It's perfectly valid to appreciate RM's innovation and engineering. And just as valid to hate them on an aesthetic level. I'm not against spending $200k on a watch on principle, I just wouldn't do it with something that's basically unwearable in any situation I would ever find myself in.
LOL RIGHT?! We are have the catch phrase to collect what you love.... But then when things don't fit in the rules, we make people feel so little! But honestly... People should collect what they love!!! We have a short time on this spinning sphere in outter space! Do what makes you happen! Collect the things that fill you with joy!
Once upon a time in the bustling city of Luxuria, a peculiar trend took hold of the elite society. The city was known for its opulence and excess, and there was no better symbol of this than the Richard Mille watches. These timepieces, adorned with extravagant designs and dazzling gemstones, were insanely expensive and considered the epitome of luxury. As the legend goes, a wealthy tycoon named Mr. Goldfinger was the first to acquire a Richard Mille watch. Flaunting it at lavish parties and social events, he inadvertently set off a chain reaction among the nouveau riche of the city. The allure of these tacky-looking watches was inexplicably magnetic to those with newly acquired wealth, drawing them in like moths to a flame. But amidst the glamour and glitz, a peculiar parallel unfolded - the Emperor's New Clothes story came to life in an unforeseen manner. Just like the classic tale, where the emperor was deceived into wearing nonexistent garments due to his own vanity, the owners of these Richard Mille watches seemed to be under a spell of perceived grandeur. The watches, to most discerning eyes, appeared gaudy and ostentatious, more akin to cheap toys than sophisticated timepieces. However, the allure of being part of the exclusive Richard Mille club was too intoxicating for these new money individuals to resist. They wore their watches with pride, convinced that they were the epitome of style and refinement, much like the deluded emperor strutting down the street in his imaginary clothes. As time passed, the divide between those who genuinely appreciated horological craftsmanship and those caught up in the spectacle of luxury grew wider. Critics and watch enthusiasts called out the absurdity of the Richard Mille craze, but their voices were drowned out by the clamor of new money individuals, each trying to outshine the other with their ever more outlandish timepieces. In a twist of irony, these watches, which seemed more like a status symbol than a symbol of taste, sold for millions to people with more money than sense. The Emperor's New Clothes allegory had indeed found its modern interpretation in the Luxurian society. Yet, despite the spectacle, there were those who resisted the allure of Richard Mille watches and the extravagant lifestyle they represented. These individuals cherished the simplicity of timeless elegance and understood that true style came from confidence in oneself, not from an external display of wealth. In the end, the story of Richard Mille watches and the Emperor's New Clothes served as a cautionary tale about the seductive power of status symbols and the danger of being swayed by material possessions. As the city of Luxuria continued to sparkle with indulgence, it was up to each individual to decide whether they wanted to be part of the enchantment or remain grounded in authenticity and substance.
I think we can all agree that the person who bought a Richard Mille is most definitely a f@cling dick. Athletes who are sponsored by the brand get a pass. The fact we think it’s ok that there are people walking around with a friggin school or hospital or water pump system on their wrist is fucking insane!
I totally agree! The styling isn't to my taste (or my budget!) but there is no doubt that these are the companies pushing the boundaries of what can be done, and to that effect they deserve respect!
I respect Richard Mille but I don't think I would be buying their watches anytime soon. If I had the cash to spend for a richard mille, I could get a royal oak, nautilus, and overseas combined with cash to spare. My main gripe with Richard Mille is that they look really hard to read plus I find the dial to be too messy for my liking. Like there are a lot of things happening at once. I respect their mad engineering plus I do love the exhibition caseback and that they are trying something new, but I guess it isn't my cup of tea.
Merci !….I’ve been a long long time watch lover….and collector. With every new purchase thinking…it’s my last..a too expensive hobby. So..Richard Mile..great materials, incredible tech…but, aren’t they strongly inspired by Frank Muller ?…and price to actual manufacturing cost of a RM…could the ratio be close to Hublot ? (I’m going to get bashed). BTW…thanks for the hublot comment, think they don’t deserve the hate on some social media…they really have been very bullish in terms of innovation (materials, looks..not mouvement for sure). Well Britt, I just love your watch videos, keep up the good work ! Really great
DeBethune is more representative as today's Breguet rather than Richard Mille. Breguet was pushing for accuracy via technical improvements and clarity of presenting time. While Richard Mille meets the 1st part, it fails miserably on the 2nd part. In fact, most of the current avantgarde maisons fail on the 2nd part. They are more interested in showing off the technical prowess. DeBethune comes closest in meeting both criteria. That said, modern Breguet quietly innovates. Behind their classical presentation on the front and the back, a number of their newer movements have patented mechanisms, e.g. their latest Type 20/XX watches have incorporated new patented mechanisms, their Hora Mundi watches with the patented quick city switch mechanism, their La Musical watches with the magnetic silent regulator for the chiming.
While I see your point, both Hublot and Mille purposefully designed their watches very big, very bold, and very expensive for the point of appealing to the newly rich. It was in the design and marketing. I've seen both in person, a few different ones, and they are visible from across the room on wrists of people wearing $1,000 sneakers with the watch. All of them also rolled up in an ostentatious car ... one of them was in a Maclaren. Ain't nobody buying them for the innovation
*Strawman ahead: Not sure I want RM engineers designing & constructing commercial airplanes. Art sculptures that don't injure anyone, sure. But I'm still not even sold on the Park & Rec's maintenance cost $$ on the Montreal garden weight in a box.. Sure it has a billion pieces but when it starts losing time, who's the person that's going to dig in and say, "That's the part that needs a new lubed jewel"?
