I don’t have anything against folks that BUY clones or “replicas” when they know what they’re buying and don’t try to fool anyone otherwise. Some people just genuinely love that look but can’t justify spending thousands for a time telling bracelet. It’s when people try to SELL fakes as if you’re getting an unbelievable deal on a real watch.
This is absolutely true. But in my opinion this is the role that Homage watches should play. You can have that exact look and feel on the wrist but that logo should not be telling a lie. This is where you cross the line in my books.
@@marcusflack1523 splendid point. I stand behind my Duro collection like it’s my pride and joy; i’m a big guy so a 44mm $50 Sun homage is literally picture perfect and I love them but I love the look of a classic, tough dive watch. I don’t care what logo is between the hands and the twelve. But I definitely think I’d feel gross wearing a dive watch that I liked the looks of if it was pretending to be something it wasn’t. Idk, that doesn’t bother some folks and as long as it’s not a situation of “Yeah so and so has an awesome Submariner… Wait, it’s fake? He said it was real!” (which infuriates me lol), i’m glad they’re happy then.
Completely agree. Unobtainable wants/needs are a rationale for many. I work in pro audio where replicas of existing hardware is now a very common option for engineers when scarcity of an original means having to look at other options. Then there is the matter of the original (particularly vintage) being so knackered that it is good money after bad results to not consider modern well built quality options that attain similar or more often better results. Perhaps this desensitises an entire community of professionals to brand loyalty, which I think is truly absurd all things considered. In this circumstance, I’m referring to equipment needs, not really an option. Opinions will vary on this but the point remains and has become far less contentious in modern times. One of the things I believe applies to luxury items including watches, is that luxury is unnecessary and the indulgence is part of the price tag, it’s not purely quality, it’s absolutely more vanity and egotism. In pursuit of the aesthetic appeal is a devaluing integer in the whole equation, so the replica market responds accordingly. To refer to them as fakes is completely inaccurate and intentionally misleading. I have both on brand and replicas and I have no f*_ks to give about whether the replica is a bother to the aficionado community who regard unobtainable as luxury, that’s not the whole picture imho. I would be happy as a clam in dip to have a super clone minus the on brand logo because for me, I enjoy if not am mesmerised by the form and function of the aesthetic. I don’t wear a watch with any thought of what someone thinks of a watch I’m wearing, it’s 100% about me lol! Such a great episode. I think there is room in the watch world for both on brand and super replicas. I have super clones I got for around 1kAUD that are remarkably well built and I love them for all my own reasons. Watch brands also have a tendency to take themselves way too seriously. More brands really need to consider building multi tiered versions of their products if they are truly that bothered by the replica builders. The replica builders are actually no genuine threat to anyone and in some ways offer buyers are more realistic cost access to quality than on brands, it’s just a fact. Some brand’s really are just taking the piss with their pricing, I get it, they smell money and that’s what they want because creating the allure of luxury is just too easy for the experienced entrepreneur who is probably just as good at separating people from their money as they are at making a product. Again, great episode that could have been even better with perspectives from the super clone / replica world Thanks so much for the video To the AET sound person, please address the harsh sybillance that is borderline excruciating to listen on near field and headphones alike!! Mic placement is the fix but some stronger de essing /plosives control in post would be kindly appreciated ✌️ ❤
I enjoy micro brands and collaborations as much as some of my “brand” watches and as result there is not a need for a fake in my collection. You asked the question during the episode that is most important about a watch…”does it make you smile”! Rock you favorite watch, regardless of the logo on it! Thank you guys!
Bloody great proving re the smile side of things. Yes I myself are far more interested in finding a watch that resonates with just me. Not what resonates with a colossal marketing spend.
Sounds like Longines needs to digitize it’s records in a searchable database. I’m glad I stumbled across this channel. Quickly becoming one of my favorite watch channels.
If Rolex would fix their supply chain/production issues so people could ACTUALLY buy models at retail price, and not have to look at the grey market where prices are 3x retail prices. If you could actually buy an OP 41mm at $6k in the store (or say 3-5 years ago, entry level Rolexes were sub-$5k) then the fake scenario wouldn’t occur to the same extent. I’ve been on a AD “waiting list” for 12+ months, and I’m not going to spend thousands buying other things I don’t want to get preference on the list.
I own 3 AAA fake Rolex, I am on some sort of list with my AD but haven’t heard anything from them. I refuse to pay a flipper overs for a watch. The 1:1 replica watches are so close to the real ones hopefully in time it will stop flippers and allow us to go back to the time when you can just get the watch you want slightly off MRSP. And I work hard for my money and I can afford the real watch but hate flippers and dealer antics.
Honestly, this is the best show I’ve seen in a long time. You guys were great, very informative, non pretentious and had me hooked from start to finish whilst trying to work at the same time. Trust me it was difficult 😊. I didn’t know the channel existed, I’m an avid subscriber now 😊. Thanks for the great content and advice.
For Christmas this year, my wife purchased a Pagani Design PD-1662 in root beer because I LURVE the GMT Master-II in the same colorway, but even were I to consider the Roller, I'd never wear it. I wear the PD wherever and whenever I want...it cost $130US. If it fails, it's inexpensive enough that I'll also do the calibre swap-out; it's not like I can reduce its value!
Nothing wrong with a Pagani "Design" (LOL) watch, I've got a PD 1664 (Panda Daytona) and I do wear it, but (and I have no idea how this works), it just doesn't feel special (probably 'cause it's not special!) like some other watches I've got do. When in reality I know it actually feels just like any other 120-160g steel, oyster bracelet watch. ***edit*** in fact I just did it, went to glace at the time on the Sub I "know" I'm wearing and I'd put the PD 1664 on writing this post then forgot, so it had stopped feeling cheap, cause the Sub wasn't cheap! ***edit***
@@WestCoastAce27 the Pagani "Explorer 2" really will "fake everyone out" cause no one expects to see an Explorer homage or fake, you presume it's real. And that Pagani is a 100% clone. You wear a Submariner or a Daytona (real, fake or homage) and someone WILL ask if it's real or fake, it'll get spotted. But an Explorer 2? You'll just presume it's real until you get so close as to see the logo. And that's closer than you think.
I’m happy that you guys keep things real. You stated if you made a mistake in your past and you acknowledge it. Thank you 🙏 you are great help to the community.
This episode perfectly describes why I buy Christopher Ward. The margin is 100% transparent and... it is fair. Marketing cost also is zero. You pay a great quality watch and you pay Chr. Ward a fair gain. The whole industry should be like that. That would give fakes no room. Ps: I guessed for the starbucks to be gen for the great cyclops. Shame on me. Lol
I owned a fake yachtmaster when I was in management and working in the shop. It eventually through an end link pin and shattered on the ground. I missed that watch so much I bought a real rolex to replace it, and decided to wear something else while at work. We all start somewhere...
I think this may be your best ever pre-recorded episode. There was a tone of sincerity and honest fascination in your consideration of the realm of fake watches. The best points revolved around the idea that some people feel the need to own the fake version of a brand to feel like they then have purchase on the tier which that brand represents. What is doubly tragic is that such self-delusion robs those people of the opportunity of owning a gorgeous watch that is within their grasp, like a Tudor Black Bay 36, the Baltic HMS 002 or the Khaki Field Automatic Murph, be it the 38mm or the 42mm. I see similar motions in the school I work in where the children need the brand, when something that is not a famous brand may offer an even better product. When the world is so governed by the need for the perception of quality over the reality of quality, then something is extremely wrong. A superb episode because the sentiment was so valuable and true.
You never disappoint me Raymond. Your degree and level of insight always pushes my thinking just that little bit further. Your point about attainable now watches is so on point. I think for many people buying fakes they actually have little to no idea of whats on offer out there in the watch world. They gravitate automatically to Rolex as its a household brand name in the watch game and they stop there. Thinking that somehow they have made a wise decision. hmmmm. But yeah there is so much quality on offer out there that is affordable, obtainable and very keepable (if keepable is a word)
@@marcusflack1523 Thank you Marcus. I just have never had any illusions about being able to afford something like a Rolex. I've set myself tiers of what I would like to own, mainly because I know what I can afford and what would carry me too far. You know, I hope he doesn't mind me saying so, but George really shone on this one. Everyone was on point, and extremely honest, but George had several fascinating stories to tell; they were amazing. I think it may have been Andrew who pointed out last week that the aim of a successful podcast is the feeling of being in the room and being involved in the conversation. I think that is absolutely true, and this week's episode nailed that sentiment. Also, keepable is a word, which is a shame because I thought you'd nailed a perfectly acceptable neologism.
