@Mark, I was on a cruise last week and wore your ISL26 with an fkm turquoise blue band into the ships high end jewelry store. I noticed the sales people all looking at my wrist. When I took off the Islander to try on a Rolex, they asked to see it. They were more interested in your watch than selling me their Rolex. Just thought I would share that fun fact with you. They were impressed!
It seems like the only difference between Islander and a "Micro brand" is Islander doesn't use Swiss made movements like Sellita or ETA. Perhaps I'm wrong.
I agree! You do an excellent job listening to your customers and making changes as you see fit. It still blows my mind the quality and care that go into your watches. Keep it up!
Students of business should take note of shops like this one because it seems to be a new model for success. I made this point yesterday in the comments about the new Upper Brookdale that it's precisely the reception to input from fans that makes the big difference between LIW and the other brands. I'm not deep enough into watches to know who else does it like Marc but he seems to be at the forefront of this kind of thing, at least in the horological realm. Calling it an 'enthusiasts brand' definitely encapsulates that in my mind: founded by a watch enthusiast for others of the same ilk. The general customer can buy from him and not know this is the case, but will usually realize it on the customer service side. Those of us lucky to be in-the-know get the added enjoyment of watching the brand grow.
Having just bought my 12th Islander (Blue Birch, baby!) I can say with confidence it's not the label but the quality and care you put into your business that makes this all happen. Your passion for this hobby shines through, and we all appreciate it, Marc! I enthusiastically agree with your enthusiasm 😄🤓
Islander is an Ardent Brand All businesses are ultimately run for money but you're always transparent and straightforward and most importantly, you actually love what you do.
Technically, Islander is a "Retailer Brand," sometimes also called a "Store Brand" or a "House Brand." Parallel (in another tier) would be Wempe. Wempe, like Long Island Watch, was a successful retailer selling other brand's watches for a long time, then decided to make it's own "Wempe" brand watches, just like Islanders. And both Wempes and Islanders are ONLY available from their own stores/websites. Similar to how the Kirkland brand is only available at Costco.
It is a Successful brand! You are doing something right when your product gets resold by Topper..was so excited to see a Republic listed the other day (and it was already sold).
I am not into micro brands at all … but own several islanders. The fact that it feels like we know Marc makes a huge difference to me. I feel no connection to micro brands whatsoever , it’s different with islander. I’d argue we do know Marc, to be honest , ethical and a true enthusiast that’s a pleasure to do business with. An awesome success story of getting out what you put in!
Most micro brands are after money only. Their after-sales service is usually very poor. I had a really bad experience with some of the micro brands. I actually stop buying micro brands atm, especially those Kickstarter.
I think you’re spot on with being called the “Enthusiast” brand. Your willingness to work with other watch companies to create new and interesting watches for all of us Watch addicts. You offer custom and specialty components so we can tweak our watches to our hearts desire. Thank you Marc!
Enthusiast makes sense to me. Currently wearing my type A ISL107 pilot. I am enthusiastic putting it on in the morning! I have another ISL in my sights. Keep up the great work!
You are a horological inspirer, time is something we cannot get back, and a better understanding of tracking our memories is beautiful...look forward to more great things pal....cheers!
Whatever you want to call it, I’ve been looking at Grand Seikos, all the big brands, waiting for something to grab me. I want to look at a watch and have an immediate, visceral response, a design that resonates with me, regardless of price. I found that in the sea foam northport and it’s on the way to my house now. The fact that it’s not going to break my wallet and you’re a good dude are nice bonuses. Keep it up and I’m sure I’ll pick a couple more up! Great stuff Mahk
Yes, Marc! I think that sums up your brand perfectly! I, as one of many wristwatch enthusiasts, really enjoy your watches. I especially like the approach that you and your team take to producing them, both the homages and originals!
I don't care what you call the watches. I only know that I enjoy the heck out of them! Also, you are the only brand owner I've talked to directly almost every time I email in with a question. I'm sure you don't remember, but we've even found something outside of watches we have in common. All of that means the world to me, and makes me want to support you whenever I can! Thanks for everything you do, Marc!
Bought an ISL-24 a few years ago and had a random young man come up to me and ask, "Is that an Islander?" Blew me away. We geeked on watches for a few minutes and went our ways.
