Podcast Summary: The Real Time Show – Episode: Time To Watches: Pragma
Release Date: June 26, 2025
Hosts: Rob Knudds & Alon Ben Joseph
Guest: Christopher from Pragma Watches
1. Introduction
In this episode of The Real Time Show, hosts Rob Knudds and Alon Ben Joseph engage in an insightful conversation with Christopher from Pragma Watches. Returning for a second appearance, Christopher delves deeper into Pragma's debut release, showcasing the brand's innovation in watchmaking.
2. Pragma Watches Overview
Christopher introduces Pragma Watches as a young brand, established just a year prior. Co-founded with his partner, Kai Husan Liu, Christopher emphasizes the brand's core values:
- Transparency and Trustworthiness: Pragma is committed to openness in their processes.
- 100% Swiss Movement: Ensuring high-quality timekeeping standards.
- Sustainability: Utilizing recycled materials, such as their "solar steel"—recycled steel processed using solar furnaces—and 100% recycled titanium.
Quote:
[01:00] Christopher: "We want to not only do watches, but only put all the value we share into it. The important values we want to put in are trustability and transparency in our process."
3. Case Design and Construction
Rob praises Pragma's case construction, highlighting the intricate blend of brushed and polished surfaces achieved through a multi-component approach. This meticulous craftsmanship results in a seamless transition between different finishes, setting Pragma apart in the watchmaking industry.
Quote:
[02:33] Rob Knudds: "This multi-component construction is a joy to see. It really is the perfect execution of a very complex concept."
Christopher explains that the case comprises five main parts: the carrier, bezel, back, and two intermediary bezel pieces. This design allows for the distinctive interplay of polished and satin finishes, creating a unique aesthetic.
Quote:
[02:53] Christopher: "We have five big parts: the carrier, bezel, back, and two intermediary bezel pieces. This allows us to have this difference between polish circle and satin, giving this unique look and design."
4. Dial Layout and Features
Pragma's dial design prioritizes clear time visibility while incorporating playful elements for secondary information. Instead of traditional hands, the watch features a disk second and disk date display. The date window rotates monthly, adding an interactive element to the watch face.
Quote:
[03:23] Christopher: "We put all this secondary information, like the second and the date, in a more hidden way inside the dial. This gives us a playful and fun way to read the second."
Rob expresses admiration for the unique dial, noting its distinctiveness and aesthetic appeal.
Quote:
[04:12] Rob Knudds: "I'm just speechless. It looks like nothing else."
5. Future Plans and Collection Expansion
Looking ahead, Christopher outlines Pragma's vision to expand their collection by experimenting with material combinations and additional functionalities like power reserve and GMT complications. The multi-component design serves as a versatile platform for future models, allowing for endless creativity without compromising quality.
Quote:
[05:03] Christopher: "Mixing material is the first step, to play with two tones or color. The indication of the date or the second is also unlimited because we can imagine having power reserve or GMT."
6. Movement Details
Christopher, with a background in high watchmaking from prestigious brands like Frédérick Pécaut and Laurent Ferrier, ensures that Pragma's movements reflect high craftsmanship. The watches feature edge-to-edge sapphire display backs, black polished screws, and a combination of polished and satin finishes on various components. The movement showcases traditional high watchmaking techniques blended with Pragma's unique design language.
Quote:
[08:24] Christopher: "I use the high watchmaking codes—anglage, sun brush, Cote de Janeve black polish on some components—and aim for consistency in the product's language."
7. Time To Watches Event Participation
Christopher shares his positive experience attending the Time To Watches event, appreciating the opportunity to engage directly with enthusiasts, retailers, and the press. This platform has been instrumental in increasing brand awareness and fostering community support.
Quote:
[07:09] Christopher: "Having people understand what we're doing is really, really cool. We're enjoying meeting everyone, even if it means sleepless nights."
8. Pricing and Sales Strategy
Pragma's debut models are priced competitively, with the gold variant set at €4,800. Christopher highlights the strong demand, noting that initial collectors are opting for the gold version over the steel model. Additionally, the gold watches come with a 1% equity stake in the company, fostering a sense of community and investment among early adopters.
Quote:
[11:11] Christopher: "The gold edition comes with 1% equity of the company, which has been a great way to build brand support and community."
9. Host Reactions and Final Thoughts
Rob and Alon commend Pragma for their innovative design and solid execution. Rob admires the multi-component case construction, emphasizing its seamless integration and robust design. Alon expresses a preference for the gold variant, appreciating the blend of satin and polished finishes and the added value of equity shares.
Notable Quotes:
[17:18] Alan Ben Joseph: "The gold one is stunning... If you can buy the gold one, you get a percentage of the company, which skews me towards opting for it."
Rob reflects on the challenge of maintaining design integrity in multi-component cases and praises Pragma for achieving a cohesive and strong design.
Quote:
[16:02] Rob Knudds: "How do you make it feel deliberate, strong, and structured? Pragma does that exceptionally well."
10. Future Prospects
The hosts express excitement for Pragma's future releases, anticipating continued innovation and consistency in their design philosophy. Alon gives a special shout-out to Kai Husan Liu, Pragma's industrial designer, highlighting his depth in design philosophy and contributions to the brand's success.
Quote:
[19:57] Alan Ben Joseph: "Kai Husan Liu is a hidden gem. His design philosophy is profound, and he's instrumental to Pragma's success."
Rob assures listeners that Pragma will return for future discussions, ensuring continued exploration of their evolving watch collections.
Quote:
[20:20] Rob Knudds: "We'll make sure to get the guys back on for their next release to pour over their genius once again."
Conclusion
This episode of The Real Time Show offers an in-depth look into Pragma Watches, highlighting their commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovative design. Through Christopher's insights and the hosts' enthusiastic discussions, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of what sets Pragma apart in the competitive watchmaking landscape. As Pragma continues to develop and expand their collection, their dedication to craftsmanship and community engagement positions them as a promising new player in the industry.