Podcasts about Fratello

Most of us have some level of experience with watch retailers and ADs from a customer perspective. However, few watch enthusiasts can claim to have worked behind the counter, let alone owned a watch shop. Today, Nacho and Thomas are joined by Gerard, a long-time Fratello team member and former owner of Horloge Platform Nederland, a watch boutique based in The Hague. The boutique has long since shut its doors, but Gerard still has plenty of stories to share. He gives his perspective on how he first got into the retail side of watches, what it was like to deal with customers and brands alike, how online retail worked in the early days, and more.

Welcome to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we discuss the triumphant return of Seiko to the forefront of value-laden watchmaking. For some, perhaps the massive Japanese company never left. From our perspective, though, 2025 has been a turning point. We feel that the brand has truly listened to its fan base and the market. Listen along to why we feel this way and what else we'd like to see.After what felt like a lengthy period of offering chunky watches with big price tags, it seems that Seiko has made a triumphant return. Reasonably sized watches with prices that have held steady, while others have increased dramatically, are just a couple of our observations. Listen in and see if you agree with the rest of our thoughts on this fan-favorite watch brand.HandgelenkskontrolleWe kick off our episode by celebrating Balazs's return from the Big Apple. There's even a little singing to get everyone in the mood! Then, we recall our recent discussion about the fortunes of several brands in five years. Mike envisions a slim 37mm Panerai dress watch with a manual-winding movement and crown lock. Could it work? Then, screen-related entertainment makes an appearance as we mention A House of Dynamite, Task, and Slow Horses. Finally, Balazs shares his thoughts on the recent watch events in New York City and a disturbing visit to a Rolex boutique in SoHo. For the Handgelenkskontrolle, Balazs has been wearing the Ming 57.04 Iris Chronograph and was flashing it around New York. Mike is keeping with the theme and is also sporting a Ming. The watch is currently under embargo, but it is coming out in November. Spoiler alert: it's fantastic!Seiko's triumphant returnIn 2025, we've seen some fantastic releases. The previously mentioned recent announcements resonated with fans. Earlier, watches like the Seiko 5 SRPL91 and SRPL93 "Gene Kranz" or the new Speedtimer models seemed to nail the brief. The market has been asking for smaller, thinner watches with slimmer, better bracelets. Seiko has delivered. Plus, while others continue to raise prices, Seiko has held the line, albeit at higher prices than seven or eight years ago. Still, the watches are competitive, attractive, and desirable. Sure, there's still work to do, especially related to movement accuracy, but we remain hopeful. Overall, it's nice to see one of our favorite marques pulling at our heart and purse strings again! Let us know if you agree with us on the company's triumphant return and what else you'd like to see from Seiko.As always, thanks for listening to the latest episode of Fratello On Air! If you have ideas for future shows, please feel free to let us know.

Longines famously says, “Elegance is an attitude.” But let's be honest; there's probably more to it than that. On today's episode of Fratello Talks, we're asking the big question: what makes a watch truly elegant? Is it the proportions, the case material, or the strap? Maybe it's how the watch sits on your wrist, or perhaps it's the mysterious mix of all these things, like some horological alchemy that gives a timepiece its unmistakable charm. And let's not forget the wearer. Elegance might not live in the watch at all. It could be in the confidence and subtlety that the person wearing the watch brings to it. Whatever the answer (or lack thereof), Nacho, Lex, and Thomas are ready to dig in, veering slightly off the rails along the way.

In this heartwarming episode of The Real Hernando, hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon dive into what it truly means to be a good villager — showing up, getting involved, and supporting the people and places that make Hernando special. They share stories, laughs, and inspiration while running through a lineup of exciting community events you won't want to miss!Upcoming Hernando Events:

Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we talk about the best-value used watches. Of course, this isn't an exhaustive list but just a sampling of some great pre-owned picks. If you're expecting the usual suspects, prepare to be surprised. Enjoy the show!Yes, we're back with a follow-up to our popular show about currently available watches offering the best value with a look at the used marketplace. Sites such as Chrono24 and eBay present a veritable cornucopia of options, but we've managed to pare it down to six interesting picks. Listen in as we reveal them.HandgelenkskontrolleWe recorded this episode before Balazs's trip to New York City for various watch events. Therefore, you'll need to wait to find out if he had any fun travel experiences! For this installment, Mike is wearing his Ming 37.02 Minimalist, a straightforward watch that can happily be worn in casual and formal settings. Balazs, on the other hand, was rocking an off-the-wall timepiece earlier in the day. On his wrist was a 1999 Ikepod Megapode, a watch designed by Marc Newson.Best-value used watchesFor today's show, we gave ourselves a few rules. First, we didn't want to repeat any of the best-value new watches, even though those candidates are a great deal on the secondary market. We also stayed away from vintage watches because it's hard to compare prices for new and used pieces. Plus, it's also more challenging to find a mint or barely used vintage watch. With that in mind, we did not come together before the episode to share our picks. We were completely unscripted, which makes the choices even more surprising.We mention the Patek Philippe Gondolo 5014. In any form, these watches present a more horologically interesting and often less expensive choice than a similar Cartier Tank. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Date ref. Q4018420 is another killer value for the money. Secondhand Grand Seiko watches are routinely seen as best-value opportunities. We both love the 9S64-powered manual-winding SBGW2xx models, including the 235, 283, 291, and 293. While it's not small, the IWC Portugieser Automatic IW500705 is a killer watch at work or play. Who knew how affordable the 38mm Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe is? What a deal! Finally, we mention the late Omega Seamaster Railmaster ref. 220.10.40.20.01.001 from 2017. Feel free to let us know your thoughts about our picks and the best-value used watches you've been considering.We hope you enjoy today's episode. Let us know if you have any topics that you'd like us to cover in the future.

