Agree with you, Andrew. As usual, your commentary is spot on and your insights are valuable. I see micro brands like Monta and C Ward filling the niche that was vacated by Rolex 20 years ago, and will be vacated by Tudor, et al. I no longer have the same interest level in Rolex, and there will come a day when Tudor watches start at $6,000 - $7,000, and I won’t pay that price. But a C Ward or a Monta or a Sinn for $2,000 - $3,000 sounds much nicer.
@@edgardo1166 Why? Every respected watch maker pretty much started out as some guy in a shed making one or two watches, they were the microbrands of their era. If todays microbrands can do well made watches, with beautiful aesthetics, more power to them and I for one will buy them.
My favorite Microbrand approached my favorite watch TH-camr, what a collab!!! Yes, brands like ChrWard, Farer and Formex are just some of the examples that prove there's a good watchmaker for everyone even in the lower price range. You just have to look for it. Thanks Andrew for another great video and I hope to see that video soon.
I always wanted a Rolex. Now that it’s actually in reach, I’ve pretty much decided that if I wanted to spend $10k, I’d rather a Glashutte PanomaticLunar. Flex culture has driven certain brands to unreasonable heights. So what am I looking at instead of Rolex? My new Formex Essence 43 Green arrived yesterday. My next watch will most likely be a Christopher Ward, or perhaps an Oris or Longines. Though I could afford a Rolex, I actually enjoy finding watches that provide great value for the money far more than simply a recognizably luxurious name on the dial.
Great video Andrew! There are so many fantastic affordable brands that as long as you're not hung up on some overpriced watch you saw in a magazine as a child, then you can easily find something amazing.
Or, for those in the UK with far less cash, but who would like learn to appreciate and love something which the herd doesn't, try vintage 9ct gold dress watches. Quality movements, varied designs and sub-£300 because they're unfashionably small. A 32mm watch could be seen as the ultimate real "flex" because it shows that you're confident, with your own tastes and that you're your own person.
Great vid Andrew. I sold my Oysterquartz two years ago and have gotten out...of the game and have never looked back. These small private companies from Britain and Germany, primarily interest me greatly. I'm looking for a retirement watch in the next 3-4 yrs. Thank you for your team's great vids helping me pick and choose when the time comes. I look forward to more from you. Regards, Chris
I really enjoyed the thought process behind this video Andrew. I totally agree, the watches and brands that I dreamed of owning when I really started getting into watches are now realistically beyond my grasp. If I’m honest, they’ve always been beyond my grasp, I just didn’t want to admit it 😂 Once you eventually “come to terms” with that fact a whole alternative world of watches opens up for you to explore and enjoy. There are watches out there for literally every one of us, if we want them.
A really good analysis of the market and I take Andrew’s point that there are always people who ‘hijack’ a market because of their ability to spend, rather than their passion for the products and technologies. This means that a lot of them will end up nursing losses but there is so much innovation that there is something for everyone in every category.
As in all of your videos you always present such compelling and interesting arguments. I would love to see one of your videos dedicated to Asian or Singaporean watch scene. Keep up the awesome work!
I agree that Stefan Kudoke makes incredible watches: that's a lead in to suggesting that we need to look at German and Japanese watches more carefully. Leave the Swiss watches to those with more money than sense...
Great video, Andrew! I think the market for desirable independent/microbrand watches is also broken. Fractions of a second to place an order, limited numbers, 50 to 100% non refundable deposits, multi year wait times after ordering for delivery.... At the same time, many of the midrange Swiss brands are simplifying their ranges so those aren't an option unless you want to toe a single line.
My brand is Hamilton. They have plenty of potential to move up-market if they wish and have the heft of Swatch behind them. As Rolex and AP and PP disappear into the stratosphere, there will be Hamilton to take up the slack. Not a bad spot to be in.
Christopher Ward has been and continue to be a great value buy. It delights me that they have reached out to you to show their upcoming release. It has shook you enough that it makes me even more keen to see their next release.
@@piotrkrolikowski5903 I actually prefer the case of the c60, the new logo is cleaner and the extra mm in size is good as I have larger wrists, but I'm not a fan of emerald green. Same issue with the c65 Aquitaine, lovely watch, but wish they'd done it with that stunning hunter green textured dial.
Agree completely. I love my Kudoke 2, and knowing the actual mind from where it came...all the COSC, water resistance and anti-magnetism wankery is what you fawn over when there is no art, no soul in the timepiece
Love this latest video of yours, and in agreement with your opinions. Even my watch AD told me nowadays watch prices and the waiting game that we have to play, especially from the big boys, are just too ridiculous. Your tease aboiut Christopher Ward really pique my intereste. Can’t wait for you to reveal it!
Christopher Ward are the best watches you can buy that are below £1500. The finishing and quality are near Tudor level and I own many of both brands so I’m qualified to speak on it. Incredible company as far as service too.
Hello Mike I must be late to the party i didn't know you had your own channel I've subscribed & liked the video & looking forward to more ! All the best Jr.
Interesting you mentioned CW. I've been eyeing a purchase, but with so many brand choices have not made up my mind to pull the trigger. My gut tells me CW prices will see increases average into the 2k range within 5yrs or so and I'm going to regret not making that purchase sooner.
