New day, same great conversations. Catch new episodes of SUPERLATIVE every Wednesday!
In this episode of SUPERLATIVE, aBlogtoWatch founder and host Ariel Adams sits down with Mike Margolis, President of Czapek Americas, to explore what it takes to build an independent watch brand in today's competitive market. Drawing on decades of experience across luxury watch retail, distribution, and brand development, Mike shares how Czapek has grown its presence in North America while staying true to its identity. Along the way, he reflects on lessons learned from industry icons such as Jean-Claude Biver, the importance of creating meaningful collector relationships, and why authentic storytelling remains one of the most valuable tools in modern watch marketing.
Their conversation also dives into the realities of selling independent watches, the changing role of retailers and events, the impact of tariffs and global business challenges, and why collecting should always be driven by passion rather than investment. Whether you are fascinated by the business behind luxury watches or simply appreciate great horology, this episode offers thoughtful insight into what helps brands and collectors thrive together.
Learn more about Mike Margolis:
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thewatchenabler/
- Website - https://www.horologyworks.com/
- Czapek Watches - https://www.czapek.com/
This week's episode is sponsored by the Movado Heritage Kingmatic collection, learn more at the link below:
- https://www.movado.com/
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Key Timestamps:
00:35 Introduction
01:34 Mike's Career & Czapek
05:34 Tariffs & Importing Watches
10:32 Why Americans Should Buy Local
14:06 The Hublot Years
15:32 Working With Jean-Claude Biver
24:37 Lessons in Watch Marketing
30:09 Finding Modern Collectors
35:56 Becoming a Watch Collector
39:49 How Watch Collecting Has Changed
42:14 Events, Retail & Direct Sales
48:23 Can You Trust Online Reviews?
55:03 Buying Watches Online
56:58 Why Watches Should Bring Joy
1:01:48 Selling & Trading Watches
1:02:39 Buy With Your Heart
1:06:31 Rolex, CPO & Speculation
1:08:31 Final Thoughts