Superlative

Hosted by Ariel Adams

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297

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Jun 2026

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About the show

This is Superlative: A Podcast about watches, the people behind them, and the worlds that inspire them. Spending time with great minds and interesting personalities from the watch community, while talking about things that matter for timepiece enthusiasts. Superlative is a talk show inspired podcast with weekly guests hosted by Ariel Adams, the Founder of aBlogtoWatch.com.

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June 17, 20261 hr 3 min

Becca Florence Davis Of CHP Caliber On The Future Of Independent Watch Brands

New day, same great conversations. Catch new episodes of SUPERLATIVE every Wednesday!In this episode of SUPERLATIVE, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host Ariel Adams sits down with Becca Florence Davis, founder of CHP Caliber, to explore the rapidly changing world of independent watch brands and what it really takes to succeed in the U.S. market. Drawing on her years of experience in luxury goods and as a former Shinola account executive, Becca explains why many promising watch brands struggle to break into retail, the hidden value of independent jewelers, and why relationships still matter more than hype in the watch industry.Becca also shares how CHP Caliber helps emerging brands navigate wholesale, why operations and after sales support can make or break success, and what retailers are actually looking for when deciding which watches deserve case space. From the realities of direct to consumer business models to the importance of storytelling, trust, and long term growth, this conversation offers an insightful look at the business side of modern watchmaking and what separates brands that last from those that disappear.Learn more about Becca and CHP Caliber:- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chpcaliber/ - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/beccafdavis/ - Website - https://www.chpcaliber.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!Key Timestamps:[00:35] Intro & Becca’s Watch Industry Background[02:50] Why Becca Created CHP Caliber[08:39] How Independent Watches Actually Get Sold[16:29] What U.S. Retailers Really Want From Watch Brands[23:45] DTC vs Retail: Why Brands Hit A Growth Ceiling[31:15] Inside CHP Caliber & The Access Lab[37:04] Which Watch Brands Are Ready For The U.S. Market[1:00:29] Who Should Work With CHP Caliber & How To Connect

June 8, 20261 hr 3 min

Jason Chevrolat of Bonniksen on Preserving Traditional Watchmaking

In this episode of Superlative, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host Ariel Adams sits down with Jason Chevrolat, co-founder of Bonniksen, to discuss the philosophy, ambition, and craftsmanship behind launching a new independent watch brand rooted in traditional watchmaking. Jason shares the story behind Bonniksen’s connection to the historic carousel complication, the influence of the Time Æon Foundation, and what it means to participate in the prestigious Naissance d’Une Montre IV project. From preserving disappearing techniques to creating watches with true credibility, Jason explains why taking the slow road in watchmaking still matters.Ariel and Jason also dive into the realities of building a brand from the ground up, the challenges of handmade watchmaking, and the sacrifices required to bring an ambitious vision to life. Along the way, they discuss independent watchmaking, collector culture, Greubel Forsey’s influence, and Bonniksen’s long term goal of helping preserve traditional watchmaking through education and future generations of makers.Learn more about Bonniksen and stay connected with Jason:- Bonniksen Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bonniksenofficial/ - Personal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/holywrists/ - Website - https://bonniksen.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!

June 1, 20261 hr 0 min

Building A Modern Tool Watch Brand With Olof Larsson of Aera

In this episode of Superlative, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host, Ariel Adams, sits down with Olof Larsson, co-founder of Aera, to explore the philosophy behind building a modern tool watch brand from the ground up. With decades of experience in the watch industry and a family history in retail, Olof shares how a chance friendship through Ikepod eventually led to the creation of Aera. He discusses why he and co-founder Jas Minhas chose to start a completely new brand instead of reviving a heritage name, the challenge of finding a perfect new company name, and the importance of creating watches that feel purposeful, refined, and distinctly their own.Olof also offers an inside look at Aera’s design process, including the obsession with small details that define the brand’s aesthetic. From the challenges of manufacturing curved dials to balancing modern design with timeless functionality, he explains what it takes to bring a watch from concept to reality. Join in on the conversation as Ariel and Olof discuss changing consumer behavior, the rise of independent watch brands, colorful dials, and why modern collectors are increasingly drawn to watches that feel personal rather than trend-driven.Learn more about Aero Watches:- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aerainstruments/ - Website - https://aera.co/ 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!

