Superlative Podcast: Roberta Naas On The Transformation Of Time, Watches, Journalism

As a journalist covering the watch industry for decades, I am usually the one in the role of storyteller, chronicling the fascinating world of horology through interviews with executives, celebrities and more.

My career has been a remarkable journey, one that has allowed me to amass an incredible wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field of watchmaking. This unique vantage point has given me the opportunity to meet some of the most influential people  in our industry that today’s collectors can only dream of knowing, witness the rise and fall of great brands, and observe the evolution of the industry from multiple perspectives. Recently, I talked with Ariel Adams of aBlogtoWatch on his Superlative Podcast about many aspects of the watch world.

Over the years, I have seen some of these storied brands falter, victims of changing tastes, economic downturns, or strategic missteps. Conversely, I have witnessed relatively unknown brands ascend to prominence through innovation, savvy marketing, or sheer determination. These shifts have not only altered the market but also redefined what collectors and enthusiasts value in a timepiece.

Equally significant has been the transformation in how brands communicate with the public, moving from relatively straightforward  print media into the digital revolution, which has fundamentally changed the game. Social media, influencer partnerships, and online communities play a crucial role in shaping brand perception and reaching consumers. This shift has democratized access to information and created a more interactive and engaged watch enthusiast community. Even journalism itself has morphed and continues to change.

All of these topics are touched upon in the hour-long Superlative Podcast with Ariel Adams of ABlogtoWatch, wherein sometimes I go off topic an sometimes I wax nostalgic, but always I am passionate about the watch industry.  We talk about brands, advertising, journalists, influencers and so much more.

As I said, I am usually the one interviewing others so having a chance to talk about my experiences and the changes I have witnessed was wonderfully refreshing.  I say it all the time: I am blessed to be in this industry – where colleagues are friends and change is embraced. I hope to continue capturing meaningful stories, providing readers with a window into the past, present, and future of watchmaking. Thanks to Ariel for this podcast discussion.