspective people! Anyone with ONE Rolex is VERY blessed...

[@brandonrace-oak4352]

I respect this, I have the same perspective too. just love the craft and how incredible of a design things can be. I recently received a vintage Cartier Pasha for my birthday and as i love photography i've taken some cool photos of it, but I am so hesitant to post watch photos on my socials as it can so easily be seen as flexing and I am aware a lot of people couldn't put that amount of money into something like watches. It is a shame really that watches and fashion is closely attached to being seen as showing off!

[@pv6668]

100% on point Ms Gringa, in summer i only wear my daily beater - short sleeves - no eyes on me please. Maybe Lando Noris has formed an view on this now, i'm pretty sure the woman that was shot in the leg in LA for just being in the same Beverly Hills restaurant as a guy with a $500K watch on would suggest flexing its not such a good idea too. Congrats on the big move up in subs! But a warning - if you ever put "A Man and His Watch" on the shelf behind you i'm turning off.

[@nigelmcmorris9096]

First of your videos I’ve seen. My oh my, it summed up so much that’s bad and good in the watch world so well. I’ve became a subscriber by the end of the video.

[@wagz54]

I didn’t think of that. When I first got in, Instagram had so many Turtles. And now, feels like if you don’t have a $10k dive watch, you don’t love watches. Timepiece Gentleman never had my attention.

[@watchpapi]

Mine neither. I get why people enjoyed the show but for me it was similar to “selling sunset” but for watches.

[@dsvillalva]

Loved the video, and how you didn’t flex your own watch! Flexing has only made demand explode, further feeding the grey market. But with patience and perseverance I’m still able to grow my collection with purchases at retail, but it’s frustrating competing against all the demand out there. You’ve got a new subscriber!

[@eduardomartabit7382]

Great video Britt!! Very true and on point! And by the way, the quality en the content and editing is getting better and better! Keep up with the good work!

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Whaaaat! Thank you soo much! Trying to get a little better every video! ❤️ learning as I go!

[@jibranm5310]

This video was so necessary for me to watch. Great Job! I'm so blessed to have so many top-notch watches but always in a state of restlessness for the next acquisition, this video gave some much needed perspective.

[@franciscoscaramanga2342]

Great episode! Will use it latter in our Clubhouse this evening. THANKS!

[@davidwolff3293]

I saw this culture in LA years before Social Media existed. People showing off what “they supposedly had”. It has also been on reality TV and now it is on You tube / social media. Love the watches for the watches not for others admiration. The alternative can only lead to envy and constant dissatisfaction. Be well and keep on keeping it real. Best regards David W

[@Bhethar]

There are two type of people: Those who show you their Rolex telling you all the specs and explaining how hard and exciting was to get it. And than those who are like “lol Rolex! Expensive lol Look at me ! Wow! Notice me sempai!”

[@gm_talisman7049]

My name is Joshua, I'm a materialistic douche bag. I knew I was at Rock bottom and needed help when I woke up next to an $18,000 watch, and I didn't even know its name.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Hi josh. You are in the right place. Happy to give you your first day chip!

[@SuperFlatrock]

As long as you are collecting vintage watches, you have the security of knowing you can sell a watch for at least what you paid. That is the only reason I'll pay a lot for a watch that performs no better than a $50 quartz - not as well in most cases..

[@lastminute2607]

Well said Gringa. Thank you for making this a topic. Excess, materialism, lack of self awareness and offensive amounts of privilege… things like this pervade the social media accounts of the watch world. If I never see another flipper show of a briefcase full of Daytona’s again, it will be too soon.

[@nkonig1]

This whole topic does upset me. Not because I feel pressured to earn more and feel like I’m not worthy etc. It upsets me because so many people feel this pressure. This only comes from a world where the wealth divide is ever expanding. It’s a real shame. Know who you are and be content with that. Try and think about what you do have, rather than what you don’t. I bet you these people who “flex” might not have something that you take for granted.

[@pianoman2640]

I agree with you Gringa. It's as if spending $5,900+tax at an ad for an "entry level" Rolex OP41 is passe. If you don't have a platinum Daytona iced out you're not 'watch woke'.

