The Real Time Show: British Watchmaker's Day Build-Up – Scarlett and Rob Discuss

Release Date: March 2, 2025

Hosts: Rob Nudds & Scarlett Baker
Podcast Description: Real questions. Real Answers. Real talk. The world's most interactive watchmaking podcast, hosted by Rob Nudds and Scarlett Baker.

1. Opening Banter and Personal Anecdotes

The episode kicks off with Rob Nudds and Scarlett Baker engaging in their characteristic playful banter. Rob attempts to dazzle Scarlett with a convoluted description of "Saxon," leading Scarlett to humorously dismiss his jargon as "a load of shite" (00:00). This light-hearted exchange sets the tone for the episode, highlighting their chemistry and mutual teasing.

Notable Quote:

• Rob Nudds: “So Saxon. Yeah, Saxon is a refined chemical compound of remarkable chromatic homogeny. That is the most Robinus thing to say ever.” (00:00)

2. Recap of Previous Episodes and Pronunciation Nuggets

Rob references a previous discussion about the pronunciation of "neologism," admitting he had been mispronouncing it until a recent echo on a psychology program (00:49). Scarlett seizes the moment to playfully correct Rob, leading to humorous exchanges about who was right or wrong, further strengthening their rapport.

Notable Quote:

• Scarlett Baker: “I was right and you were wrong.” (01:43)

3. Personal Updates: Dry January and American Road Trip

The hosts delve into their recent personal lives. Scarlett proudly shares her success with Dry January, abstaining from alcohol for five weeks before reluctantly returning to it on February 1st (07:59). Rob humorously contrasts this by admitting his trip to America often drags him back into "the throes of alcoholism" (08:33).

Rob details an extensive road trip across the American West Coast, visiting numerous watch retailers for Fortis Watches. His journey spans from Seattle to Portland, Mount Shasta, Davis, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, culminating in a meeting with Feldmar Watches in San Diego. The trip involved 2,099 miles driven in his Jeep Compass, highlighting his dedication to expanding watch retail partnerships (11:19).

Notable Quote:

• Rob Nudds: “I've visited as many retailers as I could on the Pacific coast to try and find suitable partners for the brand as they hope to grow their presence in the US.” (12:44)

4. Recent Watch Acquisitions and Reviews

Rob’s Vero Watch: Rob discusses his purchase of the Vero Watch Co.'s Forest Service Edition Air Tanker, a kinetic watch powered by the Seiko PX 280 movement. He praises its “fume effect” on the dial, creating an almost X-ray-like appearance. Priced around £387, this limited edition of 29 pieces is set to be a topic of his upcoming reviews (16:18).

Scarlett’s Chopard B Mad Ice Cube: Scarlett shares her infatuation with a unique Chopard watch featuring a red resin case and matching strap. Although initially hesitant about the £800 price tag on Chrono24, she contemplates purchasing it as a celebration of her new job. The watch’s distinctive design, reminiscent of gelatin and featuring a limited edition number (999), resonates deeply with her personal style (17:50).

Notable Quote:

• Scarlett Baker: “I really like how it’s called the Chopard B Mad Ice Cube. And I’m like, whoever decided to put B Mad in the name of a watch is a genius.” (19:58)

5. Highlights from LVMH Watch Week

Scarlett and Rob review their top picks from the recent LVMH Watch Week, showcasing a range of innovative and luxurious timepieces:

Rob’s Top Picks:

1. Louis Vuitton Tambour Series:

   • Features: Steel sports watch with intricate case and bezel designs.
   • Insights: Rob appreciates the complexity and unique design elements, comparing some aspects to Harry Winston.

   Notable Quote:

   • Rob Nudds: “I really like the tambour. It was, I think, wasn't it entered into the icon category in GPHG and that ruffled a few feathers.” (26:02)

2. Bulgari’s Automatic Serpenti Models:

   • Features: Introduction of automatic movements into their iconic Serpenti line.
   • Insights: Rob commends Bulgari for blending tradition with modern watchmaking techniques.

3. Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green Saxon:

   • Features: Utilizes "Saxon," a refined chemical compound, offering a unique chromatic effect.
   • Insights: Rob is fascinated by the material's properties and the watch's aesthetic brilliance.

Scarlett’s Top Picks:

1. Bulgari’s Genta:

   • Features: Sea urchin-inspired design with an opal dial and gem settings.
   • Insights: Scarlett is captivated by the watch’s maximalist design and the harmony of its elements.