May 25, 20261 hr 2 min

Stephen Cox Of Sopwith Watch Company On Wearing Aviation History On Your Wrist

In this episode of Superlative, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host, Ariel Adams, sits down with Stephen Cox, founder of Sopwith Watch Company, to explore the fascinating intersection of aviation history and horology. Stephen shares the incredible story behind building a watch brand that uses material from authentic historic aircraft, including World War I planes and iconic military machines, to create watch cases with a direct connection to history. From sourcing century-old materials to building an in-house foundry in Texas, Stephen explains what it takes to transform rare aviation artifacts into modern timepieces.The conversation also dives into Stephen’s lifelong fascination with World War I aviation, his career in motorsports and television, and the philosophy behind creating watches that prioritize authenticity over marketing. Along the way, Ariel and Stephen unpack the evolution of military aviation, the watches worn by early pilots, and why the emotional connection to history matters just as much as the mechanics inside the watch. Whether you love aviation, military history, independent watchmaking, or all three, this episode offers a unique look at a brand trying to do something completely different in the world of watches.Learn more about Sopwith Watch Company:- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sopwithwatchcompany/ - Website - https://sopwithwatch.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!

May 18, 20261 hr 2 min

Kristian Dowling of Leica Watches on Watch Photography, Authenticity, and Brand Storytelling

In this episode of Superlative, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host, Ariel Adams, sits down with Kristian Dowling of Leica Watches to explore the fascinating connection between photography and watchmaking. Kristian shares how his background in photography and marketing, along with his work training Leica watch teams around the world, shaped his role at the brand. He also explains why authentic watch photography matters more than ever with today’s collector landscape. From photographing watches in unpredictable trade show environments to building imagery that feels honest and realistic, the conversation dives deep into how visual storytelling shapes the way collectors experience watches long before they ever try one on.Ariel and Kristian also discuss what makes Leica Watches unique, including the philosophy behind the brand’s camera inspired approach to watchmaking and the challenge of introducing a respected photography name into the highly competitive luxury watch space. Along the way, they explore the role of authenticity in marketing, how watch brands can create stronger long term relationships with collectors, and why the best watches should look just as compelling in real life as they do in photographs.Learn more about Leica Watches and stay updated with Kristian’s work:- Instagram Accounts: - https://www.instagram.com/kristiandowling/ - https://www.instagram.com/leica_watch/ - Websites:- https://kristiandowling.com/ - https://leica-camera.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!

May 11, 20261 hr 5 min

Justin Jakobson of Camp Watches on Industrial Inspired Watch Design and Southern California Creativity

On this episode of Superlative, aBlogtoWatch founder and our host Ariel Adams sits down with Justin Jakobson, founder of Camp Watches to discuss how industrial design, automotive culture, and personal storytelling all come together in modern independent watchmaking. Based in Los Angeles, Justin explains how his background in consumer electronics and industrial design shaped the identity of Camp Watches, along with the unique challenges of creating an original watch design in such a crowded and competitive category.The conversation explores everything from typography and dial design to automotive paint inspiration and the influence of Southern California culture on creative work. Ariel and Justin also discuss the realities of building a startup watch brand, the importance of cohesive design language, and how interacting directly with collectors at watch shows helps shape future products. Along the way, they dive into analog nostalgia, vintage inspired aesthetics, and the growing community of independent watch brands emerging from Los Angeles.Learn more about Camp Watches:- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/campwatchco/ - Website - https://campwatches.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!

May 4, 20261 hr 11 min

Charlotte and Peter Fiell on Watch Collecting, Curation, and Storytelling

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

April 27, 20261 hr 4 min

Jim Wirth of GiantMouse Knives on Why Knife and Watch Collecting Go Hand in Hand

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

April 20, 20261 hr 0 min

Cornelius Ye of CIGA Design on Story Driven Watches, Skeleton Innovation, and Global Growth

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!

April 13, 20261 hr 6 min

Marine Lemonnier-Brennan of 289 Consulting on Connecting Brands, Media, and Collectors

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!