Superlative

In this episode of Superlative, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams sits down and speaks with Maria Bashutkina, lecturer, consultant, and founder of True Luxury Business, about the true meaning of luxury in the modern watch industry. Maria shares her journey from discovering Swiss watchmaking as an outsider to becoming a respected educator teaching across Europe and beyond. Together, they explore how passion, culture, and craftsmanship intersect in watchmaking, revealing why true appreciation requires more than quick online knowledge, it demands time, curiosity, and personal experience. Maria and Ariel discuss the challenges of entering the close-knit Swiss watch world, the art behind mechanical design, and the importance of human connection in a field often defined by precision and exclusivity. They also examine how luxury brands must evolve their communication and customer experience strategies in a new era of transparency, emotion, and authenticity. This conversation goes beyond watches and explores how it’s about the soul of craftsmanship, the culture of excellence, and the future of what Maria calls the “true luxury business”.

Keep up with Maria and True Luxury Business:

- Website: https://trueluxury.business/

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trueluxury.business

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariabashutkina/

Check out this week’s sponsor - Movado:

- https://www.movado.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 Superlative, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams sits down with Theodore de Turckheim, Chief Marketing Officer of Micromilspec. Together they explore how the Norwegian brand has evolved from creating bespoke timepieces for elite military squadrons to establishing itself as a serious contender in the modern luxury watch landscape. Theodore shares his unique path from the structured corporate culture of IWC Schaffhausen and Richemont to the creative freedom of a small, independent brand, reflecting on how agility and authenticity have fueled Micromilspec’s growth. The conversation dives into the company’s shift from tactical tool watches to broader lifestyle collections, the role of humor and storytelling in humanizing a watch brand, and why today’s collectors value connection and transparency as much as precision and heritage. From the debut of the Milgraph at Geneva Watch Days to the brand’s new ventures into extreme sports collaborations, Ariel and Theodore unpack what it means to build a bold, personality-driven brand in an industry often known for its formality, and how Micromilspec is proving that even serious watches can have a sense of humor.

Keep up with Theodore and Micromilspec:

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

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

Check out this week’s sponsor - Movado:

- https://www.movado.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 special episode of Superlative, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams takes listeners inside Intersect Los Angeles 2025, a vibrant, community-driven watch event redefining how enthusiasts connect with brands. Unlike traditional trade shows, Intersect is for the brands, by the brands and it is a collaborative effort led by independent creators like Wes Kwok of Nodus, Peter Cho of Jack Mason, and Marcus Walchli from Formex. Together, they’ve built a space that celebrates passion over pretension, camaraderie over commerce, and creativity over corporate polish. While speaking with all three, Ariel explores how this movement began as a small gathering in Los Angeles and grew into a multi-city series uniting microbrands and collectors through shared enthusiasm, not sales pitches. Dive into the episode now to hear how Intersect champions direct relationships between founders and fans, why it thrives on authenticity, and how it’s shaping the future of watch collecting in America, one handshake, story, and wrist-check at a time.

- Intersect: https://www.intersectwatchshow.com/

- Nodus: https://www.noduswatches.com/

- Jack Mason: https://jackmasonbrand.com/

- Formex: https://formexwatch.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!

*Sponsored Episode

On this episode of Superlative, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams sits down with Fred Savage, actor, director, and founder of Timepiece Grading Specialists (TGS), about the evolving culture of watch collecting and the critical role of trust in the secondary market. Fred shares how his own experience as a collector led to the creation of TGS, a company dedicated to impartial authentication, detailed condition grading, and transparent reporting to empower buyers and sellers alike. The conversation explores how grading standards and transparency can lower barriers to entry, create confidence for first-time buyers, and strengthen long-term engagement within the watch community. Ariel and Fred also discuss how watches act as cultural connectors across professions and lifestyles, why the secondary market is increasingly shaping the industry’s direction, and how brands can better position themselves to meet the expectations of American consumers. Join Ariel and Fred as they discuss how combining passion, transparency, and expertise can foster trust and shape the future of watch collecting, and so much more on this week’s episode of the Superlative podcast.

Keep up with Fred and Timepiece Grading Specialists:

- Website: https://timepiecegrading.com/

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

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!

On this episode of Superlative, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams sits down with Giovanni Moro, co-founder of the Milan-based independent brand UNIMATIC. Giovanni shares the story of how two industrial designers transformed a shared passion for collecting into a globally recognized watch company. From the early days of designing the Modello Uno without a business plan, to building a reputation for stripped-down, functional tool watches with strong design integrity, Giovanni explains the philosophy that continues to drive UNIMATIC forward. The conversation explores how Italian culture, industrial design principles, and a focus on timeless archetypes inform UNIMATIC’s unique aesthetic, as well as why the brand has resisted luxury-driven trends in favor of fair pricing and authenticity. Listen in on their conversation as Giovanni highlights the brand’s celebrated collaborations, the balance between limited editions and core collections, and the future of UNIMATIC as it continues to evolve while remaining true to its founding values on this week’s episode of the Superlative Podcast.

Keep up with Giovanni and UNIMATIC:

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

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

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!

On this episode of Superlative, host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Chris Hall, watch journalist and publisher of “The Fourth Wheel”, to examine the changing landscape of luxury watch media and independent watchmaking. Together, they discuss the challenges of sustaining credibility in an industry where brands often prefer control over narrative, the impact of shifting from print to digital platforms, and the evolving role of independent voices in shaping watch culture as a true global hobby. Chris shares insights from his newly launched Independent Watchmaking Report, highlighting the optimism among independent brands, their creative significance, and the market forces influencing their future. Join in on their conversation as Ariel and Chris explore the balance between storytelling and marketing, the power of niche communities, and why supporting independent media is critical for the long-term vitality of the watch industry.

Keep up with Chris:

- The Independent Watchmaking Report: https://chrisjameshall.substack.com/p/the-independent-watchmaking-report

- The Fourth Wheel: https://chrisjameshall.substack.com/

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.fourth.wheel/

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 and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams sits down with Julien Tornare, the dynamic CEO of Hublot, to discuss the brand’s bold direction within the luxury watch industry. Tornare shares his journey across LVMH’s leading maisons, from revitalizing Zenith to taking on the challenge of steering Hublot, a brand renowned for its disruptive spirit, innovative use of materials, and unconventional approach to watchmaking. The conversation explores Hublot’s evolution from its rule-breaking origins pairing rubber with gold, to its leadership in colored ceramics, sapphire innovations, and groundbreaking marketing strategies. Tornare also highlights his vision to reinforce Hublot’s reputation for high-end horology, expand its global community through Hublotista, and redefine the luxury customer experience by combining exceptional products with authentic, personalized engagement. Tune in with Ariel and Julien for a candid look into how one of the industry’s most polarizing yet pioneering brands continues to push boundaries under Tornare’s leadership.

Check Out Hublot:

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

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

- Hublotista: Owners’ Community - https://www.hublot.com/en-us/your-hublot

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 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!