I'll admit to falling into some sort of herd mentality without having fully appreciated what they're trying to do.
Having said that, I don't think it was necessary for them to make statements regarding that strategy and make it into a topic as it can get blown out of proportion. And maybe they should have not installed a Sellita on a Type 20 but on a new product line.
But the temptation to do it on the Type 20 is too great! It's like making a Ferrari affordable by putting in a Toyota engine. Makes it look like a replica of sorts. But then again from whose point of view? The article was pretty clear that it was for a different audience. Definitely, moves like this will not sit well with watch aficionados and quite understandably.
Going back to the Ferrari/Toyota thing, well, it might sell a lot in the short run but may endanger long-term sustainability. I am reminded of that brand Pierre Cardin. I guess decades ago it used to be luxurious. Now, I see it in low-end department stores. Or how about those watches that used to have really great movements and reputation then went down several notches for one reason or another.
Well, maybe it's a cycle. After awhile, when sales and image start to drop off, they'll try to go back to their Manufacture roots and dump outsourced movements. Hopefully, they will have enough money to endure such cycles. But what a waste, eh?
Values, values, values. Tsk, tsk.
Seeing this watch, I will admit that it's a pretty seductive piece. And for the right price, wow. It will probably be a hit. But not for "us". I'd rather go buy a Tudor.
It's difficult to pass judgement. I just hope that they're very careful with this strategy if they really value the El Primero legacy.
A handsome watch, definitely.
Thanks for the pics and the post! Splendid reading as usual.
Echi