This for me has been by far the most educational episode yet. I absolutely loved learning more about the fake watch market and yet I feel that a lot of us will come away far more vigilant. It's a terrifying ordeal and one which I can only feel sorry for George in his situations. I loved this episode so much and it's a nice change from the more casual episodes. Keep up the great work👊
Ahhh fantastic that it hit the mark for you George. Yeah this was a great ep for us here with so much to dig into. Thanks for watching and commenting. Means a lot to hear how people like you respond to the content we make. 😊
Andrew, spot on, w'ere being bummed by Rolex, the real Rolex is 7k because they spend 100's of millions advertising/marketing, per year, that's what we're paying for. Great debate guy's
I too once had a fake Tag Heuer from Bali when I was teenager. Wore it until the battery died (maybe like a year), but then was too embarrassed to get the battery changed! Really great discussion guys, absolutely loving the channel!
I love it when a billionaire’s kid shames people for buying a replica. If you’ve always loved a Rolex and can’t afford the real thing, go for it. This idea that you’re some kind of imposter speaks volumes about entitlement and privilege. Personally if I could buy a perfect 1:1 Zeitwerk I would do it in a heartbeat. My heart would leap with joy with every time change and I would love it for exactly what it was, a beautiful recreation of mechanical perfection.
@@marcusflack1523 That's my pleasure, thank you Marcus for all the great work you've been doing all this time to make this happen. Hands down the best watch podcast/youtube series ever. ✌🏼
What's the point of owning a luxury watch if you're not going to wear it? Well, where I live, you are subject to lose it at gun point. Therefore, having the original in a safe and a fake on my wrist outside the house makes sense.
This was a great episode. Topic was on-point and all of you added perspectives/experience that make one think a bit deeper. On a more boring point, this was perhaps the easiest episode to watch. You maintained a nice casual tone, like a natural conversation, without stepping on each other and going down tangents. In other words, it was pro without looking forced. Keep going but as Teena Marie told Rick James, "Yeah, well, don't be too slick now!"
Found you guys today and have watched nearly of season 1 and some of season 2. Your content has definitely gotten better and I really enjoyed this episode and the one finding the best diver under 10K, 5k and 1k.
I bought a fake Bell and Ross in Bangkok when I was 17 years old. I am not advocating that anyone should buy fakes but it was through that I learnt about other watch brands. Ironic as this may sound, it was the AAA and double AA replica markets that exposed me to the world of watches!
This is a repeating story in the comments. So many people where red this hobby through the world of fakes and now they have amazing collections of the real deal.
This episode is brilliant on so many levels. The fake speaks to the audience, the real watch speaks to the wearer. Agree with others you are taking this series to another level. 😁
I liked it guys. Love the idea, loved season one but honestly haven’t enjoyed everything in season 2. But this was just right. Just talking, good topic. No stig etc.👌🏻
Grew up in the jewelry business and have a ton of experience with knock offs. We always lived by two mottos If they’re knocking you off, you’re doing something right. When they’re knocking you off, its time to start working on what comes next.
Cracking episode lads. Must say nice to see an episode with the back to basics format. Fakes scare the life out of me and you guys just proved why we should all be concerned. (In my view and in answer to Andrew’s question, it’s never ok…even if it boosts the ego.) Just bought a vintage Kermit from a dealer and am petrified. Can’t understand why brands like Rolex don’t do more to help their customers in this space.
I have to agree with you NVA. When you start climbing the ladder in the watch game it gets increasingly unstable in that regard. The super clones are sooooo convincing. glad the ep held some good information for you.
They don't "do more" for the same reason they don't make any effort to stop (the right) people flipping watches from AD to grey importer (and in many cases doubling the price) and for the same reason the AD's won't sell to just anyone. Because they want the market demand to be that high, it just adds to the prestige. No one in the world would suggest that "fake diamonds" shouldn't exist, 99% of the clear white, flat sided stones in jewellery aren't real diamonds. A diamond carries that much prestige if you see what appears to be one you presume it's a "fake". From the plastic in the ones in your granddaughters play jewellery, to the ones grown in a lab in Pandora (god I hate that cheap, monkey metal/plastic stone junk, but my daughters love it), they must outnumber real diamonds 10,000 to 1. It does not diminish the value of a real diamond one little bit. If anything it enhances it. Same with a Rolex. Those trying to pass superclones off as real in social situations, fine, it hurts no one if they get away with it, only hurts them it they don't! Those trying to sell them as genuine, not fine. If you're buying one outside of an insured situation, take the back off, hack the movement, no adjusters on the balance wheel? Walk away. Seller won't let you? Walk away.
@@fontyyy appreciate the reply and agree with your points. One day I will learn how to hack a movement without worrying risk of destroying a watch 😏… Maybe casting doubt is part of their plan to drive the layman to the massively over priced new Rolex Certfieds sold by their ADs ie if you want certainty you have to come to me and pay well above market. Personally I much prefer Omega and Longines approach ie we care about our customers.
This proves that having a real Rolex is actually more about the feeling of earning it / being able to afford it - a sense of accomplishment than the beauty of the watch design itself. That’s why wearing a fake will never feel the same.
For Christmas sake I'm tired of hearing people whine about these replicated watches. Who would buy a lux watch on the street corner, ebay or a pawn shop? And if you're not buying it from an AD and your purchasing it on the secondary market you'd better get it from a known and reputable dealer and have it authenticated, or don't buy it. Who buys a used BMW without taking the vehicle to a BMW certified-mech and having them check it exhaustively and completely? Stop your crying when you get a so called "great deal" and you did not do your due diligence.
Great discussion guys. Early in my watch collecting journey I bought several fake luxury watches. At that time I fell for the hype surrounding luxury Swiss watches and there was no way I could afford the real thing. I was buying some of the best replicas available at the time and my first purchase was a Tag Heuer Link chronograph. I couldn’t believe the quality and feel of that particular watch which only encouraged me to buy more replicas. With each purchase however I discovered that the watches only had an illusion of luxury. Every subsequent watch had quality issues and many of them serious enough to prevent any enjoyment of the watch. I eventually had to admit to myself that I had wasted my money. I then discovered vintage watches and also the fact that I could get loads of enjoyment from watches at the more affordable end of the spectrum. I have been seriously collecting for over 15 years now. Along the way I have also managed to acquire a couple of expensive Omegas and I don’t really buy much these days as I’m very happy with my collection now.
My friend what a great end to your story. I love your honesty with how the purchases made you feel and interresting that the more you get into thiosgame the more the little things become deal breakers. But def so good that you have found the right way to play the game now. All the best Craig.
When you start collecting the natural desire is to want to build your collection quickly and you usually have your sights set on watches you cannot really afford. I think this is when the temptation of fake watches is very strong. If you can get past this temptation I have discovered it’s not just owning and wearing different types of watches that I enjoy but also the hunt to find the right one. This is especially true for vintage watches. My two favourite brands are Seiko and Omega which both represent excellent value for money.
I guess I don't travel in the 'right circles'. However I've noticed that most 'normal' people don't even seem to recognize if I'm wearing a 'luxury watch'. And then any 'watch people' who would actually care will probably realize it's a fake... So there doesn't seem to be ANY upside? Also, spending $500+ on a 'decent' replica just seems silly. If you're going to spend that much cash then there are many respectable 'real' watch brands to choose from...
