Independents

DonCorson
[AHCI]
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I think there is a big difference....

Hi Kevin,
I do think that there is a big difference in the watch market from 10 years ago.
At that time there was a generally expanding market with great consumer confidence, both large and small were expanding making new brands and doing well.
These days if we look at the few numbers that are available and hear into the Swiss rumour kitchen the market is different.
Only the Far East market is expanding, Europe, Near East are flat at best, the US market depressing.
The best known names are greatly expanding their part of the market and the others are languishing.
We see the tremendious efforts that are needed to get into a new market such as China.
Of course now the Internet is ubiquitus, but how many watchmakers are the superb marketers that can take advantage of it?
Although the watchmaking industry as a hole seems to be doing fine, small companies and individuals are at a greater disadvantage than before the crisis, even those with a good name.  If you are just starting out and have no name, well....
At least that is how it looks from here.

Of course the creative talent will always be looking out around the corners.  Some will be willing to take the risk.  Maybe the more difficult environment will force them to be more careful and thus make them more successful.  We can only hope so.  The recent subscription watches looks like something in this direction.
I am not about to name any names and "out" anyone who is not ready.  But I can assure you, there is no lack of talent in the wings.
As to Niklaus, he has a good job that he lives from and makes his watches for fun and doesn't sell them.  I hope to have some pictures of his latest work in a month or so.  I have worn the prototype and it is very cool.  We are considering making a watch together, maybe a small series, and have some fun ideas, we are ruminating.  But it is not time yet to spill any potential beans.  Then you will be after us to make one for you fast!  Give us a couple of solstices at least.
Don