Time + tide
Do you think Rolex will seal the deal on the night of a date? Think about it again. In episode 5, the matter of time was placed by Kristian Haagen and Andrew McCutchen, co-host Eleonor Picciotto, on a hot seat, to harness her clear perspective, and the discussion revealed the brutal truth about women actually realizing about your wrist watch.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktebu6qmdoi
Looks like a Trump technical specification
Women usually tend to prioritize aesthetics over engineering. While obsessed with COSC certification and helium escape valves, she may be focused on whether the watch looks neat and proportionately complements your style. Eleonor admits to seeing the look first despite her industry expertise. “I look at the clock in front of what’s inside the clock.
She estimates that technical movements are important for 20% of women. The other 80% were less concerned about it if it was mechanical or quartz. But she also notes that this is beginning to change as the bases of watch enthusiasts and collectors grow and diversify.
Status Symbol Trap
Here is where men are brilliantly wrong. It’s often the case that expensive brands are flashing. Eleonor recounted the date of dinner, when a man wearing the obvious status piece (Royal Oaks, Submarines, Patek Philippes) attracted unnecessary attention from other men, completely derailing the evening.
“You’re not alone,” she warned about wearing flashy pieces at restaurants. “The douchebag on the table next to me will ask if it’s Patek Philippe. My dates will think he’s odd.”
The most attractive approach? A watch with personal importance. To commemorate a milestone in life (first child, career achievements), Eleonor found a man who was far more attractive than a man who simply flaunts his purchasing power.
Reliability factors
Nothing kills charm as fast as fakes. Eleonor’s advice: “Get what you can afford. It’s better than getting a fake.” The real example beats a fake Rolex every time. Women realize credibility issues, and conversations around fake create annoying moments.
Size and fit reality
Forget the oversized trend. Comfort and proportion are more important. Women approach the sizing of the watch like other accessories. Sometimes you choose an extreme oversized backfire, although not entirely comfortable for aesthetic reasons. There is growing interest in watches that both partners can wear, reflecting the broader trend towards hermaphrodite luxury. Eleonor’s partners regularly borrow her work, from Frank Muller to various Cartier models. This shared dynamic can add intimacy to a relationship.
Brand recognition pitfalls
Rolex, Patek Philippe and Ardmer’s Pigouette are instantly recognized, but that’s not necessarily positive. Eleonor pointed out that many women find these brands without understanding the differences between models and look only at expensive watches rather than assessing the nuances of watches. “Many girls don’t know the difference between a new Rolex and a vintage Rolex, but for them it’s still a Rolex,” she observed.
But sometimes the script is turned over in an attractive way. Some models, like Royal Oak, are likely bigger than the brand name, and Eleonor also states in her analysis. This really applies to people who haven’t gone down the rabbit hole. In general, most people don’t see Millenary and don’t think of Ardmer’s Piguet. I also know that, even when the Royal Oak octagonal case and sparkling bracelet come out from under the sleeves, most of the time it is Royal Oak and not necessarily Audemars Piguet.
Conclusion
Most women don’t pay any attention to your watch. They focus on personality, quality of conversation, restaurant choices, and how you treat them. Watches are far below these factors. If you insist on considering a clock choice, avoid obvious status symbols screaming wealth, skip lectures on technical specifications, and choose the one that fits properly.
Most importantly, don’t make your watch a conversation starter. This is the fastest way to show that you are more interested in emotionality than connecting. A harsh reality? If your watch is the most interesting thing about you on your first date, you’re probably on a date.
What is the question of time?
What is the question of time? It’s about three watch experts coming together to talk about the subject they love: a watch. Three hearts. A passion. Always in the world. The question of time features Eleonor Picciotto (The Eye of Jewellery, 1916 Company), Kristian Haagen (author, Scandinavian Watch Ontricordinare), and Andrew Mcutchen (founder, Time+Tide).
All the complete episodes of the matter of time will be posted here on The Tide+Tide YouTube channel.
