Comments:
Absolutely. Pragmatically speaking, we can't be an expert in all things. That's why we turn to brands we feel we can trust.
I don't drink coffee. But I still need to buy a coffeemaker every now and then. And when I do, I go to a reputable kitchen appliance store and buy the shiniest looking machine. We can't be experts in all things.
But, let's say I claim to be an expert in watches, and I wear a Tourbillon and let you know it. And let's say one day a child innocently asks, "what does a Tourbillon actually do?" and I can't explain it... That's kind of the definition of a poseur. And there is no shortage of watch collectors who make big claims and think highly of their knowledge, but possess a superficial knowledge about the subject.
Watch collecting is a hobby that is primarily about one thing. Money. It's not about much else. The collector with the most expensive and hard to obtain timepiece is put on a pedestal - even if s/he can't explain the basics of the mechanism.
In the sports car world, it's about if you can drive. Fountain pen collectors have beautiful pens made of gold or decorated by hand - but the yardstick is how good your handwriting is. But watch collecting - that yardstick is the depth of your pockets!
But, let's say I claim to be an expert in watches, and I wear a Tourbillon and let you know it. And let's say one day a child innocently asks, "what does a Tourbillon actually do?" and I can't explain it... That's kind of the definition of a poseur. And there is no shortage of watch collectors who make big claims and think highly of their knowledge, but possess a superficial knowledge about the subject.
Watch collecting is a hobby that is primarily about one thing. Money. It's not about much else. The collector with the most expensive and hard to obtain timepiece is put on a pedestal - even if s/he can't explain the basics of the mechanism.
In the sports car world, it's about if you can drive. Fountain pen collectors have beautiful pens made of gold or decorated by hand - but the yardstick is how good your handwriting is. But watch collecting - that yardstick is the depth of your pockets!
I fully agree with you, Patrick, on what you say on fountain pens and watches.
I shall wait patiently for your article on the European leather artisan. By the way, I remember well your great articles on the Faber Castel pencil and the luggage.
Thank you for the comparison and explanation, Patrick.
The differences between the calfskin and the crocodile examples are quite clear here.
Looking forward to reading your article on the European artisan.
Wishing you an enjoyable weekend.
Best, Emmanuel
As to the initial question: quality every time.
I am not impressed by brand recognition, celebrity endorsement, etc. (Not even secondary market demand.) Give me an outstanding quality, under-recognized underdog, and I'm happy. ;-D