Faye and her guest, Laura Warrilow from Fellows Auctioneers, explore the fascinating world of rare and vintage watches. They discuss the significance of these timepieces as cultural artifacts, the evolution of the auction process, and why provenance matters in determining value.
You’ll hear about iconic models like the COMEX prototype, TAG Heuer Monaco, Omega Speedmaster, and the legendary Paul Newman Daytona, and learn what makes them so sought after. The conversation also touches on trust in the auction market and how collectors navigate it.
TAKEAWAYS
-Watches are cultural artifacts that are online-focused and tell unique stories.-The auction process has become more online focused.-Building trust with clients is crucial in the auction market.-Provenance significantly increases a watch’s value.-Rare watches are often found in auction houses rather than retail.-Collectors appreciate the history and authenticity of vintage pieces.-The COMEX prototype watch is a unique collector’s item.-The TAG Heuer Monaco is iconic due to its link with Steve McQueen.-The Omega Speedmaster was the first watch on the moon.-The Paul Newman Daytona is one of the most sought after watches.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Exploring Rare and Vintage Watches
02:31 The Journey into Auction Houses
05:08 Understanding the Auction Process
08:01 Building Trust in the Auction Market
10:49 Selling Watches at Auction
13:48 The Importance of Provenance
16:40 Defining Rare and Vintage Watches
19:08 The Collector’s Perspective
22:12 Highlighting Iconic Timepieces
25:01 The Significance of the COMEX Prototype
27:37 The Legacy of the TAG Heuer Monaco
30:45 The Omega Speedmaster’s Historic Value
33:15 The Rolex Submariner’s Unique Story
36:19 The Paul Newman Daytona Enigma
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram: watchworldwithfaye
CREDITS
Guest: Laura Warrilow
Fellows Auctioneers
Host: Faye Soteri
Production: Keenlii
Producer: Barry Keegan
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SUPPORT OUR PODCAST
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
ABOUT WATCH WORLD WITH FAYE SOTERI
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20 years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you credible, compelling voices in the watch industry, from independent artisans to haute horology titans, and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture that make every watch unique.
In this episode of Watch World with Faye, recorded at the Fears boutique in Bristol, Faye Soteri meets Nicholas Bowman-Scargill — the great-great-great-grandson of founder Edwin Fear — to discuss what it means to revive and run one of Britain’s oldest and youngest watch companies.
From the rebirth of Fears to its quietly confident design philosophy and “good capitalism” ethos, Nicholas shares how integrity, restraint, and respect shape everything from watchmaking to customer experience.
TAKEAWAYS:
– Fears is one of Britain’s oldest and youngest watch brands.
– Nicholas revived the company after 39 years of dormancy.
– “Elegantly understated” defines both the watches and the people behind them.
– Design restraint and detail create confidence and longevity.
– Collaboration should reveal a brand’s hidden personality — not dilute it.
– Fears leads with integrity, empathy, and human connection.
– Building “good capitalism” means growth with conscience and respect.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 The Legacy of Fears Watches.
02:54 Design Philosophy and Craftsmanship.
05:30 Collaboration and Brand Identity.
08:26 Customer Experience and Service.
11:24 Good Capitalism and Business Ethics.
14:14 The Future of Independent Watchmaking.
17:05 Community and Heritage Division.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
https://watchworld.com
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram: https://instagram.com/watchworld
CREDITS
Guest
Nicholas Bowman-Scargill
Managing Director of the Fears Watch Company
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasbowmanscargill/
Fears Website: https://www.fearswatches.com
Host: Faye Soteri (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/fayesoteri
Production: Keenlii (https://keenlii.com) | Instagram: https://instagram.com/keenlii
Producer: Barry Keegan (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan)
SUBSCRIBE AND ENGAGE
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
SUPPORT OUR PODCAST
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
ABOUT WATCH WORLD WITH FAYE SOTERI
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
Faye Soteri and Mark Toulson unpack the pull of resurrection in watches—from Speedmaster lore and modern METAS movements to Universal Genève’s delayed relaunch and why names like Favre-Leuba, Chapek, Moser, and Bovet keep returning. They weigh founders vs balance sheets, re-editions vs reinvention, and how archives meet today’s tech. Tune in now.
