Superlative

Latest Episodes:

Exploring Leica’s Legacy and Future with Henrik Ekdahl Jul 28, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Henrik Ekdahl, the Managing Director of Ernst Leitz Werkstätten GmbH. Henrik is now responsible for the Leica watch and accessories business and previously held roles at IWC, BMW, Rolls-Royce, and Cartier. The two discuss Leica’s entry into mechanical watchmaking and how the brand’s optical precision and heritage in engineering provide a natural foundation for horology, and how Leica’s founder, Ernst Leitz I, trained as a watchmaker in Switzerland. Henrik also expands on why Leica believes in long-term product development, in-house design, and storytelling as pillars of sustainable luxury growth. Ariel has our guest detail Leica’s partnerships with Lehmann Präzision in Germany and Chronode in Switzerland to create their ZM 1, ZM 2, ZM 11, and ZM 12 watch collections, and Henrik outlines how Leica’s accessories division is expanding cautiously yet ambitiously, guided by product integrity and brand authenticity. Join Ariel and Henrik as they explore the delicate balance between innovation and legacy, and discover how Leica's future in watches and lifestyle products is being meticulously crafted with intention and precision on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Henrik and Leica:

- Website - https://leica-camera.com/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leica_camera

Check out this week’s sponsor:

Citizen Watch - https://www.citizenwatch.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

Understanding the Core of Swiss Chronometry with Andreas Wyss of COSC Jul 21, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Andreas Wyss, CEO of COSC, the official Swiss chronometry institute responsible for certifying the precision of Swiss-made watches. Andreas pulls back the curtain on COSC’s rigorous testing processes, the evolution of Swiss watch movements, and how COSC plays a critical role in upholding the integrity of the "Swiss Made" label. Ariel has Andreas reflect on nearly five decades of heritage, and elaborate on how COSC is doubling down on consumer engagement and innovation. Andreas talks about how COSC is adapting its certification standards to meet the future of horology, the significance of independent certification in the luxury watch market, and so much more. Listen in on their conversation to hear a deep dive into the gold standard of timekeeping accuracy and to find out why independent certification remains more important than ever.

Keep up with Andreas and COSC:

- Website - https://www.cosc.swiss/

- Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/cosc.swiss

Check out this week’s sponsor’s:

Citizen Watches - https://www.citizenwatch.com/

Ace Jewelers - https://www.acejewelers.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

A Business History of Rolex with Pierre-Yves Donzé Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Pierre-Yves Donzé, a professor of business history at Osaka University, and the author of 'The Making of a Status Symbol: A Business History of Rolex.' The two dive right into Rolex’s history and how it has been largely undocumented, why the brand’s secrecy is a deliberate strategy to maintain its allure, and how Rolex's approach to consumer engagement may be evolving today. They also discuss how the brand’s marketing shifted from precision to social excellence in the 1960s, the role of the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, and the impact of leadership changes on the brand. Listen in on the conversation this week as Ariel and our special guest fully dissect the history of one of the biggest brands in the world of watches and luxury, Pierre-Yves preview his newest book, 'The Making of a Status Symbol: A Business History of Rolex', and so much more.

Keep up with Pierre-Yves and Check Out His New Book:

- Website - https://sites.google.com/view/donze/home

- Book Links - https://manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk/9781526183255/

- Amazon - https://a.co/d/aqKK6g0

Check out this week’s sponsor:

Citizen Watch - https://www.citizenwatch.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

A Deeper Look Into Formal Watchmaking Education with Garrin Fraze Jul 07, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Garrin Fraze, the Program Coordinator for the Watchmaking Program at Paris Junior College in Paris, Texas, as well as the owner of G. Fraze Horology. Garrin and Ariel delve into the complex realm of watchmaking, discussing the present shortage of skilled watchmakers, the significance of formal training, and the hurdles confronting independent watchmakers. Ariel asks Garrin to discuss the Watchmaking program at Paris Junior College and why it is so important to seek formal education for the trade of watchmaking. He also details the watch repair and watchmaking services offered by his business, G. Fraze Horology. Garrin shares his insights on the differences between restoration and repair, the significance of formal training, and the evolving landscape of modern watchmaking. The discussion further explores the potential for content creation within the horological community to foster connections between watchmakers and enthusiasts as well. Listen in on their conversation as Ariel and Garrin take a deeper look into the world of watchmaking, formal education, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Garrin:

- Website - https://www.gfrazehorology.com/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/garrinthewatchmaker/

- Learn More about the Watchmaking Program at Paris Junior College - https://www.parisjc.edu/main/horology/

Check out this week’s sponsor:

Citizen Watch - https://www.citizenwatch.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

Two Men and Their Watches with Author Matt Hranek Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by multifaceted watch enthusiast and author of "A Man and His Watch”, Matt Hranek. Ariel and Matt dive right into Matt’s diverse career journey from photography, writing, and media, and why the emotional connection to watches is such a significant aspect of the hobby they both love. They discuss the current landscape paved by curators playing a vital role in filtering information and guiding consumer choice, and the importance of engaging storytelling in watch marketing. The two talk about why accessibility in watch pricing is a growing concern in the industry currently, the psychology behind being into retro and modern designs, and why they believe the current era is a golden age for watch collectors with so many options available today. Ariel and Matt share their insights on the influence of celebrity culture on consumer choices, and how the emotional journey of collecting watches often ties back to personal experiences and memories. Tune into this week's Superlative Podcast with Matt Hranek and Ariel Adams, and check out Matt’s weekly Substack linked below to hear more of his thoughts on the watch industry, and so much more.

