In this episode of the Superlative podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams sits down with Peter Chong, a veteran collector and founder of Deployant.com. Peter sheds light on why Singapore emerged as a leader in independent watchmaking appreciation, attributing it to factors such as its affluent populace, English proficiency, and long-standing support for horological communities and online forums. Together, Ariel and Peter reflect on the evolution of watch collecting, the role of early internet platforms like Timezone, and how group dynamics have shaped modern collector culture. They also examine the changing economics of the luxury watch industry, from discount-driven markets to today’s allocation models, and the ongoing tension between passionate enthusiasts and brand-driven market strategies. With decades of experience, Peter offers candid reflections on Singapore’s unique position as a global hub for watch culture, the sustainability of collector groups, why passion for timepieces continues to thrive across generations, and more on this week’s episode of Superlative.

Check Out Deployant and stay updated with Peter:

- Website - https://deployant.com/

- YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@Deployantcom

Check out this week’s sponsor:

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!

In this episode of the Superlative Podcast, host Ariel Adams sits down with Adam Tomeček, software developer, watch enthusiast, and creator of WristLog, a digital tool designed for collectors who want to track the accuracy and wear-time of their watches. Adam shares his journey from purchasing his first G-Shock to developing a comprehensive platform that allows enthusiasts to log performance, monitor collections, and even receive AI-driven diagnostics. Together, Ariel and Adam explore the psychology behind collecting, why accuracy matters, how mechanical quirks fascinate enthusiasts, and why the “tool versus fashion” debate continues to divide the watch community. They also discuss the challenges of creating software for such a niche market, the opportunities for a watch “super app,” and the evolving relationship between technology and horology. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, this conversation highlights how data, passion, and design converge in modern watch collecting.

Check Out WristLog:

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

Check out this week’s sponsors:

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

Löbner - 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!

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Cédric Joos, the Brand Manager of Hautlence, to explore the vision and direction of one of Switzerland’s most innovative independent watch brands. Together they reflect on the company’s founding during the early 2000s renaissance of independent watchmaking, the challenges of producing unconventional movements, and how Hautlence continues to redefine the way time is displayed. Cédric discusses the brand’s integration with H. Moser & Cie. under the MELB Holding group, the unique opportunities that partnership creates, and the importance of maintaining a close connection with collectors while producing only 200 watches annually. From avant-garde creations like the Retrovision series to the evolving strategies for brand awareness in a digital era, the conversation highlights how Hautlence blends creativity, technical ambition, and community to shape the future of modern horology.

Keep up with Cédric and Hautlence:

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

- Website - https://www.hautlence.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!

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Barry Cheung, better known on Instagram as @BearWrist, and the Managing Partner of Classic Watch Repair in Hong Kong. Together, they trace Barry’s journey from an inquisitive watch enthusiast in university to his role in launching Hong Kong–based customization brand Undone, discussing the challenges and nuances of building a brand in the niche yet evolving world of watch personalization. Their conversation dives deep into the parallels between watch and car modification cultures, the unique psychology behind customizing both entry-level and high-end timepieces, and the shifting dynamics of the Hong Kong watch market. From sentimental heirlooms to value-driven vintage resales, Barry also shares his insights into the art and business of watch restoration. Listen in on their conversation as Ariel and Barry explore passion, craft, and commerce in the luxury watch industry, on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast. 

Keep up with Barry:

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

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

Check out this week’s sponsor:

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!

This week on the SUPERLATIVE Podcast, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams sits down with Andrea Maggi, owner and CEO of Squale. Andrea shares his insights into Squale’s journey, its design philosophy, and the delicate balance between honoring tradition and innovating for modern enthusiasts. This includes the sport’s deep ties to Italy’s spearfishing culture and the pioneering challenges of making reliable timepieces in the 1960s. The conversation looks deeper into the evolution of diving watch technology, the artistry behind luminous materials, the impact of regulations, and why Squale’s reputation, fair pricing, and family-led passion set it apart in a crowded market. Whether discussing the emotional connection collectors have with mechanical watches or the brand’s commitment to authenticity over fleeting trends, Andrea offers a thoughtful perspective on why Squale remains a respected name among those who value craftsmanship, history, and a true connection to the sea. Join in on Ariel and Andrea’s conversation to explore the brand’s rich heritage, technical expertise, and enduring appeal in the world of professional dive watches on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Andrea and Squale:

- Website - https://www.squale.ch/

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

Check out this week’s sponsor:

Löbner - 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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!