TGV - This video is absolutely outstanding. Maybe my favorite you've ever made. It's not just applicable to watches, but to every single niche or topic on the internet. The humor you intersperse with a serious topic is well done and keeps it from being all doom and gloom. Keep up the great work, and keep up the good fight.

Thank you... Just my take. I've been a watch enthusiast since my mid-teens, and I'm 66 now. I made it an early habit to save up for what I wanted, and I only buy what I consider the best. Long term value, quality and craftsmanship are paramount. While in college, I discovered my grail watch, and it was an ultra=thin Piaget dress watch. I worked and saved for over a year to buy it, and I paid cash. This taught me many lessons... The journey (work and effort) needed to acquire something of extraordinary personal value is very important. Working toward that goal gives a sense of anticipation, something to look forward to in the near future. In short, it's those elements that make something worthwhile. Finally acquiring it is the icing on the cake! And that is worth the wait. What I found interesting is if you find a timepiece you genuinely love, it actually can become part of you. Just think. What personal artifacts can a man acquire during his lifetime that he can keep, enjoy and appreciate over the entire course of his lifetime. You will find that cars, clothes, houses, relationships, marriages, money, businesses, jobs, and friends can come and go but a fine, truly prized watch always remains!

Great message. Luxury watches don’t define us. Being kind to one another is worth more than anything else in this world. Appreciate the time and research you put in to this. Nice work TGV.

What makes this channel unique and impressive to me is the periphery elements you include. It isn't just a watch review channel, it's a window into the richness of your life. Your appreciation of timepieces is a labor of love, but only part of the whole mechanism, and the elements merge seamlessly into the whole production, one episode after the next, consistent, surprising, enjoyable. Which is the way it ought to be. Mind you it was through you that I found the tachy tele and the Janeiro which are among my favorites. I somehow ended up with five Dan Henrys. But it also helped me refine my collection and realize what I really love and why. I became a watch historian during this journey. I found what brings me joy and what I really don't have to have. Still waiting for a joint review with reviewbrah, you bring a watch and he brings a sandwich.

The inability to obtain a new Rolex directly from a Rolex distributor is frankly insulting. The elitism of the luxury watch community is the plague of the modern watch era. It’s frustrating how such prestigious pieces are so unattainable even for those willing to pay the price. The commodification of watches are the industry’s greatest danger.

Brilliant video, TGV! Having worked in an industry for 38 years that heavily depends on advertising, I have learned that the true goal of advertising is to create a burning desire to purchase a product that the consumer did not know he wanted before seeing the advertisement. The Patek advertising campaign is a stroke of genius.

This video is a big part of why I've always loved Hamilton. A brand like Hamilton, Seiko or Fortis has quality, heritage, classic style, but without the irresponsible costs, pompousness and vapid materialism of many of the digests names in the industry.

That was the most candid, honest and articulate evaluation of what most of us feel about the watch world on your channel. Your content is simply going up and up with regards to quality and honesty. Extremely impressive content right there..👍🏻👊

Hamilton 'Cooper' Interstellar, Bulova Lunar Pilot, Tissot PR50, G-Shock 7100, Seiko SKX009. I have just 5 watches, none of which are luxury, and I love them all because each of them means something to me.

I really try to ignore the hype and expectations in this hobby. I try to buy watches that I like. I enjoy my $90 Casio GA-2110 as much as my Longines Conquest. Enjoyment can’t be measured by Prestige or Dollars. It’s intangible Great video. I love your content and enthusiasm. You are one of the guys that got me into this wonderful hobby

Another great video love the editing ! My father had passed away about 20 years ago and I was going through some of his old things that I still had last year and ran across a Timex he'd owned and wore that I remembered him wearing when I was a kid. I took some time and cleaned and buffed it up, bought a new band and started wearing it and loved it enough that I started to read, watch videos and learn everything I could about watches and all their differences. Since then I've bought a few of my own watches to enjoy everyday and someday pass on to my kids. I could of cared less if my Dad's was a Timex or a Rolex it was the memory of him wearing it that was priceless and gave it every ounce of value. to me. If a Rolex speaks to you and gives you joy then buy it if you can and if happens to be a Timex get it and do the same.

As a communication graduate, while I was doing my thesis, when I realized my course ultimately a 4 year course on how to put a spin on things and messages. Thankfully, it made me aware of all the advertising and PR bullcrap of the world. I'm thankful that channels like the Urban Gentry exist that tells the real information about the topics that they're covering.

My watch collection is based on the love for watch making. I always appreciate a well thought out Seiko, Orient or Hamilton movement over an over priced rolex. This is why I love this channel! Thank you again TGV!

TGV, you renew my faith in humanity on a regular basis. Thank you!

Thanks for bringing these issues to light, TGV. The 'watch reviewer' to 'authorised dealer' pipeline is, indeed, an unfortunate phenomenon, and a damning indictment of the modern age. Keep on fighting the good fight, and I look forward to more insightful content from you.

