The Real Time Show: Detailed Summary of "ChronoCash Crashes The Studio at Time to Watches To Say Hi!"
Release Date: April 5, 2025
Hosts: Rob Nudds & Alon Ben Joseph
Guests: Nico from Chrono Cash and Monaco Watch Club
Location: Villa Sara San, Time to Watches Event
1. Introduction and Event Context
In the featured episode of The Real Time Show, hosts Rob Nudds and Alon Ben Joseph welcome listeners to the Time to Watches event held at Villa Sara San. The episode kicks off with an impromptu interview with Nico, representing Chrono Cash and the Monaco Watch Club.
Notable Quote:
- Rob Nudds [00:05]: "Watch fans and welcome to another edition of the Real Time show from Villa Sara San for the Time to Watches event."
2. Chrono Cash's Presence and Business Strategy
Nico provides an overview of Chrono Cash, highlighting their role as pre-owned watch dealers with stores in Munich and Monaco. They specialize in renowned brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Police, and Notorious. Additionally, Chrono Cash is keen on discovering and partnering with emerging watchmakers, attending events like Watches and Wonders to showcase their offerings.
Key Points:
- Diverse Inventory: Offers a wide range of high-end and pre-owned watches.
- Interest in Newcomers: Actively seeks partnerships with lesser-known watch brands to expand their portfolio.
- Strategic Event Attendance: Extended their stay in Geneva from one to two days to maximize exposure to various watch manufacturers.
Notable Quote:
- Nico [00:32]: "We booked our stay in Geneva not only for one day or for two days and stayed at the fair over there for two days. But we said we have to visit this fair on the next day because there are many, many watch manufacturers or smaller watchmakers, brands who are not recognized by the world."
3. Embracing Social Media and Influencer Culture
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the necessity of establishing a strong online presence in today's digital age. Nico acknowledges that being an influencer is no longer optional for watch dealers. Chrono Cash has ventured into social media to give their products a voice, a transition that was previously underestimated but has proven essential for business growth.
Key Points:
- Digital Presence: Emphasizes the importance of platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
- Challenges: Acknowledges the difficulty in balancing authenticity with influencer responsibilities.
- Positive Outcomes: Reports increased sales and engagement from their online content efforts.
Notable Quotes:
- Nico [02:10]: "Definitely, definitely. And we realized that nowadays if you're not on the Internet, if you're not on Instagram or YouTube, you're like you're not existing."
- Rob Nudds [02:21]: "If you don't post, you don't exist."
4. Notable Brands and Innovations Highlighted
During the event, Nico highlights several innovative watch brands that have caught Chrono Cash's attention, focusing on their unique designs and manufacturing techniques.
a. Awake
Awake stands out for its production of colorful, handmade dials crafted in Vietnam. The meticulous process involves layering natural-based pigments over 20 hours to create vibrant and durable watch faces.
Notable Quote:
- Nico [03:03]: "There was a company who was producing very interesting colorful dials in the dials are produced in Vietnam handmade. It takes at least 20 hours to produce the dial."
b. Blackout
Blackout is recognized for making the sophisticated tourbillon complication more accessible and affordable. By sourcing base components from China and enhancing them for efficiency and reliability, Blackout democratizes high-end watchmaking.
Notable Quote:
- Nico [03:58]: "I like the idea to make the tourbillon in this way affordable for a huge amount of people... I like the design of the brand. I like the fact that they get the base for it from China but then they change certain parts of it to make it more efficient, more trustful."
c. Braver
Braver has launched a limited edition series featuring 25 gold watches with blue dials inspired by the history of Lake Como. Priced competitively, Braver offers an excellent alternative for collectors seeking unique and well-crafted timepieces without the exclusivity barrier.
Notable Quote:
- Nico [06:52]: "The best watch I have seen in the complete two days periods including Watch Some Wonders yesterday was the small brand... with the blue dial which telling the history of the Lake Como."
5. The Evolving Definition of Luxury
The conversation delves into how the concept of luxury is shifting in the watch industry. Traditional notions tied to inaccessibility are being reevaluated as brands like Braver offer high-quality, limited editions at more attainable price points. This shift maintains exclusivity while broadening accessibility, appealing to a new generation of collectors.
Key Points:
- Accessibility vs. Exclusivity: Balancing limited editions with broader market reach.
- Collector Appeal: Limited runs remain desirable for their uniqueness and craftsmanship.
- Modern Luxury: Emphasizes individuality and distinctiveness over sheer opulence.
Notable Quote:
- Rob Nudds [07:43]: "The question is now whether or not those special pieces, that specialness is accessible or not. But if you can have it and other people don't have it, then that maybe is where we're going now..."
6. Future Collaborations and Partnerships
Nico expresses Chrono Cash's intent to form partnerships with promising brands discovered at the event. Their goal is to offer a curated selection of watches they are passionate about, ensuring authenticity and quality in their offerings.
Key Points:
- Selective Partnerships: Focus on brands that align with Chrono Cash's values and standards.
- Passion-Driven Sales: Prioritizing the ability to genuinely endorse and sell products they believe in.
- Long-Term Vision: Building reliable and trustful relationships with new watchmakers.
Notable Quote:
- Nico [08:37]: "This is the main goal... to see if there are different companies which could match our expectation... to stand behind every single product."
7. Conclusion
The episode wraps up with mutual appreciation between hosts and guest, emphasizing the importance of passion and authenticity in the watch industry. Nico's insights provide a valuable perspective on the evolving landscape of watchmaking and the critical role of digital engagement in modern business strategies.
Notable Quotes:
- Rob Nudds [09:22]: "That's how you got to do it. You got to keep the passion there."
- Nico [09:29]: "Thank you very much."
Overall Insights:
This episode of The Real Time Show offers a comprehensive look into Chrono Cash's strategies and perspectives within the watch industry. Nico's emphasis on authenticity, digital presence, and strategic partnerships underscores the dynamic changes shaping modern watchmaking. By highlighting innovative brands like Awake, Blackout, and Braver, the conversation illustrates the blend of tradition and innovation driving the sector forward.
Listeners gain an understanding of how digital transformation is imperative for business growth and brand recognition. Additionally, the discussion on the evolving definition of luxury highlights the balance between exclusivity and accessibility that contemporary collectors and brands strive to achieve.
Whether you're a watch enthusiast, industry professional, or casual listener, this episode provides valuable insights into the current trends and future directions of the watchmaking world.