Marc...perfect description. What I was saying in my head before you did...a watch brand for people that love watches. So enthusiasts! Anyhow, just ordered up the electric purple Upper Brockville last night. Have 50 plus watches (most all divers) and so my first purely dress style watch. Go figure
Marc, you can call Islander anything you want (including late for dinner 😄). As long as you keep doing what you are doing and how you are doing it, then we will keep coming to spend our money. On a personal note, My wife and I are sorry we couldn’t make it to Wind^Up in SFO this year. Meeting you and thanking you for all of the great customer service over the years would have been the highlight! All the best-Mark.
Whatever you wanna call it or Mark wants to call it or not call it, I love what he’s doing. I’m a big fan of his and Watches in general. If I could do what he does, as in love all types of watches, and then make my own watches based on what I’ve grown to love, I’d do it to. I have micro brands, big-name brands and islander watches in my collection, and I’m extremely happy with all of them. Like what you like people and don’t let anybody tell you different.
Enthusiast Brand is perfect IMO. Of the watch nerds I know I would say all have Owned/Own (an Islander) and/or have bought a watch from Island Watch. Love the Port Jeff BTW Its on my list to consider for 2023. Also enjoyed seeing you on Robs livestream.
Totally agree. You nailed what you are for sure. Btw, I just ordered the green Titanium diver on the rubber strap. Think it’s a great and very unique design.💪🏼💪🏼👌👌💯🇺🇸
Marc, I think "Islander" is as much about you as it is about your fabulous products adored by us "enthusiasts." Your success reminds me of that of my dear friend (RIP) who owned and operated a small pizzeria for nearly 35 years. It was mostly take-out, and people would call to order and ask if "Frank was there." If he wasn't there, people would postpone ordering and say they would call back when he was. Don't underestimate the importance of your personal touch...!
When will you do an integrated bracelet like a Makydo? Should I just buy the Makydo or Chris award Twelve? I was holding out for you. Also, jus bought the salmon dial with the 9015. I cannot wait until it arrives. Keep up the good work.
Hi Marc, big fan of your work! I really love GADA watches, and I really enjoy my ISL38. Would you ever consider doing a Homage of the Omega Aqua Terra please? It's perhaps the ultimate watch, but there are no suitable, high-quality homages in my price point! You're the best person I can think of to tackle that
Nice video. I’m an enthusiast, and to some degree a collector. Check this out: by coincidence the watch on my wrist when this video dropped is none other than Marc’s Islander ISL-19, which I purchased from The Last Windup in Bozeman, Montana, USA. It was great to see several Islander watches on display and available for purchase (with no sales tax!). I look forward to future demonstrations of “enthusiasm” for the Islander brand. Keep it up, Marc!!
Yeah I kind of do care. Its the people's brand. Its a brand of the community for the community. You are one of us and that is why people support you. The fact that you take so much care in bringing great quality and value to us certainly sets you apart as well. I don't own an Islander yet (because I am in South Africa and there is no agent here yet. 😢) but one day I will and will be proud to wear it and treasure it. You just keep doing you man!
I like the brand explanation. Just ordered your Northport Fireball. I’ve got a couple Hamiltons. They’re beautiful watches but have unspectacular lume. I love the color, lume, and smooth flow of the seconds hand in your Northport lineup.
I'm with you, who cares....you make and sale a great watch. I own several and have given several as gifts and the few times I've been spotted by fellow watch people, I always try to steer them towards your website. Keep up the great work!
I really don't care what type of brand Islander is. If they offer quality and good value for money for designs that I like - that's what I'm primarily interested in. The fact that they are becoming increasingly respected for the quality of their product and are lauded for their high level of customer service is a nice bonus! 🙂
I have 2 islander watches and intend on buying more. You are passionate about watches and a down to earth guy. Just be you and your watches will sell themselves :)
Gotta agree with the sentiment that, "It doesn't matter". In the end, we should all buy what we like, no matter who made it, why they made it, or where they made it! But I understand the "controversy". Some brands seem to want to PRETEND to be members of one group or another to benefit from some perceived advantage that comes from it. And mainly that is brands with large backing trying to be viewed as Micro brands. (Not that the definition of Micro brand is all that firm to begin with) So I appreciate your candor and careful consideration of the matter. Nothing wrong with being an enthusiast's brand!
How about a "great value for money' brand that gives a damn about its customers? And one that's run by about the most honest watch dealer/maker/enthusiast out there, or at least the most honest dealer/maker/enthusiast that has the best collection of hoodies and the ability to explain military contract specifications in traumatizing detail? Love the enthusiast brand concept, honest business model, and your ability to laugh a bit about all of it while making great watches and keeping us customers well taken care of!