I never considered myself a watch collector until last year when I realized I had 2 basic casio watches, 3 g-shocks, a citizen Quartz, and a timex. Now shows like this have me buying my first automatic movement, I now own a wind up pocket watch. Starting to plan my entry into entry level luxury. An upgrade from Pauper Luxury. Love from Mario. Windsor, ON, Canada 🇨🇦
I actually own a couple of San Martin watches and they are an exceptional build. I do believe they are built to look like it's a lot of very popular watches. However, the quality of their watches is impeccable
I just stumbled upon your channel. What a great video. I really like how you are discussing the topic from different angles. Thank you for making this video. 👌😁
@@marcusflack1523 I am just bunch watching all your episodes. I really like the kids watches from Blok you showed. A really great passion project 👌 please keep in doing this format. You guys have amazing chemistry 😁👌
Genuinely interesting chat guys, thoroughly enjoyed it -it was refreshing to hear your honesty too about buying fakes in the past. My experience; I had a friend who travelled to China for work, and he asked if I wanted him to bring me back a watch - at the time I didn't own anything decent really, but aspired to. I asked him for a black ceramic Submariner... original I know. A few weeks later he returned and handed me the watch, for which I'd given him £60GBP for. And while it was a pretty "good" fake, I was filled with disappointment and regret. I wanted to capture that feeling of owning the watch I'd lusted after for so long, and when I had what I thought would do that for a fraction of the cost, it just did not give me that feeling - not out of snobbery, it just didn't feel right, it didn't give me that feeling of accomplishment, that feeling of owning something which will be around for longer than I will and can hand down to my children. I would never have lied to anyone if they asked if it was real or fake, and I wouldn't have been able to be comfortable with having to explain to someone why I'm wearing a fake - I wouldn't have a decent enough answer. That same day, I handed to the watch to my much younger brother who was delighted, and then a few weeks later, I stumped up the cash and bought a genuine Submariner for a good price at the time. This gave me all the feelings I'd wanted and sent me on a totally different journey with my watches from then on. It taught me, that no matter what watch it is, I couldn't bare to wear it if it was a fake. There's plenty of people out there who will tell you you're an idiot for spending that sort of money on a real one, and, even some, who if you gave them a real one, they would say "no thank's, I'd rather not be a chump who just spent 10 grand on a stupid watch, this replica will do". Good for them, but that's not me I'm afraid! Great show guys!
Great level of honestly there. And I think your sentiments will resonate with so many others out there in the watch game. Interesting how the fake seemed to motivate the actual purchase of the legit model hey. There is a comment about that tells a similar story from @TheCameltotem. Check it out.
I just recently bought the GP/Bamford Ghost - LOVE IT. 😍 I want to get the rubber strap too (I wonder if a black rubber strap would look good… What do you think?).
Why not. Contrast is going to be an awesome change up on that watch every now and then. It will feel completely new on your wrist so I think go for it. You can always change to something else when you get bored.
Loved this episode, really entertaining😂 Was dissapointed to see another watch youtuber being indifferent and being OK with wearing fakes in a Q&A episode.
My issue with fakes is when a person or dealer knowingly sells a fake for the same price as the real watch. I feel like that's where most of these celebrities get duped. A lot of them really aren't watch people like that and would never be able to tell the difference between real and fake so they get played
Guys you are great just found your channel - following now. One minor gripe (awesome content by the way) the heads on your logo should represent your individuality more. Three skulls is hard to differentiate at a glance) and also will won’t let you cross over into some territories in the east. try more cool characters using glasses, hair and t shirts and shirts. Ps. I’m in a highly creative business myself. Minor grip aside loving the show
I searched for fake Rolex watches before I bought a GMT Master II because I wanted to make sure I know what mistakes they make so I can be sure mine is real. Many people would be doing this and it may explain why the number of searches are so high. I did the same before I bought my Omega Seamaster.
@@marcusflack1523 no I did not. But by searching I learned that fake omegas don't have a black balance wheel etc. So when I finally bought a watch I was sure it was real. Fakes are so good these days that there is always an element of doubt even when buying from a reputable dealer. It's a shame that this is the state of affairs
The best use of a fake that I have seen is one of my friends has a couple really nice rolex watches and he keeps them safe, but wears the fakes out. So that he does not damage the originals. He only has the fakes as copy’s of the originals.
I’m slightly ashamed to admit I’ve bought a fake watch before (with honest intentions). I bought a fake BB58 to wear for a few weeks to see if I liked the feel of it even after the ‘honeymoon phase’. I didn’t want to drop £3k on the real thing and regret it in a months time. Ended up buying the real deal of course… as for the fake, it’s sat in drawer with a kaput movement (of course) 😂
THANK U GUYS. Loved it as Always. Recently i went into a Cobbler/Key Cutters Shop...He had FAKE Casio F91Ws for Sale.When i asked he told me they were FAKE..! GO FIGURE..!😎🙏🙏🙏
Great episode, thank you! So I have purchased used watches on eBay. They state Authenticity Guaranteed and state that the watches are sent for independent Authentication. How confident should one be with this Authentication? Thank you!
I agree with those comments saying season 2 is even better than season 1 (with the exception of Lucien episode, that one was actually the worst of all for me, but you compensated with a great therapy session last week). I have one kind request/suggestion: could you make a playlist of only the BYOI parts? Oh, and one more question, although I'm sure it was asked before, I just haven't seen it in the comments: Where can I get such cool clocks as GB has in the room where you're shooting? Thank you guys for what you do, AET is by far my most favorite content on the internet! Greetings from the Czech Republic 🙂
Good suggestion re the BYOI. I think that’s something we will do. As many others really resonate with this section. It’s like a surprise in the box. You don’t know what’s gonna pop out but when it does it’s super refreshing.
I contend that a majority of watches labeled “Swiss Made” in the under $1,500usd range have mostly made in China components. This is especially true for micro brands.
Crazy hearing George’s speech at 27:50 after having received this morning a package containing my first Omega. I can’t afford a current model. I can’t afford a vintage Omega auto. I can’t afford a vintage Omega Constellation “Pie Pan” in good condition, let alone its servicing. But I can afford a cool, vintage 1977 Omega Constellation Quartz Calibre 1330 straight from the Quartz Crisis. And wearing it today, having learnt about these calibres during the research, knowing their meaning in the history of horology, feels so much better than any homage or fake would.
it's flawed though. It takes ZERO skill to copy a degree paper. If it was hand written and you'd copied even nuance of his hand writing maybe you'd have a point. So, it does take some skill to turn out a 1 to 1 3235 movement that can keep time to Rolex level of accuracy. The quartz watches that are $20 in the fake market in China maybe, the ones that are $600 and can take Rolex parts many times 1 - 1 direct replacement...not so much I don't think.
Buzzing with Adrian’s mondaine, my first ever watch was a mondaine EVO2 for my 18th birthday! Recently picked up a 1960s vintage mondaine with a linen dial! Such elegant simplicity for a great price point
Excellent episode gents. As 'hosts' it feels like you're all becoming more comfortable and conversational in podcasting, less scripted and it comes across great. Feels like the show is really maturing. Good stuff guys, keep it up!
Ahhhh thanks Rinky. Means a lot. And great that you noticed the development. We were certainly aiming for that result. Can’t wait to see where this all leads.
I’m 25 minutes into the show and truly enjoying the discussion; however, I am completely drooling over the curves, lines, and reflections of that Hamilton Ventura wall clock. I never appreciated the watch before but will be looking into it now. Cheers!
This was an amazing episode. Another aspect I would like to highlight, is the fact that (most) fake watches are made by and often support criminal organizations that do some horrible things(human trafficking and so on). Another good reason not to buy a fake watch.
not true, well no more true than of anything else built under (what we would call) sub-human conditions for near slavery wages. iPhones, most laptops, all the made in China cheap "supermarket" TV brands. Every pair of Nike trainers etc. China is corrupt from the top down. Lets not get into where the gold that is in every Rolex (the hands and the indices at least) comes from eh?
One thing I was wondering if you guys were going to talk about was the point Adrian made about "feeling dirty" wearing a fake. Where does that feeling come from? Is it internal, or external? And additionally, what about the "dirtiness" of brands (specifically Rolex) who will not sell their goods to regular consumers? Rolex doesn't encourage or promote pure commerce (which should be free of prestige and classism), so if Rolex is bring "dirty" in this way, does it make it okay to wear their fakes?
Hmmm I think that dirty feeling comes down to the way you view yourself. I cant speak for Adrian, but for me to wear a fake today would jest never work. To me the point of this watch game is to attain and aspire for that real piece that ticks so many boxes for me. And looking down knowing it aint the real deal just makes me say to myself....What are you doing man? What are you saying by wearing that thing? But each to his own I guess.
First: You are really the best Watchcast 👍 I like the starbucks a lot. The dealer gives me only a laugh. So I buy a Steinhart hommage. Now a question myself, get I more fun from the original? For the saved money, I can buy a nice Tag 😉 Even two !