Never thought of it that way. But yeah, it's good to see more and more smaller (and relatively more attainable) brands take risks, knowing that they will be appreciated.
Such a good insight. I have learned to let go of the Polar Explorer II I started out pining for. I like the way brands like Norquain are producing a similar sort of ‘tooly’ vibe without resorting to fake vintage at the moment.
Interesting take. I guess this is an okay consolation prize for those of us who are now priced out of what we were saving for. But the thing is - after gorging on micros and the like, one does still want to scratch those old, not forgotten itches … which it would appear we’ll just have to forget about. There are worse things, I guess.
Great video, and excellent points! Yes the industry, especially the AD/boutique sales model, is hopelessly broken. However, this drives true watch lovers like myself to discover new high end brands (Trilobe, Ressence) and rediscover existing ones that welcomes my business (Breitling).
Absolutely agree and one of the many reasons i ve solt most of my collection. The focus and interest has gone in a wrong direction both from consumers and manufacturers
I heard about the upcoming CW. Near as i can tell it's another collaboration with Armin Strom, and yes I've freed up BB58 type $$ just in case I like it.
It’s such a pleasure, to roll the dice and put $1000 on a micro brand that’s new and exciting, and then to get that watch in hand and just know immediately that you scored mega-points in the watch collection game. There’s certainly a real risk that it’ll be a massive fumble but most of these companies will reimburse a return. But it’s like discovering a new musician and loving and learning all their songs before anyone else, and then seeing the world go crazy for them; you just get to savor that discovery and new tiny watch brands give you the joy of savoring a piece of art on your wrist that you really don’t ever have to stop enjoying.
I never really wanted a Rolex anyway, even the new Explorer that was always a grail felt far too shiny for a tool. There’s so much heritage available with value, Hamiltons little Pilot Pioneer can regularly be picked up on eBay under £400, Seikos new thin turtle 6105 remake spb317 £649. And to go up, if you really like Rolex, Tudor make the tool pieces that Rolex used to at a quarter of the price
You love astrophotography too? Awesome! That’s what my college thesis was in almost 2 decades ago! Trying to get the kids into it now! Any good resources you recommend? Love you new personal channel! Great job!
The Micro Brands are the next beautiful area for us to play in. I have a WISE watch from Thailand and I couldn't be more pleased with it. I would have to spend 5x the price to get any noticeable difference in craftsmanship. Raven - Christopher Ward - Wise - Zelos and many more are taking off where the big "flashy" brands don't want to go... or are out of our reach.
Slightly off topic, but I would love for you to appear on a car podcast and discuss that industry’s version of the quartz crisis that’s happening now. I hear that Richard Porter from Sniff Petrol has referenced you before.
@@AndrewMorganWatches Let me dig out up; it was from a Smith and Sniff podcast during the beginning of the Moonswatch hype, and he mentioned a watch youtuber making a VW/Porsche analogy, which I think was you.
@@AndrewMorganWatches th-cam.com/video/pZNFdmpOGV4/w-d-xo.html Smith and Sniff Episode 104, 34:06 onward, I think this is one of your comments he’s quoting.
It's trickled down to the £400 microbrand offerings too - no longer the rolex homages of a few years ago. More fun, more variety - streamlined production
Another great video! More than thank You Sir… Alles frikkin..luia …or is it Flippin Lueya! You have taken the “Broken Watch Industry” & given a plausible explanation that includes one of the most uplifting of ambitions, Aspiration… Unlike the commentary of one TH-camr who has managed to garnish a HUGE 900 plus subscribers by making video’s that constantly shout out, “Watch industry Dead”…”Broken” “Dying & Breaking”, all said in either whispers or shouts…you get the point. In fact, if you take his average 12 minute video, he repeats the same comments so often that he never get’s past those words. Not sure if he is aiming at mass hypnosis or just has limited vocabulary. What I am sure of though, is that he has worked out that bad news likes company, read: new views, perhaps the occasional extra sub. Which is why I will not attach a link, why add to his dismal views! Am so very tired of hearing this, when the same timepieces we are all after are still unavailable at retail, if at all. Thanks for your channel! Cheers…
To be honest Andrew these new Crypto kids F'd everything up 😂 it's definitely more fun now. I can't wait till the future, to watch Richard Mille mockery videos in the next 10 years. With banter of how these 🤡used to spend hundreds of thousands and millions on Fisher Price Toys, from Toys R us on the wrist before the last ressesion 😂
I'm VERY lucky in that the watches I desire are vintage models which are carefully restored and regulated by a watchmaker. I would MUCH rather have a 55 year old Seiko that has lived a life and been restored ready to live a second life, than a 'luxury' name which I KNOW is overpriced and subject to shady sales practices.
I don’t know for how long Christopher Ward will be able to keep their quality-price-ratio, but currently it is definitely one of the best in the industry!
And all this time I thought "we" had manifested the return of the 36mm Explorer! Cool episode as always Andrew. (Shout out to Petermann-Bedat for a brand that should be more on the interwebs)
The demand for Rolex and other high-end watches is now largely controlled by drug and weapon dealers. Moving "illegal" money, albeit cash or digital from one country to another, has become very hard. An expensive watch however, is at customs a personal belonging. So it is almost impossible for the authorities to stop moving it over the border. Once in the other country, the watch can then be sold for dollars or the local currency; and from there the bussiness continues.
