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Paul Meister's avatar

I enjoyed your thinking here. As somebody who somewhat recently excised their last watch made by a conglomerate, It's something I've given some thought to myself. While it's nifty (and self-satisfying) that I've curated a smallish collection of Independents, from microbrands to entry-level Haute Horology, I'm not necessarily opposed to owning another watch from Swatch, LVMH or Richemont, but I don't exactly find myself inspired by their output either and in some cases their business strategies (looking at Richemont in particular...) are active turnoffs.

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Ron Hekier's avatar

“It depends” is probably the most appropriate qualifier to add to the calculation of horological independence. Among the verticals of independence you shared, creative independence is what rings most true to me.

Whether it’s Max sitting on his toilet concocting his latest invention, or other brands essentially saying GFY and buy a G-Shock, that willingness to tread an unexpected path is what I would have to see from a watchmaker who is said to be independent.

Independence can take many forms as you say and might be found in odd places. One example which might cause others to question my sanity or horological bona fides is my appreciation for the independence of Glashutte Original. Looking at their catalog over the past decade or two one finds several completely unexpected pieces from GO, pieces which I maintain show an independent streak completely detached from their corporate ownership.

Many thanks for yet another thought provoking and well written piece, my liege.

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