As a new viewer of your channel [brand new, but have ⌚️ ed a handful in past few days], who loves watches but can't afford them atm.. I'll relate it to my luv for sneakers.. I've had a larger collection, then downsized, but only really sold when I found myself in hard times.. I have been burdened with proving that my purchase was fake before, & have the knowledge and resources to buy the best 1:1 fakes, but have never done it for whatever reason. I also had a situation where someone owed me money and I took a good fake pair of a hype shoe, and then proceeded to wear them once over couple years, and they just sit in back of my closet now. It's a aj1 which I've got/ had real pairs with varying values, but I've worn them all regardless of how much society will change their market share.. I bought a $90 pair in 2016 at retail, which was $2-300 until Jordan documentary made them instantly $1000 & now close to double that.. but I still used them the most, and then after 100s of wears, sold for $400 in good condition/ sole in fair.. and I'll wear the real cheaper ones vs the brand new fake I can't afford the 1k+ real pair, cuz I have a passion for the community, culture, & personal experience.. but not the company who continues to wait close to a decade for bringing back their most cherished creations, & will do it in small #s & not in the stores who sell their normal products everyday. Even though they don't profit from the secondary market who sells them for way over retail, they are taking advantage of the free clout & marketing built in with the disdain of their own customers. They are already manufacturing in 3rd world and marking them up from $10 to $200, and have the ability to 10x the quantity, but will refuse to. To the extent that many fakes are made by the same factory, same leftover material, by same workers.. so it's a slippery slope, with many degrees of good, bad, and ugly, but I just operate in a space where it still makes me smile.. but I have an empathy of some of the reasons why fakes exist.. sorry so long winded, but I believe that's the reason why you made this a long form topic of podcast.. but keep it up, luv the videos and found a long term subscriber of me💯✌️
Great episode again guys. The amount of fakes out there has started to turn me away from wearing Rolex and just going with something like a Hamilton. Ps Adrian’s accent was half decent 😂
I'm new to watches but have had other interests where the price of the equipment carried status within that group. I saw people with expensive guns who couldn't shoot, expensive bikes who couldn't ride, expensive cars that couldn't drive and I'm sure there are people with expensive watches but no money. In the 6-7 months since I bought my first watch 30+ more followed, mostly used stuff on eBay well below the MSRP. I'd never really sacrifice to have a watch so realistically the absolute top of my price range would be $5K, which works out pretty good for me as I like the offerings from Omega the most and can be found in the pre-owned market well within my price range. Through the 30+ watches I've bought, I learned a lot about what I like and what I don't. I've thought about buying a fake Omega but the good ones cost $450-$600 which is a 1/4 of what a real one can be bought for. That same money would buy a nice used Tissot Seastar or Hamilton Khaki Scuba or a new Islander from Long Island Watches. I plan to sale about 2 dozen of the watches I have and spending that towards one of the Omegas I want and I'm sure at least 2 more of the Islander styles will end up in my watch case.
The omega authentication process, is that still a thing? I have tried the past 4 years! Just sent my Seamaster from the 50s all the way to Switzerland for 9 months for a repair and wanted information about the watch and how it ended up in Kansas City. My AD said Omega don’t do that and I have tried through Omega website.
Great episode, but you left out one extremely important consideration - the proceeds from the sales of counterfeit goods (including but not limited to luxury watches) fund some of the worst people on the planet, including organized crime, cartels, and international terrorists.
Nice video again. Just off topic, when is website up and running again? I’m shopping for a nato for my Seiko Prospex in blue 20mm but can’t get on there to see if you have one
It’s an interesting point that the fake market isn’t actually hurting the big brands due to the cost difference and online searches. Do you think the fake market is actually hurting Casio, Citizen, Seiko, and up to Hamilton and Longines? That maybe someone has $100-$2,000 to spend on a watch and is skipping over the quality entry level brands and going for the fake Rolex instead?
you make a great point and yes. If someone opts for the fake rolex for 600 bucks over a great microbrand for the same money then yes its hurting the little guys.
Finally a good episode. Honestly i had a hard time enjoying the first few episodes of this season. Good work on this one, it felt like season 1 again :)
I don’t have anything against folks that BUY clones or “replicas” when they know what they’re buying and don’t try to fool anyone otherwise. Some people just genuinely love that look but can’t justify spending thousands for a time telling bracelet. It’s when people try to SELL fakes as if you’re getting an unbelievable deal on a real watch.
This is absolutely true. But in my opinion this is the role that Homage watches should play. You can have that exact look and feel on the wrist but that logo should not be telling a lie. This is where you cross the line in my books.
@@marcusflack1523 splendid point. I stand behind my Duro collection like it’s my pride and joy; i’m a big guy so a 44mm $50 Sun homage is literally picture perfect and I love them but I love the look of a classic, tough dive watch. I don’t care what logo is between the hands and the twelve. But I definitely think I’d feel gross wearing a dive watch that I liked the looks of if it was pretending to be something it wasn’t. Idk, that doesn’t bother some folks and as long as it’s not a situation of “Yeah so and so has an awesome Submariner… Wait, it’s fake? He said it was real!” (which infuriates me lol), i’m glad they’re happy then.
Completely agree. Unobtainable wants/needs are a rationale for many. I work in pro audio where replicas of existing hardware is now a very common option for engineers when scarcity of an original means having to look at other options. Then there is the matter of the original (particularly vintage) being so knackered that it is good money after bad results to not consider modern well built quality options that attain similar or more often better results. Perhaps this desensitises an entire community of professionals to brand loyalty, which I think is truly absurd all things considered.
In this circumstance, I’m referring to equipment needs, not really an option.
Opinions will vary on this but the point remains and has become far less contentious in modern times.
One of the things I believe applies to luxury items including watches, is that luxury is unnecessary and the indulgence is part of the price tag, it’s not purely quality, it’s absolutely more vanity and egotism. In pursuit of the aesthetic appeal is a devaluing integer in the whole equation, so the replica market responds accordingly. To refer to them as fakes is completely inaccurate and intentionally misleading. I have both on brand and replicas and I have no f*_ks to give about whether the replica is a bother to the aficionado community who regard unobtainable as luxury, that’s not the whole picture imho.
I would be happy as a clam in dip to have a super clone minus the on brand logo because for me, I enjoy if not am mesmerised by the form and function of the aesthetic. I don’t wear a watch with any thought of what someone thinks of a watch I’m wearing, it’s 100% about me lol!
Such a great episode. I think there is room in the watch world for both on brand and super replicas. I have super clones I got for around 1kAUD that are remarkably well built and I love them for all my own reasons.
Watch brands also have a tendency to take themselves way too seriously.
More brands really need to consider building multi tiered versions of their products if they are truly that bothered by the replica builders. The replica builders are actually no genuine threat to anyone and in some ways offer buyers are more realistic cost access to quality than on brands, it’s just a fact.
Some brand’s really are just taking the piss with their pricing, I get it, they smell money and that’s what they want because creating the allure of luxury is just too easy for the experienced entrepreneur who is probably just as good at separating people from their money as they are at making a product.
Again, great episode that could have been even better with perspectives from the super clone / replica world
Thanks so much for the video
To the AET sound person, please address the harsh sybillance that is borderline excruciating to listen on near field and headphones alike!! Mic placement is the fix but some stronger de essing /plosives control in post would be kindly appreciated ✌️
❤
I enjoy micro brands and collaborations as much as some of my “brand” watches and as result there is not a need for a fake in my collection. You asked the question during the episode that is most important about a watch…”does it make you smile”! Rock you favorite watch, regardless of the logo on it! Thank you guys!
Bloody great proving re the smile side of things. Yes I myself are far more interested in finding a watch that resonates with just me. Not what resonates with a colossal marketing spend.
Sounds like Longines needs to digitize it’s records in a searchable database.
I’m glad I stumbled across this channel. Quickly becoming one of my favorite watch channels.
Actually I believe they have digitised it. Its a free service now if you have a longines they can look it up for you.
Oh yes because computers can't be hacked. Can they, well done you have just legitimatized half the fakes
If Rolex would fix their supply chain/production issues so people could ACTUALLY buy models at retail price, and not have to look at the grey market where prices are 3x retail prices. If you could actually buy an OP 41mm at $6k in the store (or say 3-5 years ago, entry level Rolexes were sub-$5k) then the fake scenario wouldn’t occur to the same extent. I’ve been on a AD “waiting list” for 12+ months, and I’m not going to spend thousands buying other things I don’t want to get preference on the list.
I own 3 AAA fake Rolex, I am on some sort of list with my AD but haven’t heard anything from them. I refuse to pay a flipper overs for a watch. The 1:1 replica watches are so close to the real ones hopefully in time it will stop flippers and allow us to go back to the time when you can just get the watch you want slightly off MRSP. And I work hard for my money and I can afford the real watch but hate flippers and dealer antics.
You sir make perfect sense.