Britt, you are spot on. Innovation and art are important aspects of the horological world. Take for example artists like Mondrian. Many people, myself included, like the colors but think his paintings are just simple squares. However, nobody did anything like him before. Innovation and risk taking.
Wearing the slim 67-01g really gives you the chance to appreciate the details of the design and craftsmanship. Anyone who thinks it is 3D printed probably never had the pleasure of wearing one. Bot that is o.k.
"Collect what you love", and I can't love RM quirky appearance. Call me shallow for putting more attention on what the eyes can see rather than the value of what lies beneath. But that's what I am in an industry that grew on fashion and sparking conversation at parties. Beauty is essential.
I don’t know much about MBnF, Greubel Forsey or De Bethune , but RM that is Rolex multiplied by 20. I mean if you have 20 Rolex, that is equivalent to having one RM. , RM is liquid.
This is a great video. Yes, we absolutely should embrace innovation and the use of new(er) material, just like we should appreciate the time, money and effort that goes into developing a new timepiece. There are just two problems that I have, 1) most modern designs just don't do it for me (most are flat-out ugly and/or too big in size), and 2) I hate when they lie to us (i.e. TAG) or can't even distinguish between fake and genuine (i.e. Omega, Panerai). So yes, go out and design, develop and experiment. Just be honest to the craft, yourself as well as your (potential) customers!
Britt, I will append my observations to what you pointed out. During rhe pandemic many large market share brands became unavailable, although by unit volume they are not rare. In fact, they were easily available on the grey market. Many collectors sought out new brands combined with the growing undercurrent of owning something different. Hence, collectors are attracted to micro-brands. I will not be able to afford RM, but they are innovative and continue to be so. Great perspective and you are differentiating yourself from the YT herd of watch opinion makers.
Pushing things forward like the pioneers did in the past was commendable due to function (tourbillion, chronographs, flyback etc..) , while avant garde watches are overengineering watches and flexing technologies that have no real utility other than permitting some people to flex on there purchase! I apreciate the sleeper brands like grand seiko (spring drive) and omega (spirate) in pushing things forward truely as in making watches more precise while remaining somehow accessible to enjoy daily 😊
Britt! Great video, I do have to say that to me RM feels like Dr. Evil found a truckload of prototype Invicta watches and decided to hold the world hostage with the pricing. Long Live the Cult(s)!
It seems Sly Stallone is done with RM. It was probably a phase he got bored with and wears some beautiful vintage Rolex now. It cracks me up when something is ugly as shit and it gets labeled innovative. Nah sometimes horrible just means horrible
Watches fulfil a plethora of things for all that wear them. Surely one key factor is to get to the most accurate reliable timekeeper for whatever price you are willing to pay. So innovation driving things forward is great - but one bottom line - how does an RM for example push the boundary of accuracy and power reserve etc?
Quartz is not garbage if it is Timex. Casio or Citizen. Add some cost effective pieces to your collection in case you really wish to do sprorts activities . If and when you have a mishap you will not need to be put on antidepressants.
I love Richard Mille. As someone who loves watches and play Tenis if I had the money I wouldn’t even hesitate to get one, but I would like to have a readable watch, cause on most of them legibility is way to compromised
I have never understood the hate on Richard Mille to be honest. They do some cool things and make the watch world more interesting. It is like cars, a lime green Lamborghini is probably not for me. It is worth more than likely my entire net worth. I have no practical way to use one or store one and would be terrified to drive one for fear of a scratch or fender bender. And there are honesty many other beautiful, practical and affordable cars for me. But I still think that Lambo is cool, I am still glad it exists, even if it is not for me in any measurable way. I don’t want the watch world to all be perfect sized to the mm understated clones of each other within set categories. Anymore than I want everyone to drive the same style “perfect” little sports car I may like. Things that go off the wall are what makes hobbies interesting, diverse and worth being passionate about.
Well said! This 55 yr old appreciates the innovation and can't get on board with the design. Not the best eyesight and it's a smidge too busy for me. Peace
This is your best post. I love your content, even when I don't agree with it. But here you're saying something interesting and thought provoking. And maybe more broadly than just about watches.
I applaud innovation in watchmaking regardless of if I could afford or obtain the watches. I love the classics but also understand that watchmaking should not stagnate but still needs to innovate. Sometimes the smaller brands can do this without jumping through the hoops to get the budget from the group owners. RM may not be on my watch list (I can't afford or justify one) but they have a great marketing engine, they have supported some Formula 1 teams for some years now along with other high profile sports people. I have to agree Britt, we need these oddball manufacturers and more to keep needling the establishment to look to the future but not ignore the past.
I really like RM, some are too light for my liking but I do appreciate what they do. What I don’t like is their corner cutting. Like using poor quality base movements or trying to hide where their products come from. And yep, those rules are true! Britt has had the pleasure of meeting my GF. She is an actual diver. The first time I explained that my sea dweller could go down to impossible depths, she laughed and patted my head. Ps: I don’t respect omega for the co-axial. The whole point of the design is so that it doesn’t need lubrication. So why do they lubricate it? Maybe ask your watchmaker why and they’ll tell you about the design flaws
True, but innovation should have an eye towards utility, form, and function. Some of these watches offer nothing but exclusivity. Which is cool if that's what you're going for... but, let's not make the mistake of calling it innovation. I can barely read the time on some of these monstrosities.
