Tosh Show - Episode: My Watch Guy - Eric Ku
Release Date: March 4, 2025
Host: Daniel Tosh
Guest: Eric Ku, Watch Collector and Dealer
Introduction
In this episode of the Tosh Show, host Daniel Tosh welcomes Eric Ku, a renowned watch collector and co-founder of a prestigious watch auction site, Lo This. The conversation delves into Eric's journey in the world of horology, his expertise in watch collecting, and his experiences within the high-end watch market.
Eric Ku’s Journey into Watch Collecting
[16:36] Daniel Tosh: “For all the money I've wasted in my life, I've never bought a luxury wristwatch... But maybe after my conversation with today's horologist, I'll finally see what all the fuss is about.”
[16:54] Eric Ku: “Thank you. Thanks for having me.”
Eric begins by correcting Daniel's initial misconception, clarifying that while he personally enjoys digital watches like the Casio G-Shock, his passion lies deeply in high-end mechanical timepieces. He shares how his childhood fascination with Rolex advertisements in National Geographic magazine ignited his interest in precision timekeeping and the intricate craftsmanship behind luxury watches.
The Allure of High-End Watches
[17:20] Daniel Tosh: “Is that... a Casio G Shock. But it has a price tag that I'm positive I'm going to be blown away by.”
Eric presents a unique, limited-edition Casio G-Shock made entirely of 18-karat gold, designed for Casio’s 35th anniversary. He explains the exclusivity and craftsmanship that elevate certain watches from mere accessories to coveted collectibles.
[27:44] Daniel Tosh: “Do you know any celebrities that do that? Because, you know, there are celebrities that admit that they wear fake diamonds because they...”
[27:59] Eric Ku: “I think fake diamonds, like, there's no, like, intellectual property behind that. But like, watches...”
Eric discusses the prevalence of counterfeit watches and the sophistication behind high-quality fakes. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and the impact of celebrity endorsements on the watch market. His involvement in sourcing official watches for movies, such as providing a Rolex Daytona for "Crazy Rich Asians", underscores his deep integration into both the collector community and the entertainment industry.
Founding of Lo This and Auction Practices
[28:04] Eric Ku: “I co-founded with my partner Justin, a watch auction site called Lo This. We're located in West Hollywood and we do watch auctions every day.”
Eric explains that Lo This operates on a no reserve auction model, meaning all watches are sold to the highest bidder regardless of the final bid amount. This approach fosters transparency and excitement within the collector community. He shares insights into the low cancellation rates (about 10-15 out of 3,000 transactions) and the stringent measures taken to prevent fraudulent activities, such as credit card holds and sophisticated algorithms to detect false bids.
Tips for Aspiring Watch Collectors
[31:51] Eric Ku: “...the market price was as high as 5 million for this watch. And highly qualified buyers...”
When asked about the best entry-level watches for new collectors, Eric recommends Rolex models like the Submariner and Oyster Jubilee for their enduring value and widespread recognition. He highlights the importance of choosing timepieces that not only suit personal style but also hold potential for appreciation in value.
[32:12] Daniel Tosh: “No, no, my budget's gonna be bigger than this. So if I'm jumping into the game.”
Eric advises that with a budget upwards of $10,000, collectors have a plethora of options that balance aesthetics, craftsmanship, and investment potential. He underscores Rolex’s dominance in the market due to its liquidity and timeless designs.
The Impact of Celebrity Culture on Watch Collecting
[38:32] Daniel Tosh: “So yeah, I hated him when he started wake surfing. I'm like, get off the lake.”
Eric discusses how celebrities like Mark Zuckerberg and John Mayer influence the watch market. He shares anecdotes about sourcing watches for celebrities, such as providing John Mayer with a Rolex Daytona for publicity purposes. Eric notes that while celebrity endorsements can boost the allure of specific watch models, they also raise concerns about authenticity and the potential for market manipulation.
The Evolution of Watch Styles and Gender Dynamics
[39:20] Daniel Tosh: “What timepiece would you suggest to someone who's just starting to be interested in nicer watches?”
Eric elaborates on the shift in watch design preferences over the years, particularly the trend towards more restrained and elegant styles as opposed to the oversized "tuna can" watches of the early 2000s. He also touches on the increasing presence of female collectors in a traditionally male-dominated field, highlighting how modern designs appeal to a broader audience.
Challenges and Future of Watch Collecting
[43:40] Daniel Tosh: “Do you worry about the watches when you travel?”
Eric acknowledges the challenges of safeguarding valuable watches during travel, advising collectors to avoid wearing high-end timepieces in environments where they might be vulnerable to theft or damage. He emphasizes the importance of proper storage solutions, such as secure safes or bank deposit boxes, to protect investments.
Personal Anecdotes and Final Thoughts
[47:36] Daniel Tosh: “This is for your son. This is cactus water.”
The episode concludes with a light-hearted exchange where Daniel gifts Eric a Bentley tricycle, playfully symbolizing the blend of luxury and practicality in personal life. Eric shares his family's experiences and reflects on the balance between passion for watch collecting and family responsibilities.
[53:05] Eric Ku: “I mean, now the dust is settled and I'm in my 40s...”
In closing, Eric offers heartfelt advice to aspiring collectors: “The great thing about watch collecting is there's always something interesting at every price point. It’s a journey of discovery and appreciation for craftsmanship.”
Notable Quotes
- Eric Ku at [17:20]: “Rolexes were very high quality watches.”
- Daniel Tosh at [32:12]: “No, no, my budget's gonna be bigger than this. So if I'm jumping into the game.”
- Eric Ku at [38:32]: “I find confusing that he's from Italy and has an Italian accent and red hair. It just doesn't match up for my brain.”
- Eric Ku at [53:05]: “Now the dust is settled and I'm in my 40s, everything kind of worked out...”
Conclusion
This episode of the Tosh Show offers an immersive exploration into the intricate world of high-end watch collecting through the lens of Eric Ku. From the historical significance of brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe to the modern dynamics of auctions and celebrity influence, Eric provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the passion and precision that define horology. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious enthusiast, this episode delivers valuable insights into appreciating and navigating the luxury watch market.
Disclaimer: This summary is based on the provided transcript and aims to capture the essence of the episode while adhering to the user's instructions to exclude advertisements and non-content sections.