"Enthusiast Brand" is perfect, and even though you might have to explain it to some people who aren't (yet) Enthusiasts, once you are, you get instantly. I was introduced to you with one of the buddy videos with TGV and I really like that synergy. I knew right away that you were an engineer and an Enthusiast, and that's when I started watching your channel also. Over in the automotive universe, the closest parallel I can think of are the people who do restomods. Every one of the restomod companies that I've seen are run by, or were started by, Enthusiasts.
I love this conclusion! Enthusiast brand. You could also say populist due to your online presence, interaction, and especially watch and learn series. I question your mention of the Manhasset as “it’s own design,” if I understood you correctly, because it seems like an Explorer homage (even the same size) with different colorways. Would that be a fair statement?
Hi Jason - I can say the same thing about virtually any watch. While the dial might be "explorer-esque", does that make it an homage? The case maybe 36mm, but it's a different geometry. hands are different. Other aspect ratios are different. We didn't start from an explorer and mod it back, we started from nothing and went forwards.
Long Island Watch offers impeccable quality of the the watches that they create, integrity, and above all great customer service that always offers modest discounts to watch collectors. Which speaks in volumes in my opinion.
The distinction is definitely with the customer base and the fact that micro/enthusiast brands will try and tailor their products to the collector and also try and give them as much as possible for the price, whereas the bigger companies are almost doing the opposite at the lower price points - trying to give you as little as they can get away with. By enthusiasts, for enthusiasts.
FINALLY!!!!!! Merch!!!!!! Though I hope someday soon there will be hoodies too. I would think you'd love to be considered a Micro Brand. You'd immediately be one of the top Micros, along with Zelos and Boldr. But I can see why you wouldn't really care. Honest it doesn't matter.....as long as product moves and the people are happy.
I was going to comment that I do care, meaning I care about the brand, because I appreciate the service you provide and fill a valuable gap in the market, but I don't care what type of brand Islander is. I just know that you have amazing customer service and 100% quality watches. I do like the term Watch Enthusiast Brand, because I'm certainly a watch enthusiast. I would probably say that Dan Henry is also an enthusiasts brand. Just keep up the good work ❤👍🏻
Would be cool if Islander Watches ever get into really interesting complications. Like a world-timer, or a perpetual calendar, or even a mechanical digital caliber. Just something "crazy" and "exotic" - to me, that would be really enthusiastic!
Enthousiast Brand sums it up quite nicely, I remember the youtube/ Islander watch design and the number of participants and comments, so yes I agree with Enthousiasme. 👍🤘
Im a hardcore watch enthusiast, owned omega, tudor, oris & so on but my favorite watches come from the islander watch collection. They are my favorite brand cause he knows what the community wants 🎤⬇️
I have seen others in (League Of Microbrands group) mention that Islander is not a micro, but I still post mine and love them. I seldom have seen the photo removed or have been told not to. Labels are for clothes anyhow. Everything is subjective in life and especially this hobby IMHO. If I like something I couldn't care less what others will say. Keep releasing the cool trinkets with great specs and solid build for the money Marc.
I’m good with “Enthusiast Brand”. It makes sense. Regardless, I own several Islanders. They are all well may and represent an excellent value. I experienced two issues during my dealings with LIW and found the customer support to be top notch. They continue to produce exciting new releases. I hope there success continues.
I think that the brand will evolve as your catalog of watches continues to expand and expand. I have three and they are fantastic, we all know why we buy them. One thing, please make all future models with the no-date variation. You guys are great!
I think Enthusiast's Brand fits nicely, Marc. I was a member of one of the main Microbrand groups on Facebook for a short while. I left because I was attacked for posting a picture of a watch that many didn't consider a "microbrand". I was directed to a website that listed what were considered microbrands. It was an argument that I didn't consider very important - besides, who made the list? I decided I didn't care to be part of that group, so I gathered up my watches and left.
I would call it a Family Run For Fun Brand. Not serious about making tons of money. Not serious about making serious watches for collectors. Just fun watches for people having fun with watches.
I see ISLANDER watch as a growing upper tier brand. It slots above entry watches & niche brands. I like the color palette, & movement options including American movements as well as tried & true affordable movements & sprinkled in high end movements. I’ve seen the brand grow & develop US watch building & movements. It’s all things to all folks.