If you want a Rolex, get a Rolex. Nothing else will scratch that itch. If they’re out of reach or out of favour, there’s more to choose from than ever before!
The watch market is being affected by global market dynamics just as it has been affected many times in the past. There will always be brand popularity and brand death and brand rebirth and brand consolidation. And China will be a player. As will Germany, Japan, Switzerland and the USA. Oh yeah, the USA. There will be something available for everyone at every price point. And there will still be hype collectible brands and models. For those that want to chase that. There's even going to be a place for those types of watch people as well. But agree the older models are going, going and gone.
Imagine taking a decade off from horology entirely including all research, buying and even caring to peek on the internet. That’s what I did after beginning 30 years ago but getting serious in 2000… from 2010 to last year essentially. My mind struggles to focus on the future but luckily the micro brand homage’s are not considered knock offs. In all seriousness, the evolution is exciting because anyone with two nickels rubbing together can enjoy their own watch with the utmost pride which is the hobby’s foundation.
Nice view take on your topic choice, Andrew 🤓⌚👍 As long as there's interest in on time and it's devices, all are well regardless. I wouldn't regard this industry as broken but diversified evolving options with opportunities for consumers, regardless. Everything else, time will tell as perusal. 🤓⌚👍
Other than Rolex and the triumvirate, does this apply to anything else? Those boats have sailed yes and it’s sad because they are the makers of icons that we have grown up to love and cherish. But there are many brands with incredible heritage are not beyond us mere mortals. Tudor has become the obvious choice and they make perfectly good watches, but there’s also Cartier, omega, breitling, longines, Breguet, blancpain etc as well as many superb micro brands and high level independents. I’m so grateful to Rolex for becoming ludicrously expensive. It has made me research and look elsewhere, and blimey the world of watches has exploded and it’s wonderful.
As a lapidary I'm all for people getting interested in what was a pretty niche thing. Opals in particular have exploded... Just don't ask me to say your tinted quartz is a precious gem with supernatural powers. Pls.
Yes, something's must be going on. New local watch companies are constantly emerging and offering better and better products at fairly realistic prices in many countries. The older niche players grow and stabilize. I think the watch movement industry, whether Swiss, Japanese, Chinese, German or local in other countries, will not be idle for at least a decade or more. It is a bit reminiscent of the clothing industry, where, apart from the big players in the market, there are a lot of medium and small local companies that offer a very high quality level and they record increase. Distribution channels are beginning to change completely, paradoxically the situation where Rolex products can only be seen live in boutiques and potential buyers have problems with their purchase may be used by new companies as a presentation tool in selected stores with the possibility of ordering from a local store or, after some consideration on final look and accessories / possible customization, online from home with the possibility of fast delivery.
It’s an issue to be debated on so many levels. I agree the the industry is broken and it is fixable. Making a watch costs the the watchmaker a fraction of what the final price eventually ends up to be. The smaller brands can focus on that point. They can make a great product and maybe charge a little more for it, and still be a much cheaper viable alternative to more pricy watches out there. I think the main disagreement between all the opinionators out there is what exactly they consider a great watch. I consider a great watch as a solidly built, cleverly designed, sufficiently robust to handle the current daily hurdles of our times. But first and foremost it should attempt to achieve what it was supposed to do and that is to tell the time as accurately as mechanically possible (considering every brand and its budget). Any watch with a generic , barely regulated movement cannot and should not pass as a great watch but as a lousy one. We should press the brands harder on this issue, there is no difference to me between seiko and any fashion watch with unregulated movement. No watch should have a 20 sec deviation a day in our time. only then can we really consider an oris or a tag heuer as a real contender and viable budget option for us ( that’s how i see it at least). There is a move in that direction by brands like oris with their calibre 400 and CW, but that should be the norm rather than the exception.
Sure there are lots of smaller brands making great watches affordably, but I doubt they're doing it by hand as shown early in the video. You're a bit late to CW. I bought their first watch with the in house SH21 hand wind movement, 5 day power reserve, COSC, ages ago for about £600 in a sale. I've bought several since and not been disappointed.
$10k seems to be the entry price for something truly hand finished, it's a very reasonable price when you compare it to machine finished watches that cost double that.
I can’t force you to believe it but I’m sure if you got in touch with Kudoke they’d provide the proof for you. And I’ve been aware of CW for ages-it’s this new watch that’s caught my eye. Wait and see!
It was a near perfect storm. Cheap (nearly free) money, cash flowing from crypto and nft profits, people unable to spend normally due to Covid travel lockdowns, and an increase in prices turning watches into “investments” and billionaires chiming in on their “watch investment strategies”.
The only thing that micro brands cannot do is the extensive testing to guarantee durability and quality over time. As long as they offer an excellent warranty they should be fine we think, but who can guarantee that they will be still in business in 9 years when the warranty of of other major watchmskers is just about to expire? In my mind this is the only glitch, otherwise all these smaller brands have a huge success ahead of them.
