Life & Watches with Horology Republic

Larry and Zac dive into the week's shenanigans with the discussion of the "Swatchtona" they posted jointly. What was funny? What were the negative comments? Would the Swatch Group and Rolex EVER made something like this which we all know would break the internet? We discuss this in detail and ponder what our alternate-universe selves think in the one other universe where this actually exists. Either way, we're definitely jealous of the mirror universe Zac and Larry who have these on their wrists...somewhere, somehow.

Summer is indeed in full swing and getting everyone together to record weekly isn't as easy these days, so we hit you with over TWO HOURS of fun discussion. Larry, Brian, and Zachary get together on a gorgeous summer's night to talk a few things over relating to the watch journey we've been on together all year. First up, is box and papers essential to watch collecting OR is it just a nice to have? We discuss and provide a little insight if you're on the fence about it. NEXT, we discuss a topic which Zachary saw on Youtube from Mike at This Watch, That Watch (which is an EXCELLENT channel of quality watch discussion if you haven't seen it, go check it out). He makes a good point that $1500 to $3000 is a sweet spot of serious value, so we gave our own takes on it. Not necessarily responding to everything he says or point-for-point, but just as a general guideline by which to have a talk about whether we think that's the true value spot. We also have a bit of a watch rundown where Larry gives a few of his initial thoughts on the Brigade Watch Subcommander and it's quality. He's put it through a few paces and is writing his own review about it, so make sure you keep a look out at his IG for that. Because Brian is a trader, he also busted out a bunch of models to go over and we thought that fit well with the theme, so we took a look at several pieces within some price points we had outlined already and saw whether the guidelines fit or if they were kind of bogus. Listen in and you'll see!Follow us @horologyrepublic | @timetrade | @psywarwristcheck | @reidingtimewatchesANDJoin our Facebook groups: OMEGA Seamaster Community, Horology Republic Members Club, IWC Aquatimer & Watch Club. See you all there on Facebook!

NOTE: Since it's summer, there is some travel involved and the usual microphone setup was unavailable. Little different audio this time on Zac's end, but we made it work and made some content for you to enjoy nonetheless. We ran with Larry's question: Is the Aqua Terra a baby Piaget Polo? Maybe, maybe not. If you're a die-hard AT fan, this could be an abrasive question because most OMEGA guys are protective of their watches and designs. We mean no disrespect (usually), but it's a fun idea to think of a "this or that" kind of thing with respect to these pieces which sell at very different price points. We also ask Brian about whether Piaget is a requested brand or not, since it's one you don't see every day and it's something that can be a little bit special. After all, this is a brand which made its mark by creating thin movements and almost exclusively using precious metals. We did do a wrist check in this episode for those wondering what we're wearing during these recordings, so there it is! Follow us: @horologyrepublic | @psywarwristcheck | @timetrades | @sketchyboyzwatchclub | @reidingtimewatches

Zachary, Brian, and Mi Nam explore whether Summer 2025 is the summer of GOLD. Since many in our circles seem to be eyeing solid gold pieces this season, we wondered if it's actually something that's hot right now or if it's one of those "if you want a red car, you see red cars everywhere" types of things. From sporty gold to dressy, we examine what gold might have to do with this season's "in" watches. We further explore some of the dealer and watch market nuances and focus on whether some of these individual dealers are actually worth contacting. Many don't always know the stock they sell through-and-through, and some don't know much about watches in general, so is this watch market saturated with people who are just trying to make a buck on watch sales? We take a look at that. Join us next time as we explore whether the OMEGA Aqua Terra is a baby Piaget Polo and we explore the usual wristwatch buying/auction sites. Should be a fun episode as well!Follow us: @horologyrepublic | @psywarwristcheck | @timetrades | @sketchyboyzwatchclub | @roofkoreanactual

In this episode, Zac and Brian take on bracelet fatigue—the seasonal shift from steel to straps—and ask some of the intriguing community-driven “Would You Rather?” questions we’ve seen in forums and groups lately. From choosing between a box-less grail and a flawless Tudor to deciding whether to beach your gold watch or baby it at home, we’re diving into the practical and the philosophical sides of watch enthusiasm. Join us as we explore a few fun topics and gear up for the summer plans and adventures we have in store for this warmer weather. We're also combining ideas for more guests, so if you have something to say, reach out and we'll see if we can get you on the schedule! 👥 Hosts: Zac & Brian 🎧 Listen on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your watch fix. Follow @horologyrepublic | @timetrades