[@JizzyNinja]

This hit home - honestly I also feel that being exposed to so much flexing subconsciously influenced my tastes too. I’m in the process of correcting that by consolidating my collection, and I hate selling watches, but has been eye opening. Great video!

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Right?! You know when I was making this video it took me back to a memory. Before I was into watches. James was watching a video on “what’s better?! AP RO VS NAUTILUS” and he showed me the video and ask which I preferred. And I genuinely thought they were both fugly and kept insisting NEITHER! 😂🤷🏻‍♀️ and now I want both! 🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️ I need an exorcism.

[@jameslynch6657]

I couldn’t agree more! I actually now avoid considering wanting these hype watches (but even if I could spend £28k on a Daytona)! I now crave unusual pieces often overlooked! Outside of Rolex, AP and Patek there is a world of wonder and… value!

[@jeffreyf4074]

Very well said. Thank you for being real when so many people on social media are trying to one-up each other. I’ve been in this watch collecting hobby for about seven years, and I haven’t really been enjoying it recently…mostly because i feel like it’s been hijacked by flippers and flexors. This year I’ve decided that I want to really enjoy my collection, and have reduced it down to the four watches I wear and enjoy most rather than always looking towards the next watch.

[@drichardbailey]

It's pretty safe to assume when people post their wealth but there isn't a clear indication of what it is they actually do...thats a sign it's just Daddy's money anyways. All of my favorite watches, regardless of cost, are things that other watch nerds would get stoked to see in the wild, but that normies don't have the slightest idea isn't a 50 dollar watch. Thats my sweet spot, and everybody's is different. Some people NEED the attention and the validation that comes with strangers knowing they have nice things. Thats to be pitied, not celebrated. Love this video.

[@cheekykid]

Lovely video Gringa. I like how you are keeping it real.

[@PaulThorpeOfficial]

Enjoyable 'watch' that was...

[@ChrisAlvarezAlvarezImaging]

I couldn't agree more Gringa! Flexing and the associated pretentiousness aren't attractive at all to me, but as an American it kind of seems like we do it the most, or channels based here. I love seeing and learning about the Rolexes and Omegas etc, of the world, I just don't want to feel "talked down too" because of my Seiko and Tudor budget. Looking forward to the next Watch Gringa and Friends Live! broadcast! ;)

[@VMIyanks04]

Well said! Watches should bring you joy, not for showing off. If you’re showing off, then you don’t have enough self-esteem to know that you should be happy with how blessed you are already without watches. Most people that show off (anything, not just watches) are looking for external affirmation of their lives. Whereas, sharing your watch collection with fellow enthusiasts is a joyful endeavor since the joy resides in the community of people, not the material item itself. Rock on Brittany!

[@BB-gl7zt]

Finally someone talks about this phenomenon in a meaningful way. Nice vid, Gringa!!

[@watchchimp3102]

Gringa, relax it's just a phase; it will ebb and flow. It seems less so when you watch KZbin, because for most of the creators it's a source of income and if they don't post or keep it fresh they take a hit in the pocket book. Also, you and papi sort of started much nearer the top than most of us. When you got Rolexes as sort of a starting place it sorta f*cks with your perspective. I suggest you get yourself a nice Seiko Turtle, Orient Defender or a Citizen Eco-Drive for much needed grounding.

[@jockdodson9093]

Well said Gringa! Watches for the love of watches, not to show how cool you are. What are you sipping today? Watch Papi! What's Up? Looking forward to seeing you to collaborations with Osin and Adrian. Cheers,

[@BrittPearceWatches]

CAN WE GET AN AMEN?! Watches for the love of WATCHES! ❤️❤️❤️🎉🎉 watch papi is BACK TONIGHT! 😱❤️❤️🎉

[@DonYang73]

Those guys flexing, mostly dont know shit about the watches. A true collector knows.

[@kaz2891]

WOW! Beautifully said, bought a tear to my eye. Thank you I needed to be reminded how lucky and blessed I am. Love you !

[@123vfp]

Gringa - Your most thoughtful and important video.