I totally see your point and agree. I would definitely drop 3-4k on one of these watches, but is just me and I wonder about the crowds out there who are on the fence and have to choose between a 3k unknown micro brand and lets say a Tag for the same price. What is the deal breaker or the other requirements that must be met for them choose the first and change this (Rolex) trend in your mind? This is an awkward battle between specs, quality and exclusivity vs. .fame, history, brand recognition etc. To me, it sounds that the premise must be education...
@@misufriendersts9467 if the masses choose TAG that’s fine with me! Guys like Kudoke are limited in the numbers they can produce so there’s no real need for them to win hearts and minds beyond the few of us who just want something a bit special. It would be great if more people saw the light on what’s possible with watchmaking but then again the fact they don’t means more opportunity for people like us!
Great video I agree the industry is broken, but there is opportunity, which I think is the point of the video. I’m not likely to cross another ADs door again, unless the supply situation changes significantly. I’m 12 months into a Dornblüth order, and hope to have delivery in a couple of months. There is certainly more horological craft elsewhere at mainstream brand rrp
Thanks Andrew. It was the fault of the Watchfinder video, and I’ve gone for a 99.1M with an engraved silver dial. I am actively thinking about that Kudoke 1 though! I really shouldn’t! It’s all your fault
Simple solution. Give up on Rolex and AP (and a few other hyped pieces)... That leaves MANY great options... omega, jlc, iwc, grand seiko, nomos, casio, hamilton, doxa..... or indeed micro brands! Give up on the hype... to save your sanity ha ha! If you really need that Rolex , I suppose the only option is to save save save and go grey.....or vintage...I find modern Rolex (mostly) too shiny and chunky anyway. Many more elegant brands out there
I think I'm just going to design and build my own watch. Design my own brand while I'm at it. 😂 Its the only way I'll be truly happy with my watch enthusiasm. Damn the others. 😂
Funny how everything changed since Covid. Almost as if it was an excuse to make everything harder for the average person. Each one of my hobbies have been hit with laws that restrict them or increased costs. Kinda how ppl that have no interest in f1 go to f1 because it’s just a social event for a certain type of person.
I think I've got it figured out but that's just my view. What do you think of the future of the industry?
A new era is dawning. Rolex and the Holy Trinity may not be there grail in the next 5 to 10 years. IMO
Agree with you, Andrew. As usual, your commentary is spot on and your insights are valuable. I see micro brands like Monta and C Ward filling the niche that was vacated by Rolex 20 years ago, and will be vacated by Tudor, et al. I no longer have the same interest level in Rolex, and there will come a day when Tudor watches start at $6,000 - $7,000, and I won’t pay that price. But a C Ward or a Monta or a Sinn for $2,000 - $3,000 sounds much nicer.
@@richardwarren2024 Baltic are doing somr really nice watches below the 1k mark, hope they keep smashing it
The future of the industry sucks if all I can afford are microbrands...
@@edgardo1166 Why? Every respected watch maker pretty much started out as some guy in a shed making one or two watches, they were the microbrands of their era. If todays microbrands can do well made watches, with beautiful aesthetics, more power to them and I for one will buy them.
My favorite Microbrand approached my favorite watch TH-camr, what a collab!!! Yes, brands like ChrWard, Farer and Formex are just some of the examples that prove there's a good watchmaker for everyone even in the lower price range. You just have to look for it. Thanks Andrew for another great video and I hope to see that video soon.
Formex is great value
I always wanted a Rolex. Now that it’s actually in reach, I’ve pretty much decided that if I wanted to spend $10k, I’d rather a Glashutte PanomaticLunar. Flex culture has driven certain brands to unreasonable heights. So what am I looking at instead of Rolex? My new Formex Essence 43 Green arrived yesterday. My next watch will most likely be a Christopher Ward, or perhaps an Oris or Longines. Though I could afford a Rolex, I actually enjoy finding watches that provide great value for the money far more than simply a recognizably luxurious name on the dial.
My Christopher Ward is on its way as we speak. I predict watches like these are the classics of tomorrow.
Thank you !!! Just found this channel , been watching your hands up to now. Keep that smile if ya want to keep watches fun , love it !!!!!
This is the Og story telling format you are admired for. Great video.
Great video Andrew! There are so many fantastic affordable brands that as long as you're not hung up on some overpriced watch you saw in a magazine as a child, then you can easily find something amazing.
Or, for those in the UK with far less cash, but who would like learn to appreciate and love something which the herd doesn't, try vintage 9ct gold dress watches. Quality movements, varied designs and sub-£300 because they're unfashionably small.
A 32mm watch could be seen as the ultimate real "flex" because it shows that you're confident, with your own tastes and that you're your own person.
Great vid Andrew. I sold my Oysterquartz two years ago and have gotten out...of the game and have never looked back. These small private companies from Britain and Germany, primarily interest me greatly. I'm looking for a retirement watch in the next 3-4 yrs. Thank you for your team's great vids helping me pick and choose when the time comes. I look forward to more from you.