Honestly, this is the best show I’ve seen in a long time. You guys were great, very informative, non pretentious and had me hooked from start to finish whilst trying to work at the same time. Trust me it was difficult 😊. I didn’t know the channel existed, I’m an avid subscriber now 😊. Thanks for the great content and advice.
For Christmas this year, my wife purchased a Pagani Design PD-1662 in root beer because I LURVE the GMT Master-II in the same colorway, but even were I to consider the Roller, I'd never wear it. I wear the PD wherever and whenever I want...it cost $130US. If it fails, it's inexpensive enough that I'll also do the calibre swap-out; it's not like I can reduce its value!
Nothing wrong with a Pagani "Design" (LOL) watch, I've got a PD 1664 (Panda Daytona) and I do wear it, but (and I have no idea how this works), it just doesn't feel special (probably 'cause it's not special!) like some other watches I've got do. When in reality I know it actually feels just like any other 120-160g steel, oyster bracelet watch.
***edit*** in fact I just did it, went to glace at the time on the Sub I "know" I'm wearing and I'd put the PD 1664 on writing this post then forgot, so it had stopped feeling cheap, cause the Sub wasn't cheap! ***edit***
My GMT "Root drink" came a few days ago. Banger of a watch. Just ordered the Lefty diet sprite, should be arriving in 2 weeks lol
Ditto. Fakes everyone out. Have the Pagani Explorer II Polar also. Very solid body, bracelets are nothing amazing and will probably be what fails.
@@WestCoastAce27 the Pagani "Explorer 2" really will "fake everyone out" cause no one expects to see an Explorer homage or fake, you presume it's real. And that Pagani is a 100% clone.
You wear a Submariner or a Daytona (real, fake or homage) and someone WILL ask if it's real or fake, it'll get spotted.
But an Explorer 2? You'll just presume it's real until you get so close as to see the logo. And that's closer than you think.
@@WestCoastAce27 I guess...I don't want to fake anyone out...I like the look and won't afford the Roller...
I’m happy that you guys keep things real. You stated if you made a mistake in your past and you acknowledge it. Thank you 🙏 you are great help to the community.
fanbloodytastic feedback. Glad this is hitting the truth mark for you.
This episode perfectly describes why I buy Christopher Ward. The margin is 100% transparent and... it is fair. Marketing cost also is zero. You pay a great quality watch and you pay Chr. Ward a fair gain. The whole industry should be like that. That would give fakes no room. Ps: I guessed for the starbucks to be gen for the great cyclops. Shame on me. Lol
As a customer, could you give a brief rating of your opinion
@@detgoat Could you tell me more exactly what you mean with that. I would be happy to do that for you.
Micro Brands are cheaper because they are Micro Brands.
I owned a fake yachtmaster when I was in management and working in the shop.
It eventually through an end link pin and shattered on the ground.
I missed that watch so much I bought a real rolex to replace it, and decided to wear something else while at work.
We all start somewhere...
Same here, bought rep first ended up with the gen.
So many stories in the comments with the same ending. Seems the fakes drive many people to the real thing anyways.
I think this may be your best ever pre-recorded episode. There was a tone of sincerity and honest fascination in your consideration of the realm of fake watches. The best points revolved around the idea that some people feel the need to own the fake version of a brand to feel like they then have purchase on the tier which that brand represents. What is doubly tragic is that such self-delusion robs those people of the opportunity of owning a gorgeous watch that is within their grasp, like a Tudor Black Bay 36, the Baltic HMS 002 or the Khaki Field Automatic Murph, be it the 38mm or the 42mm. I see similar motions in the school I work in where the children need the brand, when something that is not a famous brand may offer an even better product. When the world is so governed by the need for the perception of quality over the reality of quality, then something is extremely wrong. A superb episode because the sentiment was so valuable and true.
You never disappoint me Raymond. Your degree and level of insight always pushes my thinking just that little bit further. Your point about attainable now watches is so on point. I think for many people buying fakes they actually have little to no idea of whats on offer out there in the watch world. They gravitate automatically to Rolex as its a household brand name in the watch game and they stop there. Thinking that somehow they have made a wise decision. hmmmm.
But yeah there is so much quality on offer out there that is affordable, obtainable and very keepable (if keepable is a word)
@@marcusflack1523 Thank you Marcus. I just have never had any illusions about being able to afford something like a Rolex. I've set myself tiers of what I would like to own, mainly because I know what I can afford and what would carry me too far. You know, I hope he doesn't mind me saying so, but George really shone on this one. Everyone was on point, and extremely honest, but George had several fascinating stories to tell; they were amazing. I think it may have been Andrew who pointed out last week that the aim of a successful podcast is the feeling of being in the room and being involved in the conversation. I think that is absolutely true, and this week's episode nailed that sentiment. Also, keepable is a word, which is a shame because I thought you'd nailed a perfectly acceptable neologism.
This for me has been by far the most educational episode yet. I absolutely loved learning more about the fake watch market and yet I feel that a lot of us will come away far more vigilant.
It's a terrifying ordeal and one which I can only feel sorry for George in his situations.
I loved this episode so much and it's a nice change from the more casual episodes.
Keep up the great work👊
Ahhh fantastic that it hit the mark for you George. Yeah this was a great ep for us here with so much to dig into. Thanks for watching and commenting. Means a lot to hear how people like you respond to the content we make. 😊
Andrew, spot on, w'ere being bummed by Rolex, the real Rolex is 7k because they spend 100's of millions advertising/marketing, per year, that's what we're paying for. Great debate guy's
BTW, I don't buy fakes, but I can understand the normal person that does, however the people/celebs that can afford them, meh!
They don't do any advertising the stupid people do it for them for some discount
@@قناةالحقيقة-م8خ Watch any tennis open. Rolex pays tons in advertising.
I too once had a fake Tag Heuer from Bali when I was teenager. Wore it until the battery died (maybe like a year), but then was too embarrassed to get the battery changed! Really great discussion guys, absolutely loving the channel!
That was nice of you to shoutout Jody. Love his videos as somebody who can't afford Rolex, Omega, Vacheron, Zenith, etc.
I watch his stuff plenty myself. I think hes great!
I love Jody’s videos but I didn’t know he was on this
The fact that you guys also have troubles identifying fakes these days reaaaaly scares me. Thanks for the cool, informative and entertaining content.
Yeah scares me too. That’s why a trusted dealer is vital. More now than ever.
I love it when a billionaire’s kid shames people for buying a replica. If you’ve always loved a Rolex and can’t afford the real thing, go for it. This idea that you’re some kind of imposter speaks volumes about entitlement and privilege.
Personally if I could buy a perfect 1:1 Zeitwerk I would do it in a heartbeat. My heart would leap with joy with every time change and I would love it for exactly what it was, a beautiful recreation of mechanical perfection.
Yeah….but it’s still not the real thing.
Love the new season, it's on another level. Keep up the good work and looking forward to your next livestream. Your biggest fan from Iran, Sam ✌🏼
Bloody awesome IRAN....YOURE THE MANNNNNm SAMMMM. Thanks for watching
@@marcusflack1523 That's my pleasure, thank you Marcus for all the great work you've been doing all this time to make this happen. Hands down the best watch podcast/youtube series ever. ✌🏼
What's the point of owning a luxury watch if you're not going to wear it? Well, where I live, you are subject to lose it at gun point. Therefore, having the original in a safe and a fake on my wrist outside the house makes sense.
This was a great episode. Topic was on-point and all of you added perspectives/experience that make one think a bit deeper. On a more boring point, this was perhaps the easiest episode to watch. You maintained a nice casual tone, like a natural conversation, without stepping on each other and going down tangents. In other words, it was pro without looking forced. Keep going but as Teena Marie told Rick James, "Yeah, well, don't be too slick now!"
Hahahaha yesssss we may finally be finding our best angles. But def appreciate the feedback Mitch. It does mean a lot for our development. 😊
Great episode as always guys. I would never buy a fake willingly but those 1:1 clones are scary. Like you say a reputable seller is key.
"Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me, and fool me three times you're f**ked."
- George Bamford 2023
Love it!
Great episode chaps.
That should be on a t shirt.
Tombstone vibes 🪦
Third time, completely f*cked🤘
@@marcusflack1523 I think so
This was gold.
I only just found this channel a week ago and have been addicted. Amazing content guys.
I never understood why people get upset at what others do with their money. Why would I care if you bought a fake Rolex or if you bought a real one.
