it’s about time: part two
Apparently it’s been three years since I’ve updated my blog. I suppose it’s about time to pick it back up.
I last left on a cliff-hanger regarding the demeanor of some patrons and sales associates of high horology watch stores. Over the last three years, I’ve run a sort of social experiment for myself to see how I would be treated in these stores. It all started when I wanted to service my grandfather’s Cartier Tank that I inherited.
At the time, I had long, shoulder-length hair and a beard. For all intents and purposes, I looked like a true Colorado mountain man - someone who, stereotypically, does not look like they belong in a high horology store. When I arrived at the watch store, I could immediately tell I was being profiled. Why is this young man who looks like a hippie in a 70s bomber jacket in a store with multi-thousand dollar watches? Clearly he can’t afford anything in here. One of the associates was tending to another customer, so I politely waited my turn and started perusing the display cases. Once the associate was able to help, they seemed standoffish - why was I here and what did I want? I asked if they were able to help service my grandfather’s Cartier Tank and pulled the watch out of my jacket pocket. When I placed the watch on the top of the display case, the associate’s demeanor immediately changed and they smiled. “Oh, we’ll be happy to help! Tell me about the piece!“ Okay, here we go… Overall, they delivered on the service, but it set in motion an experiment to see what would happen.
Ever since that experience, I’ve acquired an Omega Seamaster Diver 300, a Tudor Black Bay 58, and a Rolex Datejust. I’ve learned how to talk the talk and walk the walk. I’ve gained confidence in walking into these high horology stores and asking about interesting pieces - even pieces that I know I could not afford in my wildest dreams. Once you learn the jargon and history of the companies and particular pieces, things change. However, one experience I found particularly interesting was when I visited the Luxury of Time store in Disney Springs.
Luxury of Time has time pieces from the likes of Mont Blanc, Breitling, Chopard, Bulgari, and TAG Heuer. Due to the store being located in Disney Springs, everyone that walks into the store is in super casual clothes. You don’t know who has the money to afford the watches based on looks alone. I was treated incredibly kindly and was truly given the time of day (no pun intended. Alright, somewhat intended.) - A 180° difference to my first conversation about the Cartier Tank.
Over the last three years, I am extremely pleased with the outcome of my experiment. I’ve gained confidence, learned fascinating history, and have made friends. Not to mention, I’ve gotten to try on works of art and feats of engineering.
Until next time.