Regards,
Chris
I really enjoyed the thought process behind this video Andrew. I totally agree, the watches and brands that I dreamed of owning when I really started getting into watches are now realistically beyond my grasp. If I’m honest, they’ve always been beyond my grasp, I just didn’t want to admit it 😂 Once you eventually “come to terms” with that fact a whole alternative world of watches opens up for you to explore and enjoy. There are watches out there for literally every one of us, if we want them.
A really good analysis of the market and I take Andrew’s point that there are always people who ‘hijack’ a market because of their ability to spend, rather than their passion for the products and technologies. This means that a lot of them will end up nursing losses but there is so much innovation that there is something for everyone in every category.
As in all of your videos you always present such compelling and interesting arguments. I would love to see one of your videos dedicated to Asian or Singaporean watch scene. Keep up the awesome work!
I agree that Stefan Kudoke makes incredible watches: that's a lead in to suggesting that we need to look at German and Japanese watches more carefully. Leave the Swiss watches to those with more money than sense...
Great video, Andrew! I think the market for desirable independent/microbrand watches is also broken. Fractions of a second to place an order, limited numbers, 50 to 100% non refundable deposits, multi year wait times after ordering for delivery....
At the same time, many of the midrange Swiss brands are simplifying their ranges so those aren't an option unless you want to toe a single line.
@jeremy close spot on mate, and all for the flippers
Ooh. I have a couple of CWs, so now I'm intrigued by whatever it is you've seen.
Only in the watch industry can mass produced products made from cheap materials be called luxury. People are as thick as pig shit.
My brand is Hamilton. They have plenty of potential to move up-market if they wish and have the heft of Swatch behind them. As Rolex and AP and PP disappear into the stratosphere, there will be Hamilton to take up the slack. Not a bad spot to be in.
Christopher Ward has been and continue to be a great value buy. It delights me that they have reached out to you to show their upcoming release. It has shook you enough that it makes me even more keen to see their next release.
Had my eye on the C63 Sealander green dial for a little while, its a beauty.
@@donmongoose Oh yes, the "Hunter Green" dial. It looks great.
@@donmongoose I recently got one. Great watch. Definitely good value. Well relatively for watches. Tempted to get the new c60 300.
@@piotrkrolikowski5903 I actually prefer the case of the c60, the new logo is cleaner and the extra mm in size is good as I have larger wrists, but I'm not a fan of emerald green. Same issue with the c65 Aquitaine, lovely watch, but wish they'd done it with that stunning hunter green textured dial.
@@siongheeleong8078 It also doesn't look like a homage to the explorer 2 like the white dial does, green looks great
Nice, I also like how you squeezed in a WatchFinder plug at the end. Good play. 👍🏾
Thanks for sharing these two value brands. I look forward to watching more of your content.
Perfect pensive video for the Sunday afternoon. Thank you!
Thanks Andrew for continuing your excellent content on this channel
Agree completely. I love my Kudoke 2, and knowing the actual mind from where it came...all the COSC, water resistance and anti-magnetism wankery is what you fawn over when there is no art, no soul in the timepiece
Love this latest video of yours, and in agreement with your opinions. Even my watch AD told me nowadays watch prices and the waiting game that we have to play, especially from the big boys, are just too ridiculous. Your tease aboiut Christopher Ward really pique my intereste. Can’t wait for you to reveal it!
Christopher Ward are the best watches you can buy that are below £1500. The finishing and quality are near Tudor level and I own many of both brands so I’m qualified to speak on it. Incredible company as far as service too.
Hello Mike
I must be late to the party i didn't know you had your own channel I've subscribed & liked the video & looking forward to more ! All the best Jr.
Who’s Mike 😂
Interesting you mentioned CW. I've been eyeing a purchase, but with so many brand choices have not made up my mind to pull the trigger. My gut tells me CW prices will see increases average into the 2k range within 5yrs or so and I'm going to regret not making that purchase sooner.
Never thought of it that way. But yeah, it's good to see more and more smaller (and relatively more attainable) brands take risks, knowing that they will be appreciated.
Such a good insight. I have learned to let go of the Polar Explorer II I started out pining for. I like the way brands like Norquain are producing a similar sort of ‘tooly’ vibe without resorting to fake vintage at the moment.
I am happy to get to the watch mod community, buying seiko NH movements and building a watch around it, is not as fancy but I enjoy it a lot
Excellent video and education on the industry.
CW have been top of the game for past couple years. Switch to twin flag logo was the icing on the cake
Interesting take. I guess this is an okay consolation prize for those of us who are now priced out of what we were saving for. But the thing is - after gorging on micros and the like, one does still want to scratch those old, not forgotten itches … which it would appear we’ll just have to forget about. There are worse things, I guess.
Great video, and excellent points! Yes the industry, especially the AD/boutique sales model, is hopelessly broken. However, this drives true watch lovers like myself to discover new high end brands (Trilobe, Ressence) and rediscover existing ones that welcomes my business (Breitling).
Absolutely agree and one of the many reasons i ve solt most of my collection. The focus and interest has gone in a wrong direction both from consumers and manufacturers
I heard about the upcoming CW. Near as i can tell it's another collaboration with Armin Strom, and yes I've freed up BB58 type $$ just in case I like it.
I’d be surprised if you don’t!
