The Real Time Show: Year in Review with Scarlett and Rob – A Comprehensive Summary

Episode Title: Year in Review: Scarlett and Rob Look Back on 2024 and Ahead to 2025
Hosts: Rob Nudds & Alon Ben Joseph
Release Date: January 12, 2025
Description: Real questions. Real Answers. Real talk. The world's most interactive watchmaking podcast, hosted by Rob Nudds and Alon Ben Joseph.

1. Welcoming Scarlett as "The Humble Rambler"

The episode kicks off with Rob Nudds officially welcoming Scarlett Baker to The Real Time Show as the new co-host, affectionately titled "The Humble Rambler." This marks Scarlett’s inaugural appearance as a permanent member of the team.

[00:05] Rob: "Hi, and hello, watch fans, and welcome to another edition of the Real Time show with me, your friendly neighborhood watchmaker and our newest host... What are we gonna call you?"

[00:33] Scarlett: "Like, the Humble Rambler?"

[00:34] Rob: "The Humble Rambler. Okay, to be fair..."

Rob and Scarlett engage in a lighthearted discussion about her new role, setting a warm and inviting tone for the episode.

2. Reflecting on Key Moments from 2024

Scarlett reminisces about her earliest memory from the past year, highlighting the excitement surrounding the Piaget Polo 79's grand return at Watches and Wonders in Stad, Switzerland.

[02:41] Scarlett: "My earliest memory is being in Stard for the announcement of the return of the Piaget Polo 79. It was epic. It was one of the most incredible launches I've experienced in my short time in the industry..."

Rob concurs, adding his own memorable experience testing the Sherpa TRTS Shameless Plug Ops edition in Austria, which underscored the functional prowess of contemporary watch designs.

3. The Flourishing British Watchmaking Scene

A significant portion of the conversation delves into the burgeoning British watchmaking industry. Scarlett and Rob discuss the diversity and collaborative spirit among British brands, contrasting it with the traditional Swiss dominance.

[15:21] Rob: "I think one of the major advantages of the British brands... the endless drone of conservatism that comes out."

[19:28] Scarlett: "They have become so accessible, like you can become friends with them, you know, because the volume of sales in the British industry is not so much yet."

Rob praises the camaraderie and openness within the British watch community, emphasizing how it fosters innovation and mutual support among brands.

4. Highlights from Watches and Wonders 2024

Scarlett shares her hectic yet rewarding experience at Watches and Wonders, detailing the overwhelming enthusiasm for British brands like Christopher Ward and Studio Underdog.

[12:34] Scarlett: "It was the first time we met in person... the Christopher Ward table was insane."

[17:07] Scarlett: "It was a really great day and I'm intrigued to see how it progresses."

Rob adds insights into the event's organization, applauding the strategic session management that accommodated the massive crowd.

5. Design Trends: Integrated vs. Integral Bracelets

The hosts introduce a nuanced discussion on bracelet design, coining the term "integral bracelets" to describe those that are essential to a watch's character, beyond just being an accessory.

[26:43] Rob: "I wanted to differentiate between integrated bracelets and bracelets that, although were not integrated, were absolutely essential to the character of the watch."

[27:13] Scarlett: "We listen and we don't judge."

This segment underscores the importance of bracelet aesthetics in defining a watch's identity, drawing parallels to iconic models like the Nautilus and Royal Oak.

6. Spotlight on Notable Watch Releases of 2024

Scarlett and Rob highlight standout watches from the past year, emphasizing their design innovations and industry impact.

Piaget Polo 79 Revival

[21:38] Rob: "The Piaget Polo 79 was a dream. I mean it was... a real treat for a lot of us who have lamented the absence of that model."

Ferland Mary Disco Volante

[24:56] Scarlett: "If I could have one watch from the last year, it would be the Disco Volante. Hands down with the bracelet. Yeah, it's beautiful."

Sylvan Berneron’s Mirage

[31:04] Rob: "It's definitely Sylven... Watches and Wonders, we sort of... we've made it eventually there."

Rob lauds the Mirage for its innovative movement design, portraying it as a masterpiece of creative genius.