Walked into one of the few Richard Mille storefronts. Only one watch was available and on display. Had a nice talk with the sales lady, who educated me on the rise of the Brand. I will never buy a Richard Mille, but I have to respect their rise in the industry and the innovation. And yes they are just not practical for the majority of us. Thanks
There is a place for all brands and aesthetics in watch making IMO. RM is not for me in aesthetics, and esp. not in price, but there must be a market for them and RM is meeting that demand. So 🤷♂️
SALTY IS HERE! And I couldn't agree more with all of this!! Aesthetically it ain't for me, plus I am sized out of all of their watches ^_^ haha. BUT I'm not going to pee in someone's cereal if they love RM! I can absolutely see why someone would and I can't help but appreciate what they are doing!
IDK on this one… Hublot is like a Zotye SR8 built with a Briggs & Stratton motor. (Sorry B&S…) It’s a knockoff of a Porsche Macan with a lawnmower engine… I would say that Christopher Ward’s Bel Canto has way more originality and progressive design than any Hublot.
Bahaha, I really cna't argue with this! :) And I did include Christopher Ward in here! Near the end of the video! There is absolutely no arguing with the Bel Canto!
Great video, as always. I have nothing against Richard Mille, but at some point one does need to be able to read the dial, right? Maybe not…we all have phones for telling time.
Here's my problem with Richard Mille, and frankly it's sort of my problem with the AP Royal Oak Offshore variants, and to a lesser degree Rolex: I would like to first state, this isn't *necessarily* the manufacturer's fault... That being said, it's the issue of conspicuous consumption. I would be willing to bet my entire life savings that less than 10% (if not more like 1%) of people who own Richard Mille watches could give two shits about any of the watchmaking prowess on display, and care only that they have a quarter of a million dollars on their wrists. Now, at the end of the day, it's not my place to try to dictate how or why people spend their money, but as a personal rule, I just find it distasteful. What's sad too is that the reality is there is amazing artistry and engineering on display with Richard Mille, but I feel like it's just overshadowed by the ostentatious nature of this subset of the watch community that tend to be their customers. Anyways, I'm rambling so I'll shut up.
If innovation truly captures the innovation of traditional watchmaking, it means the apple watch should be seen as the main carriers of the spirit of watchmaking 😂
It's true for any brand in my opinion. Nico is ok when Casio sell a 4000€ watch with the same quartz mouvement in another Casio for 600€. But Hublot selling a watch with a Sellita mouvement over 7000€ its a crime for him. Many other brand making that same thing. He may need to take a marketing course to learn how a price is set. Great video.
A huge part of watch collecting for me is how a watch makes me feel. For example: Seagull Heritage 1963, Pure amazement that a cheap piece of Chinese shite can actually be so incredibly good for the price point, and so accurate 4 seconds per WEEK for mine!). Doxa Sub 300T.....I AM Dirk Pitt....I'll save the world! Seiko 5 Blueberry GMT: Always makes me think of my love, many miles away in a different time zone, every time I see that GMT hand......Richard Mille (I don't own one), but they just don't invoke ANY feelings at all for me. I'm an old traditionalist, which is part of why I'm into mechanical watches, and I do appreciate the incredible quality of the engineering that goes into making one, especially the tourbillion models, but I just don't like the designs of RM watches. Too modern for my liking. For me, they fall into the same category as Hublot, for slightly different reasons. I wouldn't wear one even if it came free with a box of cornflakes. A RM doesn't match with my personality, life views, goals, or values. It would be like Adolf Hitler wearing a star of David.......Highly unlikely even if I could afford one!
Not a fan of abstract art, improvisational jazz or comedy, graffiti or Richard Mille. I think design (art) can be original but always needs a solid foundation based on the laws of nature.
I've always thought Hublot was cool, as was Richard Mille. I think it's like porn, if you ask people, nobody has it. I think Richard Mille would like to own many, but none can afford them. Then it's nice easy to just hate Richard Mille. By the way, I can't afford a RM either, but I'd absolutely love to have one.
I appreciate RM for what they are and what they do, just not so much for the clientele that represents them. If RM doubled production and had even a single model under $100k, I’m all in. And they can do it too with no impact to their bottom line. They’re overly expensive just for the sake of it. Think about it. Nadal and F1 drivers treat their RM’s like disposable marketing trinkets since it comes at no cost to them…while for the rest of us we can’t get a hold of one even at $200k.
Just forget what they cost, would you want to check the time and see a Hublot or Richard Mille every time, I certainly wouldn't. Advanced engineering doesn't need to be hideous.
Well I must be a very mediocre watch person as I see Grand Seiko and A. Lange & Söhne as the pinnacle of watchmaking and would never buy something as a RM, even I could! By the way, I'm here for the singing! 😅
Apart from me not liking the design of RM, I think what truly makes the brand unlikeable to a lot of watch enthusiasts is that in the past few years where the RM hype was off the charts, the brand got associated with very rich people like rappers etc that bought themselves a RM for the flex, not because of their love for watches. I still respect the brand and the technology that goes into their movements, but I’d never spend the money on one, even if I could.
I agree with you, Britt, that is why I buy more and more weird watches either with the colours, the case shape or watch functions. Love your content more and more, and in a way, you are an example of sticking out from the norm! (in a good way of course lol). Greetings from MTL
If you are getting into RM then Hublot needs to sit right there. Have you looked at Ming Watches? Would sooner wear a Hublot, or RM than the Rolex Smarties clown watch
Is it weird that the thing I look forward to in your videos is the part when you thank your Patrons?!! No matter how bad my day is, it never stops putting a smile on my face!! Love it!! Oh and congrats on reaching 70k+ followers 🎉 very well deserved 👏👏👏
It's not hate for me. For me the taste in watches is like music. Richard Mille is like the techno version of watches . I know some people love techno. But it's not my cup of tea.