2. Tiffany’s Jean Schlumberger Collection:

   • Features: Watches with intricate stitching on the dial and prominent gem settings.
   • Insights: Scarlett admires the artistic craftsmanship and the bold use of gemstones.

3. Zenith Chronomaster Sport Rainbow Bezel:

   • Features: Vibrant rainbow-coated bezel.
   • Insights: Scarlett enjoys the playful yet sophisticated use of color, enhancing the watch's visual appeal.

Notable Quotes:

• Scarlett Baker: “I really love the way that it was shot back then, like some of their campaign posters and stuff as well that they did around it was just so cool.” (19:40)
• Rob Nudds: “For me, the case is actually more important to the definition of an icon and really something that you need to get right before you should even approach the dial.” (31:57)

6. British Watchmakers Day Build-Up

As British Watchmakers Day approaches, Rob and Scarlett express immense excitement about the event, focusing on the exclusive watches slated for release. They highlight several key models:

Studio Underdog’s "Gimlet" Watch:

• Features: Limited to 200 pieces, priced at £1,000, manual winding SW2101 movement, 38mm stainless steel case with an onion crown, sapphire crystal, and 100 meters water resistance.
• Insights: The watch is celebrated for its aesthetic appeal, limited availability, and exceptional value given its technical specifications. Rob and Scarlett discuss the intricate design elements, such as the vertical fade dial, sapphire overlay, and the watch's overall harmony and depth.

Technical Discussion on Saxon vs. Sapphire: Rob provides an in-depth analysis of "Saxon," a material distinct from sapphire. He explains that while sapphire is an aluminum dioxide compound colored by metallic oxides, Saxon achieves its hues through rare earth elements and possesses a cubic structure, offering a brighter and more uniform shine (43:00). This material choice enhances the watch's durability and aesthetic versatility.

Notable Quote:

• Scarlett Baker: “I love that it's a big part of British Watchmaking's heritage and how these collaborations are pushing the boundaries.” (51:00)
• Rob Nudds: “I was gobsmacked... it's a grand affordable price for affairs. You get to carry the names of two of the most beloved and respected brands around on your wrist for an absolute song.” (80:37)

7. Listener Engagement and Technical Insights

Throughout the episode, Rob and Scarlett engage with their listeners, encouraging them to attend British Watchmakers Day and explore the showcased watches. They delve into technical aspects, such as movement types, dial aesthetics, and bracelet designs, offering valuable insights for both novice and seasoned watch enthusiasts.

Notable Interaction:

• Scarlett Baker: “If any of the listeners are flogging one, let me know.” (23:43)
• Rob Nudds: “It's a limited release, so queues are going to be around the block.” (85:44)

8. Humorous Exchanges and Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with more humorous interactions, including references to ASMR sensations elicited by watch designs and playful jabs about their own personalities and preferences. They express anticipation for British Watchmakers Day, urging listeners to participate and immerse themselves in the watchmaking community.

Notable Quote:

• Rob Nudds: “Stay safe and keep on ticking.” (86:53)

Conclusion

In this episode of The Real Time Show, Rob Nudds and Scarlett Baker blend insightful watchmaking discussions with engaging personal stories and playful banter. From recounting Rob’s extensive American road trip to dissecting the latest releases from LVMH Watch Week, they provide a comprehensive overview of current trends and exclusive releases in the watch industry. The highlight remains their excitement for British Watchmakers Day, especially the affordable yet luxurious Studio Underdog "Gimlet" watch, which epitomizes the event's spirit of innovation and heritage. Listeners are left both informed and entertained, eagerly anticipating the upcoming festivities in the British watchmaking calendar.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Opening Banter: Rob’s Saxon Description
• 00:49 – Recap on Neologism Pronunciation
• 07:59 – Dry January Success
• 11:19 – Rob’s American Road Trip Details
• 16:18 – Rob’s Vero Watch Purchase
• 17:50 – Scarlett’s Chopard B Mad Ice Cube
• 19:40 – LVMH Watch Week Highlights
• 26:02 – Rob’s Top Picks from LVMH Watch Week
• 31:57 – Importance of Case Design in Watchmaking
• 43:00 – Technical Discussion: Saxon vs Sapphire
• 51:00 – British Watchmakers Day Excitement
• 80:37 – Detailed Breakdown of Studio Underdog’s Gimlet
• 85:44 – Anticipation for British Watchmakers Day
• 86:53 – Closing Remarks