Keep up with Matt:

- The WM Brown Weekly Substack - https://wmbrown.substack.com/

- Website - https://wmbrownproject.com/

Check out this week’s sponsor:

Marathon Watch - https://www.marathonwatch.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

The Vision Behind D1 Milano with Dario Spallone Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is sitting down in person with Dario Spallone, the Founder of D1 Milan. Ariel starts the conversation by asking Dario to help define D1 Milan’s character and culture, and how enthusiasts should think differently about the brand in comparison to other watch companies. They talk about the brand’s mentality, how making a good product and celebrating heritage come into play together with timepieces, and what exactly is the heritage that D1 Milano is making a commentary about. Ariel asks how they were able to develop a healthy mix between wholesale and direct to consumer, what was the reception behind their debut product, and how smart watches have impacted the market of sub $500 watches today. Dario shares his perspective on the difficulties of fostering understanding and appreciation for new shapes and designs. He also discusses the challenge of crafting and strengthening a product's narrative to help consumers connect with both the watch and the brand behind it. Ariel and Dario discuss the importance of setting aside personal bias and maintaining objectivity when creating products. This approach allows for the development of items that are confidently beautiful and appealing, without succumbing to ego-driven decisions. Listen in on their conversation to take a deep dive into the vision behind D1 Milano, why the brand has such a deep respect for product authenticity, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Dario and D1 Milano:

- Website - https://d1milano.com/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/d1milano/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

A Deeper Look Into Swiss Manufacturing with Stephen Roemer of SWC Watches Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Stephen Roemer, the Founder of Swiss Watch Company. Ariel and Stephen begin their discussion by dissecting the complexities of watch manufacturing, particularly the differences between Swiss and Chinese production, and Stephen shares his insights on the challenges faced by micro-brands today. They talk about the importance of quality assurance, the evolving landscape of the watch industry, and why the Swiss watch industry seemingly has some trust issues with enthusiasts. The conversation delves into the historical context of watch manufacturing in Asia, the price-quality dilemma, and the impact of marketing on brand success. They dive into how the cost of raw materials, components, and manufacturing is rising significantly, and why future watch prices are likely to increase due to lower production volumes. Ariel and Stephen explore the concept of a 'golden age' in watchmaking, where unique opportunities exist for smaller brands, while also addressing the complexities of pricing and consumer expectations, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast!

Keep up with Stephen and SWC:

- Website - https://swcusa.com/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/swcusa/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

Revolutionizing Watch Publications with Wei Koh Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Wei Koh, the Founder of Revolution Media and the Rake Magazine. Ariel and Wei dive right into the evolution of watch media since they both started in the industry, and the current challenges that publications today have when it comes to attracting new audiences. They also discuss the impact of alcohol within watch culture, the significance of quality over quantity in journalism, and how genuine passion and knowledge are essential for success in watch media. Wei shares his insights on the difficulty of maintaining creativity without excess and how cultural influences really affect watch marketing. As Ariel and Wei talk about navigating relationships amongst peers in the watch industry they highlight the need for genuine curiosity in conversations, and gratitude for the supportive relationships that you are able to create. Listen in on their conversation as Wei emphasizes the need for passionate leadership in watch brands, he shares his transition from media to watch creation, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Wei:

- Website - https://revolutionwatch.com/

- Magazine - https://therake.com/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wei_koh_revolution/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

The Artful Intersection of Beauty and Functionality with Max Resnick Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by independent watch designer Max Resnick.The two begin the show talking about the intricacies of watch design, the importance of consumer reactions, and the role of beauty in luxury timepieces. They discuss the challenges of innovation in established brands while addressing the current and future impact of AI on design processes, and how AI is a tool for ideation, not a total replacement for designers. Max also shares his insights on navigating design approval processes and the balance between heritage and contemporary aesthetics in watchmaking. He discusses his latest ventures, the significance of branding and the visibility of designers, along with the current difficulties in marketing premium quartz timepieces. Max highlights the necessity of a strong design brief and the importance of understanding the client to achieve successful outcomes in design. Listen in on their conversation as Ariel and Max fully dissect the artful intersection of beauty and functionality in watch design on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Max:

- Website - https://maxresnick.design/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/maxresnickdesign/

Check Out This Week’s Sponsor:

Löbner Watches - https://lbnr.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

Vartkess Knadjian: A Story of Heritage and the Untold History of British Watchmaking May 26, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Vartkess Knadjian, the CEO of Backes & Strauss. Ariel and Vartkess start their conversation by exploring the rich history of British watchmaking, the evolution of the watch industry in Ethiopia, and the dynamics of the diamond market. Vartkess shares his family's journey from the Ottoman Empire to Ethiopia, his father's influence as a master watchmaker, and the impact of political changes on their business. The conversation also delves into the transition from watches to diamonds, highlighting investment trends and the recycling of diamonds in the luxury market as well as the significance of diamonds in watch design. Vartkess discusses the unique identity of Backes & Strauss within the market today, and the future direction of the brand that includes a focus on bespoke pieces and entry-level models to attract a broader audience. Join in on their conversation as Ariel and Vartkess dive into the history of British Watchmaking and Backes & Strauss, on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Vartkess:

- Backes & Strauss Website - https://www.backesandstrauss.com/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/backesandstrauss/

- https://www.instagram.com/vartkess/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH