I personally love Kudoke and Laine. I know of many collector friends who are jut going nuts over them.. I personally think it's a good thing. If you're someone who wants a bit of independent watchmaking but cannot afford the prices that usually accompany them, it's a great way to get in!
Thanks for the elaborate response! This is the type of thing I love to discuss. I agree re: your sentiment on the loss of utility. I think the advent of Richard Mille was in part reason why. Less focus on in-house manufacturing (at least for movements) and design centric. I 100% believe there is a m
I also am in the case and dial camp. I use Ming as a particular example that has done well in both those aspects. Same movement manufacturer I'll be working with in customized movements. I also agree in the positioning side. It's about telling a story and cultivating a community that I've found work
All good points and I am in agreement. I suppose the underlying theme that can be applied here is that there are levels to this. What constitutes an independent brand? I also think there's a clear distinction between Kickstarter brands and a Ming, for example. I just think it's good for the independ
Great response! So, I think we're in agreement in terms of the distinction between watchmaker and assembler. I'll tell you this - I have personally designed the aesthetic of the movements to be used in my watches. The coating, the finsihing, the font type, logo placement, customization of the barrel
Thanks for the reply! I personally think we are shifting into a more design focused industry. If you take a look at the innovation that took place in the 18th/19th century and compare it to now, we've stagnated. Sure, we came up with materials to produce our components in but comparing that to Bregu
Thanks for sharing these! I personally think Rexhep will lead the front in independent niche once the older generation has retired. He's young, inspired, and talented - that usually leads to success. The AK series are just mind-blowing. Thanks so much!
Fair enough. I think Max Busser has done a fantastic job in being transparent with who is building what in his creations. The Laines and Kudoke's of the industry need to tell their stories a bit better. but I suppose it's a work in progress... AJB
Thank you! Wow, the pens are outstanding! I hadn't even heard of him before. I'll do some digging to see what he came up with in terms of case. Cheers!