The Real Time Show: Episode Summary – “Time To Watches: Berney”

Released on May 24, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Real Time Show, hosts Rob Nudds and Alon Ben Joseph dive into the unique world of Bernay Watches. Recorded live from the prestigious Villa Saracen during the Time to Watches 2025 event, the episode offers an in-depth conversation with Carol, the founder of Bernay Watches. The discussion explores the brand's heritage, distinctive product offerings, marketing strategies, and future collaborations, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of this niche watchmaker.

Company Background

Carol opens up about the rich history of Bernay Watches, highlighting its deep familial roots in the watchmaking industry.

• Carol (00:42): “Not the story starts with my grandfather. So family company. He started the business in 1970 with fancy watches, I mean ring watches, pendant watches and yeah, I follow what he start.”

Growing up in the heart of Val de Joux, often referred to as the “watch valley” of Switzerland, Carol has been immersed in the watchmaking culture for over two decades.

• Carol (01:08): “I'm living in the company and I living in Valley de joux which is a watch valley where all the big manufacturer are but there is also some in embalance like Bernay.”

Her extensive experience in the industry underscores Bernay Watches' commitment to craftsmanship and tradition.

Unique Product Offerings

Bernay Watches distinguishes itself by focusing on watches that are not worn on the wrist but are instead crafted as rings and pendants. This innovative approach caters to a niche market seeking statement pieces that blend functionality with jewelry aesthetics.

• Rob Nudds (01:35): “I mean your watches are different from every other watch we've had pass through our studio this week because unlike everything else, they're not worn on the wrist. So we've got rings and we've got pendants.”

Alon showcases his own Bernay pendant watch, emphasizing its versatility and modern appeal.

• Rob Nudds (02:11): “Alon is currently sporting a very fetching pinky ring watch. Well, it's a pinky ring for him at least and a pendant watch which he's playing with quartz powered.”

The hosts express their enthusiasm for Bernay's offerings, particularly noting the blend of vintage charm with contemporary design.

Marketing Strategies

When probed about marketing strategies, Carol candidly shares the challenges faced by a small, family-run business. Despite limited resources, Bernay Watches emphasizes authenticity and the intrinsic love for their products over conventional marketing tactics.

• Carol (04:13): “I try to do my best because it's a small company so I don't have a market strategy or whatever. I just think people should love this product because it's also a part of the watchmaking story...”

The discussion touches upon the reluctance to engage in influencer marketing, with Carol highlighting the importance of maintaining strong relationships with retailers and distributors.

• Carol (04:16): “No, not at all.”

• Carol (05:48): “Because I'm an old fashioned lady and I just, you know, it's a family company... I want to keep the relation with my customer, which is very important for me.”

This approach underscores Bernay's dedication to preserving traditional values while navigating the modern marketplace.

Product Pricing and Availability

Bernay Watches offers a range of products catering to different price points, ensuring accessibility without compromising on quality.

• Rob Nudds (08:06): “So how much, Carol, does a ring like the one I'm holding in my hand cost?”

• Carol (08:06): “The one you are holding is a new model from this year. So it's a set with diamond, it's time steel case. The price is 2,000 Swiss francs. But we have other model which are cheaper because they have no diamonds. It's just zirconium... around 500, 600 Swiss francs.”

The discussion reveals that the pendant watches start at an accessible price of 250 Swiss francs, making them appealing as entry-level statement pieces.

• Carol (08:30): “I start at 250 around for the pendant watches, for example.”

Rob highlights the unique aspect of Bernay's offerings—new old cases that are refurbished and repurposed, ensuring each piece carries a piece of history.

• Rob Nudds (08:37): “Because the cases are dating from 1970. It's original cases from that time.”

Potential Collaboration

An exciting segment of the episode explores the possibility of a collaboration between The Real Time Show (TRTS) and Bernay Watches. The hosts discuss creating special edition pieces, blending TRTS's vision with Bernay's craftsmanship.

• Unnamed Speaker 1 (09:03): “Yeah, I want to make a TRTS collab with her.”

• Rob Nudds (09:07): “If there's enough cases and if Carol is willing, then of course we can explore the opportunity.”

Carol expresses enthusiasm for future collaborations, inviting the hosts to visit Bernay's facilities.

• Carol (09:24): “Yeah, you have to come and visit Bernay. I'm open to discuss about anything.”

Further reflections by the hosts reveal their excitement and the potential for innovative designs that maintain the brand's unique identity while appealing to a broader audience.

Hosts' Reflections and Conclusion

Post-interview, both hosts share their enthusiasm and newfound appreciation for Bernay Watches. Alon recounts his unexpected excitement and the serendipitous nature of meeting Carol.

• Alon Ben Joseph (11:28): “I think it's Bernay, right?... We start chatting, good vibes, cool Swiss gal.”

Rob emphasizes the rarity and appeal of Bernay's products, especially in the vintage and hipster communities.

• Rob Nudds (12:32): “So, so this family has been making pendant watches and ring watches for donkey years. Her luck they came back into fashion now mainstream doesn't know it, but hipster, the guy in the know...”

The episode concludes with the hosts expressing their anticipation for future collaborations and continued support for Bernay Watches, highlighting the brand's potential to resonate with a diverse and modern audience.

• Alon Ben Joseph (16:26): “I think it's brilliant... And my goal is to see you wearing one, Alon.”

Key Takeaways

• Heritage and Tradition: Bernay Watches' longstanding history since 1970 underscores its deep roots in the Swiss watchmaking industry.

• Unique Products: Focus on pendant and ring watches offers a fresh alternative to traditional wristwatches, appealing to those seeking both functionality and elegance.

• Authentic Marketing: Emphasis on authenticity and customer relationships over conventional marketing strategies aligns with the brand's traditional values.

• Affordability and Quality: Range of products from 250 to 2,000 Swiss francs ensures accessibility while maintaining high-quality craftsmanship.

• Future Collaborations: Potential partnerships with entities like TRTS could amplify Bernay's reach and introduce innovative designs to a broader audience.

Notable Quotes

• Carol (00:42): “Not the story starts with my grandfather... he started the business in 1970 with fancy watches...”

• Rob Nudds (01:35): “Your watches are different from every other watch we've had pass through our studio this week because unlike everything else, they're not worn on the wrist.”

• Carol (04:13): “I try to do my best because it's a small company so I don't have a market strategy or whatever...”

• Rob Nudds (08:37): “Because the cases are dating from 1970. It's original cases from that time.”

• Alon Ben Joseph (11:28): “We start chatting, good vibes, cool Swiss gal.”

Conclusion

This episode of The Real Time Show serves as a fascinating exploration into the niche market of pendant and ring watches through the lens of Bernay Watches. Carol's passion and dedication shine through, offering listeners a glimpse into a brand that marries tradition with contemporary design. As Bernay Watches garners attention from watch enthusiasts and collectors alike, the potential collaborations discussed hint at exciting developments on the horizon.

For those intrigued by unique timepieces that transcend conventional wristwear, Bernay Watches presents a compelling option rooted in Swiss craftsmanship and innovative design.