Zac and Larry sit down with special guests Yan from @yandretti and Mi Nam, co-founder and wrist enthusiast at large of the famed Sketchy Boyz Watch Club. Discussing pieces from Rado to Rolex, we talked with a fellow watch lovers about what makes a good collab. Is CW making pieces for everyone or is the Bel Canto a Magnum Opus? We took a look at what it meant to have pieces in the $1000 range on up. We also explored some of the non-hype brands and why it's worth checking out pieces that don't have household names on them, especially from more vintage eras. Editor's note here: Some of Yan's conversation seemed to be lost in the mix somewhere and unusable for this episode. While we're bummed that his contributions weren't ALL there in the final cut, we know he'll be back for more soon, so stay tuned! We also have to give a hearty shoutout to Mi Nam and his efforts in the Sketchy Boyz Watch Club. If you've spent any time around WoE (IYKYK), then you've heard about the the Sketch Connection with Breitling and other pieces. Mi Nam and his fellow founders have taken that in stride and created a group where fun stories are swapped, knowledge is dropped, and those who fancy a special timepiece gather around the proverbial campfire to discuss. Truly a fun space in the Facebook watch scene, we encourage everyone to at least try to get in and explore what they have to offer. Follow: @horologyrepublic | @psywarwristcheck | @yandretti | @sketchyboyzwatchclub | @roofkoreanactual

Larry and Zac pick out their choices for what to wear during Summer 2025. From the easier-to-afford side of the market to things which might require a little more working capital and patience, we named our choices for summer watches. But what exactly is a summer watch? Well, we took a look at why we think these choices fit the bill and what about them lends to this decision. While any watch could be worn for summer, sometimes you want to make sure you have something appropriate for the venues we so often visit during the warmer months in the Northern hemisphere. Weddings, birthdays, class reunions, luncheons...you name it. Larry and Zac picked some thoughtful choices for everyone in this episode.We love hearing from you, the listeners, and a lot of what you say in comments, DMs, and texts to us help us answer questions and provide whatever guidance we can. A lot of our show has revolved around providing knowledge and direction to those who may not be seasoned collectors. While our choices may not always align with yours, we do strive to make sure that we are engaging with the listening public and providing any answers we can to questions, so make sure you reach out if you have a topic you'd like us to explore. We're all on this watch journey together.Follow us: @horologyrepublic | @psywarwristcheck | @timetrades | @reidingtimewatches | @watchesandwarfighters

The regular crew shuffles in to talk about whether CW bringing more "high horology" concepts to the masses will work out in the long term or if it's just a jazzed up piece. Are they pushing the envelope of what's possible at lower pricing? Are they growing as a company? Is anyone even trying to make any money on these or is it just complaining all over the internet? We take a look and unpack whether these types of pieces are worth looking into and if they help create a legacy like more well-known brands do. We are looking at doing a bit of merch in the coming weeks. Patches that'll feature "Would Happen At Rolex" and even this episodes namesake will be created, sourced, made, and listed. Keep your eyes peeled for new stuff as we navigate the wide world of products that go along with the themes we talk about here.As always, give us a follow: @horologyrepublic @timetrades @psywarwristcheck @reidingtimewatches

Zac and Brian discuss the recent trip Zac made to the Rolex AD where he heard some confirming statements about how some of these watches get allocated. While the takeaway seems pretty fair, it still is interesting to hear it from the source and understand what goes into actually getting the call. With that, though, we explored how that makes some people (Zac) look elsewhere in the secondary market when the waiting game becomes too much. You'll have to excuse us, we were a little under the weather this week and it's caused a delay in the recording and editing of the episode. Now that Watches & Wonders is over, we're looking back to some of the topics we put on hold during the big reveals. Upcoming we still have some JDM watches we want to explore as well as the current state of wristwatch media: where did we start, where are we now, and what kinds of things are we really taking away from reading or following the big names in watch media? @horologyrepublic @timetrades #psywarwristcheck @reidingtimewatches Follow those IGs, send in your requests, and enjoy the show!

Well, all the journalists have left Geneva for another year as Watches & Wonders 2025 comes to a close in the next day or so. We've covered all we wanted to address with this event's new releases so Brian and Zac pick their favorite release of the festival and share why they chose those pieces. What was your favorite roll-out? Was the Land-Dweller the big hit everyone may have thought it was or was it a flop? We also explore whether the 'traditional' case design debuting and new movement was the right choice or if, perhaps, Rolex could have picked something else to show off their engineering prowess with. We discuss and explore the idea that another line could soon benefit from the new and improved escapement while contemplating if this choice was simply Rolex sticking with tradition. Finally, we discussed a quick meetup in North Carolina soon. With the wonderful community in and around Fort Bragg, it may be the first stop of many for the Horology Republic crew. @horologyrepublic @timetrades @psywarwristcheck @reidingtimewatches Follow for more!