It’s such a pleasure, to roll the dice and put $1000 on a micro brand that’s new and exciting, and then to get that watch in hand and just know immediately that you scored mega-points in the watch collection game. There’s certainly a real risk that it’ll be a massive fumble but most of these companies will reimburse a return. But it’s like discovering a new musician and loving and learning all their songs before anyone else, and then seeing the world go crazy for them; you just get to savor that discovery and new tiny watch brands give you the joy of savoring a piece of art on your wrist that you really don’t ever have to stop enjoying.
I never really wanted a Rolex anyway, even the new Explorer that was always a grail felt far too shiny for a tool. There’s so much heritage available with value, Hamiltons little Pilot Pioneer can regularly be picked up on eBay under £400, Seikos new thin turtle 6105 remake spb317 £649. And to go up, if you really like Rolex, Tudor make the tool pieces that Rolex used to at a quarter of the price
You love astrophotography too? Awesome! That’s what my college thesis was in almost 2 decades ago! Trying to get the kids into it now! Any good resources you recommend? Love you new personal channel! Great job!
The Astro Backyard TH-cam channel is a great place to absorb knowledge!
@@AndrewMorganWatches Awesome! Thank you very much!
This could do with a little background music.
💯
That Kudoke case back 😂 I can’t.
The Micro Brands are the next beautiful area for us to play in. I have a WISE watch from Thailand and I couldn't be more pleased with it. I would have to spend 5x the price to get any noticeable difference in craftsmanship. Raven - Christopher Ward - Wise - Zelos and many more are taking off where the big "flashy" brands don't want to go... or are out of our reach.
Slightly off topic, but I would love for you to appear on a car podcast and discuss that industry’s version of the quartz crisis that’s happening now. I hear that Richard Porter from Sniff Petrol has referenced you before.
Omg! I never even thought to compare it to the Quartz crisis but you’re absolutely right 10/10 analogy
Has he? Wow! Do you have a link?
@@AndrewMorganWatches Let me dig out up; it was from a Smith and Sniff podcast during the beginning of the Moonswatch hype, and he mentioned a watch youtuber making a VW/Porsche analogy, which I think was you.
@@ofmanynicknames no sweat if it’s a pain to find! Just if you knew it off hand. Thanks for the heads up!
@@AndrewMorganWatches th-cam.com/video/pZNFdmpOGV4/w-d-xo.html Smith and Sniff Episode 104, 34:06 onward, I think this is one of your comments he’s quoting.
It's trickled down to the £400 microbrand offerings too - no longer the rolex homages of a few years ago. More fun, more variety - streamlined production
Nice video, Andrew, thank you.
I can't believe this a 9 minute ad we were tricked into watching
Hey Andrew, just find you I did't know about your personal channel, kudos, About time, already subscribed, keep going✌
Thanks 😊
Hmmm but it’s all circular, A CW watch circa 3k?!
I have problems with them being 1k!
CW or Tudor ….. I know which I will chose every time.
But Tudor will not be making a minute-repeater complication akin to high-horology.
Another great video!
More than thank You Sir…
Alles frikkin..luia …or is it Flippin Lueya!
You have taken the “Broken Watch Industry” & given a plausible explanation that includes one of the most uplifting of ambitions, Aspiration…
Unlike the commentary of one TH-camr who has managed to garnish a HUGE 900 plus subscribers by making video’s that constantly shout out, “Watch industry Dead”…”Broken” “Dying & Breaking”, all said in either whispers or shouts…you get the point.
In fact, if you take his average 12 minute video, he repeats the same comments so often that he never get’s past those words. Not sure if he is aiming at mass hypnosis or just has limited vocabulary.
What I am sure of though, is that he has worked out that bad news likes company, read: new views, perhaps the occasional extra sub. Which is why I will not attach a link, why add to his dismal views!
Am so very tired of hearing this, when the same timepieces we are all after are still unavailable at retail, if at all.
Thanks for your channel!
Cheers…
Laine makes some mint looking dials. Wouldn't mind owning one of his creations.
To be honest Andrew these new Crypto kids F'd everything up 😂 it's definitely more fun now. I can't wait till the future, to watch Richard Mille mockery videos in the next 10 years. With banter of how these 🤡used to spend hundreds of thousands and millions on Fisher Price Toys, from Toys R us on the wrist before the last ressesion 😂
It's pretty much done regulations are coming, the crypto rivers of Ponzi ran dry.
There will always be stupid money tho
You say Crypto kids, yet every Rolex AD is filled with Chinese nationals. The Rolexes are going East, my friend.
I'm VERY lucky in that the watches I desire are vintage models which are carefully restored and regulated by a watchmaker. I would MUCH rather have a 55 year old Seiko that has lived a life and been restored ready to live a second life, than a 'luxury' name which I KNOW is overpriced and subject to shady sales practices.
Absolutely spot on mate, and exactly why I'm looking at other brands, including Kudoke and been chatting to Garrick
I don’t know for how long Christopher Ward will be able to keep their quality-price-ratio, but currently it is definitely one of the best in the industry!