Takeaways
• The Speedmaster's design has made it a timeless classic.
• Brands can experience a revival when the timing is right.
• The legacy of a brand often reflects the vision of its founder.
• Resurrected brands can carry historical significance and hype.
• Innovation in watch technology enhances traditional designs.
• The watch industry is influenced by external factors like politics and economics.
• Heritage can be both a duty and a license for reinvention.
• The success of a brand's resurrection often depends on its storytelling.
• Collectors play a significant role in shaping brand direction.
• The future of watch brands may hinge on their ability to adapt and innovate.
Chapters
00:00 The Timeless Appeal of Iconic Watches
03:53 Resurrection of Dormant Brands
11:09 The Role of Founders in Brand Legacy
18:16 Balancing Heritage and Innovation
27:16 The Future of Watch Brands in a Changing Market
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
https://watchworld.com
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram: https://instagram.com/watchworld
CREDITS
Host: Faye Soteri (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/fayesoteri
Guest: Libby Brodie
https://www.linkedin.com/in/libby-brodie
Production: Keenlii (https://keenlii.com) | Instagram: https://instagram.com/keenlii
Producer: Barry Keegan (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan)
SUBSCRIBE AND ENGAGE
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
SUPPORT OUR PODCAST
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
ABOUT WATCH WORLD WITH FAYE SOTERI
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
Season two of Watch World with Faye opens in style—on the water at Bray Marina. Faye sits down with acclaimed wine consultant and lifestyle voice Libby Brodie for an afternoon of sparkling wines and nautically inspired timepieces. Together, they pair four distinctive watches—Doxa, Breitling, Rolex, and Patek Philippe—with equally remarkable wines and champagnes. It’s a conversation that blends luxury, storytelling, and discovery, showing how curiosity connects two worlds.
Takeaways
- Libby’s bold career pivot from theatre to wine
- Nautical watches meet sparkling pairings
-Dox and Sea Change Rosé Prosecco
- Breitling SuperOcean and Sparklehorse
- Rolex and Ruinart embody subtle elegance
- Patek and Billecart-Salmon share rare prestige
- And more...
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Nautical Themes and Wine
02:32 Libby's Journey into the Wine Industry
04:39 The Storytelling Aspect of Wine and Watches
07:30 Doxa Sub 200T: A Dive Watch with a Story
10:01 Sea Change Rosé Prosecco: Sustainability in the Wine Industry
12:06 Breitling SuperOcean: A Dive Watch for Adventurers
19:41 Rolex Yacht-Master: A Collector's Choice
26:44 Ken Forrester Sparklehorse: Exploring Nautical Timepieces
29:49 Ruinart Blanc de Blancs: The Elegance of Champagne Pairings
34:33 Understanding Glassware and Champagne Trends
36:12 Patek Philippe Nautilus: The Allure of a Classic
42:58 Billecart-Salmon Le Sous Bois: Unique Wines and Personal Connections
48:44 The Journey of Learning and Curiosity
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
https://watchworld.com
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram: https://instagram.com/watchworld
CREDITS
Host: Faye Soteri (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/fayesoteri
Guest: Libby Brodie
https://www.linkedin.com/in/libby-brodie
Production: Keenlii (https://keenlii.com) | Instagram: https://instagram.com/keenlii
Producer: Barry Keegan (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan)
Director of Photography
Gavin Foden (LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavin-foden/)
SUBSCRIBE AND ENGAGE
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
SUPPORT OUR PODCAST
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
ABOUT WATCH WORLD WITH FAYE SOTERI
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
Faye Soteri and Mark Tolson unpack a week of horological highs—from the £2K tourbillon that sparked debate to the energy of Hands on Horology and London Watch Week. They cover price points, collector culture, auctions, and the surprising shift from top-table industry roles to the sidelines, where the real stories are. A sharp look at how watch culture is shifting, expanding, and getting more interesting by the day.
