Superlative

In this episode of Superlative, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host Ariel Adams speaks with design historians and authors Charlotte Fiell and Peter Fiell about their ambitious book Ultimate Collector Watches, published by TASCHEN. The conversation explores how the duo approached curating some of the most important watches ever made, from analyzing auction results to balancing representation across brands, eras, and complications. They explain why brands like Patek Philippe and Rolex dominate the high end collector space, while also sharing the challenges of expanding beyond those names to create a broader and more thoughtful narrative.

Charlotte and Peter also dive into the deeper cultural and psychological aspects of collecting, from the importance of origin and rarity to the emotional connection collectors form with objects. They discuss the storytelling behind iconic timepieces, the role of design and engineering in shaping desirability, and how access to rare watches and private collections helped bring the book to life. Their conversation offers both a behind the scenes look at creating one of the most comprehensive watch books ever published and a thoughtful exploration of why watch collecting continues to resonate with enthusiasts around the world.

Learn more about Charlotte and Peter:

- Order their book - https://www.taschen.com/en/books/architecture-design/09300/ultimate-collector-watches/

- Website - https://www.fiell.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!
To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative, aBlogtoWatch Weekly, and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter/X - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

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On this episode of Superlative, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host Ariel Adams sits down with Jim Wirth, co-founder and CEO of GiantMouse Knives, for a deep conversation about knives, collecting, and the surprising overlap between blade enthusiasts and watch lovers. Together their discussion explores how design, craftsmanship, and function come together in modern knife making, while also touching on the importance of aesthetics in an increasingly visual collector culture.

Ariel and Jim dive into the psychology behind collecting, the appeal of vintage objects, and why knives and watches attract such passionate communities. Along the way, they discuss the recent collaboration between GiantMouse Knives and Zodiac, the evolution of knife materials and steel technology, and how Jim’s entrepreneurial background helped shape the brand. From dive knives and Danish frogmen to the hunt for rare collectibles, this episode is a fascinating look at the mindset behind people who love beautifully made tools.

Check out GiantMouse Knives:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/giantmouseknives

- Website - https://www.giantmouse.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!
To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative, aBlogtoWatch Weekly, and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter/X - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

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In this episode of Superlative, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host Ariel Adams sits down with Cornelius Ye of CIGA Design to explore how a modern watch brand can stand out in a crowded global market. Cornelius explains his role as a “go to market manager”, acting as the bridge between design, production, and sales, while helping bring each watch from concept to launch. He shares how CIGA Design grew from a small team focused on crowdfunding into an internationally recognized brand, driven by a commitment to original design and accessible pricing.

The conversation dives into the brand’s core philosophy, from skeletonized watches and story driven collections to award winning designs like the Blue Planet. Cornelius breaks down how narrative, aesthetics, and emotional connection matter more than traditional timekeeping in today’s market, and why CIGA Design focuses on creating distinctive pieces rather than competing with legacy Swiss brands. From Everest inspired tourbillons to evolving global distribution, this episode offers insight into how a new generation of watchmakers is redefining value, creativity, and what consumers truly want from a watch.

Check out CIGA Design:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cigadesign.global/

- Website - https://cigadesign.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!
To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative, aBlogtoWatch Weekly, and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter/X - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

In this episode of Superlative, our host and aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams sits down with Marine Lemonnier-Brennan, founder and managing director of 289 Consulting, to explore the often unseen forces that drive the watch industry forward. Marine shares how her career evolved from the entertainment world into watchmaking, and how her experience helped shape a more strategic and globally connected approach to PR. Together, they unpack the critical role of relationships in an industry where success depends not just on great products, but on the people behind them and the stories that bring them to life.

The conversation dives into Marine’s time working with major brands like Vacheron Constantin and Hublot, her experience alongside Jean-Claude Biver, and the decision to build her own firm focused on supporting independent watchmakers. She explains how 289 Consulting bridges the gap for smaller brands that need global visibility but lack the resources of large groups, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy ecosystem between brands, media, and retailers. Along the way, Ariel and Marine reflect on how the industry has evolved, why connection remains at its core, and what it takes for brands to stay relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.

Check out 289 Consulting and Follow Marine:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/289consulting/

- https://www.instagram.com/marinelemonnier/

- Website - https://289consulting.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!
To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch
To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:
- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative, aBlogtoWatch Weekly, and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter/X - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!

In this episode of Superlative, Ariel Adams sits down with Alex Rosenfield, CEO of Urban Jürgensen, to explore the revival of one of watchmaking’s most historic yet often overlooked brands. Alex shares the story behind his family’s acquisition of Urban Jürgensen and the philosophy guiding its modern relaunch, from preserving centuries of design and engineering legacy to working alongside master watchmaker Kari Voutilainen to shape a new generation of timepieces.

  Alex dives into what it really means to run a high end watch brand today, including long term thinking, resisting industry pressure for constant releases, and focusing on emotional connection through design and craftsmanship. He also outlines a refreshingly transparent approach to collectors, emphasizing fairness, accessibility, and respect over traditional luxury sales tactics. Along the way, Alex reflects on what makes a watch truly meaningful, from the human story behind its creation to the importance of making something that feels beautiful and lasting on the wrist. Alex and Ariel’s conversation is truly a thoughtful look at how heritage, artistry, and modern leadership can come together to redefine what independent watchmaking looks like going forward.

Check out Urban Jürgensen:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/urbanjurgensen/

- Website - https://urbanjurgensen.com/

SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!
To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch

To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:

- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/

To keep updated with everything Superlative, aBlogtoWatch Weekly, and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH

- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/

If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!