Avec Joseph, Doris et Cindy

In this week's episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho, RJ, and Lex tackle the very foundation of our watches — the case materials. From trusty steel to precious gold, lightweight titanium, and futuristic ceramics, the trio dives into what distinguishes these materials, their unique features, and why they make a difference when wearing a watch every day. It's not just the movement and specs that matter; it's also what a watch is made of that plays a key role in its aesthetics and how it feels on your wrist.

Welcome to another episode of Fratello On Air. This week, we try our hand at predicting the fortunes of four key watch brands. These makers all have great pieces in their lineups, yet we wonder if they have more in store to become absolute powerhouses. Or perhaps some of these companies will go in the opposite direction and become smaller with more exclusive offerings. Join us as we ponder the fates of these firms in five years.Admittedly, with a relatively quiet market and turbulent global trade, it's easy to sit back and prescribe improvements for various brands. That's not why we're here today, though. No, instead, we've come together to discuss four well-known names in the industry and how their fortunes may change after five years. That gives each enough time to make sizeable changes, but is that necessary? Let's see!HandgelenkskontrolleOur show kicks off with the usual round of banter. We discuss The Brutalist and House of Guinness. Then, we move to a watch topic and talk about the recently announced Timepiece Concours d'Élégance announced by Phillips in partnership with Vacheron Constantin. While we like the general concept, we are dubious about the sponsorship. For the Handgelenkskontrolle, Mike is wearing an interesting new piece from a young brand. The Möels & Co 528 S2 is an usually shaped watch with a manual-winding La Joux-Perret D101 movement. Expect an upcoming hands-on review soon! Balazs shares a watch we haven't brought up in a while. The Fratello × Nivada Grenchen Racing Chronograph was released in mid-2023 and is still a looker!The fortunes of four brands in five yearsFor our main topic, we summon our inner Nostrodamus, discuss four brands, and hypothesize about their futures in five years. We didn't share the companies we selected before recording, so call it a premonition that Panerai was a unanimous first choice. It will be interesting to see how the fortunes of this tool-watch brand change over time. Will big watches make a comeback, and how can Panerai ensure that they reach the same level of desirability seen during the early 2000s?Girard-Perregaux is the next company to make our list. We really like the current lineup, but we find the brand a bit too quiet in its marketing efforts. Frankly, we'd like to see its watches out front and center every so often. Perhaps the recent Laureato Fifty is the start of a new push. Bvlgari is another brand we love. With its Octo Finissimo, the company has created an instantly recognizable classic. However, it's a watch that some of us with small wrists struggle to wear. We'd like to see this watchmaker create one more innovative modern classic that works for everyone. Finally, Jaeger-LeCoultre was always known as the watchmaker's watchmaker. As a result, the marque offered immense value. Now, the watches are certainly nice, but the prices put them in competition with many other brands. How will this play out over the next five years?As always, thank you for listening to Fratello On Air. If you have suggestions for future episodes, please don't hesitate to let us know!

Though people often focus on specs and price when talking about watches, we believe that design is just as important, if not more so. Today, on Fratello Talks, we're diving into the present and future of watch design. Nacho, Daan, and Thomas discuss current design-focused brands and the individual designers who put pen to paper and don't get nearly enough recognition for their work. They wrap up by pondering what the future of watch design might look like. There are certainly a handful of brands that give us a taste of it, especially microbrands, with their famous ability to adapt and try new, wild ideas. But regardless of what watch design ends up looking like, there's no doubt that exciting times lie ahead!

All'età di 84 anni si è spento Bruno Mastrotto, figura di riferimento della concia veneta e protagonista – dalla metà degli anni '50 – della nascita e della crescita di uno dei maggiori gruppi italiani della pelle, il Gruppo Mastrotto, presieduto oggi dalla figlia Chiara e dall'altro figlio, Graziano.

Hi there, and welcome to this week's episode of Fratello Talks. Today, we've decided to take on the challenge of selecting the watches we'd buy new at three price points. We start with the sub-€1k price segment, then jump to the sub-€5k, and end up selecting what we'd buy for €10k or less. No pre-owned or vintage watches are allowed; only the current-catalog references that anyone should be able to go out and buy today can be chosen. Nacho, RJ, and Thomas gather in the studio to talk through their selection. They also discuss some honorable mentions and include a no-budget pick to wrap things up. 

Is there such a thing as an endgame watch? It's not something we often consider. But just about two weeks ago, Henry wrote an article about his new Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600, referring to it as the ultimate diver and his "endgame" watch. This got us thinking about what this would be for us, so today on Fratello Talks, Nacho, Daan, and Thomas talk about their endgame watches. As you can imagine, it's not as straightforward as it may seem. However, Thomas and Daan do seem to be pretty set on theirs. Still, there's always room for wishful thinking, wild picks, and, of course, establishing the difference between a "grail" and an "endgame" watch.

