Fratello.com
A regular podcast about watches. Hosted by Fratello Magazine. During the podcast shows, they discuss watches, the watch industry, watch collecting, watch events and more.
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Fratello Talks: The Ultimate Omega Speedmaster Debate — Which Model Defines The Legend?
Few watches have inspired as many variations, stories, and passionate debates as the Omega Speedmaster. Over nearly seven decades, it has evolved from a racing chronograph into one of the most celebrated watches in horology, with countless references that appeal to a wide range of collectors. Ask three enthusiasts to name their favorite Speedmasters, and you're likely to get three very differ
Fratello On Air: These Are The Most Misleading Words In Watch Ads
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! Apologies for the late publishing time, but a baby and the World Cup have us keeping odd hours. This week, we target a humorous but potentially dangerous subject. Misleading words when describing a watch, especially a vintage one, are rife within our hobby, so we attempt to shed light on them. Enjoy the show!Most of us have taken an English or so
Fratello Talks: Texture, Color, Stone: Let's Talk Dials
In all four seasons of the Fratello Talks podcast, we never dedicated an episode to watch dials. We thought it was about time to change that. The dial is one of the most important parts of a watch, as it's the "face" that gets the most attention when checking the time. It often draws the most attention and can be the reason for you to fall in love with a specific watch.Watch dials h
Fratello On Air: What If We Started Collecting Watches Today?
Welcome to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we ponder what would be different if we started collecting watches today. We're not allowing ourselves to roll in with all of the wisdom and hard knocks we've encountered. It would be a fresh start. Of course, we start with some other topics, per our custom.Is collecting watches different now than it was 10 or 20 years ago? You be
Fratello Talks: Breguet CEO Gregory Kissling On The Latest Tradition 7047, 225 Years Of The Tourbillon, And The Brand's Future
On the 225th anniversary of the tourbillon patent, we sit down with Breguet CEO Gregory Kissling. Before taking the helm at Breguet on October 1st, 2024, Kissling served as Vice President of Product at Omega. Having known him for many years and collaborated on memorable projects such as the Speedmaster Speedy Tuesday editions of 2017 and 2018, we were especially excited to see him take on the role
Fratello On Air: The Curious Case Of Car Watches
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we talk about car watches, a curious subgenre within our hobby. Sure, the automobile industry is massive and has an equally huge fan base, but collaborations between watch and car brands often misfire. This draws us into a conversation about what we think of when pairing our vehicles with a watch. Whether it's for driving or atten
Fratello Talks: The Watch Retail Experience
For many collectors, buying a watch is about far more than the watch itself. The experience of discovering, trying on, and ultimately purchasing a watch can shape how we feel about it long after it leaves the boutique. Yet not all retail experiences are created equal. Some leave a lasting impression for all the right reasons, while others can sour the excitement of a purchase before it even happen
Fratello On Air: How Hype Can Help Or Hurt A Brand
Welcome to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we talk about how hype can help or hurt brands. Naturally, there are plenty of other topics on the docket, including television, German culture, and more!Hype is a funny thing. Nearly everyone or every company wants it, but at some point, enough can be enough. From one-hit wonders to oversaturation, there is no shortage of examples of when
Fratello Talks: Watches We Would Never Sell
All watch collectors have one watch that they will never part with. It might not be the most expensive piece in the collection, the rarest, or even the one that gets the most wrist time. Sometimes, a watch becomes irreplaceable for reasons that have very little to do with specifications, market value, or prestige. In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho is joined by Daan and Thomas to discuss the
Fratello On Air: The Summer Watch Is Back!
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! As promised, we've returned after a week with more banter and plenty of watch talk. This time around, we discuss the oft-mentioned summer watch and how we feel about it in 2026. Of course, we cover plenty of other subjects. Enjoy the show!Ah, the summer watch. If given little thought, it's easy to call it a diver and walk away, but we f
Fratello Talks: Could A Desire For Disconnection Spell A Bright Future For Mechanical Watches?