Who brought some innovation to the avocation this year? We unpack our picks for which brands brought something fun, new, and groundbreaking to the table. While not every brand is capable of pushing the envelope, we explore which ones we believe brought something other than a dial color update. Tariffs - the ugly word which means an extra 31% on ANYTHING coming from Switzerland. Love these or hate these, we take a look at what it means for collectors and enthusiasts when it comes to buying what you want now while it's still a decent price versus waiting it out and hoping to have a reprieve. We're optimistic that this won't last, but we also share our thoughts on what to do if you're on the fence. @horologyrepublic @timetrades @psywarwristcheckMake sure you're following us for all the behind-the-scenes bits and for a visual tour of what's on our minds. Cheers, watchfam!

So now that the dust has effectively settled in Geneva, we explore whether the steam has run out for the show. Sure, all the people with appointments need to file through in the days after the big reveals, but we couldn't help but ponder if, by lunchtime on Wednesday, the bottom had dropped out. We also take a look at what the trade show really is and how it's evolved ever so slightly from the Baselworld days. Plus, with other watch shows peppering the calendar, does this give brands the flexibility to release some now and more later? Follow us @horologyrepublic @psywarwristcheck @timetrades @reidingtimewatches

Larry and Zac sit back down to talk about a few watches they missed yesterday which were noteworthy. We toyed with the idea of if the steam has run out of the show by lunchtime on day 2 and will explore that in more detail tomorrow! We also talk about the watch journey since W&W is all about discovering new things. We explored a few of our own choices that keep us looking to what's new and what else is out there for your hard-earned cash. Whether you love it or not, Rolex isn't the end of the road nor should it be - always keep exploring. Make sure you're following us: @horologyrepublic | @psywarwristcheck We'll see you all tomorrow for DAY 3!

Zac and Larry go over their Watches and Wonders 2025 Day 1 picks. What made the grade? Well, you'll have to listen and see. We're making a quick hit episode every night to chat about what goes on each day of Watches and Wonders starting with today! Some hot takes, some dark horses, some weird ideas, it's all here for you to enjoy and discover as we venture into the year's new releases from top brands and hidden gems alike. Follow us RIGHT NOW: @horologyrepublic & @psywarwristcheck

Episode 10! For TEN WHOLE weeks, we've been sitting down and exploring the watch journey together. From navigating prices, to going to the AD, we've taken a look at what gets people into watches and what can keep us coming back. So, for Episode 10, we discuss getting into pieces that are vintage, neo-vintage, or brand new. Which would you go for? As anyone who's ever played 90s Oregon Trail might remember, "there's advantages and disadvantages to each!" Honestly, though, we're thrilled to have listeners reaching out with topics they'd like us to cover, suggestions for watches to discuss, and even looking to be on future episodes. As long as we like watches, we'll keep making these for you to enjoy. We're just getting started! We do want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who continues to follow our podcast journey and takes the time to listen to us ramble on and on about watches. Without our listeners, we'd just be talking heads screaming into the void. Make sure you're following us on Instagram as well: @horologyrepublic @psywarwristcheck @timetrades to see what we're up to when we aren't on the air. Some wicked cool stuff on these handles and it's the BEST way to reach out to us for topic suggestions or to just chat watches. We love to hear from you, so keep it coming!

Tyler joins Zac and Brian this week to discuss a topic which comes across many of the areas we frequent: aftermarket straps. Do you go in on the cheap side? Shell out for the good stuff? Do you stick with brands you know or try something new? Do you even stray from OEM? We unpack this topic and explore some options for those folks who may not be quite sure how to choose an aftermarket strap. There are certainly enough choices to overwhelm most people who may in the market, so we provide a few tips on where to start, what to look for, and how to go about making a selection. Then, we tackle the topic which can either bring you in or keep you on the outside: Watch Meetups. Are they all fun and games? Have they become just a place for those with the fat wallets to flex their unobtanium? Is it worth bringing a brand in and creating an educational experience? Have these just gotten so far away from the networking and focus on the collector and their stories? We take a dive into the little experiences we have and the stories we've heard from those who frequent watch meetups to see where a better way forward could be created. Who knows, maybe you'll see quarterly Horology Republic watch meetups near you? The Instagram accounts to follow from this episode are: @horologyrepublic @watch.brian @reidingtimewatches and, as always, make sure you give each of those a look and a follow to see more or to reach out to us to suggest a topic and provide feedback. We love to hear from listeners and are always happy to answer questions. We're all on this watch journey together, so come on down and drop us a line!

