Podcast Summary: The Real Time Show – Geneva Watch Days 2024 In Review With Alon And Rob

Release Date: October 6, 2024

Hosts: Rob Nudds & Alon Ben Joseph

Introduction

In this episode of The Real Time Show, hosts Rob Nudds and Alon Ben Joseph delve into their experiences at the Geneva Watch Days 2024. Unlike the more formal "Watches and Wonders" fair, Geneva Watch Days offer a more intimate and convivial atmosphere, hosting around 60 brands across various upscale hotels in Geneva. The episode captures their interactions with numerous watchmakers, discussions on emerging trends, and insights into innovative collaborations within the watchmaking industry.

1. Geneva Watch Days: An Overview

Rob (00:00):
"Welcome to another edition of the Real Time Show. We spent a wonderful few days in Geneva at the Geneva Watch Days fair, checking out a whole host of brands and meeting up with a lot of good friends."

Alon (00:25):
"It's amazing to be home. I had an amazing time... It gives a different vibe... It’s always a blast to hang out with you."

Key Points:

• Geneva Watch Days differ from traditional fairs by utilizing exclusive hotel suites (Beau Rivage, Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton) instead of centralized convention halls.
• The event fosters a more relaxed and personal atmosphere, encouraging deeper connections and discussions among attendees.

2. Notable Brand Highlights

a. Josh Shapiro and Atelier Wen Robin

Alon (05:12):
"My highlight is meeting Josh Shapiro and holding his Resurgence watch. Also ran into Atelier Wen Robin with an amazing watch that’s currently embargoed."

Rob (07:51):
"Josh himself is an absolute gem... his work is next level."

Key Points:

• Josh Shapiro: Celebrated for revitalizing traditional watchmaking crafts, setting high standards for future generations.
• Atelier Wen Robin: Introduced a groundbreaking watch, details embargoed for future episodes.

b. Michael Holterich and His Team

Alon (09:58):
"Michael Holterich, Dutch architect and autodidactic watchmaker, showcased his Ornaments Nouveau caliber—a significant milestone as the first Dutch-manufactured caliber."

Rob (11:24):
"It's very cool to see how they're raising the brand with in-house developments."

Key Points:

• Michael Holterich: Pioneered 3D-printed watch cases and developed Ornaments Nouveau, a fully in-house Dutch caliber.
• Discussions revolved around defining "manufacture" vs. "in-house" terminology in watchmaking.

c. Space One and Procedus

Rob (25:30):
"Space One's Tellurium model is striking and affordable, with new colorways enhancing their appeal. Procedus impressed with their Resonance dual time watch, offering complex horology at a reasonable price."

Alon (27:25):
"Space One hits the sweet spot with affordable yet sophisticated designs, while Procedus introduced the Resonance watch, a delicate and wearable piece with artisanal day-night indicators."

Key Points:

• Space One: Known for affordable, high-quality watches with innovative features like removable bezels.
• Procedus: Highlighted for the Resonance dual time watch, emphasizing craftsmanship and advanced movement technology without a hefty price tag.

3. Emerging Trends in Watchmaking

a. Color Trends: Purple and Red Dials

Alon (30:00):
"Purple dials were prominent this year, aligning with our earlier predictions. Brands like HYT experimented with bold combinations, though mixed reactions ensued."

Rob (31:09):
"Purple and red are set to become more common, with HYT's visually arresting designs leading the charge."

Key Points:

• Color Innovation: A noticeable shift towards vibrant purple and red dials, adding visual intrigue and variety to watch collections.
• HYT's Contribution: Explored bold dial colors to enhance visual appeal, despite some reservations about certain combinations.

b. Movement Innovations: La Ju Calibers

Rob (33:19):
"Le Paret's La Ju calibers are gaining traction, offering a 68-hour power reserve and enhanced aesthetics without increasing costs significantly."

Alon (34:00):
"Le Ju calibers offer exceptional value, blending functionality with superior design, making them a preferred choice for many brands."

Key Points:

• La Ju Calibers: Celebrated for their extended power reserve and aesthetic appeal, positioning them as a highly sought-after movement in the industry.

4. Collaborations and Strategic Alliances

a. H. Moser & C x Studio Underdog Collaboration

Rob (43:27):
"The collaboration between H. Moser & C and Studio Underdog is unprecedented, blending high-end Swiss watchmaking with accessible design."