TAKEAWAYS
-Hands on Horology was a successful inaugural event.
-Natural daylight at events enhances watch visibility.
-Micro brands are gaining traction in the watch community.
-Norkane's charity involvement raised their profile.
-The shift in industry dynamics allows for more accessibility.
-Watch auctions provide a new avenue for collectors.
-London Watch Week showcased a variety of watch brands.
-Community is essential in the watch collecting world.
-Personal connections enhance the experience of watch events.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Watch World Podcast
01:07 Hands on Horology Event Insights
12:50 Norkane and Charity Events
18:59 The Shift in Industry Dynamics
22:36 Exploring Watch Auctions
29:42 London Watch Week Highlights
39:05 Community and Personal Connections in Watch Enthusiasm
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
https://watchworld.com
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram: https://instagram.com/watchworld
CREDITS
Host: Faye Soteri (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/fayesoteri)
Production: Keenlii (https://keenlii.com) | Instagram: https://instagram.com/keenlii
Producer: Barry Keegan (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan)
SUBSCRIBE AND ENGAGE
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
SUPPORT OUR PODCAST
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
ABOUT WATCH WORLD WITH FAYE SOTERI
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
In this episode of Watch World with Faye’s Women in Watches mini-series, we sat down with watch collector and content creator Georgia Benjamin—our very first guest—to explore her love affair with vintage timepieces. From discovering her gateway Day-Date to probing the romance of a 30-year-old heirloom, Georgia shares how she broke into a male-dominated hobby, built a thriving community, and blends her design background with horological passion.
TAKEAWAYS
- Georgia’s first watch in her collection was a Rolex
- A single gem-set Day-Date ignited Georgia’s entire vintage obsession
- Vintage dials carry untold adventures from their decades-long lives
- UX-driven design—ergonomics, legibility, tactile flow—elevates every watch
- Genuine curiosity and fearless questions open doors with seasoned collectors
- Case size and color aren’t “men’s” or “women’s”—they’re personal-style statements
- Authentic brand narratives and real-world innovation outshine any celebrity hype
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Watch World
00:28 Women in Watches: A New Perspective
01:08 The Allure of Vintage Watches
02:19 The Journey into Watch Collecting
03:17 Design and Emotional Connection in Watches
09:59 The Importance of Storytelling in Watch Marketing
20:55 Building a Community in Watch Collecting
24:06 Authenticity in Passion
25:00 Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry
28:58 Engaging Women in Watch Collecting
30:48 Removing Gender from Watch Culture
34:49 Advice for Aspiring Female Collectors
39:01 Personal Favourites and Future Aspirations
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
https://watchworld.com
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram: https://instagram.com/watchworld
CREDITS
Host: Faye Soteri (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/fayesoteri)
Production: Keenlii (https://keenlii.com) | Instagram: https://instagram.com/keenlii
Producer: Barry Keegan (LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan)
SUBSCRIBE AND ENGAGE
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
SUPPORT OUR PODCAST
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
ABOUT WATCH WORLD WITH FAYE SOTERI
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
In our latest episode, I speak with Nick Callegari, General Manager UK & Ireland, and Raphael Nussbaumer, Chief Product Developer at Hublot. We explore the Big Bang’s 20th anniversary—from full-sapphire editions and mint-green ceramic to patented Magic Gold—and how these innovations reflect Hublot’s ethos. They discuss strategic collaborations with Ferrari and Takashi Murakami, plus how new leadership will refine future collections. Tune in for an insider’s view of Hublot’s next chapter.
Takeaways
Hublot celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Big Bang.
The brand is known for its innovative materials like Magic Gold.
Collaborations are a key part of Hublot's DNA.
Authenticity in partnerships is crucial for brand enhancement.
The Big Bang is central to Hublot's future strategy.
Hublot aims to refine its extensive collection.
The brand is optimistic about the luxury retail industry's future.
