Superlative

Latest Episodes:

From Gemstones to Timepieces with Jared Silver of SH Silver & Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry May 19, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Jared Silver, the President of SH Silver and Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry. The two start by discussing Jared's journey from a background in gemstones to the watch business, the unique challenges of building relationships with luxury watch brands, and the innovative concept behind The Villa Menlo Park, a community hub for luxury experiences. Their conversation highlights the importance of trust, expectations, and the social aspects of watch collecting in today's market. Jared also dives into the emotional and community aspects of watch ownership, and how creating memorable experiences can foster customer loyalty because people buy watches for emotional connections, not just time. He highlights the importance of building relationships with customers and brands, evolving retail strategies to create engaging experiences, and understanding consumer expectations. Jared also addresses the risks associated with pre-orders and the significance of investing in local markets to foster brand loyalty and community engagement. Join in on the conversation with Ariel and Jared on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Jared:

- Website - https://shsilver.com/

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

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!

Rolex: A Gateway to Luxury with David Silver of The Vintage Watch Company May 12, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by David Silver, the owner of The Vintage Watch Company. Ariel and David dive right into the history and allure of Rolex, the evolution of the vintage watch market, and the unique challenges of sourcing and selling vintage timepieces. David shares insights on consumer awareness of Rolex, the impact of celebrity endorsements, and the significance of caring for vintage watches. The conversation also touches on the recent boom in the vintage market, particularly following the record-breaking sale of Paul Newman's Rolex. The two also delve into the intricate world of vintage Rolex watches while exploring the rich history of the brand. They discuss the impact of new releases on vintage values, cultural perceptions surrounding luxury watches, and how global events influence the market today. Ariel and David touch on the future of The Vintage Watch Company, preview David’s newest publication, “Vintage Rolex New Edition: The Largest Collection in the World”, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with David and Check Out His Latest Release:

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

- Vintage Rolex Book - https://a.co/d/cHtk4hH

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!

BRAND STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS IN HONG KONG WITH ALFRED LUNG May 05, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by watch publisher and collector of timepieces, Alfred Lung. Ariel and Alfred Lung dive into the current state of the Hong Kong watch market, exploring the factors that have led to its decline, and the cultural interest in watches among Chinese consumers. They talk about the shifting preferences towards simpler, more practical timepieces, especially with the impact of smartwatches on traditional watch collecting. Throughout their conversation, Ariel and Alfred explore the current state of the watch market, the strategies needed for success in markets like Hong Kong, and the interdependence between big brands and independent watchmakers. As they focus on the resurgence of brands like Parmigiani, they also discuss the vulnerabilities faced by smaller brands, the impact of consumer perception on brand longevity, and the challenges Tudor faces in marketing to a broader audience. The role of watch enthusiasts in providing feedback and quality control for brands is also highlighted, emphasizing the importance of understanding craftsmanship and storytelling in the luxury watch industry. Listen and join in on the conversation with Ariel and Alfred as they fully explore today’s watch market in Hong Kong, and so much more, on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Alfred:

- Alfred on ABTW - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/author/alfred-lung/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alfred.is.watching/

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!

DATA TRANSPARENCY IN THE WATCH INDUSTRY WITH HAMZA MASOOD OF WATCH CHARTS Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Hamza Masood, the Business Development Manager at Watch Charts. Ariel and Hamza start by discussing the intricacies of the watch market, focusing on the role of WatchCharts in providing data transparency and insights for collectors. They explore the challenges of data collection, the dynamics between the secondary and gray markets, and the impact of social trends on watch collecting. Their conversation also highlights the importance of consumer education in navigating pricing strategies and market fluctuations, as well as the mission of WatchCharts to empower collectors with reliable information. Ariel and Hamza delve into the importance of data in determining watch prices and how consumer behavior influences buying decisions. The two also touch on the evolution of watch media, the expectations of consumers, and the challenges faced by media outlets in providing quality content. Ultimately, they explore the relationship between consumers and the watch industry, emphasizing the need for better education and transparency in the market, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Hamza and Watch Charts:

- Watch Charts - https://watchcharts.com/

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

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!

STORYTELLING IN THE WATCH MEDIA LANDSCAPE WITH SEAN LORENTZEN Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by ABTW Team Member and Senior Editor, Sean Lorentzen. Throughout their conversation, Ariel and Sean delve into the complexities of the watch media landscape while discussing the challenges and transitions within the industry. They explore the importance of storytelling in connecting consumers with watch brands and the necessity for media outlets to adapt to the evolving business models in luxury media. Ariel and Sean highlight the significance of understanding the broader context of the watch industry beyond just new releases, emphasizing the role of media in shaping consumer perceptions and brand narratives. They explore the challenges faced by both established and emerging watch brands, the importance of public relations versus advertising, and the realities of investment in the luxury watch market. Their discussion highlights the need for long-term vision and adaptability in a competitive market, particularly in light of changing consumer expectations and economic conditions. Join in on the conversation today as Sean and Ariel explore the challenges of affordability, the marketing missteps of established brands, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Sean:

- Sean on ABTW - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/author/sean-lorentzen/

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

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!