@@BrittPearceWatches I totally agree, and I do not like Hublots either, with a big exception for the original gold and black rubber one - now that’s a watch I would love to own 👍
I enjoyed your video and I enjoy reading about weird modern watches, but I have zero desire to own one. And I am not a fan of RM. To me, they are grossly overpriced and incredibly lacking in good taste. Cheers!
The debate then becomes, are RM watches really innovating for a *reason* or just to look a certain way and charge clients more? IMO how are you innovating when quartz holds perfect time?
Happy to admit my prejudice against Hublot is just that, even if other brands have all committed the same sins, as for RM you should check out 90's Franc Mulleur neo vintage ceramic and new material watches, theres nothing new under the sun and the Mueller/RM interface proves that. Ming and Horage are the two brands normal people can still afford whilst having innovation in design and movement.
I absolutely love the Richard Mille watches , I would love the Orange McLaren model if I could afford it , I so love what they have done with watches , once apron a time Rolex was the new boy in class compared to Omega and other makes ,so age of the brand should not come in to it as long as they do different things like they are doing being the naughty boy at the back of the class room lol
I just want to say I disliked Hublot before Nico started. Though my SA sent me a bottle of Hublot branded Veuve Cliquot (both part of LVMH) as a windup
I agree with this! Haha! I think they're sooo insane and cool.... But on a practical level.... Nah! I can't ever afford one ^_^ I am sized out of them aaaaand too colourful for me!
I respect the engineering, the style is something new and different. The price is where RM loses me. Why do we hate hublot? The price does not match the quality of product, and I do have the same problem with RM.
Maaaan, I get Hublot price tag not representing the product. And RM is over priced haha, but not nearly in the same world as Hublot in my opinion! ;) RM have literally made a split-seconds tourbillon chronograph, that weighs 1.41 ounces.... IT ALMOST DEFIES PHYSICS lol!!! For reference, I had a titanium Zenith chronograph in... And I thought the material was steel because it was so heavy! (not a slight against Zenith, chronographs are just heavier!) RM engineering is something that..... I can't think of many other brands that are as ambitious!
Everyone knows that automatic watch is very complex and have hundreds of components. If exposed out as a skeleton design like RM, it is ugly and make complexity even more complicated. That is not my accepted principle which is to make complexity as simple as possible. Therefore I am against these highly expensive skeleton watches.
Well, if you like black squares, maybe RM is your way to go. But personally, if I am forced to take this kind of stuff, I would take Hublot. They are not bad at all. At least they do not look like Lego to me.
I’ll say it till I die, RM mechanically impressive and important (essentially a mechanical G-Shock), but their designs are just hideous (not the tunneau) the colors, the skeletonization,, just don’t work, FOR ME
The micro brands are slowly becoming the new guard they are taking chances that old watch brands are not and even kick starter watches the old guard are doing nothing but set on there but for the part and hope they sell watches because of the names of the brands I think brands like Richard Millie and Hublot and Jacob and Cole well be more appreciated as time goes by give it 30 40 years after all there was a time when no one really cared about Rolex. I really appreciate the watch sermon always a good time.
Britt, blink twice if Sylvester Stallone is holding you hostage 😆
*blinks twice* ... And Bubba Watson! ;)
@@BrittPearceWatches I'd be more afraid of Bubba Watson.
And Rafa Nadal 😂
It's perfectly valid to appreciate RM's innovation and engineering. And just as valid to hate them on an aesthetic level. I'm not against spending $200k on a watch on principle, I just wouldn't do it with something that's basically unwearable in any situation I would ever find myself in.
Difficult for me to get behind something that genuinely looks like it was made using a 3-D printer.
Bahaha, I get not aesthetically liking RM! ;)
At the end of the day, this is all that matters. Specs & “innovation” don’t mean shit if you’re unhappy with how it looks.
Lol number 8 is SO TRUE!! It's okay to like what you like people. If you like wearing it, go be happy!
LOL RIGHT?! We are have the catch phrase to collect what you love.... But then when things don't fit in the rules, we make people feel so little! But honestly... People should collect what they love!!! We have a short time on this spinning sphere in outter space! Do what makes you happen! Collect the things that fill you with joy!
Once upon a time in the bustling city of Luxuria, a peculiar trend took hold of the elite society. The city was known for its opulence and excess, and there was no better symbol of this than the Richard Mille watches. These timepieces, adorned with extravagant designs and dazzling gemstones, were insanely expensive and considered the epitome of luxury.
As the legend goes, a wealthy tycoon named Mr. Goldfinger was the first to acquire a Richard Mille watch. Flaunting it at lavish parties and social events, he inadvertently set off a chain reaction among the nouveau riche of the city. The allure of these tacky-looking watches was inexplicably magnetic to those with newly acquired wealth, drawing them in like moths to a flame.
But amidst the glamour and glitz, a peculiar parallel unfolded - the Emperor's New Clothes story came to life in an unforeseen manner. Just like the classic tale, where the emperor was deceived into wearing nonexistent garments due to his own vanity, the owners of these Richard Mille watches seemed to be under a spell of perceived grandeur.
The watches, to most discerning eyes, appeared gaudy and ostentatious, more akin to cheap toys than sophisticated timepieces. However, the allure of being part of the exclusive Richard Mille club was too intoxicating for these new money individuals to resist. They wore their watches with pride, convinced that they were the epitome of style and refinement, much like the deluded emperor strutting down the street in his imaginary clothes.
As time passed, the divide between those who genuinely appreciated horological craftsmanship and those caught up in the spectacle of luxury grew wider. Critics and watch enthusiasts called out the absurdity of the Richard Mille craze, but their voices were drowned out by the clamor of new money individuals, each trying to outshine the other with their ever more outlandish timepieces.