We're back with another episode of Fratello On Air. This week, we're tackling a timely subject (no pun intended). With prices up over the last five years, we discuss watches that offer the best value at various price points. Oh, but there's a caveat: the pieces we discuss are actually available. For the benefit of our listeners, our watch talk begins approximately 15 minutes after the start.Two episodes ago, we conversed about the best watches for new collectors. That seemed to resonate with our listeners. This week, we continue down a similar yet different path. Collectively, we've witnessed incessant price hikes in our favorite hobby. It's enough to scare away some fans, but not us! We're out to find the watches that offer the best value in this tough market. Yes, the watches are more expensive than in the past, but we still think each carries its weight. Watches with the best valueOur rules for choosing watches with the best value were simple. The watches must be available to buy at retail today, without waiting lists or markups. Also, resale value wasn't a factor in the selection process. We didn't restrict ourselves to large brands, yet we tended toward brands with in-house movements. Finally, we didn't restrict ourselves to price limits, but we coincidentally huddled around three levels. Below €1,000, €1,000–5,000, and above €5,000 were our criteria.Balazs is always earning extra creditBalazs supposedly got mixed up with the assignment, but perhaps he was looking to outduel Mike again. He chose three winning watches but also gave many honorable mentions. In the lower-cost section, he named the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Forged Carbon, the Baltic Hermétique, and the Dennison ALD Dual Time. His winner, though, is the Timex Tide-Temp-Compass for just €279. In the middle category, he mentioned the Tudor Pelagos 39, various Albishorn chronographs, and the Grand Seiko SBGR257. His champion is the €1,890 Yema Superman CMM.10 with an in-house automatic movement. Finally, in the high-cost category, the Ming 57.04 Iris and the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Skipper made the list. Balazs's ultimate winner is the €8,800 Omega Speedmaster Professional in white.Mike's picksMike stuck to the supposed brief and named three watches he thought offered the best value. On the affordable side, the €440 Seiko Prospex SRPE93 Turtle is a watch that makes no apologies. It's a simple diver with timeless looks and rock-solid build quality. In the mid-range, the choice is relatively predictable but hard to beat. The €4,150 Tudor Black Bay 58 is a chronometer-certified dive watch that can be dressed up or down. In fact, it's one of the best "only watches" on the planet. For the final category, Mike chose the €10,600 Zenith Chronomaster Original as his favorite piece. The mighty El Primero movement, the A386 case profile, and a legendary dial design make it his favorite luxury automatic chronograph.

Stavolta è il turno di una rassegna meno impegnativa e più rilassata, dedicata a un cinema per davvero popolare (e populista). Ovvero quello della coppia Castellano e Pipolo, registi e autori di diversi film dalla qualità discutibile ma che sono riusciti anche a diventare prodotti di culto.Due Renato Pozzetto al prezzo di uno. Si può chiedere di più?Forse no e infatti "E' arrivato mio fratello" è una commedia gradevole, un po' sprecata ma che vive della verve del nostro protagonista.

Welcome back to another episode of Fratello Talks. This week, we come to you live from Geneva for a special conversation with Federico Ziviani, CEO of Gerald Charles. For those unfamiliar, Gerald Charles is the independent watch brand founded in 2000 by the late, great Gérald Genta. Today, under the stewardship of Ziviani, the brand carries forward its founder's unmistakable design DNA while carving out a space in the world of fine watchmaking. It's not every day we get to hear directly from the person responsible for steering such a historically significant brand. Thankfully, this episode gives us exactly that opportunity. Alongside Federico, your host Nacho and Fratello On Air's Mike Stockton join the conversation.This episode was recorded live on location, so the audio isn't our usual quality. Thanks for understanding!

Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air. We've been on hiatus for the last month during the summer, but we're back in action! In this installment, we detail some of the places we've been and what we've seen. Cars and watches have been high on the list!Yes, it's been a while, but we're back together. This week's podcast is primarily about cars and watches at events in major cities. Next episode, we'll be back with a more hardcore topic, which will likely cover one of our listener suggestions. For now, settle in as we recall our travels and experiences.HandgelenkskontrolleBefore we get into watches, we begin our discussion about Ferrari's latest reveal. The 849 Testarossa is already proving to be controversial. It sparks a conversation about the difference between comments in social media about cars and watches. Regarding television, we discuss Mobland, Only Murders In The Building, Dexter: Resurrection, and The Sopranos. Then, Balazs mentions the recent sale of a Michael Jordan / Kobe Bryant basketball card that set a record at $12.9 million! For the Handgelenkskontrolle, Balazs is wearing the new Albishorn 1958 Marinagraph Paraíba Racing. Stay tuned for an upcoming hands-on review. Mike is wearing his Seiko SLA019, a 2018 release that marked the first ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal for the beloved Marinemaster 300.Watches and carsWe kick off our main topic on recent travels that included cars and watches with a recap of Geneva Watch Days. Sadly, Balazs didn't attend, but the releases were well-covered. Overall, the mood was somber because of the US tariff scenario. Brands were questioning the need and the expense related to two shows. The reveals were positive, especially from the smaller brands, but it was a quieter show overall despite more brands in attendance. Next, we discuss the 2025 Balkan Rally, which Balazs attended. The event kicked off in Budapest and ended five days later in Dubrovnik. Classic cars and watches were all part of the festivities. Finally, we head back to London, where Mike attended the Concours of Elegance hosted by A. Lange & Söhne. Once again, several of the attendees wore intriguing watches, but the cars were incredible. Of note was a lovely Singer Porsche. It was the first time Mike saw one in person, which followed his first visit to the Singer Reimagined headquarters in Geneva just two days earlier.We hope you enjoyed our return to the airwaves, and we look forward to coming back regularly. As always, if you have ideas for future shows, feel free to let us know.