For years, the assumption was that the world would only become more digital — more connected, more automated, more dependent on screens. And yet, in recent years, there seems to have been a subtle shift in the opposite direction. Vinyl records are thriving, physical books remain popular, wired headphones and MP3 players are back, and younger generations increasingly talk about wanting more intenti
Fratello On Air: Catching Up, Accutrons, And Family Additions
Welcome to a long-awaited episode of Fratello On Air! Well, at least we're excited to be back. It's been a while, meaning we'll cover some recent news from the watch industry, sneaker landscape, television, and even our personal lives. We look forward to catching up with you!It's been nearly two months since we last published an episode of Fratello On Air. Yes, that's too
Fratello Talks: Fratello Talks: The Watches We'd Buy If We Started Collecting Today
Every watch collector has wondered about this at some point. If you could go back to the beginning, armed with everything you know now, what would you do differently? Would you buy fewer watches, take bigger risks, or even skip certain phases altogether? In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho is joined by RJ and Timo to tackle exactly that question. Looking at today's watch landscape rather
Fratello Talks: Vintage Watches — Wear It Or Spare It?
Most of us here at Fratello love vintage watches, but not all of us are comfortable buying and wearing them. Do you wear it, or do you spare it? Damaging a vintage watch can be expensive, but it might also just feel wrong to wear it daily. Can it withstand today's abuse? Is it still water resistant enough? How about shocks? In this week's installment of Fratello Talks, RJ, Max, and Daan
Fratello Talks: There Are No Tool Watches Above €500
Mechanical watches were once essential tools for pilots, divers, scientists, race car drivers, etc. You’ve probably seen the advertisements in old National Geographic magazines, showing spelunkers proudly wearing their Rolex Explorers or a pilot checking his Breitling Navitimer, using it to calculate fuel consumption. For many years (decades) now, this has been handled digitally, as that’s quicker
Fratello Talks: The Great Watch Price-Shift Dilemma
Watch prices have been creeping upward for years, but recently, it feels like something more fundamental is happening. It’s no longer just about incremental increases, as entire segments seem to be shifting. Brands are moving into price territory once occupied by others, microbrands are pushing higher than ever before, and the old mental map of “what you get for your money” is becoming harder to n
Fratello Talks: A Big Year For Skeletonized And Openworked Watches
Skeletonized watches and openworked dials seem to be everywhere this year. From subtle cutouts that reveal just a hint of mechanics to fully open displays that showcase the entire movement, brands across price segments are leaning into transparency. Whether driven by aesthetics, technical ambition, or simply a desire to stand out, it’s a trend that’s hard to ignore. In this episode of Fratello Tal
Fratello Talks: Watches And Wonders 2026 Debrief
Another Watches and Wonders is in the books, and as always, it takes a moment to process everything. Between the main fair at Palexpo, meetings across Geneva, and visits to the various satellite events around the city, the week becomes a blur of watches, conversations, and quick (yet lasting) impressions. Only afterward do the highlights start to settle. In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho is
Fratello Talks: How Much Does Chronometer Certification Matter?
"Chronometer" is one term that frequently comes up in watchmaking. We see it stamped on dials, highlighted in marketing materials, and often used as a synonym for "high quality." But how much does chronometer certification actually matter to us as collectors? In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho is joined by Daan and RJ to unpack the role of this certification in modern wat
Fratello Talks: Watches We Personally Love But Would Not Recommend
We all have watches we absolutely love but would hesitate to recommend to someone else. That might sound contradictory at first, but spend enough time in this hobby, and it starts to make sense. Not every great watch is universally great. Some require a certain mindset, a specific wrist, or simply a willingness to embrace their quirks. In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho, Daan, and RJ discuss
Fratello On Air: Vintage Brands Worth Checking Out
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we discuss underrated vintage brands that are worth a long look. We've had these types of chats before, but it's always nice to see what we've missed. You'll hear some familiar names today, as well as about some smaller companies that could be new to you.While both of us have a penchant for vintage Rolex, Heuer, and
Fratello Talks: The Talking Points That Define Horology
Spend enough time around watches, whether at events, in boutiques, or just talking to fellow enthusiasts, and you start to notice the same talking points coming up again and again. Certain topics seem to define how we think about watches today. In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho is joined by Lex and RJ to unpack those recurring conversations. The idea for the episode came to Lex while chatti
Fratello Talks: Does Resale Value Affect How Much You Enjoy a Watch?
It’s a question that comes up from time to time in today’s watch world: Does resale value affect how much you enjoy a watch? With secondary market prices discussed almost as frequently as specifications, it’s hard to ignore the financial side of collecting. In this episode of Fratello Talks, RJ, Thomas, and Nacho discuss whether resale value changes the way we approach watches. Does strong value r
Fratello On Air: Does Price Transparency In The Vintage Watch Market Exist?