7. The Rise of Shaped Watches

A trending topic in the episode is the emergence of shaped watches, with brands like Toledano and Chan leading the charge. The hosts explore how these designs challenge conventional aesthetics and push the industry forward.

[42:25] Scarlett: "Sensational has happened. They are shaped watches, but they are so much more than that. It's my hot take."

[43:50] Rob: "It's very interesting... they're primed for big times ahead."

This discussion highlights the industry's appetite for individuality and unconventional design, signaling a move away from traditional shapes.

8. Anticipating Trends for 2025

Looking ahead, Scarlett and Rob express their aspirations for the coming year, emphasizing community growth, design innovation, and conscious consumerism.

Time and Tide Discovery Studio

[58:27] Scarlett: "Andrew McCutcheon and his team at Tide and Tide... have launched the Time and Tide Discovery Studio. It's a beautiful space that proves watches do matter."

Rob echoes these sentiments, advocating for brands to offer more tangible value without significant price hikes.

[60:16] Rob: "They've got great brands, you know, and this will segues perfectly into what I want to see more in 2025."

Design Innovation and Value

[63:00] Rob: "I think there's space for both minimalist and more avant-garde designs... it's a good thing for us in the industry."

Scarlett complements this by wishing for more daring designs and breaking traditional molds.

[63:38] Scarlett: "I want dials to get a bit crazier... make it make sense, like it works but it shouldn't work."

9. Final Reflections and Listener Engagement

Concluding the episode, Rob and Scarlett share their personal watch aspirations and encourage listener interaction.

[64:30] Rob: "I need Toledano and Chan in my life. I loved the piece. Unique meteorite ostrich strap."

[66:25] Scarlett: "I'm going to get the Chanel J12. It's a work of art. I love everything about it."

They invite listeners to reach out via social media and email, fostering a sense of community and ongoing dialogue.

[72:10] Scarlett: "Thank you for having me and I look forward to my humble ramblings for the coming year."

[72:22] Rob: "Until then, stay safe and keep on ticking."

Key Takeaways

• Introduction of Scarlett: Rob introduces Scarlett Baker as the new co-host, "The Humble Rambler," setting the stage for collaborative discussions.

• 2024 Highlights: Both hosts reflect on pivotal moments from 2024, including significant watch launches and industry events.

• British Watchmaking Boom: The episode celebrates the growth and diversity of British watch brands, emphasizing their collaborative spirit and innovative designs.

• Design Innovations: A deep dive into bracelet design introduces the concept of "integral bracelets," highlighting their role in defining watch identities.

• Notable Watches: The Piaget Polo 79 revival, Ferland Mary Disco Volante, and Sylvan Berneron’s Mirage are spotlighted as standout releases.

• Shaped Watches Trend: The rise of uniquely shaped watches by brands like Toledano and Chan signals a shift towards individuality and unconventional design in the industry.

• Looking Ahead to 2025: The hosts express optimism for increased community engagement, design innovation, and value-driven watch offerings in the coming year.

• Community Engagement: Encouragement for listener interaction underscores the show's commitment to building a connected watch enthusiast community.

Notable Quotes

• Scarlett on Events:

  “[02:41] Scarlett:… 'It was one of the most incredible launches I've experienced in my short time in the industry.'”

• Rob on British Brands:

  “[15:21] Rob: 'The endless drone of conservatism that comes out.'”

• Scarlett on Bracelets:

  “[26:43] Scarlett: 'It's about the bracelet that, although not integrated, is absolutely essential to the character of the watch.'”

• Rob on Shaped Watches:

  “[43:50] Rob: 'They're primed for big times ahead. Absolutely. Because people do want to have a bit more individuality on their wrist.'”

• Scarlett on 2025 Expectations:

  “[63:38] Scarlett: 'I want dials to get a bit crazier… make it make sense, like it works but it shouldn't work.'”

This summary encapsulates the dynamic conversation between Rob and Scarlett, highlighting their insights and reflections on the past year's watchmaking landscape while projecting hopeful trends for 2025. Whether you're a seasoned watch enthusiast or new to the world of horology, this episode offers valuable perspectives on industry developments, design innovations, and the vibrant community that drives the art of watchmaking forward.