Independents

MMK
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Marvellous, i simply envy you

Hi Aaron,
thanks for the report on your beautiful watch, i wish i had your abilities.

You've already pointed out two important factors of AHCI watch collectors.
Limitation and difference to the Mainstream.
Using mechanical watches is not a logical decision, as cell phones can do that
If they wanted a "democratic" watch, they would buy lower quality watches or industrially produced ones.
If they wanted maximal finissage - as in getting as many patterns and techniques as possible on one plate - they would probably go to PP/AP/VC, for Innovation (as in the biggest R&D) they would go to JLC,
as the larger mechanical watchmakers can rely on the cooperation of a large work force.

AHCI work force is more limited, so they usually concentrate on a few complications with maximal finissage and a differing design (albeit exceptions on the last point exist).
In terms of pricing, i guess the easiest way to justify a higher price on a watch is to use a precious metal case (from Titanium +10% up to platinum with +100%), and minute repeaters soar in pricing compared to other complications, followed by Column Wheel Chronographs, Tourbillons (http://home.watchprosite.com/show-forumpost/fi-17/pi-4459603/ti-692273/s--35/), Perpetual Calendars and at last Alarms (although probably the most useful function).
For the highest pricing group (the Patek range), you will have to have unique innovations / contribute historically.

Since AHCI watch collectors want a watch from an independant, non-industrial sized watchmaker,
increasing the production numbers is not an advisable strategy.
Every parameter will have an influence on the numbers sold and the price achieved,
and probably even factors like living in switzerland wil affect your pricing (in this case positively).
In this forum, you can have an extensive look on the watches of your future competition and you'll get quite an overview. On pricing levels, google for chrono24.

Good luck and cheers,
M