Welcome to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we address a listener's question about price transparency in the vintage market. Does it exist, and if not, how should a new collector navigate these murky waters? Listen in as we take a long look at this interesting topic.After last week's episode about what happens when a previously undervalued brand gains attention, we decided
Fratello Talks: The Microbrands To Watch In 2026
The microbrand segment of the watch industry has evolved dramatically over the last decade. What once felt like a niche corner of the horology world has grown into a thriving ecosystem of small companies producing thoughtful, design-driven watches. Some focus on value, others on originality, and a few are beginning to push the boundaries of what a small brand can achieve. In this episode of Fratel
Fratello On Air: When A Cult Brand You Enjoy Goes Mainstream
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! We're back (sort of) after more travels, and this week, we discuss the fallout that happens once a formerly unloved brand becomes popular. Call it sour grapes or wanting to keep something to oneself, but feel free to listen to our thoughts on the subject. Enjoy the show!I'm sure you know what it's like to be holding a secret. No, I
Fratello Talks: New And Pre-Owned Watches We'd Buy For €5,000
What watch would you buy with €5k in your pocket today? And what if you could spend no less than €4,500? That's the hypothetical dilemma we're tackling on Fratello Talks today. RJ, Daan, and Nacho have taken the challenge, and in this week's episode, they go through their picks. They were shocked at how few watches actually land within the price point, with Tudor holding the lion&ap
Fratello Talks: Is Heritage Overused And Overrated?
These days, "heritage" might be the most overused word in watch marketing. Every other press release seems to reference archives, vintage inspiration, or a glorious past. But at what point does heritage become a crutch rather than a strength? In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho, Daan, and Thomas unpack the role heritage plays in today’s watch industry. Is it still meaningful? Is it
Fratello Talks: How To Get The Most Out Of Collecting Watches
Collecting watches can be as simple or as complicated as you make it. For some, it’s a slow accumulation of pieces they like. For others, it’s a focused, evolving pursuit built around themes, eras, or even specific references. In this episode of Fratello Talks, RJ, Daan, and Nacho discuss how to get the most out of the hobby — not in terms of value retention or flipping strategies but, rather, in
Fratello On Air: Taking Our Time Machine Back To 2016
Welcome to another episode of Fratello On Air. This week, we hop into our time machine and travel back 10 years to 2016. As we'll see, in some ways, this wasn't so long ago. Yet, in others, it was a different lifetime. Join us as we look back on fonder days.HandgelenkskontrolleIt's been a while since we've recorded, and much of this is down to Mike's travels in Germany. Sa
Fratello Talks: Different Approaches To Buying Your First "Serious" Watch
For many of us, there’s a clear line between the watches we liked and the first one we considered "serious." Maybe it was the first mechanical piece we bought with our hard-earned money. Maybe it was the first watch that required actual research, comparison, and a deep breath before hitting "confirm order." In today’s episode of Fratello Talks, Thomas, RJ, and Nacho discuss the
Fratello Talks: Understanding Water Resistance
Have you ever wondered exactly what the water resistance rating on your watch's dial means? In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho, Thomas, and Daan get into the different ratings, what they mean in theory, and, more importantly, in practice for the person wearing a watch. Tune in and listen to this episode, and if you don't already, you'll come away fully understanding water resi
Fratello Talks: Why We Chose Analog Watches In A Digital World
Why do we choose analog watches in a digital world? It's a valid question, as these mechanical timekeepers (though still functional) are no longer the necessity they once were. Why, then, do they remain not just an obsession for the few but also relevant and ever-present objects in people's private lives and even pop culture? That's the subject we're grappling with in today&apo
Fratello Talks: LVMH Watch Week 2026 Highlights
We're barely three weeks into 2026, and things are off to a strong start. It used to be that we'd have to wait until Watches and Wonders to get the first proper wave of novelties. But LVMH has taken it upon itself to produce the first major round of releases early in the year. Today, on Fratello Talks, we're taking a look at some LVMH Watch Week highlights. Thomas, Daan, and Nacho a
Fratello On Air: The Speedmaster Reverse Panda Rocks, But We Miss The LEs
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we discuss the latest Speedmaster Professional reverse panda. However, this isn't your standard review. We take it all the way back to Speedy Tuesday 1 and rue the passing of the limited-edition models of yore. Fear not, though; it's not all about Speedies.Yes, last week's Speedmaster reverse panda caused quite a stir. I
Fratello Talks: What The First Watch Releases Of 2026 Reveal About The Year Ahead