In a twist of irony, these watches, which seemed more like a status symbol than a symbol of taste, sold for millions to people with more money than sense. The Emperor's New Clothes allegory had indeed found its modern interpretation in the Luxurian society.
Yet, despite the spectacle, there were those who resisted the allure of Richard Mille watches and the extravagant lifestyle they represented. These individuals cherished the simplicity of timeless elegance and understood that true style came from confidence in oneself, not from an external display of wealth.
In the end, the story of Richard Mille watches and the Emperor's New Clothes served as a cautionary tale about the seductive power of status symbols and the danger of being swayed by material possessions. As the city of Luxuria continued to sparkle with indulgence, it was up to each individual to decide whether they wanted to be part of the enchantment or remain grounded in authenticity and substance.
Bahaha I loved this entire comment!!!
Right on man!!!🤟🏻👏🏻
@@BrittPearceWatcheshuman creativity or chatgpt?
Best comment ever!
I think we can all agree that the person who bought a Richard Mille is most definitely a f@cling dick.
Athletes who are sponsored by the brand get a pass.
The fact we think it’s ok that there are people walking around with a friggin school or hospital or water pump system on their wrist is fucking insane!
I totally agree! The styling isn't to my taste (or my budget!) but there is no doubt that these are the companies pushing the boundaries of what can be done, and to that effect they deserve respect!
I respect Richard Mille but I don't think I would be buying their watches anytime soon. If I had the cash to spend for a richard mille, I could get a royal oak, nautilus, and overseas combined with cash to spare. My main gripe with Richard Mille is that they look really hard to read plus I find the dial to be too messy for my liking. Like there are a lot of things happening at once. I respect their mad engineering plus I do love the exhibition caseback and that they are trying something new, but I guess it isn't my cup of tea.
Merci !….I’ve been a long long time watch lover….and collector. With every new purchase thinking…it’s my last..a too expensive hobby. So..Richard Mile..great materials, incredible tech…but, aren’t they strongly inspired by Frank Muller ?…and price to actual manufacturing cost of a RM…could the ratio be close to Hublot ? (I’m going to get bashed). BTW…thanks for the hublot comment, think they don’t deserve the hate on some social media…they really have been very bullish in terms of innovation (materials, looks..not mouvement for sure). Well Britt, I just love your watch videos, keep up the good work ! Really great
DeBethune is more representative as today's Breguet rather than Richard Mille. Breguet was pushing for accuracy via technical improvements and clarity of presenting time.
While Richard Mille meets the 1st part, it fails miserably on the 2nd part. In fact, most of the current avantgarde maisons fail on the 2nd part. They are more interested in showing off the technical prowess. DeBethune comes closest in meeting both criteria.
That said, modern Breguet quietly innovates. Behind their classical presentation on the front and the back, a number of their newer movements have patented mechanisms, e.g. their latest Type 20/XX watches have incorporated new patented mechanisms, their Hora Mundi watches with the patented quick city switch mechanism, their La Musical watches with the magnetic silent regulator for the chiming.
While I see your point, both Hublot and Mille purposefully designed their watches very big, very bold, and very expensive for the point of appealing to the newly rich. It was in the design and marketing. I've seen both in person, a few different ones, and they are visible from across the room on wrists of people wearing $1,000 sneakers with the watch. All of them also rolled up in an ostentatious car ... one of them was in a Maclaren. Ain't nobody buying them for the innovation
Its thickness is way thicker than my Citizen Perpetual Calendar Yacht LOL
The Ye Old Watch Enthusiasts rules were hilarious and so very accurate, I’ve never seen a better collection! Well done video - keep up the great work!
The Hublot with the front facing micro rotor at twelve o clock is incredible.
*Strawman ahead: Not sure I want RM engineers designing & constructing commercial airplanes. Art sculptures that don't injure anyone, sure. But I'm still not even sold on the Park & Rec's maintenance cost $$ on the Montreal garden weight in a box.. Sure it has a billion pieces but when it starts losing time, who's the person that's going to dig in and say, "That's the part that needs a new lubed jewel"?
The RM logo/typeface looks like something you’d see on a dollar store watch
Britt, you are spot on. Innovation and art are important aspects of the horological world. Take for example artists like Mondrian. Many people, myself included, like the colors but think his paintings are just simple squares. However, nobody did anything like him before. Innovation and risk taking.
I couldn't agree more!! I think we have a very similar outlook on this stuff!
That watch rule list was so accurate 😆
Exactly!!🤣
Your watch enthusiast rules were spot on....hilarious!!
LOVED the Ye Olde Watch Enthusiast Rules bit! 😂
POPE KARL ANTHONY IS HEEERE!!!
@@BrittPearceWatches… you absolutely nailed it! I was smiling wider with each one… 😊
Wearing the slim 67-01g really gives you the chance to appreciate the details of the design and craftsmanship. Anyone who thinks it is 3D printed probably never had the pleasure of wearing one. Bot that is o.k.
"Collect what you love", and I can't love RM quirky appearance. Call me shallow for putting more attention on what the eyes can see rather than the value of what lies beneath. But that's what I am in an industry that grew on fashion and sparking conversation at parties. Beauty is essential.
We need the avant-garde. Just don't look too closely under a macro lens. Things sometimes aren't quite as good as you might think.
I don’t know much about MBnF, Greubel Forsey or De Bethune , but RM that is Rolex multiplied by 20. I mean if you have 20 Rolex, that is equivalent to having one RM. , RM is liquid.
