Summary of The Real Time Show Episode 250: "Back To The Mailbag"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Real Time Show
• Hosts: Rob Nudds, Alon Ben Joseph, David Vaucher
• Episode: 250: Back To The Mailbag
• Release Date: June 18, 2025
• Description: Real questions. Real Answers. Real talk. The world's most interactive watchmaking podcast, hosted by Rob Nudds and Alon Ben Joseph.

Introduction: Celebrating the Milestone

In the 250th episode of The Real Time Show, hosts Rob Nudds, Alon Ben Joseph, and David Vaucher come together to mark a significant milestone for their watchmaking podcast. Rob kicks off the episode with enthusiasm, welcoming listeners and congratulating the team for reaching the quarter-millennium mark.

Rob Nudds [00:00]:

"Hi and hello, Watch fans, and welcome to the 250th episode of the Real Time show."

David and Alon echo Rob's excitement, expressing gratitude towards their listeners who have been the cornerstone of the show's success. Alon highlights the vibrant community they've built, particularly praising their WhatsApp group for fostering engagement despite the occasional message avalanche.

Alon Ben Joseph [01:30]:

"Thank you to our dear listeners because they are the reason we are here... our little hub, our island, the TRTS WhatsApp community, is so much joy."

Highlighting Milestone Achievements

The hosts reflect on memorable moments from their extensive catalog of 250 episodes. David shares his journey of joining the show through a cold pitch with an article on the "Tiffany Patek Nautilus," marking his entry into watch media.

David Vaucher [02:07]:

"If we look at that as my entry into the world of watch media, then I think that's definitely the most significant for me."

Rob acknowledges David's pivotal role in shaping the show's direction, particularly the introduction of the audicle concept, which enriched the podcast's content and format.

Rob Nudds [02:12]:

"The whole audicle concept came about because of you... we were more than happy to have you on board."

Alon adds that David's contributions extend beyond the podcast, including his influential LinkedIn posts that amplify the show's reach.

Exciting Announcements: Geneva Watch Days Partnership

Rob shares thrilling news about their official media partnership with Geneva Watch Days, one of the most prestigious events in the watchmaking industry. This collaboration will see the team recording live content from a glass igloo near Lac La Man, aiming to provide real-time updates to their global audience.

Rob Nudds [04:21]:

"We've finally got a date where we will coalesce... an official media partner of Geneva Watch Days."

The partnership promises comprehensive coverage, with plans to engage directly with exhibiting brands and addressing listener questions in real-time during the event.

Mailbag Question 1: Revitalizing Breguet

Listener Question:

"250 years of Breguet and 250 episodes of TRTS. What would you do to bring Brega back to its glory or even restore the recognition it had when its founder was still at the helm?" — Max

The discussion centers around Breguet's current standing within the Swatch Group and strategies to rejuvenate its legacy.

David Vaucher [06:33]:

"Breguet needs to take a step back and say what is it that we want to be as a company."

Rob critiques Breguet's recent releases, noting a lack of distinctiveness and market differentiation.

Rob Nudds [08:07]:

"Breguet just doesn't stand out... it's a commercial looking piece that Swatch Group expects to sell because it's got the name Breguet on the dial."

Alon suggests focusing on heritage-driven models to reinforce brand identity.

Alon Ben Joseph [12:52]:

"How cool would it be if they bring that one back in a small batch or a limited run or few per year?"

The conversation emphasizes streamlining Breguet's collections to focus on high-end, distinctive timepieces that honor its storied history.

Mailbag Question 2: Brands Losing and Regaining Their Way

Listener Question:

"Is it so rare that brands lose their way? How many brands lose their way and then come back with a vengeance?" — Leroy

The hosts delve into examples of watch brands that have experienced decline and subsequent renaissance, highlighting Zenith, TAG Heuer, and Tudor.

Alon Ben Joseph [25:51]:

"The first one that comes to mind is Zenith... Julian Toner has done his thing very well."

Rob praises Zenith's successful revival under new leadership and innovative releases like the Defy Extreme Diver.

Rob Nudds [27:00]:

"Zeiss is a moment where a lot of that good work could be undone if it went too wild and if it blurred its boundaries."

TAG Heuer's alignment with motorsports, especially Formula One, is lauded for revitalizing the brand's appeal.