Larry and Zac give some advice on what to do when you're making the first trip to the AD to try on the watches you've been drooling over. We share our experiences and insights into making the trip, trying on that piece you've been lusting after for so long, and keeping an open mind while you browse. After all, if you're already there, you might as well try on everything that catches your eye! But, what if you're stuck on a waiting list (like we often are)? Do you simply wait your turn or are you like Zac who just HAS to see what else is out there for a similar price? Maybe Zac's two-week rule will help you thin out what's on your list...or maybe not. Either way, we take a look at options that are out there tempting us while we're waiting for "The Call" and share what's at the top of those lists. The Instagram accounts mentioned in this episode are @horologyrepublic and @psywarwristcheck so make sure you're giving these a follow after the episode. As always, if you have ideas about what you'd like us to discuss and unpack, make sure you message the @horologyrepublic IG account with topics. We love to include our listeners and this is a prime way we can ensure your voice is heard. Be safe out there and don't wait TOO long for that Rolex AD to call you back!

The regular crew of Zac, Larry, and Brian unpack some good ways to get into watches for those who are looking for a place to begin. While one can start with the Casio and Timex offerings, the crew takes a look at a few other brands which one can use as the jumping off point to finally step into watches. As always, the conversation doesn't linger solely on one brand or one style but evolves as new points are brought up and other entry ways into the avocation are explored. Should you start at the bottom and gain all the "seasoning" and experience many of us have (including the same mistakes we've all made)? Or, should you skip the small talk and save for a truly special piece that's your end-goal as it is? We take a look and discuss what those options might look like for someone who simply isn't sure where to begin. Follow us on Instagram: @horologyrepublic @psywarwristcheck @watch.brian for more behind-the-scenes looks and to see what we're up to on the days we aren't recording wildly off-the-wall podcasts. And as always, let us know if you think we should cover a topic you've been kicking around your mind for a while.

Zachary, Larry, and Brian explore what separates "ordinary" luxury watches from truly high-end pieces. Is it the finishing of the movement? Exclusive dial colors? Or, could it be something else altogether - whether or not the pieces bespoke? We take a look at what we think separates the usual suspects from something truly special and examine whether it's all in the movement or all in the wrist...or all in the singular person who builds you a 1 of 1 piece! ALSO - While it's no secret that you meet some excellent people along your watch journey, we take a moment to discuss how that can open some doors. The watch "handshake" that can, and often does, happen means you could rub elbows with people who can offer insight, set you up for success, or change the trajectory of your life. All of that while acknowledging that it's still quite true that nobody cares if you buy a Rolex. The Instagram accounts to follow from this episode are @horologyrepublic, @watch.brian, and @psywarwristcheck so make sure you head on over to IG and check out what we have going on there. Fun updates, sketchy wrist shots, and even an AI-generated hot take - all for your viewing pleasure. As always, make sure you're following us on Facebook as well: our page is Horology Republic and we do have our VIP wristwatch group, Horology Republic Members Club where we have all kinds of watches to drool over from members around the world.

The regular crew (Brian, Larry, and Zachary) sit down to talk about which watch they'd take on a quick winter getaway - whether to somewhere warm or to a ski trip. We also discuss a few...issues we've seen from some very prominent brands which continue to tell the watch enthusiasts that they offer an experience second to none. Perhaps this is true if you're into some drama with your timepiece? Maybe, maybe not. We explore how some specific anecdotes have shown that even the more respected brands don't always measure up on the quality front. Finally, we discuss how one might manage their expectations when dealing with the aforementioned issues. What brands offer a truly superior experience and how might that influence the other options which jockey for position and for our hard-earned cash. Join us as we explore a couple of fun topics this week. Fancy following us on Instagram? @horologyrepublic@watch.brian@psywarwristcheckAs always, we love to find new topics and discuss all things watches so if you have an idea you'd like us to cover or even might want to join us on a future episode, drop Zachary a line at zachary@horologyrepublic.com and let him know what you think you'd like to discuss!