This is a great video. Yes, we absolutely should embrace innovation and the use of new(er) material, just like we should appreciate the time, money and effort that goes into developing a new timepiece. There are just two problems that I have, 1) most modern designs just don't do it for me (most are flat-out ugly and/or too big in size), and 2) I hate when they lie to us (i.e. TAG) or can't even distinguish between fake and genuine (i.e. Omega, Panerai). So yes, go out and design, develop and experiment. Just be honest to the craft, yourself as well as your (potential) customers!
There is a place for tic and toc. Tic where the brands refine and make our watches better and toc where they innovate and push the boundaries.
'it came from a gumball machine'. Classic! I appreciate the engineering but certainly don't appreciate the RRP.
Wow what a great stream and how amazing and true your 8 enthusiast rules are. You have us all tagged Britt. Love it. 👍👏👏👏
Britt, I will append my observations to what you pointed out. During rhe pandemic many large market share brands became unavailable, although by unit volume they are not rare. In fact, they were easily available on the grey market. Many collectors sought out new brands combined with the growing undercurrent of owning something different. Hence, collectors are attracted to micro-brands. I will not be able to afford RM, but they are innovative and continue to be so. Great perspective and you are differentiating yourself from the YT herd of watch opinion makers.
Pushing things forward like the pioneers did in the past was commendable due to function (tourbillion, chronographs, flyback etc..) , while avant garde watches are overengineering watches and flexing technologies that have no real utility other than permitting some people to flex on there purchase! I apreciate the sleeper brands like grand seiko (spring drive) and omega (spirate) in pushing things forward truely as in making watches more precise while remaining somehow accessible to enjoy daily 😊
Britt! Great video, I do have to say that to me RM feels like Dr. Evil found a truckload of prototype Invicta watches and decided to hold the world hostage with the pricing. Long Live the Cult(s)!
It seems Sly Stallone is done with RM. It was probably a phase he got bored with and wears some beautiful vintage Rolex now. It cracks me up when something is ugly as shit and it gets labeled innovative. Nah sometimes horrible just means horrible
I’m not sure how I missed this! It’s about time you came around. RM is 🐐
Watches fulfil a plethora of things for all that wear them. Surely one key factor is to get to the most accurate reliable timekeeper for whatever price you are willing to pay. So innovation driving things forward is great - but one bottom line - how does an RM for example push the boundary of accuracy and power reserve etc?
Quartz is not garbage if it is Timex. Casio or Citizen. Add some cost effective pieces to your collection in case you really wish to do sprorts activities . If and when you have a mishap you will not need to be put on antidepressants.
… “quartz is bad?” … ouch to GS’s 9F series… which I frankly think gives quartz a real fighting meaning in the collection world. ❤
I love Richard Mille. As someone who loves watches and play Tenis if I had the money I wouldn’t even hesitate to get one, but I would like to have a readable watch, cause on most of them legibility is way to compromised
Love this video, great content and conversation.
I have never understood the hate on Richard Mille to be honest. They do some cool things and make the watch world more interesting. It is like cars, a lime green Lamborghini is probably not for me. It is worth more than likely my entire net worth. I have no practical way to use one or store one and would be terrified to drive one for fear of a scratch or fender bender. And there are honesty many other beautiful, practical and affordable cars for me. But I still think that Lambo is cool, I am still glad it exists, even if it is not for me in any measurable way.
I don’t want the watch world to all be perfect sized to the mm understated clones of each other within set categories. Anymore than I want everyone to drive the same style “perfect” little sports car I may like. Things that go off the wall are what makes hobbies interesting, diverse and worth being passionate about.
Well said! This 55 yr old appreciates the innovation and can't get on board with the design. Not the best eyesight and it's a smidge too busy for me. Peace
Hublot is the Crocs of watches. Watch snobs hate them, but people buy them anyway.
And not only is it snobbery, most of the people who describe Hublot as being for the nouveau riche are themselves vieille pauvre.
Big respect to you for this episode.
This is your best post. I love your content, even when I don't agree with it. But here you're saying something interesting and thought provoking. And maybe more broadly than just about watches.
I applaud innovation in watchmaking regardless of if I could afford or obtain the watches. I love the classics but also understand that watchmaking should not stagnate but still needs to innovate. Sometimes the smaller brands can do this without jumping through the hoops to get the budget from the group owners. RM may not be on my watch list (I can't afford or justify one) but they have a great marketing engine, they have supported some Formula 1 teams for some years now along with other high profile sports people. I have to agree Britt, we need these oddball manufacturers and more to keep needling the establishment to look to the future but not ignore the past.
Tag Huer also qualify for rule number 1. Overpriced Trash
I really like RM, some are too light for my liking but I do appreciate what they do.
What I don’t like is their corner cutting. Like using poor quality base movements or trying to hide where their products come from.
And yep, those rules are true! Britt has had the pleasure of meeting my GF. She is an actual diver. The first time I explained that my sea dweller could go down to impossible depths, she laughed and patted my head.
Ps: I don’t respect omega for the co-axial. The whole point of the design is so that it doesn’t need lubrication. So why do they lubricate it? Maybe ask your watchmaker why and they’ll tell you about the design flaws
Britt, we’d all still be carrying pocket watches if it were not for innovation. Thank you!
Amen! Thank you so much! It sounds like we have a super similar outlook with this stuff! ^_^
@@BrittPearceWatches Hey, I still have and use a pocket watch 😅😅😅
True, but innovation should have an eye towards utility, form, and function. Some of these watches offer nothing but exclusivity. Which is cool if that's what you're going for... but, let's not make the mistake of calling it innovation. I can barely read the time on some of these monstrosities.
@@tricky92x Agreed!