[@stephenso3]

Great wake up call. Thanks for reminding us what is truly important in life. It’s good to appreciate watches and admire what you have. Probably best content I’ve watched this year. 👍

[@JW_Haze]

You’re very like-able. Can you tell us your “origin” story sometime?

[@AliasEveWatches]

@Kurt Antonini love it. 🤣

[@nickchang5293]

@Kurt Antonini Into the Gringa-verse!🕷

[@nickchang5293]

@Kurt Antonini lol I wouldn’t be surprised 😃

[@BrittPearceWatches]

*quickly tries to hide webs coming out of palms ** 😂😂👏🏻

[@Omar-qf2dg]

She’s an atheist who works for the Church of England. Like everyone who works for the church of England.

[@EyeInTheSkypaulmcmenamin]

Random question Gringa, what's your thoughts on the food in UK/Europe versus the food in Canada/North America?

[@mikehoward9912]

True happiness always comes from within. Stuff brings short term happiness. Keep spiritual joy in your heart always. Peace and love

[@gregoryjohnson7828]

Love it, keep the great vids coming Gringa. THIS NEEDED to be said (in your hilarious way). The way people measure success in life is all wrong at the moment.

[@liarborisjohnsom4136]

The trick is , be happy with what you have in your collection currently and if you have a grail watch that you lust after, when you get it appreciate it and ask yourself are the flippers and flexers really happy constantly chasing something they may never attain .

[@kakelards]

Feels like a lot of watch enthusiasts are actually more into wealth enthusiasm

[@comfortablynumb113]

I totally agree Gringa! Whether you have a lot or a little, it shouldn't matter. There is no need to be a show off. "Always be humble and kind" and you'll live a much happier life.

[@WrongTimeWatch]

I don't buy watches to brag about my "wealth" I hate feeling like I am bragging about what I have. I just like watches, and I want to share my experiences about them. I would like to eventually own a Rolex though.

[@scottlalonde2878]

Watched this a 2nd time. Mixed with the comedy, the funny as he!! clips, the charming young Brittany, comes some pretty profound statements from her. 10:35 to 11 ish is a great example. Excellent channel.

[@Lt.WalterTull]

😂 ❤ Watch Gringa. A much needed breath of fresh air to the online watch community.

[@Sams911]

the first one was a Lamborghini and the second one was a Ferrari key btw..... ;)

[@kevinwagner9934]

Gringa rocks, what a down to earth well spoken piece of work. Brit you are the best. You and James stay safe.😷🇨🇦

[@watchpapi]

Thank you Kevin 🙏🏼

[@HorologyinSanity]

This is one of the best and realest watch videos I've seen. Spot-on! 💯 Thanks for making it!

[@omara6693]

I would also argue the ones viewing flex culture and feeling envy, negativity, or lesser of themselves or what they have any enjoying less are actually even more materialistic than those they are viewing flexing so hard. Being content and Confident along with self control and priorities in order NO MATTER WHAT your looking at is key. That’s my opinion. I see no problems with an occasional flex show, channel, etc....as long as I have my own psychology in order and I’m content.

[@DanielKatzenberger]

Agree 💯. I prefer people that do the opposite of flex. Wealth comes and goes, but character lasts a lifetime.

[@noelbeacher8016]

Best video I’ve seen on KZbin for a long time…please note I watch a lot of KZbin. You’ve hit the nail on the head.

[@jcb0920]

Goddamn you hit the nail on the head! I recently purchased an Omega Planet Ocean that I've wanted for years and being totally sucked into the watch culture has me not appreciating what I have and looking to upgrade already. I'm with your husband...I'm always wondering how the hell these people are buying high-end luxury watches one right after another. I make over six figures and it's not something I can do and it makes me wonder, "what am I doing wrong"? The answer, as you say, is nothing! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and keeping it real. Just subbed. Keep up the great work.

[@watchpapi]

Congratulations on the PO 🙌🏽 great watch 😎

[@tombell2121]

Damn!! Gringa making moves with the upload schedule!!

[@BrittPearceWatches]

She’s wild today! 😂😂

[@timeisahumanconstruct9251]

She's listening to the Pontiff. He told her to post daily. Quantity over quality. Archie knows!