That's a good concept. It's certainly true that most of us wouldn't buy or own more than a few watches if we weren't enthusiasts for watches as pieces of technology and works of art.
I have a Northport and an ISL-84, and both speak to the "Enthusiast" notion. Though "fan service" fits too! My Northport, in Seafoam Green, checks aesthetic and movement boxes that no other sub-$1,000 watch does. And the simple modernized pilot face of the 84 let me complete a bit of a "project" watch, combining it with a "Remove Before Flight" Marine Nationale strap.
Enthusiast brand, its perfect! I would have just grouped you into the micro brand category. I tend to think of any smaller watch company that isnt one of the "big" names as micro just in general. But I dont really care about those kind of labels on any serious level. Whats more important is the product and the story behind the product.
Of course I do care, I own three Islander watches, and I wish the brand to only grow further. I also strongly believe that the brand has a much greater potential to go more into unique watch models of its own and less into homages than the founder may even realize.
I would absolutely love to see islander pursue more vintage styling similar to Baltic, ( already love the Penn) seems like that always does well In the enthusiast community.
When is the Brookville with black dial going to become available again? I’d love it with an oyster style bracelet. A silver dial would just be even more amazing.
I would call Islander a 'Dynamic,' brand because it has been in a state of evolution since its inception. It's amusing that many people feel the need to pigeonhole everything because it's a way of avoiding thinking for themselves. At the end of the day it's your baby and 'Enthusiast,' fits the bill. Just continue the way you are. Your products just keep getting better and better.
Very simple: its a customer focused brand. All brands, within all industries should be so, but its often not the case. You listen to your target audience, in a respectfull and professional manner, and it works!
@Mark, I was on a cruise last week and wore your ISL26 with an fkm turquoise blue band into the ships high end jewelry store. I noticed the sales people all looking at my wrist. When I took off the Islander to try on a Rolex, they asked to see it. They were more interested in your watch than selling me their Rolex. Just thought I would share that fun fact with you. They were impressed!
LOL, thanks Brian. That's a great story!
'Enthusiast brand' is right on the money! Perfectly describes what's on offer and who it's for in two words.
thanks!
It seems like the only difference between Islander and a "Micro brand" is Islander doesn't use Swiss made movements like Sellita or ETA. Perhaps I'm wrong.
@@andrewdunn6793 The Republic GMT is Sellita movement.
I agree! You do an excellent job listening to your customers and making changes as you see fit. It still blows my mind the quality and care that go into your watches. Keep it up!
I will Jared, thank you.
Students of business should take note of shops like this one because it seems to be a new model for success. I made this point yesterday in the comments about the new Upper Brookdale that it's precisely the reception to input from fans that makes the big difference between LIW and the other brands. I'm not deep enough into watches to know who else does it like Marc but he seems to be at the forefront of this kind of thing, at least in the horological realm. Calling it an 'enthusiasts brand' definitely encapsulates that in my mind: founded by a watch enthusiast for others of the same ilk. The general customer can buy from him and not know this is the case, but will usually realize it on the customer service side. Those of us lucky to be in-the-know get the added enjoyment of watching the brand grow.
Having just bought my 12th Islander (Blue Birch, baby!) I can say with confidence it's not the label but the quality and care you put into your business that makes this all happen. Your passion for this hobby shines through, and we all appreciate it, Marc! I enthusiastically agree with your enthusiasm 😄🤓
Wow, 12!!!! thanks so much, Jason!
This 💯
Islander is an Ardent Brand
All businesses are ultimately run for money but you're always transparent and straightforward and most importantly, you actually love what you do.
Great word, but one that likely flies over many heads!
Technically, Islander is a "Retailer Brand," sometimes also called a "Store Brand" or a "House Brand." Parallel (in another tier) would be Wempe. Wempe, like Long Island Watch, was a successful retailer selling other brand's watches for a long time, then decided to make it's own "Wempe" brand watches, just like Islanders. And both Wempes and Islanders are ONLY available from their own stores/websites. Similar to how the Kirkland brand is only available at Costco.
Hi Jim. Good call, I have thought of the "house brand" moniker as well, and internally we have even kidded about the "Kirkland" name!
@@islandwatchthe Kirklander
Kirkland products are sold in other stores, just most commonly in Costco. I know I've bought them and I've never had a Costco membership.
It is a Successful brand! You are doing something right when your product gets resold by Topper..was so excited to see a Republic listed the other day (and it was already sold).