Dal Vangelo secondo LucaIn quel tempo, Gesù disse ai suoi discepoli una parabola:«Può forse un cieco guidare un altro cieco? Non cadranno tutti e due in un fosso? Un discepolo non è più del maestro; ma ognuno, che sia ben preparato, sarà come il suo maestro.Perché guardi la pagliuzza che è nell'occhio del tuo fratello e non ti accorgi della trave che è nel tuo occhio? Come puoi dire al tuo fratello: “Fratello, lascia che tolga la pagliuzza che è nel tuo occhio”, mentre tu stesso non vedi la trave che è nel tuo occhio? Ipocrita! Togli prima la trave dal tuo occhio e allora ci vedrai bene per togliere la pagliuzza dall'occhio del tuo fratello».Commento di Don Federico Suria (Pucci) diocesi di MondovìQuesto podcast fa parte di https://www.bar-abba.it

In quel tempo, Gesù disse ai suoi discepoli una parabola: «Può forse un cieco guidare un altro cieco? Non cadranno tutti e due in un fosso? Un discepolo non è più del maestro; ma ognuno, che sia ben preparato, sarà come il suo maestro. Perché guardi la pagliuzza che è nell'occhio del tuo fratello e non ti accorgi della trave che è nel tuo occhio? Come puoi dire al tuo fratello: “Fratello, lascia che tolga la pagliuzza che è nel tuo occhio”, mentre tu stesso non vedi la trave che è nel tuo occhio? Ipocrita! Togli prima la trave dal tuo occhio e allora ci vedrai bene per togliere la pagliuzza dall'occhio del tuo fratello».

Everyone knows the story: you start with a paperclip and trade your way up to a house. Canadian blogger Kyle MacDonald made it happen in 2006 with his One Red Paperclip project. Could this principle, on a smaller scale, be applied to watches? Today on Fratello Talks, Nacho, Thomas, and RJ join to discuss the topic and share their experiences trading their way up. It was a potentially lucrative pursuit back in the day, but whether you can still trade to upgrade your watch today remains to be seen.

- Premere il tasto PLAY per ascoltare la catechesi del giorno -+ Dal Vangelo secondo Luca +In quel tempo, Gesù disse ai suoi discepoli una parabola:«Può forse un cieco guidare un altro cieco? Non cadranno tutti e due in un fosso? Un discepolo non è più del maestro; ma ognuno, che sia ben preparato, sarà come il suo maestro.Perché guardi la pagliuzza che è nell'occhio del tuo fratello e non ti accorgi della trave che è nel tuo occhio? Come puoi dire al tuo fratello: "Fratello, lascia che tolga la pagliuzza che è nel tuo occhio", mentre tu stesso non vedi la trave che è nel tuo occhio? Ipocrita! Togli prima la trave dal tuo occhio e allora ci vedrai bene per togliere la pagliuzza dall'occhio del tuo fratello».Parola del Signore.

As Geneva Watch Days 2025 draws to a close, it's time to look back at some of our highlights from the fair. This bonus Fratello Talks episode was recorded on location at Piaget's boutique in Geneva, where the team had the opportunity to experience Geneva Watch Days 2025 and all the novelties presented. Set against the backdrop of one of Switzerland's most historic watchmaking landmarks, the discussion brings together a diverse selection of timepieces, trends, and commentary from the show. In this episode, Nacho, Lex, and Dave share personal impressions, highlighting the watches that stood out most for them during the fair.

Have you ever wondered if you're approaching the watch hobby in the way that suits you best or if social media has influenced how you do so? Today, on Fratello Talks, we're following up on some of Thomas's recent thought pieces with a more formal discussion. There are nearly infinite ways to approach the watch hobby. Some can passionately focus on just one reference, while others want variety. While a lucky few will casually purchase a grail-worthy piece, others will be just as happy with affordable, value-driven watches. It goes on and on, and it's how things should be. In reality, though, we all consume content online and on social media, which influences our perception and can shape how we feel we should approach watches. But those voices, while loud, are limited, and it's important to be aware that carving a path just for you is the way to go.

Welcome to another on-location episode of Fratello Talks, this time from the Watch Valley event in Utrecht, where the Swatch Group unveiled its latest novelties for 2025. In attendance were Nacho, Daan, and RJ, keen to get a full preview of the year's releases from the brands present. The event was packed with exciting novelties from Hamilton, Tissot, Rado, Certina, Balmain, and, for the first time, Mido.

It's been an exciting two weeks in the BB27 house!! We briefly chat about Ava's HOH week and then get into if Rachel Reilly is a genius or just a regularly smart person who knows how the tv show slash game works because Rachel's HOH week is amazing! We also chat about how Cowboy Back Tat Riley is an actual creep and we're happy to see him leave!

