My experiences were not meant to critisize the brands in a
mean-spirited way. They were what they were. I want to believe that the
employee at PP was simply tired or in a bad day; it happens to all of
us. Nonetheless, by the way I was approached, I got the feeling that
they did not want to push a sale. They expected the customer to know
what he is looking for. There was this "we are the best" attitude
without demonstrating an obvious arrogance. I was not intimidated at
all but I can see how a newcomer would turn away. They clearly
did not make any effort to sell their brand.
AP was indeed trying to please me by showing me Millenary models I hadn't
seen before. By the way, I declined to drink or eat anything; I was
there to see and buy a watch. Nonetheless, their gesture was
appreciated. They were not offended I did not buy anything. After all,
they did not have the piece I wanted to buy.
These experiences have not changed my opinion about their watches.
Different stores will give you different experiences. I agree the
service in Gstaad is superlative, everywhere. Nonetheless, the flagship stores give a
taste of the intangible package each brand is trying to build around
their watches. AP is going after the modern, the new money, PP is
targetting those in the know... this is only my subjective view.
Geneva is THE capital of horology. You have to be there at least once. You owe it to your passion!