They're just watches.

In Harry Potter they used the term "he who shall not be named" for the villain.

Yesterday I made a post about "the brand that shall not be named". While I'm not always successful, I try to remain somewhat neutral. I tried to point out what I saw as some negative perceptions about "the brand that shall not be named" but also some potential positives. It's biggest being, the potential of drawing interest in the hobby.

I am incredibly ambivalent about "the brand that shall not be named". While some of the product owners aren't the most likeable sort, the product itself is high quality. It's overpriced, but at the end of the day it's a business. If I were running that business and people were willing to overpay, you can bet the family farm I would squeeze every dime I could out of it as well. Their designs don't do a lot for me, but I can see how others might enjoy them.

I think I underestimated the disdain that some have for "the brand that shall not be named" and their product owners. The comment section slowly devolved into brand bashing. I knew there would be some, but I thought the way I posted it, there was a possibility of some discussion. I was trying to figure out if perhaps I presented it incorrectly. Which, if I'm being honest, is still a strong possibility.

After some thought, I realized I had touched on something visceral. A lot of these people feel like " the brand that shall not be named" had sh** on their sacred institution.

Both sides seem to hold the hobby in the same light as religion or patriotism. With no tolerance for criticism.

"The dark Lord is the best ever! No one else ever comes close! How dare you suggest they are overpriced. The designs are classic, not boring or aged! You're just jealous you don't have one!"

"No! The dark lord is evil! And his followers are just ignorant, status seeking donkeys! How dare you treat my passion as a revenue generator!"

Bad news for everyone. "The brand that shall not be named" is overpriced, they haven't done much with the designs that's innovative in a couple of decades. But also none of your beloved brands give 2 piles of wet warm dog excrement about you. It's all about the money. For all of them. San Martin would happily charge you $25k if they thought you would pay it.

Good news for everyone. It's not a big deal. You can just ignore the people and brands and content (like mine) that you don't enjoy.

Let's lighten up. They're just watches. No one's going to die. (Unless you're still using your watch for diving, navigating, or medicine. In which case remain serious and pay attention)

So I could use a little levity this evening. How about posting your fun or interesting or quirky or ridiculous watches. Whatever you think is fun. I'll start.

This is my Kermit watch. Unlike the Oris (which I covet) I get to see him every time I wear it not just once a month (like a period).

Care to show me yours? Bonus points for anything Harry Potter related