Podcast Summary: The Real Time Show - "Time To Watches: Fears"

Title: The Real Time Show
Host: Rob Knudds & Alon Ben Joseph
Episode: Time To Watches: Fears
Release Date: June 4, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Real Time Show, hosts Rob Knudds and Alon Ben Joseph delve deep into the world of luxury watchmaking with a special focus on the Fears Watch Company. Joined by Nicholas Bowman Scargill, the Managing Director of Fears Watch Company from Bristol, UK, the conversation offers listeners an insider’s perspective on the brand's growth, team dynamics, and latest innovations.

Event Reflections and Networking

The episode opens with Rob Knudds greeting Nicholas Bowman Scargill as they discuss a recent event held at Villa Saracen in Geneva. Nicholas shares his reflections on the event's success and the significance of these gatherings in fostering community within the watchmaking industry.

Notable Quote:
“Everyone is still smiling by the time I left, but it was greatly appreciated. Everybody loves those get-togethers that have become an annual tradition now.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [00:44]

Building the Fears Watch Company

Nicholas elaborates on the strategic investments Fears Watch Company has made to expand its presence globally. He highlights the importance of connecting with retailers, media professionals, and collectors to solidify the brand's standing in the competitive watch market.

Notable Quote:
“We have three main people we want to meet: retailers, media, and collectors. This becomes for one week the epicenter of the watch world.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [02:11]

Nicholas expresses his pride in the growing recognition of Fears, attributing the brand’s success to extensive marketing efforts and meaningful global outreach.

Notable Quote:
“Number of people coming out going, yeah, I know Fears and they know the story... it's been a really good response, really great, a really great week so far.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [04:13]

Team Dynamics and Leadership

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the team at Fears Watch Company. Nicholas emphasizes the importance of a passionate, dedicated team that sees their work as a career rather than just a job. He shares anecdotes that illustrate his leadership style, focusing on empowering his team members to take initiative and excel independently.

Notable Quote:
“Everyone is so passionate. They're not doing a job, they're doing a career... seeing the team develop that for me is incredible.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [06:47]

Nicholas reflects on his journey in restarting the Fears brand, highlighting the sacrifices and relentless effort required to establish and grow the company.

Notable Quote:
“I have to be the face of it. But actually, for it to grow and breathe as an entity, it can't just be the Nicholas Bowman Scargill Show. It has to be about the watches.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [09:57]

Product Launches and Innovations

The conversation shifts to recent and upcoming product launches by Fears Watch Company. Nicholas discusses the strategic timing of their releases, noting how launching a week before major fairs like Watches and Wonders allows the brand to gain visibility ahead of industry embargoes.

Notable Quote:
“We launched it a week ago last Friday. It worked brilliantly because a lot of the big brands are under embargo.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [14:01]

He introduces the new Fiers Arnos, a third core family of watches inspired by the elegant rectangular designs of the 1920s and 1930s, reimagined for the modern era. The Arnos has received enthusiastic feedback, even from those who typically shy away from rectangular timepieces.

Notable Quote:
“It's the most fierce Fears watch we've done. It's the most like Fears watch that could come from the company in its elegance, its refinement.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [16:42]

Personal Insights and Brand Philosophy

Nicholas shares his personal connection to Fears Watch Company, describing it as more than just a business—it’s a legacy he is committed to nurturing for future generations. He discusses the delicate balance between leading the brand and allowing it to evolve organically beyond his direct influence.

Notable Quote:
“What is Fears? Fears is the heritage, Fears is the legacy. This is the product. But Fears is the team.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [12:43]

He highlights a pivotal moment where his team members demonstrated exceptional initiative, reinforcing his belief in their dedication and the company’s collective strength.

Notable Quote:
“It's the fact that everyone is so passionate. They're not doing a job, they're doing a career.”
— Nicholas Bowman Scargill [07:00]

Discussion on Watch Design and Future Collaborations

Rob Knudds and Alon Ben Joseph contribute their perspectives on Fears' watch designs, praising the brand’s commitment to quality and timeless aesthetics. They discuss favorite models, such as the Archival Sand Seconds and the Brunswick Jump Hour with the coral dial, and speculate on future design directions, including potential collaborations and innovative materials like titanium.

Notable Quote:
“I think what you’re doing, building together... you have these new distinct characters that are just towing the Fears line.”
— Alon Ben Joseph [17:35]

Rob shares his admiration for the design excellence of Fears' watches, comparing them favorably to iconic timepieces like the Cartier Tank.

Notable Quote:
“Lovely restrained design, beautiful execution. Top quality. Feels like a million bucks on the wrist.”
— Rob Knudds [19:38]

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with heartfelt commendations for Fears Watch Company, celebrating their achievements and expressing excitement for future endeavors. Hosts and guest alike reflect on the importance of maintaining brand integrity while fostering innovation and excellence in watchmaking.

Notable Quote:
“Hats off to the team. Always working hard, always on the road, traveling around.”
— Rob Knudds [21:30]

Key Takeaways

• Global Expansion: Fears Watch Company is actively expanding its reach by engaging with retailers, media, and collectors worldwide.

• Team-Centric Leadership: The brand thrives on a passionate and dedicated team, with leadership focused on empowerment and collective growth.

• Strategic Product Launches: Timely launches ahead of major industry events have bolstered Fears’ visibility and market presence.

• Commitment to Legacy: Emphasizing heritage and quality, Fears aims to create timepieces that stand the test of time, both in design and craftsmanship.

• Innovative Design: The introduction of the Fiers Arnos showcases the brand's ability to blend classic inspirations with modern aesthetics, appealing even to skeptics of certain styles.

Listen to the full episode of The Real Time Show to gain more insights into the fascinating world of Fears Watch Company and the art of watchmaking.