Found you guys today and have watched nearly of season 1 and some of season 2. Your content has definitely gotten better and I really enjoyed this episode and the one finding the best diver under 10K, 5k and 1k.
Welcome aboard!
I bought a fake Bell and Ross in Bangkok when I was 17 years old. I am not advocating that anyone should buy fakes but it was through that I learnt about other watch brands. Ironic as this may sound, it was the AAA and double AA replica markets that exposed me to the world of watches!
This is a repeating story in the comments. So many people where red this hobby through the world of fakes and now they have amazing collections of the real deal.
This episode is brilliant on so many levels. The fake speaks to the audience, the real watch speaks to the wearer. Agree with others you are taking this series to another level. 😁
🤘
gotta love the shoutout to Jody - Just One More Watch, one of the best budget friendly watch channel!
Could not agree with you more Gary. There is a place for everyone at this watch table.
I liked it guys. Love the idea, loved season one but honestly haven’t enjoyed everything in season 2. But this was just right. Just talking, good topic. No stig etc.👌🏻
Grew up in the jewelry business and have a ton of experience with knock offs. We always lived by two mottos
If they’re knocking you off, you’re doing something right.
When they’re knocking you off, its time to start working on what comes next.
Now thats a bloody good motto. Seems like its served you well Michael.
Best video podcast about watches on the Internet!!!
Yessss thanks so much!
Cracking episode lads. Must say nice to see an episode with the back to basics format. Fakes scare the life out of me and you guys just proved why we should all be concerned. (In my view and in answer to Andrew’s question, it’s never ok…even if it boosts the ego.) Just bought a vintage Kermit from a dealer and am petrified. Can’t understand why brands like Rolex don’t do more to help their customers in this space.
I have to agree with you NVA. When you start climbing the ladder in the watch game it gets increasingly unstable in that regard. The super clones are sooooo convincing. glad the ep held some good information for you.
They don't "do more" for the same reason they don't make any effort to stop (the right) people flipping watches from AD to grey importer (and in many cases doubling the price) and for the same reason the AD's won't sell to just anyone.
Because they want the market demand to be that high, it just adds to the prestige.
No one in the world would suggest that "fake diamonds" shouldn't exist, 99% of the clear white, flat sided stones in jewellery aren't real diamonds. A diamond carries that much prestige if you see what appears to be one you presume it's a "fake". From the plastic in the ones in your granddaughters play jewellery, to the ones grown in a lab in Pandora (god I hate that cheap, monkey metal/plastic stone junk, but my daughters love it), they must outnumber real diamonds 10,000 to 1. It does not diminish the value of a real diamond one little bit. If anything it enhances it.
Same with a Rolex.
Those trying to pass superclones off as real in social situations, fine, it hurts no one if they get away with it, only hurts them it they don't!
Those trying to sell them as genuine, not fine. If you're buying one outside of an insured situation, take the back off, hack the movement, no adjusters on the balance wheel? Walk away. Seller won't let you? Walk away.
@@fontyyy appreciate the reply and agree with your points. One day I will learn how to hack a movement without worrying risk of destroying a watch 😏… Maybe casting doubt is part of their plan to drive the layman to the massively over priced new Rolex Certfieds sold by their ADs ie if you want certainty you have to come to me and pay well above market. Personally I much prefer Omega and Longines approach ie we care about our customers.
Rolex don't care, as GB said, it's not taking away sales from them, only from the indy's/micro brands
Go get it checked out, I hope you have and OG Kermit BTW
This proves that having a real Rolex is actually more about the feeling of earning it / being able to afford it - a sense of accomplishment than the beauty of the watch design itself. That’s why wearing a fake will never feel the same.
Loved the episode!! Some unexpected directions that kept the conversation interesting!
We love the unexpected. Great to have you along for the ride Logan. 🎉🎉🎉
What an episode! I watched and rewatched multiple times. Good stuff 🧐
Glad to see there was so much in there for you. We def aim to value add to peoples information streams.
Hey guys love the show. quick question where do you get your watch wall clocks?
most are direct from the brands themselves so they cannot be purchased. Others only George knows I think.
Your shows are getting better and better.
Love it .
🤘
Great that it’s hitting the mark for you Mark. Mark my words we will aim to realest this process for you again and again.
That zenith is a thing of beauty!
best episode so far, also in terms of editing. shout out to the mvps in the background!
Thanks Christian. Nice to have you on board
Ziarex must be stopped at all costs. People are losing money since their mega clone watches started to be sold as originals on the aftermarket.
For Christmas sake I'm tired of hearing people whine about these replicated watches. Who would buy a lux watch on the street corner, ebay or a pawn shop? And if you're not buying it from an AD and your purchasing it on the secondary market you'd better get it from a known and reputable dealer and have it authenticated, or don't buy it.
Who buys a used BMW without taking the vehicle to a BMW certified-mech and having them check it exhaustively and completely?
Stop your crying when you get a so called "great deal" and you did not do your due diligence.
@@designated_hitter_EGANobody has a bmw checked by a certified mechanic 😂😂😂
I’ve been listening to your podcast. I just realized you had a you tube channel. Bravo guys. Love this show!!!!
Fab to have you on board with us in the land of visuals.
Great discussion guys. Early in my watch collecting journey I bought several fake luxury watches. At that time I fell for the hype surrounding luxury Swiss watches and there was no way I could afford the real thing. I was buying some of the best replicas available at the time and my first purchase was a Tag Heuer Link chronograph. I couldn’t believe the quality and feel of that particular watch which only encouraged me to buy more replicas. With each purchase however I discovered that the watches only had an illusion of luxury. Every subsequent watch had quality issues and many of them serious enough to prevent any enjoyment of the watch. I eventually had to admit to myself that I had wasted my money. I then discovered vintage watches and also the fact that I could get loads of enjoyment from watches at the more affordable end of the spectrum. I have been seriously collecting for over 15 years now. Along the way I have also managed to acquire a couple of expensive Omegas and I don’t really buy much these days as I’m very happy with my collection now.
My friend what a great end to your story. I love your honesty with how the purchases made you feel and interresting that the more you get into thiosgame the more the little things become deal breakers. But def so good that you have found the right way to play the game now. All the best Craig.
When you start collecting the natural desire is to want to build your collection quickly and you usually have your sights set on watches you cannot really afford. I think this is when the temptation of fake watches is very strong. If you can get past this temptation I have discovered it’s not just owning and wearing different types of watches that I enjoy but also the hunt to find the right one. This is especially true for vintage watches. My two favourite brands are Seiko and Omega which both represent excellent value for money.
I guess I don't travel in the 'right circles'. However I've noticed that most 'normal' people don't even seem to recognize if I'm wearing a 'luxury watch'. And then any 'watch people' who would actually care will probably realize it's a fake... So there doesn't seem to be ANY upside?
Also, spending $500+ on a 'decent' replica just seems silly. If you're going to spend that much cash then there are many respectable 'real' watch brands to choose from...
I never considered myself a watch collector until last year when I realized I had 2 basic casio watches, 3 g-shocks, a citizen Quartz, and a timex.
Now shows like this have me buying my first automatic movement, I now own a wind up pocket watch.
Starting to plan my entry into entry level luxury. An upgrade from Pauper Luxury.
Love from Mario.
Windsor, ON, Canada 🇨🇦
Just binged all of these over the last 2 days or so. Absolutely love it! Would love to hear your thoughts on watch modding, like seikos for example
I actually own a couple of San Martin watches and they are an exceptional build. I do believe they are built to look like it's a lot of very popular watches. However, the quality of their watches is impeccable
And your the richer for it!! Cheers!
I just stumbled upon your channel. What a great video. I really like how you are discussing the topic from different angles. Thank you for making this video. 👌😁
An absolute pleasure to have you on board Dr goloberanek
@@marcusflack1523 I am just bunch watching all your episodes. I really like the kids watches from Blok you showed. A really great passion project 👌 please keep in doing this format. You guys have amazing chemistry 😁👌
Genuinely interesting chat guys, thoroughly enjoyed it -it was refreshing to hear your honesty too about buying fakes in the past. My experience; I had a friend who travelled to China for work, and he asked if I wanted him to bring me back a watch - at the time I didn't own anything decent really, but aspired to. I asked him for a black ceramic Submariner... original I know. A few weeks later he returned and handed me the watch, for which I'd given him £60GBP for. And while it was a pretty "good" fake, I was filled with disappointment and regret.