Have you ever wanted to know what it's like to enter the space where watches are made? These very real places remain an abstract thought to most people, as passionate as they may be about the time-telling objects on their wrists. You can read about them, see images and video, and hear all about them, but that only provides a two-dimensional view. As media voices in this field, we have often been lucky to get the immersive experience of visiting a Swiss watch manufacture. Today, Nacho, Lex, and Thomas come together to reminisce and share their experiences and impressions of visiting these places. They also talk about how brands' facilities differ, touch upon non-Swiss manufactures, and give some advice on how to make the pilgrimage to Switzerland to experience this for yourself.

This week, on Fratello Talks, RJ, Thomas, and Nacho are taking on a topic that's as old as the watch industry itself: storytelling. For decades, brands have built emotional bridges to their customers with tales of adventure, endurance, and achievement. Think of the watches strapped to astronauts on lunar missions, divers exploring the ocean's depths, or pilots navigating across continents. These stories transformed watches from mere tools into symbols of aspiration and identity. But the landscape has changed. In 2025, collectors have instant access to reviews, historical records, and technical specs. Marketing claims are scrutinized in seconds, and many enthusiasts are less willing to buy into the myths. So, does storytelling still have the same power to inspire a purchase, or has it been overtaken by cold, hard data? 

Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air. This week, we answer a listener's question about the watches new collectors should consider when entering the hobby. It's a question that has been asked many times, but, frankly, it's been a while since we've tackled it. For our listeners, the watch talk begins after 23 minutes.Years ago, when we were new collectors, the Seiko SKX007 was the natural response when someone asked about the best first watch. It was affordable, tough, and had enough chops to be taken somewhat seriously. However, that watch is long gone, which leaves an opportunity for a new answer. Well, as it turns out, there are plenty of answers.HandgelenkskontrolleBefore providing thoughts for new collectors, we discuss some recent TV shows. The White Lotus, MobLand, Gangs of London, and The Agency are some of the series we've been watching. Balazs is wearing his newest acquisition, the Ming 22.01 GMT Kyoto. Mike has dusted off a vintage Seiko 6215-7000 diver. Both pieces are working well in the summer heat!Watches for new collectorsA great deal has changed in the watch hobby over the past decade. Microbrands were still relatively new, and the selection was limited. Now, there are scores of brands offering fantastic pieces at affordable prices. Names like Baltic, Lorier, Christopher Ward, and others have great watches with respectable movements. Plus, some of these companies have existed for long enough that they've become globally recognizable. The traditional brands are also offering some fantastic options. The Seiko 5 GMT, the Swatch Group with its bevy of brands, and even Timex have created some fantastic timepieces for new collectors. When it comes to used watches at the top end of our fictional €2,500 price cap, it's hard to overlook the Tudor Black Bay 58.We hope you enjoy today's episode. Feel free to let us know about the first watch you bought when you began collecting. As always, if you have ideas for new shows, please contact us.

Welcome to season 2 episode 18 of the Timist Podcast Series - check out the show notes below:In this episode...RJ Broer walks us through how he got bit by the watch bug, how he sold his car to buy his first Speedmaster, and even how Fratello Watches came to be the multi-national media and watch powerhouse that we know today!He also brings us behinds the scenes and explains what it actually takes to run an operation at this level - from the editorial stage, to design, marketing, localization and even watch collaborations with the likes of Omega!We also dive into topics such as journalistic integrity, the rise of AI within the industry, the recently announced tariffs that rocked the watch world, and of course maintaining an authentic and responsible voice in an age of clickbait titles and hype-driven media.Lastly, we end on a high note with a series of rapid fire questions!Check out RJ Broer's Instagram account:https://www.instagram.com/rjbroerINSTAGRAM:Follow me:https://www.instagram.com/the_timist_IGSupport the showSUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBeDf0c0V70qISfpu_mHchw?sub_confirmation=1CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION ON INSTAGRAM:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_timist_IG

A couple of weeks ago, we discussed what we considered some of the best watches of 2025 overall. We realized that chronographs were somewhat underrepresented in that episode and couldn't let that fly. Today on Fratello Talks, we're discussing the best chronographs of 2025 (so far). You join Nacho, RJ, and Thomas in the studio, each of whom has selected three of their favorite chronos released over the year until now. So, if you're looking to do a bit of on-the-fly timing (or want a perfectly soft-boiled egg), put your finger on the pusher and get ready; it's time to look at some of 2025's most remarkable chronographs.

In the nearly 15 years since I began collecting watches in earnest, the watch industry has experienced significant growth. The last couple of years, however, have been a challenge. Inflation, geopolitical events, and other headwinds have now emerged. This has resulted in a tough market and high retail prices. So, what should brands do to reignite the passions of collectors and buyers? We don't have all the answers, but we discuss the topic in today's episode.Yes, it's tough out there, and while there's plenty of interest in timepieces, the watch industry is working through a slow period. High list prices have exacerbated this, and we haven't even brought up the potential effect of further tariffs in some countries. How should brands navigate these challenging times and drive demand again? That's our topic for today. Enjoy!HandgelenkskontrolleBefore we tackle our main topic, we discuss the recent Hungarian Grand Prix. Then, we mention recent travels to South Beach, where amazing watches were on display. Regarding our wristwear, Mike is wearing an under-embargo Aquastar. There's not much to say about this upcoming piece other than it's a diver and that it's a relatively thin watch. Balazs is sporting the SpaceOne Worldtimer, a wild blue titanium watch with an in-house module.Does the watch industry need to reignite the passion of collectors?Mike shared that several brands recently reported that the second quarter was incredibly challenging. This gave rise to our topic about whether the watch industry needs to retrench and figure out how to excite collectors. Sponsoring events and opening single-branded boutiques fit the traditional definition of a luxury brand, but is it what buyers want? Furthermore, have these luxurious touches contributed to prices that are now out of reach for some potential customers? We discuss these thoughts and more. In the end, we don't have the magic answer on how to create more foot traffic. We would love to hear your thoughts, though!

