ABlogtoWatch Weekly Podcast #239: Carpeted Hublot, Bulgari Dazzle, Apple Listening
The episode explores a range of standout watches, beginning with a behind‑the‑scenes look at Dexel’s manufacturing process that underpins the Formex line, highlighting often overlooked details such as cases, bracelets, clasps and technology. It then moves to the vibrant Bulgari Octo Finissimo Dazzle, a piece so visually intense that it offers no respite for the eye, before examining Hublot’s titanium Big Bang Original Soft Touch, which features a rubber coating and sparks discussion about scratches, lint removal, carpeted watches, and the need for a softer iteration of the iconic model. The conversation also touches on recent drama involving Nico Leonard and Christopher Ward, the long‑standing criticism of Hublot, and speculation about reinventing the Big Bang from the ground up. Later, the hosts celebrate aBlogtoWatch’s upcoming 20th anniversary, sharing an unconventional idea to create watches inspired by 5,000‑year‑old fossilized tree rings. Apple’s latest Watch technology is scrutinized, focusing on continuous listening, transcription, speaker identification and automated meeting notes, prompting a mix of fascination and concern. The discussion wraps up with Louis Vuitton’s new Tambour Spin Time collection, featuring an elaborate world timer and opal model, while also reflecting on the complex relationships among watch media, auction houses and charitable auctions.
Buying Time Analysis: This episode is important because it examines how luxury watchmakers are blending bold design, advanced materials, and emerging listening technologies, illustrating the industry's push toward ever‑greater innovation and raising questions about privacy in wearable tech.