Hublot's unique approach includes storytelling in marketing.
The new CEO is bringing dynamism to the brand.
Hublot is focused on maintaining its unique identity in the market.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Watch World and Hublot's Significance
00:27 Celebrating 20 Years of the Big Bang
01:27 Innovations in Watch Materials and Design
07:29 Strategic Direction and Future of Hublot
09:09 The Importance of Collaborations and Authenticity
13:18 Forecasting the Future of Hublot and the Industry
Visit Our Website
Follow Us on Social Media
Credits
Host
LinkedIn Faye Soteri
Production
Keenlii
Producer
LinkedIn: Barry Keegan
Subscribe and Engage:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
Support Our Podcast:
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
About Watch World with Faye Soteri:
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
Faye sits down with Ulysse Nardin’s Managing Director, Matthieu Haverlan, at Watches & Wonders 2025 to unveil the Diver Air—the world’s lightest mechanical dive watch. Matthieu shares the bold choice to launch with a single “superhero” piece, recounts a last-minute booth overhaul, and explains how UN balances its storied heritage with cutting-edge innovation. Inside the case: an ultra-skeletonized titanium movement (80% Swiss air), 200 m water resistance, 5,000 G shock protection, and a 90-hour power reserve—all in just 52 g. Dive in for an exclusive look at the challenges, surprises, and vision behind this game-changing timepiece.
Haverlan takes us inside Ulysse Nardin, revealing the challenges, surprises, and vision behind this game-changing timepiece. Watch now!
Takeaways
-Diver Air is the lightest mechanical dive watch ever made.
-Ulysse Nardin aims to create high-horology sport watches.
-Sales growth is not the primary goal for Ulysse Nardin.
-The brand focuses on quality and innovation over market trends.
-The experience at Watches and Wonders is crucial for brand visibility.
-Innovation must balance with the brand's heritage and legitimacy.
-Limited editions can dilute brand equity for collectors.
-The luxury watch market is currently facing challenges post-COVID.
-Ulysse Nardin remains resilient due to its collector-focused approach.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Watch World
00:27 The Launch of Diver Air
01:24 Design and Innovation of Diver Air
04:20 Challenges in Creating Diver Air
06:11 Market Positioning and Brand Philosophy
09:03 The Experience at Watches and Wonders
11:12 Booth Design and Conceptualization
13:28 Balancing Innovation and Tradition
15:26 The Decision Against Limited Editions
18:19 Future of Ulysse Nardin and Market Trends
23:39 The Luxury Watch Market Outlook
Visit Our Website:
Follow Us on Social Media:
Credits:
Host:
LinkedIn: Faye Soteri
Production:
Keenlii
Producer:
LinkedIn: Barry Keegan
Subscribe and Engage:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
Support Our Podcast:
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
About Watch World with Faye Soteri:
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
Join host Faye Soteri and her colleague Mark Toulson as they share their firsthand experiences at Watches & Wonders 2025 in Geneva. In this lively episode, the duo dives into the fair’s record-breaking energy, innovative launches—from Ulysse Nardin’s ultralight Diver Air to Rolex’s game-changing Land Dweller—and engaging conversations with industry insiders, all while celebrating the legacy and forward-thinking spirit of the horological world.
Takeaways
-Record-Breaking Vibe: Over 55,000 visitors, rising retailer and press participation signal a robust, optimistic energy at the fair despite global challenges.
- Innovative Movements: A focus on “inside out” themes where brands push the limits—Ulysse Nardin’s ultra-light Diver Air (90-hour reserve, 52 grams, eco credentials) and Rolex’s breakthrough 7135 movement with its Dynapulse escapement stand out.
-Strategic Launches: With brands like Rolex trimming their SKU count to 60, there's a clear move toward fewer, more impactful releases that let each piece shine.
-Heritage & Revival: From TAG Heuer’s Formula 1 reintroduction to Chopard’s Alpine Eagle revival, vintage influences blend seamlessly with modern technology and aesthetics.