Alon (46:27):
"Combining H. Moser's elegance with Studio Underdog's innovative spirit resulted in a unique watch set that, despite being a limited bundle, showcases creativity."

Key Points:

• Collaborative Innovation: The partnership merges H. Moser's refined craftsmanship with Studio Underdog's playful and creative design ethos.
• Commercial Strategy: Released as exclusive box sets, highlighting both brands' strengths and creating buzz within the watch community.

b. Fortis and Red Bar Crew Amsterdam

Alon (79:33):
"Fortis introduced the 'Vagabond' model, a modern interpretation of a cushion-shaped watch with a GMT Caliber, blending tool watch utility with dress watch elegance."

Rob (82:26):
"The Fortis Vagabond completes their lineup, showcasing their ability to transform the brand into one of the most dynamic and friendly in the industry."

Key Points:

• Fortis: Demonstrated a successful turnaround under new leadership, introducing versatile models like the Vagabond that cater to both professional and casual wearers.
• Brand Evolution: Fortis has shifted from a once-neglected brand to a frontrunner, thanks to strategic vision and innovative product offerings.

5. Gender-Specific Watch Designs

Rob (67:43):
"Claude Malan's ladies' watch defies conventional designs by creating a bracelet-style watch that is both secure and elegantly crafted without stereotypical feminine embellishments."

Alon (73:05):
"Favre-Leuba's modern diver collection, particularly the Seasky Chronograph Revival, combines vintage aesthetics with contemporary execution, appealing to both men and women."

Key Points:

• Innovative Female Designs: Emphasis on creating watches for women that are designed from the ground up, avoiding the reduction of men's watches or over-reliance on embellishments.
• Favre-Leuba Revival: Successfully updated their diver collection, balancing heritage with modern appeal, making their timepieces attractive to a broader audience.

6. Noteworthy Meetings and Future Episodes

Rob (60:05):
"Armin Strom's Resonance dual time watch is a top contender for our favorites, combining intricate movement technology with artisanal design."

Alon (63:17):
"Meeting with Herr Lederer provided deep insights into the Observatory piece, reflecting a blend of historical inspiration and modern craftsmanship."

Key Points:

• Upcoming Features: The hosts plan to feature detailed discussions on Armin Strom’s innovations and interviews with influential figures like Bernard Lederer.
• Deep Dives: Future episodes will explore the philosophies and technical advancements of featured watchmakers, providing listeners with in-depth knowledge.

Conclusion

Rob and Alon wrap up the episode by reflecting on the positive experiences at Geneva Watch Days 2024. They commend brands like Fortis for their remarkable transformations and applaud innovative collaborations such as that between H. Moser & C and Studio Underdog. Highlighting emerging trends and the importance of thoughtful design, the hosts emphasize the dynamic nature of the watchmaking industry. They encourage listeners to stay tuned for upcoming episodes that will delve deeper into the featured brands and their groundbreaking creations.

Rob (82:26):
"Chapeau Fortis, you won the war... We'll be back soon with more top-quality watch content. Until then, stay safe and keep on ticking."

Alon (82:26):
"Stay tuned and keep collecting!"

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Rob (07:51):
  "Josh himself is an absolute gem... his work is next level."

• Alon (09:58):
  "Michael Holterich's Ornaments Nouveau is really groundbreaking."

• Rob (31:09):
  "Purple and red are set to become more common, with HYT's visually arresting designs leading the charge."

• Alon (34:00):
  "Le Ju calibers offer exceptional value, blending functionality with superior design."

• Rob (43:27):
  "The collaboration between H. Moser & C and Studio Underdog is unprecedented."

• Alon (46:27):
  "This collaboration showcases both brands' strengths and creativity."

• Rob (60:05):
  "Armin Strom's Resonance dual time watch is a top contender for our favorites."

• Alon (57:24):
  "He put the very greats like Jamvier or Harrison... has informed his own work."

• Rob (82:26):
  "Chapeau Fortis, you won the war... until then, stay safe and keep on ticking."

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a comprehensive and engaging review of Geneva Watch Days 2024, highlighting the event's unique atmosphere and the innovative strides made by various watch brands. Rob and Alon's passion for watchmaking shines through their detailed observations and thoughtful discussions, making this summary a valuable resource for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.