Watch modding is a topic close to many watch enthusiasts' hearts. It can also go from just a bit of fun to hugely controversial in the blink of an eye. In today's episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho, RJ, and Thomas dive into the topic, sharing their experiences with modding watches and highlighting some notable examples of both entry-level and high-end work. They also consider the brands' perspective on having their watches modified and the potential dangers behind modifying a watch to appear more valuable than it truly is. So, whether you're a modding master or simply curious about trying it, tune in to learn more!

The concept of a microbrand is not new per se. Small independent watch brands were plentiful in the pre-quartz times. However, the term as we know it today has only been around in the watch world for the last two decades. Contemporary microbrands are a different beast altogether, and though they come in many shapes and sizes, one thing is certain: they have established themselves as key players in the broader watch industry. On this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho, RJ, and Daan discuss the role of microbrands today. It's more multifaceted than some might imagine, from being agile and fearless in embracing trends to providing a value-driven entry point for new watch collectors and influencing big brands to offer features that have become commonplace for these smaller players.

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In case you haven't noticed, the first half of the year is already behind us. What better time to look back at some of the best watches of 2025 so far? That's precisely what RJ, Daan, and Nacho are doing on today's episode of Fratello Talks. The past six months have hosted hundreds of watch releases from as many brands, meaning the guys won't be able to do them all justice. Still, they decided to pick five watches each to offer a decent selection and keep the episode from running over an hour. So, tune in and check out 15 of the best watches of 2025 alongside some honorable mentions.

Timekeeping is a key element in most sports disciplines, so it should come as no surprise that the world of horology has long-standing ties to sports. In today's episode of Fratello Talks, the guys look at that link and discuss the presence and influence of watch brands in sports. Nacho is joined by RJ and Lex, who run through some of their most memorable watch brand/sport pairings. They also look at sponsored athletes and teams, official timekeepers, and the many other ways the watch world has made itself present in sports. Finally, they consider some hypothetical pairings that they would like to see.

Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we aim to debunk some of the most prevalent myths surrounding our beloved watch-collecting hobby. Some will be obvious, but some require some discussion. Enjoy the show!Misconceptions within the hobby have run rampant for as long as folks have been collecting watches. Therefore, it's time for us to challenge these beliefs. We can thank one of our longstanding listeners, thelostspringbar, for our topic. Specifically, he asked about "the top 5 myths or misconceptions about watch collecting."HandgelenkskontrolleWe kick off our show with a discussion about this year's Wimbledon tournament. Mike had the opportunity to attend for a day, and there were plenty of watches to be seen. This turns into a discussion about Boom! Boom! The World vs Boris Becker, a documentary on Apple TV. For the Handgelenkskontrolle, Mike is wearing a watch he rarely brings out of hiding. The Rolex GMT-Master 16758 escaped from the bank for a couple of days for a dinner outside the city. Balazs has a new release on his wrist. The blue Nivada Grenchen Aquamar (€1,095) is a lovely watch with a cool party trick in the way of changing lume.The top myths surrounding watch collectingThankfully, most watch collectors are good people. We've met loads of them, and 99% of our interactions have been positive. The problems, it seems, come when people are left to ruminate on videos, in forums, or on podcasts! All sorts of horror stories come out, and while there's likely truth behind the tales, many are overblown. We discuss some of the most common myths we hear and why you shouldn't believe everything you hear when it comes to watch collecting. The topics are as follows:Pre-owned and vintage watches are scaryOnly expensive watches are worth collectingThe Grail watch existsA large collection is required to be a serious collectorRolex is the only answer, or focusing on one brand is the only way to collectQuartz watches aren't collectibleWatches are always a great investmentWe hope you enjoy the show, and feel free to share the most popular myths you've heard related to watch collecting. Thanks for listening!

This week on Fratello Talks, we're looking at some of the best watches under €5,000 in 2025. The last time that Daan, Thomas, and Nacho discussed favorites was a few weeks ago. Back then, they discussed their favorites in the sub-€2.5k price bracket. Today, they're upping the ante and doubling the maximum price. This opens up their choice to countless more options, and you can bet they're taking advantage of it. This budget unlocks plenty of brilliant watches, including some from brands typically considered entry-level to mid-level luxury (including Tudor, TAG Heuer, Cartier, and many more). So, if you want to know their picks, tune in to this episode.

Today on Fratello Talks, we are joined by special guest Øystein Husby, co-founder of Straum watches. RJ and Nacho sit down with him to talk all things Straum, including the brand's origins, meeting co-founder Lasse Farstad at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design, how their background in design and love for Norway's wild nature has inspired their watches, recent innovations, and finally, the new Fratello × Straum Jan Mayen Titanium. Our second collaboration with the brand is available for pre-order from now until July 3rd at 6:00 PM CEST. So, whether you're already a fan of Straum or have yet to discover what the brand offers, we recommend you tune in to this episode!

Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! Please forgive us for the tardy release, but Balazs is traveling far away on the west coast of Canada. This week, we discuss the idea of a summer watch. Normally, this topic inspires lists of dive watches, but we take a slightly different track. Enjoy!If May and June are predictors, this summer is shaping up to be a hot one! Therefore, it calls for putting some thought into one's wristwear. In this episode, we conclude that a summer watch isn't simply one to use during two or three weeks of vacation. No, it is a watch that can work throughout the season.HandgelenkskontrolleWhile we all likely work over the next several months, there's a good chance of some downtime or lengthy travel. We start the show by mentioning the Diddy On Trial podcast from BBC Sounds. It's a brief weekly summation of the trial that started not long after the star's arrest. There's a lot to learn in terms of court procedures and legal jargon, and the hosts make it interesting in a non-celebrity-trial way.Next, it's BBC again with 7/7: The London Bombings, which documents the harrowing incidents that occurred in 2005. It's not an easy watch, but it's incredibly well done and respectful. Conclave, the 2024 Academy Award Winner for Best Adapted Screenplay, is also worth watching. We also mention the new New Balance store on Oxford Street, London, and the new 991v2 Grounded Pastels that were just released. Finally, we discuss the F1 movie and the IWC watches announced for the film. For the Handgelenkskontrolle, Mike is sporting his early '90s Rolex Datejust 16200, a watch equipped to handle the current hot and steamy weather. Likewise, Balazs is wearing a great daily watch, the first Omega Speedmaster Professional Speedy Tuesday edition.What is a summer watch?It's easy to assume that any summer watch must be a diver. After all, we think about the sea or the pool during this time of year. However, for those who live away from the water, is there a reason to change watch styles in the heat? Well, in short, yes! Last summer, Mike was shopping in London while wearing a vintage watch. It was incredibly humid, but the stores were ice cold. After leaving one shop, Mike's vintage watch fogged up immediately. Therefore, our idea for a good watch this time of year typically has to meet the following criteria:New and water resistant, or recently pressure testedWorn on a bracelet or a strap that's comfortable and easy to cleanPossibly a larger watch that works well with short sleeves or summer wearDepending on one's location, such as a busy city or a hectic holiday location, choose a worry-free watch and bring easy-change straps for varietyWe'd love to read your thoughts about a definition for this season's watch when you're at work or on holiday. Also, feel free to share some of your favorite models or strap combos. As always, thanks for listening! If you have ideas for future episodes, please let us know.

Hublot has gotten a pretty bad rap in recent times. The brand is often dismissed as the butt of online commentators' jokes, but we don't feel this is entirely fair, so in today's episode, we're looking at the other side of things. RJ, Thomas, and Nacho have each whipped up three reasons why you should buy a Hublot or, rather, why one might consider buying one of the brand's watches. Before that, we briefly review the brand's history, from its inception in 1980 by Italian watchmaker Carlo Crocco to the Jean-Claude Biver chapter and the current stewardship of (former Zenith CEO) Julien Tornare. So, if you want to hear why we feel Hublot deserves more love than it gets, tune in to this week's episode.

Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! We've been away for a while, but we're here and talking about new releases. In particular, we're discussing the barrage of dive watch announcements from multiple brands. As always, expect candid commentary and a bit of fun!That's right — we're back! Over the last several weeks, we've been traveling and engaging in watch-related activities such as get-togethers and brand events. We mention some of these and, naturally, we engage in a bit of banter. Then, we discuss a handful of new dive watch introductions.HandgelenkskontrolleWhew, it is sweltering in our respective recording sites! Still, we're at the microphones for an hour talking about watches and more! We mention recent activities such as Balazs' trip to Los Angeles and Mike's visit to Manchester. Each of us had a great time connecting with friends and listeners. Regarding the Handgelenkskontrolle, Balazs is the proud new owner of a Ming 22.01 GMT Kyoto. He's in the honeymoon phase with the watch and is enjoying it immensely. Mike is off to an event for London Watch Week after the show and is wearing his silver-dialed Heuer Carrera 2447S.The dive watch strikes back — or does it?The hot weather has brought the dive watch back into focus after a cold and gloomy winter. Brands seem to be taking note because some significant releases were announced over the past month. We discuss these and give our honest opinions on each. The following watches are in focus:Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 38mmGirard-Perregaux Deep Diver Legacy EditionTudor Black Bay 54 "Lagoon Blue"Breitling SuperOcean HeritageSeiko 5 SRPL91 / 93 "Gene Kranz"Yes, it was a bumper month for the dive watch. Some of the watches are critical to the brand's success, so did they nail the release or not? Listen in and hear our thoughts!As always, thank you for listening to Fratello On Air! If you have ideas for future show topics, please feel free to let us know.

Today on Fratello Talks, Nacho, Thomas, and Lex join forces to discuss the topic of watch styling for enthusiasts, sharing some of their thoughts, opinions, and methods. Though some people like to think of watches as functional objects, they are closer to fashion accessories in today's world. As much as that might sound like blasphemy to some, it's hard to deny that it's the truth. Many watches have blurred the lines between function and fashion, so it's worth acknowledging the potential sartorial implications of wearing watches. So, whether you choose to dress with or around your watch, tune in and share your thoughts on the topic in the comments.