David Vaucher [31:26]:

"TAG Heuer's association with motorsports... they now have the marquee sponsorship for F1, which has had its own renaissance."

The resurgence of Tudor is discussed, particularly the impact of the Black Bay series in reestablishing the brand's prominence in the US market.

David Vaucher [34:45]:

"The Black Bay kickstarted Tudor back in the U.S. you have to qualify that as a resurgence."

Alon offers a critical perspective on Tudor's historical positioning but concedes the brand's current success.

Mailbag Question 3: Reviving Lost Brands or Aspects

Listener Question:

"Is there a brand or aspect of the industry that has disappeared or slipped away in the past 10 years that you would like to see return?" — Alexander

David expresses concerns about the accessibility of luxury watches, noting that despite increased awareness through social media, the actual affordability remains out of reach for many potential enthusiasts.

David Vaucher [46:58]:

"It just seems like all of the brands that I aspired to own 15 years ago... have actively said, nope, you were not in the club and we're going to move these farther and farther back from your grasp."

Rob challenges this viewpoint by highlighting the proliferation of new brands and the complex dynamics of affordability amid economic challenges.

Rob Nudds [50:05]:

"You know, when we look at these watches that are coming out... it's still a significant investment."

The debate touches on the potential for major brands like Omega to disrupt the market with more accessible pricing, sparking a discussion on industry sustainability and consumer inclusivity.

David Vaucher [52:30]:

"If Omega somehow came out with $2,000 year-old dive watch... it would break the watch Internet and they'd have fans for life."

Rob and David contemplate the ramifications of such a strategic shift, considering both the opportunities and risks involved.

Conclusion: Looking Ahead

As the episode wraps up, Rob encourages listeners to engage with the upcoming Geneva Watch Days and to stay connected through various social media platforms. The hosts express their excitement for future episodes and continued community growth.

Rob Nudds [56:42]:

"Thank you for listening. Thank you for being engaged with us thus far... stay safe and keep on ticking."

Alon Ben Joseph [44:44]:

"If something is good, just don't mess with it. Evolution versus revolution."

David Vaucher [55:41]:

"Two very quick words... It's for the consumers."

Listeners are invited to reach out via Instagram or email to participate in future content and discussions, ensuring the community remains interactive and vibrant.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Rob Nudds [00:00]:

  "Hi and hello, Watch fans, and welcome to the 250th episode of the Real Time show."

• David Vaucher [02:07]:

  "If we look at that as my entry into the world of watch media, then I think that's definitely the most significant for me."

• Rob Nudds [08:07]:

  "Breguet just doesn't stand out... it's a commercial looking piece that Swatch Group expects to sell because it's got the name Breguet on the dial."

• Alon Ben Joseph [12:52]:

  "How cool would it be if they bring that one back in a small batch or a limited run or few per year?"

• David Vaucher [34:45]:

  "The Black Bay kickstarted Tudor back in the U.S. you have to qualify that as a resurgence."

• David Vaucher [46:58]:

  "It just seems like all of the brands that I aspired to own 15 years ago... have actively said, nope, you were not in the club and we're going to move these farther and farther back from your grasp."

• David Vaucher [52:30]:

  "If Omega somehow came out with $2,000 year-old dive watch... it would break the watch Internet and they'd have fans for life."

• Rob Nudds [56:42]:

  "That's a bit of a mic drop, isn't it? Yeah."

Final Thoughts

Episode 250 of The Real Time Show offers a rich tapestry of discussions ranging from brand revitalizations to the accessibility of luxury watches. The hosts provide insightful analyses, backed by their extensive experience and passion for watchmaking. With engaging conversations and valuable listener interactions, this milestone episode stands as a testament to the podcast's enduring impact in the watch enthusiast community.

Listeners are left anticipating future episodes, especially with the exciting coverage planned for Geneva Watch Days, promising more in-depth explorations and expert interviews.

Connect with The Real Time Show:

• Instagram:
  • Rob Nudds: @robnudds
  • David Vaucher: @davauqcheR
  • Alon Ben Joseph: @alonbenjosepH
  • Scarlett Baker: @Scarlintheshire
• Email: therealtime@show
• Website: www.therealtime.com/show

Stay tuned and keep on ticking!