The year is off to a flying start with some big releases from fan-favorite brands. In today's episode of Fratello Talks, we're taking a look at the first watch releases of 2026 and, based on patterns they present, seeing what they reveal about the year ahead. Though we haven't had many new introductions so far, the handful of novelties is still enough to get us excited, from Seiko c
Fratello On Air: What We're Shopping For, Or Not, In 2026
Happy New Year from Fratello On Air! We're back with a new episode, and we're going shopping. Well, maybe. One of us has his eyes on several pieces while the other is taking a wait-and-see approach. Enjoy our 2026 kickoff!Yes, we're back for another year, and it's great to be here! With a new year, we usually make resolutions. However, last year's resolutions didn't g
Fratello Talks: Watch Wishes And Predictions For 2026
Happy New Year, dear Fratelli! We are following up on our kick-off to this new lap around the sun with a fresh new episode of Fratello Talks, where we're discussing our watch wishes and predictions for 2026. RJ, Thomas, and Nacho are here to express some of what they'd love to see more of in the new year from watch brands, as well as to make specific predictions. They also go over some a
Fratello Talks: The Best Entry Level Watches To Start A Collection In 2026
Welcome to the fourth season of Fratello Talks! To kick off the new year, we're discussing some of the best entry-level watches to start a collection in 2026. Daan, RJ, and Nacho come together to present some of their favorite options available today. Many of the watches discussed are great if you're looking to start a collection. However, they also serve as a fun purchase, even for seas
Fratello Talks: Horological Highlights Of 2025
Hello and happy holidays from your Fratello Talks team! Today marks the final episode of 2025 and the end of our third season of the show. What better way to round out the year than by looking back at some horological highlights of 2025? RJ, Daan, and your host, Nacho, join forces to discuss some of the most remarkable moments of this past year. Consider this final episode of the year our gift to
Fratello On Air: Our Favorite Seiko Watches Ever
Merry Christmas and welcome to another episode of Fratello On Air! We're back with an episode on Christmas Eve, and we're talking about our favorite Seiko watches of all time. That's a tough mission, but like Santa's job of delivering toys to all the children, we're up to the task! Grab some mulled wine, settle in by the fireplace, and enjoy the banter.Folks, we've be
Fratello Talks: The Forces Redefining The Watch Industry's Future
As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a natural moment to pause, take stock, and look ahead at what the coming year may hold for the watch industry. In this week’s episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho is joined by Daan and Lex for an in-depth conversation about the various factors and forces that are actively reshaping the watch world. The discussion covers a broad range of topics, from emerging players in t
Fratello Talks: The Best Microbrand Watches Of 2025
As 2025 winds down, it's the perfect time to reflect on some of the standout microbrand watches released this year. That’s precisely what we’re doing in this week’s episode of Fratello Talks. Nacho, Daan, and Thomas are back in the studio. Each has brought a list of three personal favorites — plus plenty of honorable mentions — for a lively discussion. If you appreciate the creative, unconven
Fratello Talks: Gold Watches Revisited
There's something special about gold watches that goes beyond the opulent, warm tone of their shiny exteriors. In the past, they served to mark significant milestones, special occasions, or outstanding achievements. These are often immortalized with an engraving on the case back. Today, on Fratello Talks, we've found inspiration to revisit the topic of gold watches. Several new releases
Fratello On Air: Giving Thanks To The Watch Hobby
Welcome to another episode of Fratello On Air! With Thanksgiving barely in our rearview mirrors, we decide to spend time giving thanks to the watch hobby. In this installment, you'll hear what we love so much about this addiction and why. Settle in for this candid chat.In honor of Thanksgiving, we figure that giving thanks is well overdue. Today, you'll hear a lovable Balazs talk about a
Fratello Talks: Dubai Watch Week 2025 Highlights And Other Recent Releases
Over the last few weeks, we've seen an unseasonal deluge of watch releases, with brands big and small unveiling fresh pieces at an incessant pace. Today, on Fratello Talks, we're taking a moment to look back at some highlights and reflect on what stood out to us. Nacho, RJ, and Thomas are on the microphones to break down a diverse array of novelties and share their thoughts on emerging t
Fratello On Air: The Greatest Dive Watches Of All Time
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we enter the depths and declare the greatest dive watches of all time. Yes, there are some expected entries, but we also offer a surprise or two. Enjoy the listen!While neither Balazs nor I dive, we've realized that the style of watch used for this activity has probably become the most popular genre. Not so long ago, a dive watch
Fratello Talks: Watches And The Stories They Tell