Love kudoke but he doesn't want to do green dial and waiting for a year after paying 50% advance is just way too long
And all this time I thought "we" had manifested the return of the 36mm Explorer! Cool episode as always Andrew. (Shout out to Petermann-Bedat for a brand that should be more on the interwebs)
The demand for Rolex and other high-end watches is now largely controlled by drug and weapon dealers. Moving "illegal" money, albeit cash or digital from one country to another, has become very hard. An expensive watch however, is at customs a personal belonging. So it is almost impossible for the authorities to stop moving it over the border. Once in the other country, the watch can then be sold for dollars or the local currency; and from there the bussiness continues.
Love Christopher Ward! I have chosen the Aquitaine GMT as my first and only luxury purchase. Very clean design and impressive specs
intriguing concept. if I'm understanding this correctly we should abandon Rolex, et al the same way that they are abandoning us?
If you want a Rolex, get a Rolex. Nothing else will scratch that itch. If they’re out of reach or out of favour, there’s more to choose from than ever before!
Thats why I love microbrands and independents. So much more variety. Loving my Helm!
Awesome episode, Andrew!
Thanks!
Love that Tudor line lol
The watch market is being affected by global market dynamics just as it has been affected many times in the past. There will always be brand popularity and brand death and brand rebirth and brand consolidation. And China will be a player. As will Germany, Japan, Switzerland and the USA. Oh yeah, the USA. There will be something available for everyone at every price point.
And there will still be hype collectible brands and models. For those that want to chase that. There's even going to be a place for those types of watch people as well. But agree the older models are going, going and gone.
Sounds like the guy with the hands. Good one buddy
It is! Surprise!
Great video. Many thanks.
They don't even have catalogs to deliver.
Imagine taking a decade off from horology entirely including all research, buying and even caring to peek on the internet. That’s what I did after beginning 30 years ago but getting serious in 2000… from 2010 to last year essentially. My mind struggles to focus on the future but luckily the micro brand homage’s are not considered knock offs. In all seriousness, the evolution is exciting because anyone with two nickels rubbing together can enjoy their own watch with the utmost pride which is the hobby’s foundation.
Nice view take on your topic choice, Andrew 🤓⌚👍
As long as there's interest in on time and it's devices, all are well regardless. I wouldn't regard this industry as broken but diversified evolving options with opportunities for consumers, regardless.
Everything else, time will tell as perusal.
🤓⌚👍
Excellent commentary!!!
Okay well I’m officially intrigued by the Chris Ward release. Büsser bits for Black Bay bunse… I’m listening
Other than Rolex and the triumvirate, does this apply to anything else? Those boats have sailed yes and it’s sad because they are the makers of icons that we have grown up to love and cherish. But there are many brands with incredible heritage are not beyond us mere mortals. Tudor has become the obvious choice and they make perfectly good watches, but there’s also Cartier, omega, breitling, longines, Breguet, blancpain etc as well as many superb micro brands and high level independents. I’m so grateful to Rolex for becoming ludicrously expensive. It has made me research and look elsewhere, and blimey the world of watches has exploded and it’s wonderful.
You’re right, but I’m still surprised now how much a Seamaster costs for example. It’s gone from £3-5k in a matter of years.
So true. It’s a crazy world we enjoy
@@IDKline true dat
Very interested by the CWard
I'm sorry. Were you saying something? I was watching the gorgeous footage.
As a lapidary I'm all for people getting interested in what was a pretty niche thing. Opals in particular have exploded... Just don't ask me to say your tinted quartz is a precious gem with supernatural powers. Pls.
Ooh I love a good opal!
Yes, something's must be going on. New local watch companies are constantly emerging and offering better and better products at fairly realistic prices in many countries. The older niche players grow and stabilize. I think the watch movement industry, whether Swiss, Japanese, Chinese, German or local in other countries, will not be idle for at least a decade or more. It is a bit reminiscent of the clothing industry, where, apart from the big players in the market, there are a lot of medium and small local companies that offer a very high quality level and they record increase. Distribution channels are beginning to change completely, paradoxically the situation where Rolex products can only be seen live in boutiques and potential buyers have problems with their purchase may be used by new companies as a presentation tool in selected stores with the possibility of ordering from a local store or, after some consideration on final look and accessories / possible customization, online from home with the possibility of fast delivery.
It’s an issue to be debated on so many levels.
I agree the the industry is broken and it is fixable.
Making a watch costs the the watchmaker a fraction of what the final price eventually ends up to be. The smaller brands can focus on that point. They can make a great product and maybe charge a little more for it, and still be a much cheaper viable alternative to more pricy watches out there.
I think the main disagreement between all the opinionators out there is what exactly they consider a great watch.
I consider a great watch as a solidly built, cleverly designed, sufficiently robust to handle the current daily hurdles of our times.
But first and foremost it should attempt to achieve what it was supposed to do and that is to tell the time as accurately as mechanically possible (considering every brand and its budget).
Any watch with a generic , barely regulated movement cannot and should not pass as a great watch but as a lousy one. We should press the brands harder on this issue, there is no difference to me between seiko and any fashion watch with unregulated movement. No watch should have a 20 sec deviation a day in our time.
only then can we really consider an oris or a tag heuer as a real contender and viable budget option for us ( that’s how i see it at least). There is a move in that direction by brands like oris with their calibre 400 and CW, but that should be the norm rather than the exception.