Well said, Mark. Thanks for being real and staying humble!
'Enthusiast brand' is indeed the perfect description!! An awesome new categorization!
I am not into micro brands at all … but own several islanders. The fact that it feels like we know Marc makes a huge difference to me. I feel no connection to micro brands whatsoever , it’s different with islander. I’d argue we do know Marc, to be honest , ethical and a true enthusiast that’s a pleasure to do business with. An awesome success story of getting out what you put in!
Thanks so much. I really appreciate that!
Most micro brands are after money only. Their after-sales service is usually very poor. I had a really bad experience with some of the micro brands. I actually stop buying micro brands atm, especially those Kickstarter.
I like it! I think that fits your brand perfectly.
I think you’re spot on with being called the “Enthusiast” brand. Your willingness to work with other watch companies to create new and interesting watches for all of us Watch addicts. You offer custom and specialty components so we can tweak our watches to our hearts desire. Thank you Marc!
You sell what people want! Thank you for listening, watching real sales trends and then making what people want to buy!
Thanks for commenting, watching and following.
Enthusiast makes sense to me. Currently wearing my type A ISL107 pilot. I am enthusiastic putting it on in the morning! I have another ISL in my sights. Keep up the great work!
Sweet, thank you
Always happy wearing my Islander watches & can’t wait to pick up some apparel.
See you there!
You are a horological inspirer, time is something we cannot get back, and a better understanding of tracking our memories is beautiful...look forward to more great things pal....cheers!
Thanks Michael!
Whatever you want to call it, I’ve been looking at Grand Seikos, all the big brands, waiting for something to grab me. I want to look at a watch and have an immediate, visceral response, a design that resonates with me, regardless of price. I found that in the sea foam northport and it’s on the way to my house now. The fact that it’s not going to break my wallet and you’re a good dude are nice bonuses. Keep it up and I’m sure I’ll pick a couple more up! Great stuff Mahk
Yes, Marc! I think that sums up your brand perfectly! I, as one of many wristwatch enthusiasts, really enjoy your watches. I especially like the approach that you and your team take to producing them, both the homages and originals!
Spot on; a watch for people who love watches.
I don't care what you call the watches. I only know that I enjoy the heck out of them! Also, you are the only brand owner I've talked to directly almost every time I email in with a question. I'm sure you don't remember, but we've even found something outside of watches we have in common. All of that means the world to me, and makes me want to support you whenever I can! Thanks for everything you do, Marc!
Right on Mark! You are your own Brand!
quality, service, honesty....only bought one so far....but love it too bits. ;-)
A very cool brand. My new Phobis abalone love it, everyone loved it.
Well, the Long Island Watch brand has turned me into an enthusiast, so sounds like you nailed it.
Bought an ISL-24 a few years ago and had a random young man come up to me and ask, "Is that an Islander?" Blew me away. We geeked on watches for a few minutes and went our ways.
Marc...perfect description. What I was saying in my head before you did...a watch brand for people that love watches. So enthusiasts! Anyhow, just ordered up the electric purple Upper Brockville last night. Have 50 plus watches (most all divers) and so my first purely dress style watch. Go figure
Marc, you can call Islander anything you want (including late for dinner 😄). As long as you keep doing what you are doing and how you are doing it, then we will keep coming to spend our money. On a personal note, My wife and I are sorry we couldn’t make it to Wind^Up in SFO this year. Meeting you and thanking you for all of the great customer service over the years would have been the highlight! All the best-Mark.
Thank you. . .maybe next year!
Whatever you wanna call it or Mark wants to call it or not call it, I love what he’s doing. I’m a big fan of his and Watches in general. If I could do what he does, as in love all types of watches, and then make my own watches based on what I’ve grown to love, I’d do it to. I have micro brands, big-name brands and islander watches in my collection, and I’m extremely happy with all of them. Like what you like people and don’t let anybody tell you different.
Thanks so much!
Enthusiast Brand is perfect IMO. Of the watch nerds I know I would say all have Owned/Own (an Islander) and/or have bought a watch from Island Watch. Love the Port Jeff BTW Its on my list to consider for 2023. Also enjoyed seeing you on Robs livestream.
Totally agree. You nailed what you are for sure. Btw, I just ordered the green Titanium diver on the rubber strap. Think it’s a great and very unique design.💪🏼💪🏼👌👌💯🇺🇸
Definitely an enthusiast brand , I like it 👌
thank you
Totally. Islander is an Enthusiast Brand. Love your watches Marc. Wearing my Islander Republic GMT now.