-Design Trends: Evolving aesthetics with smaller case sizes, natural stone and ceramic dials, and a move toward gender-neutral designs are redefining modern watchmaking.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Watch World02:52 Watches and Wonders 2025 Overview06:55 Trends in Watchmaking08:31 Highlighting Ulysse Nardin's Diver Air15:01 Rolex Land Dweller Movement19:01 Rolex's Future-Proofing Strategy24:18 Grand Seiko's Innovations30:05 Breitling's New Top Time B3132:06 Refined Launches and Brand Strategies37:38 Celebrating Heritage: TAG Heuer and Formula 141:43 Chopard's Elegant Revival and Vintage Inspirations46:05 The Evolution of Watch Sizes and Designs54:52 Highlights of the Fair: Standout Watches and Moments
Visit Our Website:
Follow Us on Social Media:
Credits:
Host:
LinkedIn: Faye Soteri
Production:
Keenlii
Producer:
LinkedIn: Barry Keegan
Subscribe and Engage:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
Support Our Podcast:
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
About Watch World with Faye Soteri:
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
Summary
In this episode, Faye and Mark discuss their experiences at the British Watchmakers Day, highlighting the event's significance in celebrating British watchmaking. They explore the community atmosphere, the camaraderie among brands, and the innovative spirit that characterizes the fair. The conversation also touches on personal favourite watches and the trends emerging in the British watch market, emphasizing the importance of creativity and storytelling in horology.
Key Takeaways:
The British Watchmakers Day showcased a resurgence in British watchmaking.
Community and camaraderie were evident among brands and attendees.
Limited editions and special collaborations drove interest at the fair.
The event differed from traditional trade fairs by focusing on direct customer engagement.
Brands displayed a sense of fun and playfulness in their marketing and designs.
Sustainability and creativity are becoming increasingly important in watchmaking.
The fair featured a diverse range of brands and price points.
Personal connections between brands and clients enhanced the experience.
The atmosphere was energetic and enthusiastic, contrasting with more polished trade fairs.
The British watch market is vibrant and offers options for various budgets.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Watch World
00:31 Reflections on the British Watchmakers Day
03:48 Community and Camaraderie in Watchmaking
10:50 Contrasting Trade Fairs and Direct-to-Consumer Events
13:39 Looking Ahead: Watches and Wonders
15:48 Trends and Innovations in Watchmaking
18:53 Creative Marketing and Brand Identity
26:25 Favorite Watches from the Fair
Visit Our Website:
Follow Us on Social Media:
Credits:
Host:
LinkedIn: Faye Soteri
Production:
Keenlii
Producer:
LinkedIn: Barry Keegan
Subscribe and Engage:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
Support Our Podcast:
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
About Watch World with Faye Soteri:
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
In this episode of Watch World, host Faye Soteri speaks with veteran Mark Tolson about the highlights of 2024 in watchmaking, including key product launches and trends seen at Watches and Wonders. They examine the importance of anniversaries for watch brands and review how these milestones affect marketing and product development. The conversation also covers Patek Philippe's controversial new launch, the Cubitus, and predictions for future watch fairs, noting the growing influence of independent watch brands. The speakers also discuss the changing market in watchmaking, addressing trends such as the shift toward understated classic watches, the effect of consumer behaviour on purchasing decisions, and the introduction of bright colours and unique materials in watch design. They also highlight the anticipated return of Universal Genève and recent personnel changes within major watch brands, noting how these shifts may influence the market.
Key Takeaways:
Faye Soteri introduces the podcast and its focus on watch stories.
Mark Tolson shares deep insights from his extensive watch industry experience.
Watches and Wonders 2024 was notably subdued, with limited product releases.
Tag Heuer and Tudor delivered standout products in 2024.
Anniversaries matter—Breguet's 250th anniversary is a major milestone.
Patek Philippe's Cubitus launch received mixed reviews but proved successful.
The impact of anniversaries on brand marketing is crucial.
The return of Universal Genève is highly anticipated.
Personnel changes in major brands bring fresh perspectives.