Rolex only makes one chronograph, and it's called the Daytona. This has been a statement of fact since the first model bearing the name was created in 1963. Okay, fine; there's one notable exception, the Yacht-Master II. But we'll leave that as a topic for another day. Today on Fratello Talks, it's all about our favorite modern Rolex Daytonas! Nacho, RJ, and Lex are in the studio and have each picked a trio of references that they are partial to. Just like when we picked our favorite Speedmasters, we're sticking to "modern" references. This means only those produced within the last 25 years. While this leaves us with a relatively limited selection given the scope of what is out there, there's still plenty to pick from. Will we feature your favorite Daytona? You'll have to tune in and find out.

We're all more than familiar with the Speedmasters, Submariners, and Royal Oaks of this world. We're even familiar with the Ingenieurs, Reversos, and Andy Warhols. But many watches in top brands' catalogs are painfully overlooked. On today's episode of Fratello Talks, we're taking a look at a handful of them. You might not hear about these watches every day, but we believe they deserve more credit than they get. Of course, these will just be some of the many underappreciated watches out there, so if we missed one of your favorites, be sure to let us know.

Today, we're looking at some of the best watches under €2,500 in production right now. This is one of the most contested price points in the watch market, though many brands that previously operated in it have slowly but surely priced themselves out. That said, a handful of microbrands, both new and old, have made sure not to leave this bracket empty. Nacho, Thomas, and Daan have each selected a handful of favorites at this price. These include some from mainstream brands and several less obvious picks from smaller ones. As we have limited the picks to just three each, there are also some honorable mentions, but it's by no means an exhaustive exploration of all the great watches available below the €2.5K price point. So tune in, check out their picks, and let us know your favorites in the comments section below. 

Welcome to another installment of Fratello On Air. This week, we respond to a listener's request for a strap episode. Today's show covers how to choose, which brands we enjoy, and pairing specific watches. Enjoy it! For our listeners, the watch content begins after approximately 21 minutes.There's no other way to put it — Balazs is a strap monster! His Watch Strap Review articles are legendary and quite literally span the globe, as far as covering different makers. Comparatively speaking, Mike is a novice, but he's learned a few tricks from the master. Today, we address the topic from many angles.HandgelenkskontrolleWe kick off the show with some news about local London watch events from Fears and Vacheron Constantin. Regarding TV, Your Friends & Neighbors has started well and offers some watch-related content. For the Handgelenkskontrolle, Mike is wearing his trusty Patek Philippe Calatrava 570 after forgetting to wear a watch during a recent watch event. Balazs is sporting his bulletproof G-Shock GW-B5600-2ER with Bluetooth.Picking the right strap and more!Our listener Alex asked many questions about one of the most important accessories, the watch strap. In this episode, we discuss our favorite brands, including GLC, Gabarro, Delugs, Atelier Romane, and more! Different leather types, styles, and buckles also surface during the conversation. We mention that there's no such thing as a good, dirt-cheap leather strap, but that a good accompaniment doesn't have to cost a fortune. Finally, we respond to Alex's question about pairings with the Tudor Submariner 94010 "Snowflake" and a modern 42mm Zenith Chronomaster.We hope you enjoy today's show and look forward to bringing you more content next week. As always, if you have ideas for future episodes, please let us know!

It's no secret that we're Speedmaster fans here at Fratello. RJ, our founder, is an avid collector of these chronographs and the mind behind #SpeedyTuesday. But not all Speedies are created equal. Today, we're looking at some of the best modern Omega Speedmaster models. RJ, Thomas, and Nacho have tasked themselves with selecting their top five favorites. Now, as mentioned, we're focusing only on "modern" models, meaning only those introduced or available during the past 25 years. Though the watch has been around for nearly 70 years, a quarter century still leaves us with plenty to pick from. Omega produced countless special and limited editions over the last two and a half decades, so we're truly spoiled for choice.

Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we discuss a recent news story about another questionable vintage watch. We aren't taking sides, but it allows us to mention, yet again, the pain it causes the hobby. Still, plenty of great pieces are out there if you do your homework.Another week, another newsworthy big-ticket vintage watch with incorrect, fake, or swapped parts. It's the kind of news vintage collectors hate to read! Then again, it's nice to see that the hobby has matured to the point where photographic evidence of prior sales is surfacing and helping to prove and disprove claims. Stick around, and we'll address this topic from multiple angles.HandgelenkskontrolleDuring our banter-filled opening section, we mention that the Adidas Stan Smith is back in full-leather as a normal model. This comes after the brand seemingly abandoned the material for the squeaky Primegreen polyurethane. Rejoice! For the Handgelenkskontrolle, Balazs is wearing a new Ming under embargo. Look for the official announcement soon! Mike is wearing a Movado 18241 with a 35mm stainless steel Borgel case. An article on this lovely vintage watch will hit Fratello in the next couple of weeks.Vintage watch troubleLast week, a story surfaced about a false Rolex Daytona Red Khanjar. Perezcope, the well-known sleuth, wrote about the piece, which was commissioned for sale to Menta Watches in Miami. Controversy ensued, and while we don't take sides, the conclusion is clear. It's another black eye for the vintage watch market. As both of us favor vintage over new, we're constantly in touch with listeners considering their first vintage watches. Then, an incident like this occurs, arousing fear and causing a setback. What to do? We hope you enjoy listening to our thoughts on the subject, and we look forward to your comments.Thanks for tuning in to the latest episode. If you have thoughts for future show topics, please feel free to let us know!