I wanted to capture that feeling of owning the watch I'd lusted after for so long, and when I had what I thought would do that for a fraction of the cost, it just did not give me that feeling - not out of snobbery, it just didn't feel right, it didn't give me that feeling of accomplishment, that feeling of owning something which will be around for longer than I will and can hand down to my children. I would never have lied to anyone if they asked if it was real or fake, and I wouldn't have been able to be comfortable with having to explain to someone why I'm wearing a fake - I wouldn't have a decent enough answer.
That same day, I handed to the watch to my much younger brother who was delighted, and then a few weeks later, I stumped up the cash and bought a genuine Submariner for a good price at the time. This gave me all the feelings I'd wanted and sent me on a totally different journey with my watches from then on. It taught me, that no matter what watch it is, I couldn't bare to wear it if it was a fake.
There's plenty of people out there who will tell you you're an idiot for spending that sort of money on a real one, and, even some, who if you gave them a real one, they would say "no thank's, I'd rather not be a chump who just spent 10 grand on a stupid watch, this replica will do". Good for them, but that's not me I'm afraid!
Great show guys!
Great level of honestly there. And I think your sentiments will resonate with so many others out there in the watch game. Interesting how the fake seemed to motivate the actual purchase of the legit model hey. There is a comment about that tells a similar story from @TheCameltotem. Check it out.
I'm terrified of buying a fake watch. It's holding me back from buying anything used and not from a boutique.
buy second hand from trusted sellers
I just recently bought the GP/Bamford Ghost - LOVE IT. 😍 I want to get the rubber strap too (I wonder if a black rubber strap would look good… What do you think?).
Why not. Contrast is going to be an awesome change up on that watch every now and then. It will feel completely new on your wrist so I think go for it. You can always change to something else when you get bored.
What about a video all about the best looking/fitting bracelets and strap options, other than Bark and Jack nato straps?
But that would mean we can’t shill our own products??
@@AboutEffingTime And it would mean that Adrian would have NOTHING to say.
Fascinating opinions. Just incredible points of views. Great job lads
Needing a fake Rolex because you get too drunk and keep falling and messing up your Rolex is THE definition of Rolex culture
Hahahahahahaah nailed it. Nailed it. It’s just so true.
Loved this episode, really entertaining😂
Was dissapointed to see another watch youtuber being indifferent and being OK with wearing fakes in a Q&A episode.
Great that it hit the spot with you deskdiver. Nice to have you along for the ride.
My issue with fakes is when a person or dealer knowingly sells a fake for the same price as the real watch. I feel like that's where most of these celebrities get duped. A lot of them really aren't watch people like that and would never be able to tell the difference between real and fake so they get played
Until they take their watch to get serviced. Then the truth hurts. Ouch.
Hell yes, another episode!!! Question, when are Bark & Jack straps back? Ivw got a new hamilton khaki auto that is begging for one
Guys you are great just found your channel - following now. One minor gripe (awesome content by the way) the heads on your logo should represent your individuality more. Three skulls is hard to differentiate at a glance) and also will won’t let you cross over into some territories in the east. try more cool characters using glasses, hair and t shirts and shirts.
Ps. I’m in a highly creative business myself. Minor grip aside loving the show
The outro is 🔥
Good job, Marcus!
Glad you liked it Saikiranmushkara. Its poeple like you that I make these extra touches for.
@@marcusflack1523 Keep them coming!
That hour + just flew by. Great episode guys.
Zing zing zing🎉🎉🎉
I searched for fake Rolex watches before I bought a GMT Master II because I wanted to make sure I know what mistakes they make so I can be sure mine is real. Many people would be doing this and it may explain why the number of searches are so high. I did the same before I bought my Omega Seamaster.
Wow. So you bought a fake to educate yourself? Was it a super clone or something super cheap?
@@marcusflack1523 no I did not. But by searching I learned that fake omegas don't have a black balance wheel etc. So when I finally bought a watch I was sure it was real.
Fakes are so good these days that there is always an element of doubt even when buying from a reputable dealer. It's a shame that this is the state of affairs
“GP- it’s mouthwash for the eyes”, good lord where did that come from! Thanks for sharing bits of your collection!
The best use of a fake that I have seen is one of my friends has a couple really nice rolex watches and he keeps them safe, but wears the fakes out. So that he does not damage the originals. He only has the fakes as copy’s of the originals.
Buying a watch you’re afraid to wear means you can’t actually afford the watch and you shouldn’t have bought it.
I’m slightly ashamed to admit I’ve bought a fake watch before (with honest intentions).
I bought a fake BB58 to wear for a few weeks to see if I liked the feel of it even after the ‘honeymoon phase’. I didn’t want to drop £3k on the real thing and regret it in a months time.
Ended up buying the real deal of course… as for the fake, it’s sat in drawer with a kaput movement (of course) 😂
No shame in buying a fake watch. Buy fake watches!!!
Your best episode yet - and that says a lot!
Ahhh thanks Flemming. Great to have you on board🎉🎉🎉
THANK U GUYS. Loved it as Always. Recently i went into a Cobbler/Key Cutters Shop...He had FAKE Casio F91Ws for Sale.When i asked he told me they were FAKE..! GO FIGURE..!😎🙏🙏🙏
Hahahah not even hiding it huh
Great episode, thank you!
So I have purchased used watches on eBay. They state Authenticity Guaranteed and state that the watches are sent for independent Authentication. How confident should one be with this Authentication? Thank you!
I loved this episode, I am glad I have found you
Ahhh awesome that its hitting the mark for you Maria. More to come.
I agree with those comments saying season 2 is even better than season 1 (with the exception of Lucien episode, that one was actually the worst of all for me, but you compensated with a great therapy session last week). I have one kind request/suggestion: could you make a playlist of only the BYOI parts? Oh, and one more question, although I'm sure it was asked before, I just haven't seen it in the comments: Where can I get such cool clocks as GB has in the room where you're shooting? Thank you guys for what you do, AET is by far my most favorite content on the internet! Greetings from the Czech Republic 🙂
Good suggestion re the BYOI. I think that’s something we will do. As many others really resonate with this section. It’s like a surprise in the box. You don’t know what’s gonna pop out but when it does it’s super refreshing.
I contend that a majority of watches labeled “Swiss Made” in the under $1,500usd range have mostly made in China components. This is especially true for micro brands.
Where do you guys get the wall clocks? I have been searching for ones similar but can find the variety you have!! Do tell
Do you mean his collection of fake dealer clocks? Hates fakes, has wall full, LOL.
All these clocks come direct from the brands. Most of which cannot be purchased. It’s pretty awesome huh.
@@marcusflack1523 ohh thy are. Trying to find one for the man cave!!!
As a native Detroiter, I am so proud of Shinola. I have the Runwell watch you showed on B role.
Great episode, really enjoying your show.
Enjoying you enjoying it
@@AboutEffingTime and im enjoying reading this comment of enjoying your comment Matthew.
1:07:18 "they're still gonna get laid 🤷♂️" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 love Andrew
Can we make "Gerald Genta" be the new version of drink every time George says "Tag Heuer"?
Bloody hell you’re right. Gents gets a mention almost every ep. What an incredible legacy he left hey.
Excellent job...again. I read that you guys are the number one watch channel in Lake Stevens, WA USA.
Well we’ll we’ll. This podcast just gets bigger and bigger. Love it. Thanks for the comment Rich. More coming your way.
Best episode so far. Good job
Really enjoyed this episode. Awesome. ❤
Da bloody tasting Martin. Glad it’s hitting the spot for you. Happy New Year.
@@marcusflack1523 Yes this was watch banter at its best.
Another great episode. Interesting discussion
Crazy hearing George’s speech at 27:50 after having received this morning a package containing my first Omega. I can’t afford a current model. I can’t afford a vintage Omega auto. I can’t afford a vintage Omega Constellation “Pie Pan” in good condition, let alone its servicing. But I can afford a cool, vintage 1977 Omega Constellation Quartz Calibre 1330 straight from the Quartz Crisis. And wearing it today, having learnt about these calibres during the research, knowing their meaning in the history of horology, feels so much better than any homage or fake would.
wow now thats a bloody good story and what a wonderful end. Enjoy that Daniel. And thanks for your thoughts. Nice to hear these little stories!
Thought Adrian thoughts on the homage worth to the real watch with the degree analogy was spot on.
it's flawed though.
It takes ZERO skill to copy a degree paper. If it was hand written and you'd copied even nuance of his hand writing maybe you'd have a point.
So, it does take some skill to turn out a 1 to 1 3235 movement that can keep time to Rolex level of accuracy.