Independent brands are gaining traction as consumer behaviour evolves.
Episode Timeline:
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Watch World
01:57 Reviewing 2024: Highlights and Trends
08:04 Anniversaries in Watchmaking: Significance and Predictions
14:12 The Impact of Anniversaries on Marketing
20:04 Patek Philippe's New Launch: The Cubitus
25:27 Looking Ahead: Predictions for Future Watch Fairs
27:03 The Future of Watch Trends
30:45 Shifts in Consumer Behavior
32:55 Color and Material Innovations
36:50 The Return of Universal Genève
40:32 Industry Personnel Changes and Their Impact
Visit Our Website:
Follow Us on Social Media:
Credits:
Host:
LinkedIn: Faye Soteri
Production:
Keenlii
Producer:
LinkedIn: Barry Keegan
On Location Videographer:
Director:
LinkedIn: Gavin Foden
Subscribe and Engage:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube—and leave a review. Let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
Support Our Podcast:
To help us bring more incredible stories to you, please consider sharing this episode with fellow watch enthusiasts.
About Watch World with Faye Soteri:
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.
In this premiere episode of Watch World, I sit down with Jonny Garrett, the founder and CEO of William Wood Watches, at Woodbury House in Mayfair. Our conversation is genuine and warm as we discuss creativity, family history, future plans, and a strong commitment to giving back—especially to the firefighting community.
Jonny shares how his brand pays tribute to his late grandfather, a hero of the British Fire Service, by transforming upcycled firefighting gear into luxury timepieces. We also dive into the revival of British watchmaking, his unconventional journey from banking to watchmaking via Kickstarter, and the art of storytelling that sets his watches apart. And when LA’s firefighters are battling wildfires, Jonny’s innovative spirit shines through with a charitable initiative that supports those on the front lines.
What Faye takes away from the interview with Jonny is that he has a fire within—never to be extinguished—as he takes his brand to new heights.
So get into the episode now and see the story behind this week's watch.
Key Takeaways
• Every brand has its own unique story.
• William Wood Watches transforms upcycled firefighter gear into stylish timepieces.
• Giving back is at the heart of the brand, with a strong focus on supporting firefighters.
• Building a brand is rarely a straight path—expect twists along the way.
• Authenticity and honest storytelling make a real connection.
• The watch industry is tough, and a strong social media presence is essential.
• Securing the right financial backing can be challenging for entrepreneurs.
• Partnering with charities that truly help communities can boost a brand’s growth.
• The firefighting community has embraced the brand with pride.
• Luxury brands have the power to support good causes and raise significant funds.
• Upcycling not only creates unique products but also promotes sustainability by reducing waste.
• Independent watchmakers are carving out a space in the luxury market.
• Creating memorable product experiences enhances customer engagement.
• William Wood’s vision is to build a brand that feels like a close-knit community.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Watch World and Its Mission
01:04 The Story Behind William Wood Watches
04:08 The Journey of Building a Brand
08:08 Current Position and Future Plans of William Wood
12:00 Authenticity and Storytelling in Branding
16:02 Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs
20:00 Industry Changes and Competition
23:49 Advice for Aspiring Watchmakers
28:08 Community Response and Brand Impact
29:46 Supporting Firefighters Through Luxury Branding
35:13 Philanthropy and Community Engagement in Luxury
39:07 Sustainability and Upcycling in the Watch Industry
46:09 The Vision for William Wood Watches
51:20 Pride and Future Aspirations of the Brand
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Credits:
Host:
LinkedIn:Faye Soteri
Production:
Producer:
LinkedIn: Barry Keegan
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Director:
LinkedIn:Gavin Foden
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About Watch World with Faye Soteri:
A watch doesn’t just tell the time—it tells a story. I’m Faye Soteri, and after 20+ years in global luxury retail and watch buying, I bring you the most credible, compelling voices in the watch industry—from independent artisans to haute horology titans—and occasionally highlight lifestyle elements that pair perfectly with our admiration of timepieces. Join me as we celebrate the art, design, and culture behind every watch.