LM-3 Discussion

[MitchSF]

Ok, I know this is crazy, off-the-wall, and unexpected. After speaking with an Asian manufacturer today, this was emailed to me.

This watch uses a Swiss made, SW200 movement (almost identical to the ETA 2824). It is about 42mm diameter, with a 24mm lug width. The bezel is 60 clicks and the feel is ok, not great, but it is not loose.

The case can be PVD plated, for the price quoted. This is a stock case from the manufacturer, with our dial and hands, and their crazy crown guard removed. We also repositioned the crown to the 4:00 position. Since it's an off the shelf case design, there are no mold charges to amortize. The build quality is good, and it's water resistant to more than 30atm - I don't remember exactly. The crystal is sapphire. There is a helium escape valve at 11:00. I don't know why it's not on the CAD drawing.

Is this interesting, or should we pass? I think we should pass, but opinions are appreciated.

Mitch

[mr2blue]

I Pass. I am interested in the higher end projects and I think this would be a strategically poor decision. It all depends on what you want your brand to represent. I am noticing a seeming rush to get more watches on the market, which I understand, but in terms of your long term business plan is it really in your best interest. I guess you have to decide what Ocean7 is in terms of brand recognition.

One poorly designed product or quality escapement is carried by the brand. Take Orsa for example....is it swiss or is it asian or is it swaisan?

How do you want your brand to be recognized?

[XTrooper]

No interest here. Watches like these under a plethora of brand names are almost literally "a dime a dozen."

[MitchSF]

I agree with both of you, but since they spent the time to make the picture, I thought I'd ask.

Mitch

[Tragic]

Well not everyone can jump right in at the 700 and up price point.
Very few actually in the grand scheme of things.
If it was well made, clearly differentiated from the higher end offerings and seen as a good value vs. price offering, it might be an "entry level" watch for the O7 line and bring customers wanting to "trade up" eventually?
Just a thought.

[Denizen]

add another vote to Pass. there's nothing special about this proposed model...it brings nothing new to the table and bringing it to market may hurt your long-term goals rather than enhance it.

I agree with both of you, but since they spent the time to make the picture, I thought I'd ask.

Mitch

[Peter Atwood]

Going for that case would not be going for your own vision. If it were my company I would pass.

[MitchSF]

Going for that case would not be going for your own vision. If it were my company I would pass.

I think you guys have confirmed our decision. This company also does custom projects, so maybe we'll ask them to bid on the LM-5, when the design contest ends.

Mitch

[NSG1Tausend]

Passssssssssssssssssssssss..... and is it me or does that not remind you of the new Enzo Mechana type case and bezel EM001 , which is high end.
Just wondering?
Robert

I think you guys have confirmed our decision. This company also does custom projects, so maybe we'll ask them to bid on the LM-5, when the design contest ends.

Mitch

[MitchSF]

Yes, and also check the "Metal Band?" thread for the same watch from another brand. I met with the manufacturer in Hong Kong. Nice people. They won't say who they manufacture for, but it's obvious.

Most here are against the decision to make this watch.

Mitch