Thanks Mitch!
Sounds prefect!
Marc, I think "Islander" is as much about you as it is about your fabulous products adored by us "enthusiasts." Your success reminds me of that of my dear friend (RIP) who owned and operated a small pizzeria for nearly 35 years. It was mostly take-out, and people would call to order and ask if "Frank was there." If he wasn't there, people would postpone ordering and say they would call back when he was. Don't underestimate the importance of your personal touch...!
Perfect description 👍
thanks!
When will you do an integrated bracelet like a Makydo? Should I just buy the Makydo or Chris award Twelve? I was holding out for you.
Also, jus bought the salmon dial with the 9015. I cannot wait until it arrives. Keep up the good work.
Hi Marc, big fan of your work!
I really love GADA watches, and I really enjoy my ISL38. Would you ever consider doing a Homage of the Omega Aqua Terra please? It's perhaps the ultimate watch, but there are no suitable, high-quality homages in my price point! You're the best person I can think of to tackle that
by an enthusiast for enthusiast.. love it
Yes!
"Enthusiasts Brand", yep that works for me. Keep em coming!
Will do!
Nice video. I’m an enthusiast, and to some degree a collector. Check this out: by coincidence the watch on my wrist when this video dropped is none other than Marc’s Islander ISL-19, which I purchased from The Last Windup in Bozeman, Montana, USA. It was great to see several Islander watches on display and available for purchase (with no sales tax!). I look forward to future demonstrations of “enthusiasm” for the Islander brand. Keep it up, Marc!!
Love my Purple Sand Phoibos collab!!! 😎
great watch!
It's a kick-ass brand! I want a hoody! Cheers, Marc!
I LOVE THIS BRAND!
Call it what you want, I call it an amazing brand. Love Islander watches. ✌🏽
enthusiast brank I like it I GET IT and I agree, I love your offerings nice work!
thanks William
Yeah I kind of do care. Its the people's brand. Its a brand of the community for the community. You are one of us and that is why people support you. The fact that you take so much care in bringing great quality and value to us certainly sets you apart as well. I don't own an Islander yet (because I am in South Africa and there is no agent here yet. 😢) but one day I will and will be proud to wear it and treasure it. You just keep doing you man!
Thanks Johan, that's very kind of you!
"Enthusiast brand" is a pretty good and useful descriptor, actually.
Yeah, it works!
I like the brand explanation. Just ordered your Northport Fireball. I’ve got a couple Hamiltons. They’re beautiful watches but have unspectacular lume. I love the color, lume, and smooth flow of the seconds hand in your Northport lineup.
Awesome Matt, thank you.
I'm with you, who cares....you make and sale a great watch. I own several and have given several as gifts and the few times I've been spotted by fellow watch people, I always try to steer them towards your website. Keep up the great work!
Will do, thank you.
Ahhhhh. Teasing what we cannot buy 😊 that hoodie is 👌🏼cheers!
LOL, we'll get into hoodies!
I really don't care what type of brand Islander is. If they offer quality and good value for money for designs that I like - that's what I'm primarily interested in. The fact that they are becoming increasingly respected for the quality of their product and are lauded for their high level of customer service is a nice bonus! 🙂
I have 2 islander watches and intend on buying more. You are passionate about watches and a down to earth guy. Just be you and your watches will sell themselves :)
Thank you very much
You nailed it as always my friend It is what you make it Sorry some don't understand that simple fact Anyways Thanks for sharing Sir 👍
Thanks Michael!
I usually think of the logo on the right thumb of your cotton glove when you first introduced it from one of your viewers. Cheers.
Awesome, then it works!
Gotta agree with the sentiment that, "It doesn't matter". In the end, we should all buy what we like, no matter who made it, why they made it, or where they made it!
But I understand the "controversy". Some brands seem to want to PRETEND to be members of one group or another to benefit from some perceived advantage that comes from it. And mainly that is brands with large backing trying to be viewed as Micro brands. (Not that the definition of Micro brand is all that firm to begin with) So I appreciate your candor and careful consideration of the matter. Nothing wrong with being an enthusiast's brand!
Thanks Tom. I'm not phased by labels either, but it seems people want to give them.
