The Real Time Show: Justin Haast Presents London Watch Week – Episode Summary

Release Date: June 12, 2025
Hosts: Rob Nudds & Alon Ben Joseph
Guest: Justin Haast

1. Introduction to Justin Haast

Timestamp: 00:05 – 02:40

Rob Nudds welcomes Justin Haast, highlighting Justin's extensive involvement in the watchmaking industry. Justin shares his humble beginnings, stating, “I am just nothing more than a watch lover” (00:51). Originating from South Africa and now based in London, Justin's passion ignited when he received his first watch, an Amiga Constellation, for his 21st birthday. Despite his family's lack of background in watchmaking, Justin’s dedication led him to immerse himself in online forums like the IWC forum, eventually expanding his influence through blogging and writing for notable watch magazines such as Revolution, Monochrome, and Hidinki.

2. The Watch Annual Project

Timestamp: 03:46 – 06:17

Justin discusses his creation of the Wristwatch Annual, a project born during the lockdown. Initially intended as a city guide, the plan pivoted to a community-driven annual showcasing new watches. “It misses that personal touch. It misses the community aspect” (03:55), leading Justin and his collaborator James Allen to crowdsource contributions, culminating in over a hundred contributors globally. This project emphasizes collaboration and celebrates the diverse skills within the watch community, bridging digital enthusiasm with tangible print media.

3. Expanding into Podcasting

Timestamp: 06:17 – 08:53

Justin elaborates on his foray into podcasting, influenced by the evolving media landscape and platforms like Substack. He mentions collaborations with industry figures such as Chris Hall and discusses the importance of maintaining objectivity and fostering an independent voice in watch media. “We are getting stories that are just a little bit different. Maybe the stories that you sort of would have read from Hidinki and others over the years that were non-commercial” (07:20). This approach allows Justin to delve into authentic collector experiences and industry insights.

4. The Concept and Inception of London Watch Week

Timestamp: 09:09 – 13:38

Alon Ben Joseph initiates a conversation about the term "influencer," to which Justin responds by emphasizing expertise over social influence. This leads into the core topic: London Watch Week. Justin explains the event's origins, inspired by previous initiatives like QP at the Saatchi Gallery. Co-founded with Lucy Cheese Wright and Tom Exton, London Watch Week aims to decentralize watch events, bringing together diverse brands and collectors across various venues in London. Justin details the week’s schedule, highlighting events at Bonhams, Zenith, Pragnel, and Drake's on Savile Row, celebrating collaborations and featuring both established and emerging watch brands.

5. Highlights of London Watch Week

Timestamp: 13:38 – 21:53

Justin outlines the event's multifaceted agenda:

• Tuesday, 17 June: Evening at Bonhams featuring talks and a gala celebrating its 100th anniversary.
• Thursday: Gala reception with Zenith and the launch of new watches by brands like Famel Hut and Lauren Ferrier.
• Friday: Special edition watch launch by Aorus and simultaneous events at Drake's on Savile Row with dealers like Somlo and Watch Brothers London.
• Saturday: Events at Curzon Street featuring brands like Tortoise Watches and elective sessions with auction houses.

He emphasizes the event’s goal to blend vintage and modern watch cultures, creating interactive and engaging experiences for over a thousand attendees. Justin notes, “There's nothing beats that… discussing a case or, or whatever it might be in person, getting fired up together” (20:56).

6. Challenges in Organizing London Watch Week

Timestamp: 26:07 – 34:18

Justin candidly shares the logistical complexities of organizing such a large-scale event, including security, insurance, and coordinating with multiple brands and venues. He humorously mentions the unexpected inclusion of LVMH’s Moet champagne, reflecting on the intricate connections within the luxury sector. Additionally, Justin addresses the absence of British brands in the inaugural event, attributing it to the rapid and chaotic nature of event planning. He expresses hope for greater local brand participation in future editions, highlighting a commitment to focusing on the higher end of the market segment.

7. Discussion on Brand Selection and Market Saturation

Timestamp: 34:35 – 43:00

Alon poses a question regarding whether London Watch Week has set criteria for the brands it invites. Justin responds thoughtfully, indicating that while they haven’t explicitly turned down any brands, they maintain a strategic approach to ensure brand synergy and event coherence. He reflects on the current market dynamics, expressing concern over the proliferation of watch brands and the potential for market saturation. “I think we have too many watches available” (40:31), Justin warns of a future where only brands with strong storytelling, design, and technical prowess will survive amidst increasing competition.

8. Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations

Timestamp: 43:00 – 44:48

Rob Nudds invites Justin to share his favorite watch brands, to which Justin responds by listing his top preferences like Lauren Ferrier, A. Lange & Söhne, and Vacheron Constantin. He contrasts his selective approach with brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe, which he feels less connected to personally. Justin emphasizes the importance of wearability and design uniqueness, stating, “The watch has to say something about you” (25:23).

When asked about starting his own watch brand, Justin unequivocally declines, expressing satisfaction with existing brands and the current market. Instead, he prefers to contribute by fostering enthusiasm and collaboration within the community. He recognizes the difficulty of launching a new brand but remains open to collaborative ventures, focusing on enhancing the collective watchmaking landscape.

9. Closing Thoughts and Event Promotion

Timestamp: 44:48 – End

The episode concludes with a lively promotion of London Watch Week. Alon encourages listeners to register via londonwatchweekofficial.com, highlighting that tickets are free. Justin affirms his active participation throughout the event, inviting attendees to meet him in person. Rob wraps up by reinforcing the event's significance and expressing excitement for the watch community to gather in London.

Notable Quotes

• Justin Haast (00:51): “I am just nothing more than a watch lover.”
• Justin Haast (03:55): “It misses that personal touch. It misses the community aspect.”
• Justin Haast (07:20): “We are getting stories that are just a little bit different. Maybe the stories that you sort of would have read from Hidinki and others over the years that were non-commercial.”
• Justin Haast (20:56): “There's nothing beats that… discussing a case or, or whatever it might be in person, getting fired up together.”
• Justin Haast (25:23): “The watch has to say something about you.”
• Justin Haast (34:35): “I think we have too many watches available.”

Conclusion

This episode of The Real Time Show offers an in-depth look into Justin Haast’s journey in the watchmaking industry, his contributions through the Wristwatch Annual, his perspectives on media and influencer roles, and the ambitious launch of London Watch Week. Justin’s insights provide valuable understanding of current market trends, the importance of community in watch enthusiast circles, and the challenges of organizing large-scale industry events. For watch aficionados and industry professionals alike, this episode underscores the evolving landscape of watchmaking and the pivotal role of collaborative initiatives in fostering a vibrant, sustainable community.

Stay tuned to The Real Time Show for more engaging discussions and insights from the world of watchmaking.