Or using sun dials
Walked into one of the few Richard Mille storefronts. Only one watch was available and on display. Had a nice talk with the sales lady, who educated me on the rise of the Brand. I will never buy a Richard Mille, but I have to respect their rise in the industry and the innovation. And yes they are just not practical for the majority of us. Thanks
Good narrative Britt!!! No comment on the indies 🥃🥃🥃
There is a place for all brands and aesthetics in watch making IMO. RM is not for me in aesthetics, and esp. not in price, but there must be a market for them and RM is meeting that demand. So 🤷♂️
SALTY IS HERE! And I couldn't agree more with all of this!! Aesthetically it ain't for me, plus I am sized out of all of their watches ^_^ haha. BUT I'm not going to pee in someone's cereal if they love RM! I can absolutely see why someone would and I can't help but appreciate what they are doing!
IDK on this one… Hublot is like a Zotye SR8 built with a Briggs & Stratton motor. (Sorry B&S…) It’s a knockoff of a Porsche Macan with a lawnmower engine… I would say that Christopher Ward’s Bel Canto has way more originality and progressive design than any Hublot.
Bahaha, I really cna't argue with this! :) And I did include Christopher Ward in here! Near the end of the video! There is absolutely no arguing with the Bel Canto!
Great video, as always. I have nothing against Richard Mille, but at some point one does need to be able to read the dial, right? Maybe not…we all have phones for telling time.
Must be insane to buy such an expensive ungly new money watch.
Bahaha hey, new money is better than no-money ;) I'd love to be new money! Rather than... Somewhat-middle-class ;)
Here's my problem with Richard Mille, and frankly it's sort of my problem with the AP Royal Oak Offshore variants, and to a lesser degree Rolex:
I would like to first state, this isn't *necessarily* the manufacturer's fault...
That being said, it's the issue of conspicuous consumption. I would be willing to bet my entire life savings that less than 10% (if not more like 1%) of people who own Richard Mille watches could give two shits about any of the watchmaking prowess on display, and care only that they have a quarter of a million dollars on their wrists.
Now, at the end of the day, it's not my place to try to dictate how or why people spend their money, but as a personal rule, I just find it distasteful. What's sad too is that the reality is there is amazing artistry and engineering on display with Richard Mille, but I feel like it's just overshadowed by the ostentatious nature of this subset of the watch community that tend to be their customers.
Anyways, I'm rambling so I'll shut up.
If innovation truly captures the innovation of traditional watchmaking, it means the apple watch should be seen as the main carriers of the spirit of watchmaking 😂
It's true for any brand in my opinion. Nico is ok when Casio sell a 4000€ watch with the same quartz mouvement in another Casio for 600€.
But Hublot selling a watch with a Sellita mouvement over 7000€ its a crime for him. Many other brand making that same thing.
He may need to take a marketing course to learn how a price is set.
Great video.
A huge part of watch collecting for me is how a watch makes me feel. For example: Seagull Heritage 1963, Pure amazement that a cheap piece of Chinese shite can actually be so incredibly good for the price point, and so accurate 4 seconds per WEEK for mine!). Doxa Sub 300T.....I AM Dirk Pitt....I'll save the world! Seiko 5 Blueberry GMT: Always makes me think of my love, many miles away in a different time zone, every time I see that GMT hand......Richard Mille (I don't own one), but they just don't invoke ANY feelings at all for me. I'm an old traditionalist, which is part of why I'm into mechanical watches, and I do appreciate the incredible quality of the engineering that goes into making one, especially the tourbillion models, but I just don't like the designs of RM watches. Too modern for my liking. For me, they fall into the same category as Hublot, for slightly different reasons. I wouldn't wear one even if it came free with a box of cornflakes. A RM doesn't match with my personality, life views, goals, or values. It would be like Adolf Hitler wearing a star of David.......Highly unlikely even if I could afford one!
A thought has just crossed my mind. How many types of watch movement are there? Mechanical, Automatic, Quartz, Digital, Solar, Electric, Spring Drive.
Maybe do a video on what RM is actually doing that is innovative? 🙃
You have to replace "nouveaux riches" by "anciens pauvres" 😂
Not a fan of abstract art, improvisational jazz or comedy, graffiti or Richard Mille. I think design (art) can be original but always needs a solid foundation based on the laws of nature.
I've always thought Hublot was cool, as was Richard Mille. I think it's like porn, if you ask people, nobody has it. I think Richard Mille would like to own many, but none can afford them. Then it's nice easy to just hate Richard Mille. By the way, I can't afford a RM either, but I'd absolutely love to have one.
I appreciate RM for what they are and what they do, just not so much for the clientele that represents them. If RM doubled production and had even a single model under $100k, I’m all in. And they can do it too with no impact to their bottom line. They’re overly expensive just for the sake of it. Think about it. Nadal and F1 drivers treat their RM’s like disposable marketing trinkets since it comes at no cost to them…while for the rest of us we can’t get a hold of one even at $200k.
Nico has programmed me to hate hublot forever
Love the basic rules. So true!
Just forget what they cost, would you want to check the time and see a Hublot or Richard Mille every time, I certainly wouldn't. Advanced engineering doesn't need to be hideous.
Well I must be a very mediocre watch person as I see Grand Seiko and A. Lange & Söhne as the pinnacle of watchmaking and would never buy something as a RM, even I could! By the way, I'm here for the singing! 😅
Ur rules a brilliant more informed information at the beginning class 😂😂 honestly brilliant and yes quartz is rubbish unless its g shock or Casio 😂
Richard Mille is the new Franck Muller.
