Interesting read on the future of the watch market. Looks like prices may be falling and Manufacturers are going to be looking to cut out the middle men to increase sales...

http://ablogtoread.com/watch-industr...tch-retailers/

 

Interesting article though just common sense really. When I was buying watches I had a broker out of California that was AD for many brands but could get almost anything. 40% off retail back then. Watches have had their time in the sun imho. Only a couple name brands will be able to hold pricing with world demand so low.

This isn't much different than GM, Chrysler, Ford pulling dealerships. Time to cut costs when sales are down. Crap online car sales must be killing the local dealerships that had people walk in off the street and buy their cars regardless of price and color.

 

I think you're right H20, AD's are having to change or fall off to meet a rapidly evolving marketplace, especially in the luxury segment.

I spoke with Ariel upon his return from Basel and he mentioned that the overall air did seem to be much more positive than recent years past, with the Swatch and Richemont groups seeing a much needed boost in sales for many of their brands.

You see a lot more brands diversifying themselves with online marketplaces (Longines) and even new brick and mortar stores (B&R). I really think now is a great time for smaller independent brands to thrive, as they offer very high quality pieces and service at a much lower price point than the group brands can (ie. Xetum, Lum-Tec, Maurice de Mauriac etc.).

I hope this competition will drive some new innovation from the name brands and drum up a renewed interest for the industry.

 

^^^I agree I hope to that brands that have always had instant followers will figure out 40k isn't entry level anymore. 3-5k are great prices for 1000's of watches and the days of PP and AP getting 40k day in and day out are ending I am sure

 

In Bal Harbour alone we have Cartier, AP and now Hublot opening soon. They have cut alot of the local dealers and will continue to do so...

 

Marc, what are you wearing these days? Old staple RG Rubberclad?