Fratello Talks: Limited-Edition Watches
Today, on Fratello Talks, the topic of discussion is limited-edition watches. Nacho, RJ, and Daan share their thoughts on brands’ special releases because not all LEs are created equal. The discussion starts with some favorite limited editions and gets into the nitty-gritty of what makes some LEs better than others. They also dive into different methods of limiting these special watches, from small production runs to numbered releases. But what is it that, ultimately, makes a limited-edition watch great? Tune in to hear their thoughts. But before we start, let’s check out what’s on their wrists.
Wrist check
Today, we start with Daan, who is wearing his Omega Speedmaster Professional (ref. 310.30.42.50.01.001). This latest generation of the Moonwatch has an improved bracelet design, a stepped dial, and the famous Dot Over Ninety (DON) bezel. It’s not a limited edition but rather the latest incarnation of Omega’s classic chronograph.
Speaking of limited editions, today, RJ is dressed for the occasion with his latest watch, a limited (1,500 pieces) Omega Constellation “Ernie Els” US Open Golf Champion Special Edition (ref. 1506.20.00) from 2001. This neo-vintage piece celebrates golfer Ernie Els’s US Open victories and features a specially engraved case back and a golf-ball-themed dial.
Last but not least, Nacho is wearing his big, bad Breitling Chrono Avenger (ref. E13360) with a light gray dial. This 44mm titanium beast is not for the faint of heart, but it holds a special place in his collection as it was a grail of his early days of getting into watches. He’s wearing it on a classic NDC strap made of real new-old-stock Marine Nationale parachute elastic.
Fratello Talks: Limited-Edition Watches
Let’s talk limited editions! In today’s episode, the guys sink their teeth into the topic of these specially produced watches. They often feature a unique aesthetic combined with a limited number of units produced. Sometimes they are created and co-branded in partnership with a non-watch brand, ambassador, or media outlet. That’s the basic formula for a limited edition. But just because a watch follows the formula doesn’t make it a good limited edition.
During the pandemic, we saw the hype around watches grow, and limited editions became a hot commodity, selling out in minutes (if not seconds). Nowadays, the scales have tipped, and we have begun to see some of these special releases linger in a state of availability. Still, some brands capture enough audience for the watches to sell out rather quickly. We also discuss this phenomenon and where we see limited editions heading in the future.
What’s your opinion on limited-edition releases? Do you prefer when they come directly from the brand, in partnership with a media outlet, or even in collaboration with another (non-watch) brand or ambassador? How about numbering and limited production? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Tune in next week for a new episode of Fratello Talks!