Watch collectors often discuss design, materials, and mechanical nuance, but the conversation frequently shifts toward something less tangible — the stories tied to these objects. Whether passed down through family, acquired during memorable moments, or simply worn through everyday life, watches tend to gather meaning in ways their manufacturers cannot always predict. On this week’s episode of Fra
Fratello On Air: The Best Modern Watches Are Still Five-Digit Rolex
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we chat about the legendary five-digit Rolex era and how it's probably the greatest collection of modern watches. We discuss why and mention some of our favorite models. Enjoy the show!For many of us, it seems that the five-digit Rolex period was around forever. In fact, the watches debuted in the late 1970s and stayed in producti
Fratello Talks: With Claude Greisler of Armin Strom
On this week’s episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho and RJ sit down with Claude Greisler, co-founder and master watchmaker at Armin Strom. Together, they explore Claude’s journey from a young apprentice to leading one of Switzerland’s most technically inventive independent brands. The trio discusses how Armin Strom evolved from a workshop known for skeletonization to a fully fledged manufacture that c
Fratello Talks: Modern Watches That Could Be Future Classics
The pace of new watch releases has never been faster. Every week seems to bring a fresh wave of models vying for our attention. We're certainly not complaining—but it does make us curious: which of today’s timepieces might one day become future classics? That’s the question at the heart of today’s episode of Fratello Talks, as Nacho, RJ, and Daan explore the modern watches most likely to stan
Fratello On Air: These Are The Next Watch Trends
Welcome back to another episode of Fratello On Air! This week, we lay it on the line and predict upcoming watch trends. We take educated guesses about what will be hot and what will likely fade. It's a comprehensive look at everything from materials to sizes and colors. Enjoy the show!It's not easy to see into the future, but many popular styles and fads around us can help predict future
Fratello Talks: The Tales Of Former Watch Retailers
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 shu
Fratello On Air: Seiko's Triumphant Return
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
Fratello Talks: What Makes A Watch Elegant?
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 al
Fratello On Air: The Best-Value Used Watches
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 va
Fratello Talks: Watch Case Materials
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 mat
Fratello On Air: Predicting The Fortunes Of Four Brands In Five Years
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 fat
Fratello Talks: The Present And Future Of Watch Design
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
Fratello Talks: Watches We'd Buy New At Three Price Points
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 any
Fratello Talks: Endgame Watches
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 ca
Fratello On Air: Currently Available Watches Offering The Best Value
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 t
Fratello Talks: Gerald Charles CEO Federico Ziviani [Live In Geneva]
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
Fratello On Air: Watches And Cars In Geneva, Budapest, And London
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 watch
Fratello Talks: Trade To Upgrade — Is It Possible To Trade Your Way To Your Grail Watch?
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 pur
Fratello Talks: Geneva Watch Days 2025 Highlights [Live from Geneva]
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 d
Fratello Talks: Different Ways To Approach Watches As A Hobby
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 wa
Fratello Talks: Swatch Group Releases 2025 [Live From The Utrecht Watch Valley Event]
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 firs
Fratello Talks: The Experience of Visiting A Swiss Watch Manufacture
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 l
Fratello Talks: Does Storytelling Still Sell Watches?
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 s
Fratello On Air: The Watches For New Collectors Entering The Hobby
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
Fratello Talks: The Best Chronographs Of 2025 (So Far)
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 rel
Fratello On Air: How The Watch Industry Can Reignite The Passions Of Collectors
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'
Fratello Talks: Watch Modding — Creative Expression or Horological Heresy?
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&ap
Fratello Talks: The Role Of Microbrands Today
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
Fratello Talks: The Best Watches Of 2025 So Far
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. Sti
Fratello Talks: Watch Brands And Sports
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
Fratello On Air: The Biggest Myths And Misconceptions Of Watch Collecting
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
Fratello Talks: The Best Watches Under €5,000 In 2025
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&a
Fratello Talks: Straum Watches And The New Straum × Fratello Jan Mayen Titanium With Co-Founder Øystein Husby
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 fin