The quartz watches that are $20 in the fake market in China maybe, the ones that are $600 and can take Rolex parts many times 1 - 1 direct replacement...not so much I don't think.
Buzzing with Adrian’s mondaine, my first ever watch was a mondaine EVO2 for my 18th birthday! Recently picked up a 1960s vintage mondaine with a linen dial! Such elegant simplicity for a great price point
Excellent episode gents. As 'hosts' it feels like you're all becoming more comfortable and conversational in podcasting, less scripted and it comes across great. Feels like the show is really maturing. Good stuff guys, keep it up!
Ahhhh thanks Rinky. Means a lot. And great that you noticed the development. We were certainly aiming for that result. Can’t wait to see where this all leads.
That’s how I describe it to friends: 3 watch insiders talking about watches, let us listen in.
I’m 25 minutes into the show and truly enjoying the discussion; however, I am completely drooling over the curves, lines, and reflections of that Hamilton Ventura wall clock. I never appreciated the watch before but will be looking into it now. Cheers!
And you could also crack put your old Elvis records to go with that Hamilton. Bloody nice huh.
Hi, guys been wondering for some time, where do you get the wall clocks on your wall?
This was an amazing episode. Another aspect I would like to highlight, is the fact that (most) fake watches are made by and often support criminal organizations that do some horrible things(human trafficking and so on). Another good reason not to buy a fake watch.
Another great point indeed. Yeah who knows where the degrees of corruption lead.
grey and stolen market for real watches (mostly Rolex) are supporting criminal organizations.
not true, well no more true than of anything else built under (what we would call) sub-human conditions for near slavery wages. iPhones, most laptops, all the made in China cheap "supermarket" TV brands. Every pair of Nike trainers etc.
China is corrupt from the top down.
Lets not get into where the gold that is in every Rolex (the hands and the indices at least) comes from eh?
Have a look at where your " genuine" lacoste polo is made.
Man. Boring episode, but i am here for it still, dont change I think im just grumpy today.....Cheers fellas
All good brett, it’s a marathon not a sprint doing this kind of show - different paces, different vibes
Love your honesty. Thats indeed our motto. Dont sweat it. Great to know your hanging in there with us.
@@marcusflack1523 Of course! I adore this podcast, and im confident that I will enjoy this at another date with a whole new perspective.
One thing I was wondering if you guys were going to talk about was the point Adrian made about "feeling dirty" wearing a fake. Where does that feeling come from? Is it internal, or external? And additionally, what about the "dirtiness" of brands (specifically Rolex) who will not sell their goods to regular consumers? Rolex doesn't encourage or promote pure commerce (which should be free of prestige and classism), so if Rolex is bring "dirty" in this way, does it make it okay to wear their fakes?
Hmmm I think that dirty feeling comes down to the way you view yourself. I cant speak for Adrian, but for me to wear a fake today would jest never work. To me the point of this watch game is to attain and aspire for that real piece that ticks so many boxes for me. And looking down knowing it aint the real deal just makes me say to myself....What are you doing man? What are you saying by wearing that thing? But each to his own I guess.
First: You are really the best Watchcast 👍
I like the starbucks a lot. The dealer gives me only a laugh. So I buy a Steinhart hommage. Now a question myself, get I more fun from the original?
For the saved money, I can buy a nice Tag 😉 Even two !
As a new viewer of your channel [brand new, but have ⌚️ ed a handful in past few days], who loves watches but can't afford them atm.. I'll relate it to my luv for sneakers.. I've had a larger collection, then downsized, but only really sold when I found myself in hard times.. I have been burdened with proving that my purchase was fake before, & have the knowledge and resources to buy the best 1:1 fakes, but have never done it for whatever reason. I also had a situation where someone owed me money and I took a good fake pair of a hype shoe, and then proceeded to wear them once over couple years, and they just sit in back of my closet now. It's a aj1 which I've got/ had real pairs with varying values, but I've worn them all regardless of how much society will change their market share.. I bought a $90 pair in 2016 at retail, which was $2-300 until Jordan documentary made them instantly $1000 & now close to double that.. but I still used them the most, and then after 100s of wears, sold for $400 in good condition/ sole in fair.. and I'll wear the real cheaper ones vs the brand new fake I can't afford the 1k+ real pair, cuz I have a passion for the community, culture, & personal experience.. but not the company who continues to wait close to a decade for bringing back their most cherished creations, & will do it in small #s & not in the stores who sell their normal products everyday. Even though they don't profit from the secondary market who sells them for way over retail, they are taking advantage of the free clout & marketing built in with the disdain of their own customers. They are already manufacturing in 3rd world and marking them up from $10 to $200, and have the ability to 10x the quantity, but will refuse to. To the extent that many fakes are made by the same factory, same leftover material, by same workers.. so it's a slippery slope, with many degrees of good, bad, and ugly, but I just operate in a space where it still makes me smile.. but I have an empathy of some of the reasons why fakes exist.. sorry so long winded, but I believe that's the reason why you made this a long form topic of podcast.. but keep it up, luv the videos and found a long term subscriber of me💯✌️
Welcome 🙏🏻
Great episode again guys. The amount of fakes out there has started to turn me away from wearing Rolex and just going with something like a Hamilton.
Ps Adrian’s accent was half decent 😂
Def move to the micro brand world if you can. There’s so much fantastic value out there.
@@marcusflack1523 for sure, I have one or two pieces. Can wear without worrying / no one else having it.
Been waiting for this all day! Good Evening from Bangkok Thailand!
And a happy new year to you over there. Man I love Thailand. That’s my happy place.
@@marcusflack1523 thanks and same to you! Yes its a beautiful place. Been here all my life and no complaints!
I'm new to watches but have had other interests where the price of the equipment carried status within that group. I saw people with expensive guns who couldn't shoot, expensive bikes who couldn't ride, expensive cars that couldn't drive and I'm sure there are people with expensive watches but no money.
In the 6-7 months since I bought my first watch 30+ more followed, mostly used stuff on eBay well below the MSRP. I'd never really sacrifice to have a watch so realistically the absolute top of my price range would be $5K, which works out pretty good for me as I like the offerings from Omega the most and can be found in the pre-owned market well within my price range.
Through the 30+ watches I've bought, I learned a lot about what I like and what I don't. I've thought about buying a fake Omega but the good ones cost $450-$600 which is a 1/4 of what a real one can be bought for. That same money would buy a nice used Tissot Seastar or Hamilton Khaki Scuba or a new Islander from Long Island Watches. I plan to sale about 2 dozen of the watches I have and spending that towards one of the Omegas I want and I'm sure at least 2 more of the Islander styles will end up in my watch case.
The omega authentication process, is that still a thing?
I have tried the past 4 years!
Just sent my Seamaster from the 50s all the way to Switzerland for 9 months for a repair and wanted information about the watch and how it ended up in Kansas City.
My AD said Omega don’t do that and I have tried through Omega website.
Great episode, but you left out one extremely important consideration - the proceeds from the sales of counterfeit goods (including but not limited to luxury watches) fund some of the worst people on the planet, including organized crime, cartels, and international terrorists.
Indeed you are correct. This is a very dark side of the conversation hey. Hmmmmm
Great show as always! Cheers!
Nice video again. Just off topic, when is website up and running again? I’m shopping for a nato for my Seiko Prospex in blue 20mm but can’t get on there to see if you have one
Hilarious Crocs higher than Nike and Adidas regarding fake list🤦♂️Excellent content guys👍👍👍
This was a great episode. Love the videos guys.
Hey thanks for stopping by MrGMT
I love that snoopy director character! i need have it home 😃 .... by the way, great episode as always!
Ahhh nice spotting in the background of that shot. You indeed have a keen eye Martin
It’s an interesting point that the fake market isn’t actually hurting the big brands due to the cost difference and online searches. Do you think the fake market is actually hurting Casio, Citizen, Seiko, and up to Hamilton and Longines? That maybe someone has $100-$2,000 to spend on a watch and is skipping over the quality entry level brands and going for the fake Rolex instead?
you make a great point and yes. If someone opts for the fake rolex for 600 bucks over a great microbrand for the same money then yes its hurting the little guys.
Finally a good episode. Honestly i had a hard time enjoying the first few episodes of this season. Good work on this one, it felt like season 1 again :)
Have no fear. There are plenty of amazing eps to come. It’s only getting better from this point.
The #1 watch podcast in Virginia USA! 😎
Yesssss Virginia