SOCIAL DYNAMICS IN WATCH COLLECTING WITH TONY TRAINA OF UNPOLISHED WATCHES Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Tony Traina, the Founder of Unpolished Watches. Ariel and Tony dive right into the evolution of podcasting in the watch collecting community and how the watch collecting community has shifted from solo to social interactions. The two talk about the social dynamics that have emerged in the current era of collecting, the ongoing debate between vintage and modern watches, and the treasure hunt aspect of vintage collecting. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of watch collecting and the future of content creation in the industry. Throughout their conversation, Ariel and Tony explore the changing business models of brands today, the importance of social connections among collectors, and the fragility of luxury brands. They discuss how the pandemic has shifted consumer behavior back to appreciating analog hobbies and the need for brands to create demand in a mature market. The conversation also touches on the challenges of making luxury watches accessible to new consumers with the vintage watch market becoming increasingly competitive, and how future media strategies should focus on diverse perspectives and community engagement. Join Ariel and Tony as they talk about the social dynamics in watch collecting, the future of watch media, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Tony and Unpolished Watches:

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

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

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!

THE JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY IN COLLECTING WITH GEORGE BAMFORD Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined once again by George Bamford, founder and CEO of Bamford London. Ariel and George are here today not just to talk about the complexities of watch collecting, but they are exploring the greater psychological compulsion to collect in general. Throughout their conversation they explore themes of risk aversion in the watch industry, the social dynamics within the watch community, and how collectors are usually bound by a shared compulsion to acquire. They also touch on the early influences of collecting, the importance of art and imagination in the process, and the unique friendships formed through a shared passion for watches. As Ariel and George dive into the themes of childhood collecting, and the joys of tinkering, they begin to discuss how early experiences shape passions. George shares his thoughts on the democratization of photography through accessible tools, and the relationship between photographers and their equipment. He also highlights the art of photography and its impact on society, while also providing practical advice for aspiring photographers. Join Ariel and George as they fully immerse themselves in the world of collecting on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with George:

- Websites - https://bamfordlondon.com/

- https://www.bamfordwatchdepartment.com/

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

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

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 COMPLEXITY OF WATCHMAKING AND MANUFACTURING WITH ZACH SMITH OF HOUR PRECISION Mar 31, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Zach Smith, the Founder of Hour Precision. Hour Precision is a manufacturer of medical components, semiconductor equipment, and horological assemblies based out of Columbus, Ohio. The conversation delves into Zach's early experiences with machinery at a young age, and the challenges he faced in establishing a watch manufacturing business in Ohio. Ariel and Zach discuss the intricacies of watch repair, the difficulties in acquiring parts from major brands, and the importance of flexibility in the manufacturing business. Zach also shares his insights into the process of moving from concept to production in watchmaking, and the balance between automation and craftsmanship while emphasizing the detailed work involved in creating high-quality components. He explores the challenges of outsourcing and collaboration in producing watch parts, while also highlighting innovative projects and partnerships that aim to push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. Listen in on Zach and Ariel’s conversation about the manufacturing world, on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Zach and Hour Precision:

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

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

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!

NAVIGATING THE WATCH MARKET WITH EDOUARD CAUMON OF WATCHFINDER Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Edouard Caumon, the country manager at Watchfinder. Throughout their conversation, Ariel and Edouard discuss the evolution of the pre-owned watch market, the importance of trust and customer experience, and the dynamics of sourcing and pricing watches. Edouard shares insights on the company's dual approach of maintaining its own inventory while also facilitating a marketplace for third-party retailers. Ariel and Edouard also touch on generational shifts in watch-buying preferences and the complexities of international transactions. Edouard expands on Watchfinder's role in the market today, emphasizing their strategy in catering to both high-demand and low-demand watches while maintaining a focus on customer service. The discussion also touches on the importance of building trust in the U.S. market, the evolving landscape of watch marketing and brand equity, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Edouard and Watchfinder:

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

- Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/edouard-caumon-2a445148/

Check Out This Week’s Sponsor:

Citizen Watches - 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!

WATCH INDUSTRY REALITY CHECK WITH DAVID BREDAN OF ABTW Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by aBlogtoWatch team member, David Bredan. Throughout this episode David and Ariel discuss the current state of the watch industry, the intersection of music and watches, and the role of AI in design. The two explore the challenges faced by the industry today, including the disconnect between brands and reality, consumer behavior, and the importance of personal connections in watch design. They also highlight the need for creativity and innovation in a market that often favors the generic over the unique and how brands often prioritize profit over creativity. As the two dive into the role of media in shaping consumer interest, they also look at the need for strong leadership within the industry with its current lack of artistic visionaries. Join in on their conversation and listen as David gives us a reality check on today’s watch industry, on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with David:

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

- David on ABTW - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/author/david-bredan/

Check Out This Week’s Sponsor:

Citizen Watches - 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/