1:14 damn that hit me hard
When you watch a video one month late and find out the CW watch is already sold out in preorder 😭
I knew it was coming and still managed to miss it 😢
We’ve all see the Christopher Ward Bel Canto now. WHAT. A. WATCH!
It’s quite something isn’t it!
@@AndrewMorganWatches Yes and can’t wait to have it in hand in a couple of weeks..
@@justingalore123 you’ll love it!
Sure there are lots of smaller brands making great watches affordably, but I doubt they're doing it by hand as shown early in the video. You're a bit late to CW. I bought their first watch with the in house SH21 hand wind movement, 5 day power reserve, COSC, ages ago for about £600 in a sale. I've bought several since and not been disappointed.
$10k seems to be the entry price for something truly hand finished, it's a very reasonable price when you compare it to machine finished watches that cost double that.
I can’t force you to believe it but I’m sure if you got in touch with Kudoke they’d provide the proof for you. And I’ve been aware of CW for ages-it’s this new watch that’s caught my eye. Wait and see!
That was cool. Thanks Andrew
Great video!
It was a near perfect storm. Cheap (nearly free) money, cash flowing from crypto and nft profits, people unable to spend normally due to Covid travel lockdowns, and an increase in prices turning watches into “investments” and billionaires chiming in on their “watch investment strategies”.
I love stories with happy endings
The only thing that micro brands cannot do is the extensive testing to guarantee durability and quality over time. As long as they offer an excellent warranty they should be fine we think, but who can guarantee that they will be still in business in 9 years when the warranty of of other major watchmskers is just about to expire?
In my mind this is the only glitch, otherwise all these smaller brands have a huge success ahead of them.
Given the assistance these guys get from established B2B companies and how old watchmaking tech really is, I don’t see that as an issue to be honest
You obviously understand that, but what about the average buyer's perception?
@@misufriendersts9467 they’re the ones still buying Rolex! I don’t think these watches are for the average buyer
I totally see your point and agree. I would definitely drop 3-4k on one of these watches, but is just me and I wonder about the crowds out there who are on the fence and have to choose between a 3k unknown micro brand and lets say a Tag for the same price. What is the deal breaker or the other requirements that must be met for them choose the first and change this (Rolex) trend in your mind?
This is an awkward battle between specs, quality and exclusivity vs. .fame, history, brand recognition etc.
To me, it sounds that the premise must be education...
@@misufriendersts9467 if the masses choose TAG that’s fine with me! Guys like Kudoke are limited in the numbers they can produce so there’s no real need for them to win hearts and minds beyond the few of us who just want something a bit special. It would be great if more people saw the light on what’s possible with watchmaking but then again the fact they don’t means more opportunity for people like us!
This video was a work of art. Are you Jeremy Clarkson's illegitimate son, by any chance?
I don’t particularly like Harry or Meghan, so maybe 😂
Great video
I agree the industry is broken, but there is opportunity, which I think is the point of the video. I’m not likely to cross another ADs door again, unless the supply situation changes significantly. I’m 12 months into a Dornblüth order, and hope to have delivery in a couple of months. There is certainly more horological craft elsewhere at mainstream brand rrp
You’ll love the Dornbluth. Very special piece and crazy value!
Thanks Andrew. It was the fault of the Watchfinder video, and I’ve gone for a 99.1M with an engraved silver dial. I am actively thinking about that Kudoke 1 though! I really shouldn’t! It’s all your fault
@@roedavi you’ll love it. The Kudoke is good too, but almost twice the price! I’m an innocent party in all this 😅
Simple solution. Give up on Rolex and AP (and a few other hyped pieces)... That leaves MANY great options... omega, jlc, iwc, grand seiko, nomos, casio, hamilton, doxa..... or indeed micro brands!
Give up on the hype... to save your sanity ha ha!
If you really need that Rolex , I suppose the only option is to save save save and go grey.....or vintage...I find modern Rolex (mostly) too shiny and chunky anyway. Many more elegant brands out there
Watch prices are going to “drop drop drop !” @opisntime !
Submariner needs an eta movement and sold for $650 what they actually worth
A thought provoking insight, perfectly delivered.
I think I'm just going to design and build my own watch. Design my own brand while I'm at it. 😂
Its the only way I'll be truly happy with my watch enthusiasm.
Damn the others. 😂
unfortunately still out of my budget, but he does make some nice "jewels" (kudoke)
It is a fascinating and interesting time to be getting into this hobby/obsession/thing :)
Don’t forget to keep an eye an Asia. Japan, China, South Korea. There something happening there as well.
Roasted! Like EVA! 🔥🔥🔥
lol @ stuck with buying tudors.
christopher ward will earn the respect it deserves one fine day
Funny how everything changed since Covid. Almost as if it was an excuse to make everything harder for the average person. Each one of my hobbies have been hit with laws that restrict them or increased costs. Kinda how ppl that have no interest in f1 go to f1 because it’s just a social event for a certain type of person.
What a great video. 🙌
It doesn’t matter how many people try pushing these alternative brands. People don’t want them. It’s Rolex Rolex Rolex
Their loss I guess!