Podcast Summary: The Real Time Show - "Time To Watches: Genius"
Release Date: June 6, 2025
Hosts: Rob Knotts & Alon Ben Joseph
Introduction
In the June 6, 2025 episode of "The Real Time Show," hosts Rob Knotts and Alon Ben Joseph engage in an in-depth conversation with Pascal Michel, the visionary behind Genius Watches. Recorded at the Time to Watch Us 2025 event in Geneva, the episode delves into the innovative designs, market strategies, and disruptive elements that distinguish Genius Watches in the competitive watchmaking industry.
Meeting at Time to Watch Us 2025
Rob Knotts kicks off the episode from Villa Sara Sound in Geneva, warmly welcoming Pascal Michel into the glass igloo venue. Rob expresses his admiration for Pascal's watch, highlighting its unique design elements that immediately caught his attention.
Rob Knotts [00:06]: "When I say genius, I do mean genius, because what I've got on my wrist, it cracked a smile on my face when I realized what I was looking at."
Pascal Michel reciprocates the enthusiasm, emphasizing the proprietary nature of Genius Watches and their commitment to innovative design.
Vision and Goals at the Fair
Rob inquires about Pascal's objectives for participating in the fair, to which Pascal outlines a comprehensive strategy aimed at expanding Genius Watches' presence internationally.
Pascal Michel [01:03]: "We go for everything. ... We want to go international, we want to go in unisex."
Key Points Discussed:
- International Expansion: Targeting a global market with unisex designs.
- Product Range: Offering watches in two sizes—36mm and 39mm—to cater to diverse wrist sizes.
- Pricing Strategy: Positioned between €840 and €2,500, making high-quality watches more accessible.
Innovative Design Inspired by Genta
Pascal sheds light on the inspiration behind Genius Watches, paying homage to the legendary watch designer Gian T. Genta. He elaborates on how Genta's legacy influenced their design philosophy.
Pascal Michel [02:38]: "This genius is Gar Genta, because this guy is an incredible designer... two probably of most iconic watches in the watch industry, the Royal Oak of Audemars Piguet and the Nautilus of Patek Philippe."
Rob Knotts observes the seamless amalgamation of iconic designs on his wrist, noting the watch's asymmetrical yet harmonious composition.
Rob Knotts [03:24]: "It's unlike anything I've ever seen before... your eye is drawn in many directions. But overall the composition works surprisingly well."
Disruptive Use of Lab-Grown Diamonds
A significant aspect of Genius Watches' innovation is their utilization of lab-grown diamonds. Pascal explains the rationale behind this choice, aligning it with ecological and ethical considerations.
Pascal Michel [03:48]: "If you have a look at the jewelry industry... lab grown diamonds... more ecological... more ethical... more affordable."
Advantages Highlighted:
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly alternative to mined diamonds.
- Affordability: Enables the inclusion of larger diamonds without escalating costs.
- Design Flexibility: Allows for more creative and impactful designs.
Market Positioning and Appeal
Pascal discusses the strategic positioning of Genius Watches in the market, particularly focusing on the female segment—a demographic often underserved in the watch industry.
Pascal Michel [05:00]: "There are very few brands which are really appealing for ladies and especially below €2,800."
Competitive Edge:
- Unisex Appeal: Offering designs that cater to both men and women.
- Affordability: Providing high-quality watches at accessible price points.
- Design Innovation: Introducing asymmetrical designs that merge classic elements with modern aesthetics.
Embracing Quartz Technology
Responding to industry trends, Pascal emphasizes their commitment to making Quartz watches fashionable again, highlighting their advantages over mechanical movements.
Pascal Michel [07:00]: "Quartz is marvelous. It's thinner, it's less expensive... a battery of 10 years... it's thinner."
Benefits of Quartz:
- Slim Profile: Allows for more streamlined watch designs.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Lower production costs translate to more affordable retail prices.
- Durability: Longer battery life enhances user convenience.
The Genesis Story of Genius Watches
Pascal narrates the origin story of Genius Watches, detailing the creative process and serendipitous events that led to the brand's inception.
Pascal Michel [09:00]: "We decided to found the company in Lugano and then... we meet somebody we should never have met... he's KBLAB... it pushed us like crazy on the digital world."
Key Moments:
- Collaborative Design: Combining elements from the Nautilus and Royal Oak to create a unique timepiece.
- Digital Breakthrough: Partnership with a burgeoning TikTok influencer, KBLAB, which catapulted their digital presence.
Digital Strategy and Retail Integration
The conversation shifts to Genius Watches' dual approach of robust digital engagement complemented by strategic retail partnerships.
Pascal Michel [13:49]: "We're a lot on digital world... but we don't want to be only digital brand and we want to work with retailers."
Strategies Employed:
- Social Media Presence: Active engagement on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn to connect directly with customers.
- Retail Partnerships: Collaborating with high-end retailers like Ebillion in Toronto to expand physical availability.
- Unique Market Placement: Offering disruptive, colorful designs at entry-level prices within traditionally high-end retail environments.
Host Reactions and Further Discussions
Rob Knotts expresses his admiration for the Genius Watch he's wearing, particularly appreciating the lab-grown diamonds and overall aesthetic.
Rob Knotts [13:05]: "I love this watch... it's superb. The J12 is one of my favorite watches of all time."
Alon Ben Joseph shares his initial skepticism during a subsequent segment but acknowledges the market success and widespread appeal of Genius Watches.
Alon Ben Joseph [17:51]: "All of these watches are sold out... the joke is on me."
Discussion Highlights:
- Aesthetic Debate: While Rob praises the design, Alon and another speaker express mixed feelings about the brand's homage approach to iconic watch designs.
- Market Reception: Despite mixed opinions among hosts, Genius Watches' models are reported to be sold out, indicating strong market acceptance.
- Brand Challenge: Balancing innovative design with homage elements to maintain originality and avoid perceptions of being derivative.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
Rob concludes the episode by endorsing Genius Watches, expressing a desire to explore the brand further in future episodes. He commends Pascal for sharing the brand's inspiring story and innovative approach.
Rob Knotts [15:40]: "Pascal, thank you for your time. It was an incredible beginning of a story that I'd like to explore further on a full-length episode of the Real Time show in the future."
Notable Quotes
- Rob Knotts [00:06]: "When I say genius, I do mean genius..."
- Pascal Michel [01:03]: "We go for everything. ... We want to go international, we want to go in unisex."
- Pascal Michel [03:48]: "Lab grown diamonds... more ecological... more ethical... more affordable."
- Rob Knotts [13:05]: "I love this watch... it's superb."
- Alon Ben Joseph [17:51]: "All of these watches are sold out..."
Takeaways
- Innovation and Heritage: Genius Watches successfully marries innovative design with a nod to iconic watchmaking heritage, creating products that stand out in the market.
- Sustainability and Ethics: The use of lab-grown diamonds underscores a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, resonating with modern consumers.
- Strategic Market Positioning: By offering unisex, affordable luxury watches and leveraging both digital and retail channels, Genius Watches appeals to a broad and diverse audience.
- Future Potential: With sold-out models and growing digital influence, Genius Watches is poised for continued growth and influence in the watchmaking industry.
Recommendation: Listeners interested in contemporary watch design, sustainable practices, and innovative market strategies will find the "Time To Watches: Genius" episode insightful and inspiring. Be sure to follow Genius Watches on their social media platforms to stay updated on their latest designs and market movements.