Apart from me not liking the design of RM, I think what truly makes the brand unlikeable to a lot of watch enthusiasts is that in the past few years where the RM hype was off the charts, the brand got associated with very rich people like rappers etc that bought themselves a RM for the flex, not because of their love for watches.
I still respect the brand and the technology that goes into their movements, but I’d never spend the money on one, even if I could.
I agree with you, Britt, that is why I buy more and more weird watches either with the colours, the case shape or watch functions. Love your content more and more, and in a way, you are an example of sticking out from the norm! (in a good way of course lol). Greetings from MTL
Ahhh now this is much too kind!!!
If you are getting into RM then Hublot needs to sit right there.
Have you looked at Ming Watches?
Would sooner wear a Hublot, or RM than the Rolex Smarties clown watch
Hublot = the Knickleback of watch making
Pretty chilly room!
Is it weird that the thing I look forward to in your videos is the part when you thank your Patrons?!! No matter how bad my day is, it never stops putting a smile on my face!! Love it!!
Oh and congrats on reaching 70k+ followers 🎉 very well deserved 👏👏👏
not a muscisian im guessin?
Do we revere Omega?
It's not hate for me. For me the taste in watches is like music. Richard Mille is like the techno version of watches . I know some people love techno. But it's not my cup of tea.
Great take - one should always embrace innovation 👍
Amen! RM isn't really to my taste! ^_^ But I can't help but respect them!
@@BrittPearceWatches I totally agree, and I do not like Hublots either, with a big exception for the original gold and black rubber one - now that’s a watch I would love to own 👍
I enjoyed your video and I enjoy reading about weird modern watches, but I have zero desire to own one. And I am not a fan of RM. To me, they are grossly overpriced and incredibly lacking in good taste. Cheers!
The debate then becomes, are RM watches really innovating for a *reason* or just to look a certain way and charge clients more? IMO how are you innovating when quartz holds perfect time?
OMG, the list was spot on. Agree, I am sized out of most of these watches.
Happy to admit my prejudice against Hublot is just that, even if other brands have all committed the same sins, as for RM you should check out 90's Franc Mulleur neo vintage ceramic and new material watches, theres nothing new under the sun and the Mueller/RM interface proves that. Ming and Horage are the two brands normal people can still afford whilst having innovation in design and movement.
Haaaaappy Weekend my dear Bond Girl 😇😅 wearing my Speedy Moonphase 🌚and acting like an Astronaut 😎🚀
I absolutely love the Richard Mille watches , I would love the Orange McLaren model if I could afford it , I so love what they have done with watches , once apron a time Rolex was the new boy in class compared to Omega and other makes ,so age of the brand should not come in to it as long as they do different things like they are doing being the naughty boy at the back of the class room lol
I just want to say I disliked Hublot before Nico started.
Though my SA sent me a bottle of Hublot branded Veuve Cliquot (both part of LVMH) as a windup
I love the watch enthusiast rules! They're perfect. I love the advant garde watchmakers, except Hublot.
Bahaha! I worked embarrassingly hard on that list you know! ;)
Accurate and entertaining list
I appreciate what Richard Mille does but they make the ugliest watches on earth.
I agree with this! Haha! I think they're sooo insane and cool.... But on a practical level.... Nah! I can't ever afford one ^_^ I am sized out of them aaaaand too colourful for me!
As bonkers as RM are I do love them… I just can’t afford one 😢
Just tasteless designs, maybe great watchmaking but still tasteless.
I’d like to be rich enough to afford to have so little taste.
Bahaha SAAAAME! New money is still better than no money! ;) hehe!
Thanks!
Britt, it should be "more THAN you think" instead of THEN.
Great take on micro-brands btw ❤️
BAHAH YOU'RE RIGHT!!!! I am going to fix that now! Thank you so much!
Glad I could help ☺️
I respect the engineering, the style is something new and different. The price is where RM loses me. Why do we hate hublot? The price does not match the quality of product, and I do have the same problem with RM.
Maaaan, I get Hublot price tag not representing the product. And RM is over priced haha, but not nearly in the same world as Hublot in my opinion! ;) RM have literally made a split-seconds tourbillon chronograph, that weighs 1.41 ounces.... IT ALMOST DEFIES PHYSICS lol!!! For reference, I had a titanium Zenith chronograph in... And I thought the material was steel because it was so heavy! (not a slight against Zenith, chronographs are just heavier!) RM engineering is something that..... I can't think of many other brands that are as ambitious!
#9 You will go out of your way/invent creative reasons to use your fancy chronograph timer
Richard Mille are incredible pieces of engineering. The prices are ridiculous but the quality is superlative.
Everyone knows that automatic watch is very complex and have hundreds of components. If exposed out as a skeleton design like RM, it is ugly and make complexity even more complicated. That is not my accepted principle which is to make complexity as simple as possible. Therefore I am against these highly expensive skeleton watches.
Well, if you like black squares, maybe RM is your way to go. But personally, if I am forced to take this kind of stuff, I would take Hublot. They are not bad at all. At least they do not look like Lego to me.
I’ll say it till I die, RM mechanically impressive and important (essentially a mechanical G-Shock), but their designs are just hideous (not the tunneau) the colors, the skeletonization,, just don’t work, FOR ME
The micro brands are slowly becoming the new guard they are taking chances that old watch brands are not and even kick starter watches the old guard are doing nothing but set on there but for the part and hope they sell watches because of the names of the brands I think brands like Richard Millie and Hublot and Jacob and Cole well be more appreciated as time goes by give it 30 40 years after all there was a time when no one really cared about Rolex. I really appreciate the watch sermon always a good time.
RM watches are awesome pieces of horology but I’d look like a complete dick wearing one.