How about a "great value for money' brand that gives a damn about its customers? And one that's run by about the most honest watch dealer/maker/enthusiast out there, or at least the most honest dealer/maker/enthusiast that has the best collection of hoodies and the ability to explain military contract specifications in traumatizing detail? Love the enthusiast brand concept, honest business model, and your ability to laugh a bit about all of it while making great watches and keeping us customers well taken care of!
Thanks for the kind words, Paul!
I'm on board with Enthusiasts Brand!!! Cheers.
Awesome!
Nice to see I'm not the only one who wears two watches habitually.
"Enthusiast Brand" is perfect, and even though you might have to explain it to some people who aren't (yet) Enthusiasts, once you are, you get instantly. I was introduced to you with one of the buddy videos with TGV and I really like that synergy. I knew right away that you were an engineer and an Enthusiast, and that's when I started watching your channel also. Over in the automotive universe, the closest parallel I can think of are the people who do restomods. Every one of the restomod companies that I've seen are run by, or were started by, Enthusiasts.
Hi Marc, do you no longer carry Zeppelin watches? They seem to have some new lines which look pretty good!
I love this conclusion! Enthusiast brand. You could also say populist due to your online presence, interaction, and especially watch and learn series. I question your mention of the Manhasset as “it’s own design,” if I understood you correctly, because it seems like an Explorer homage (even the same size) with different colorways. Would that be a fair statement?
Hi Jason - I can say the same thing about virtually any watch. While the dial might be "explorer-esque", does that make it an homage? The case maybe 36mm, but it's a different geometry. hands are different. Other aspect ratios are different. We didn't start from an explorer and mod it back, we started from nothing and went forwards.
Well, judging by the comments, this struck a cord. I totally agree with you Mark.
Who cares what you are, just keep pumping out great watches that are affordable and awesome. love Islander.
Bingo!
Great designs, well made watches, great customer service that's all I need to know.
Love to hear it, thank you.
Well, I can dig it. An Enthusiasts Brand is fine with me. 💯
Long Island Watch offers impeccable quality of the the watches that they create, integrity, and above all great customer service that always offers modest discounts to watch collectors. Which speaks in volumes in my opinion.
Thanks John!
The distinction is definitely with the customer base and the fact that micro/enthusiast brands will try and tailor their products to the collector and also try and give them as much as possible for the price, whereas the bigger companies are almost doing the opposite at the lower price points - trying to give you as little as they can get away with.
By enthusiasts, for enthusiasts.
I'm not just the President, I'm also a Member!
FINALLY!!!!!! Merch!!!!!! Though I hope someday soon there will be hoodies too.
I would think you'd love to be considered a Micro Brand. You'd immediately be one of the top Micros, along with Zelos and Boldr. But I can see why you wouldn't really care. Honest it doesn't matter.....as long as product moves and the people are happy.
Certainly will be hoodies when it gets a bit colder in the Northeast. Thanks for the kind words!
I was going to comment that I do care, meaning I care about the brand, because I appreciate the service you provide and fill a valuable gap in the market, but I don't care what type of brand Islander is. I just know that you have amazing customer service and 100% quality watches.
I do like the term Watch Enthusiast Brand, because I'm certainly a watch enthusiast. I would probably say that Dan Henry is also an enthusiasts brand.
Just keep up the good work ❤👍🏻
Thanks Richard!
Would be cool if Islander Watches ever get into really interesting complications. Like a world-timer, or a perpetual calendar, or even a mechanical digital caliber. Just something "crazy" and "exotic" - to me, that would be really enthusiastic!
Enthusiast’s brand fits and so does successful brand. Keep up the great work and successful will be the only one that matters. 👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸
Thanks much for that
Enthusiasts, is an excellent description of islander watches
Awesome Joe, thanks.
Enthusiast brand. I like it!
me too! :)
This is the kind of hard work and ingenuity that TimePieceGentleman wishes he had.
LOL, thank you.
Great watches. I hope everyone who is lucky enough to buy one wears them in good health.
Thanks so much!
High quality, high value watch brand!❤️
Thanks Jeffery, appreciated.
The long sleeves are great, and as soon as you have one that has a clean back, I'm in :-)
Thanks Rob
I am very enthusiastic about my new Islander Republic GMT, so Enthusiast Brand makes sense to me!
It works, thank you!
Enthousiast Brand sums it up quite nicely, I remember the youtube/ Islander watch design and the number of participants and comments, so yes I agree with Enthousiasme.
