How do independent watch brands compete in a market dominated by luxury giants? On this episode of SUPERLATIVE, aBlogtoWatch founder Ariel Adams is joined by Lior Arussy, founder and managing partner of Fund Time, to explore what it really takes to build a successful watch brand today. From investing in independent watchmakers to reshaping how brands connect with collectors, Lior shares why customer experience, authentic storytelling, and long term relationships matter far more than tradition alone.
Together, Ariel and Lior discuss the cultural differences between Swiss luxury brands and the American market, why emotional engagement is just as important as exceptional watchmaking, and how independent brands can thrive by putting collectors first. They also examine the future of luxury watches, the changing expectations of modern buyers, and why innovation in business can be just as important as innovation in watchmaking. Whether you are an avid collector, an independent watchmaker, or simply fascinated by the business behind luxury timepieces, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on where the industry is headed.
Learn more about Lior and Fund Time:
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/arussylior/
- Websites - https://teamfundtime.com/
- https://www.liorarussy.com/
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Key Chapters:
00:36 Welcome & Fund Time Overview
01:56 How Fund Time Helps Independent Watch Brands
06:10 Distributor Relationships & Swiss vs American Business Culture
09:12 Why The Customer Always Comes First
14:26 Customer Experience & Lessons From Mercedes-Benz
17:46 Customer Co-Creation & The Future Of Luxury
21:27 Why Brands Lose Customers Over Time
27:06 Innovation, Failure, & Pricing Luxury Watches
33:57 Investing In Independent Watch Brands
38:02 The Biggest Mistakes Independent Watch Brands Make
45:02 Building Independent Brands In The U.S.
48:41 Emotional Connection vs Great Products
52:16 Lifetime Customer Value Over Transactions
54:38 The Future Of The U.S. Luxury Watch Market
58:57 Which Brands Should Avoid The U.S. Market
1:00:48 Why Brand Experience Matters
1:02:43 Where To Learn More About Lior Arussy