👍🤘
thanks so much
Im a hardcore watch enthusiast, owned omega, tudor, oris & so on but my favorite watches come from the islander watch collection. They are my favorite brand cause he knows what the community wants 🎤⬇️
Thank you, Sir
I have seen others in (League Of Microbrands group) mention that Islander is not a micro, but I still post mine and love them. I seldom have seen the photo removed or have been told not to. Labels are for clothes anyhow. Everything is subjective in life and especially this hobby IMHO. If I like something I couldn't care less what others will say. Keep releasing the cool trinkets with great specs and solid build for the money Marc.
Thanks Mike.
I’m good with “Enthusiast Brand”. It makes sense. Regardless, I own several Islanders. They are all well may and represent an excellent value. I experienced two issues during my dealings with LIW and found the customer support to be top notch. They continue to produce exciting new releases. I hope there success continues.
Thanks Jason, that's very appreciated.
I think that the brand will evolve as your catalog of watches continues to expand and expand. I have three and they are fantastic, we all know why we buy them. One thing, please make all future models with the no-date variation. You guys are great!
Thanks Eric!
I think Enthusiast's Brand fits nicely, Marc. I was a member of one of the main Microbrand groups on Facebook for a short while. I left because I was attacked for posting a picture of a watch that many didn't consider a "microbrand". I was directed to a website that listed what were considered microbrands. It was an argument that I didn't consider very important - besides, who made the list? I decided I didn't care to be part of that group, so I gathered up my watches and left.
Good call!
I would call it a Family Run For Fun Brand. Not serious about making tons of money. Not serious about making serious watches for collectors. Just fun watches for people having fun with watches.
Thanks so much!
Its my favorite brand now. The best customer service 👌
Thanks!!!!
I see ISLANDER watch as a growing upper tier brand. It slots above entry watches & niche brands. I like the color palette, & movement options including American movements as well as tried & true affordable movements & sprinkled in high end movements.
I’ve seen the brand grow & develop US watch building & movements. It’s all things to all folks.
Thank you very much. We are trying.
I’m still pretty enthusiastic about my Islander Republic
That's a good concept. It's certainly true that most of us wouldn't buy or own more than a few watches if we weren't enthusiasts for watches as pieces of technology and works of art.
Thanks George. You are the true enthusiast!
I have a Northport and an ISL-84, and both speak to the "Enthusiast" notion. Though "fan service" fits too! My Northport, in Seafoam Green, checks aesthetic and movement boxes that no other sub-$1,000 watch does. And the simple modernized pilot face of the 84 let me complete a bit of a "project" watch, combining it with a "Remove Before Flight" Marine Nationale strap.
Awesome, thanks so much for sharing.
Enthusiast brand, its perfect! I would have just grouped you into the micro brand category. I tend to think of any smaller watch company that isnt one of the "big" names as micro just in general. But I dont really care about those kind of labels on any serious level. Whats more important is the product and the story behind the product.
Of course I do care, I own three Islander watches, and I wish the brand to only grow further. I also strongly believe that the brand has a much greater potential to go more into unique watch models of its own and less into homages than the founder may even realize.
Cool brand... I own 2. ISL-19 and ISL-83.
I would absolutely love to see islander pursue more vintage styling similar to Baltic, ( already love the Penn) seems like that always does well In the enthusiast community.
Okay, got it!
That's cool! 😁 What's up with your logo on the wall?
It's a clock actually!
I was surprised by the whole discussion. I joined and soon left a facebook group page about microbrands because of exactly what you noted.
Thanks Bobby! Sorry to hear about your experience.
@@islandwatch hardly a big deal. Probably a dodged bullet. Just amazed at the gate-keeping :)
Islander is a "Real Brand" 😊🐶🐕
Love it, thanks Brande.
When is the Brookville with black dial going to become available again? I’d love it with an oyster style bracelet. A silver dial would just be even more amazing.
Yeah, the ISL-36 will come back this summer.
I would call Islander a 'Dynamic,' brand because it has been in a state of evolution since its inception. It's amusing that many people feel the need to pigeonhole everything because it's a way of avoiding thinking for themselves. At the end of the day it's your baby and 'Enthusiast,' fits the bill. Just continue the way you are. Your products just keep getting better and better.
Thanks William, much appreciated.
Very simple: its a customer focused brand. All brands, within all industries should be so, but its often not the case. You listen to your target audience, in a respectfull and professional manner, and it works!
thanks!