The reality of the watch industry...Thank you so much for making this episode! Anyone who wants to get into this hobby should watch this before they begin. Well done!

The production and content in these videos is truly fantastic. Hard to believe it’s from one guy. Hours and hours of work for our enjoyment. Thank you so much. I especially love the reference to the film They Live. An absolute classic.

TGV-This may be the most profound video you have made. There is so much more I want to say, but genuinely, thank you for bing a real gentleman and being one of the moral compasses in the hobby. That is all. Thank you for this episode.

Probably the best video you have made in years. A healthy dose of integrity is always welcome. "We all know the price of everything and the value of nothing" OW's aleged statement rings true here.

Thank you TGV! This channel is an oasis. The themes and messages shared here speak to a way of life beyond watch collecting. Appreciating, understanding and respecting the craft, skill and story behind watch making, collecting and giving urge us to be mindful of time and to think about our place in time, to live with care, respect, humility and a quiet confidence.

When I moved to Marbella, Spain, where a lot of money sits, I reduced my collection to 12 pieces. But being afraid of someone stealing them, I realized - to my surprise -there were only two I was really afraid of losing, so I always had them with me. And my favourite watch turned out to be my Barcelona666 Space Worker LED watch. It's special, and all about fun. Thank you TGV, love your channel! ❤️

I love your channel because it's not just a watch review channel. It's a history lesson or a journey through time. Keep up the fantastic work.

I've always been surprised by some of the watches you get excited by, but I have always admired your enthusiasm for the piece, regardless of price or prestige. I'm glad I discovered your channel early on as I now have some pieces that are of negligible value, but I dearly love and feel so cool when I wear them.

TGV many years ago now, your videos got me interested in watches precisely because you are the very opposite of the issues you highlight in this video. You are the original and the best. Thank you and keep the content coming.

I always thought the Patek advertising campaign was brilliant. I never saw it as a “buy this to be a better father to your children” message, what it said to me was, the quality of our products are so good that they will almost certainly be heirlooms for your children. I love that idea that one day my children will cherish my watches, because they were worn and loved by me.

Superb yet again TGV. Your knowledge is articulated exceptionally well. This video really captures some of my thoughts about watch collecting I always look forward to your videos, they're of such great production and I appreciate how much effort must go into making such videos. Thanks.

This video is a great example why you’re the best watch KZfaqr. One of the very few (only?) pumping out high quality content and is not selling us something

First off, the intro is brilliant. Your content here is fair, honest and thought provoking. I really appreciate these deep dive conversations you produce.

In the watch game, once I realized that a $300 piece makes me just as happy as a $10k one, I woke up and rethought my whole approach moving forward.

I would show this video to anybody at the start of their watch collecting journey. Excellent work TGV, as always. Currently wearing the watch that got me in to watch collecting, a Vincero Rogue. Snobs hate it, and that makes me love it more.

This video was pure excellence. You nailed so many different topics that 99% of people wouldn’t dare talk about. Thank you for being the genuine person you are, this is what the world needs more of.

I remember this channel and Hugo from 5 yrs ago. Your videos are even more entertaining and insightful, so glad you've kept it real. A real pleasure to watch! Thank you.

Enjoyed the video, great content as usual!

This is what we need more of. I used to question why I bought a Speedy Pro because it felt ridiculous to own. But after a year with it, I just think it’s cool. I love the history associated to the watch-regardless of the marketing.

Love the channel, love the content, and love the message in this and all your videos. What sets you apart from other watchtubers is your insight into how our shared passion informs other aspects of our lives. It's not just a rote repetition of specs and features, but a reflection upon how we choose to present and conduct ourselves as human beings. How very rare and wonderful to find such precious nuggets among the dross.

Always posting at the most perfect time! I’m pumped every time a new tgv video drops!

I only saw They Live for the first time last year and absolutely loved it - this intro had me smiling the whole time. Thank you for yet another quality video!

I've purchased several Orient watches based on your reviews and love them all... my latest crush in the Red Star Seagull 1963 in 40mm with sapphire and it runs very very well... I also have a few Invicta divers with different straps, et al, but one of my absolute favs is my Casio Duro on the Connery strap... it looks so appropriate, it's accurate, affordable, and zero maintenance... absolutely owe all of this fun to your channel!!! Thank you so much. Best Regards... and tell Hugo I haven't forgotten about the $20 he owes me LOL... a person doesn't need to break bank in order to collect awesome time pieces, and you taught me that as well. Again, Thank You.

I don't know if you have made other videos like this social commentary but bravo. You just gained a new level of respect from me. Nice to see a new and more personal side.

Dude, must applaud, the reason why I love your channel is because you put your soul in it, diversity and quality independent of the brands. History and all the important details. well done looking forward to next one...

This video just shows how humble of a person you are TGV despite being successful at what you do :) Good job! My all-time favorite brand is Casio. They always deliver and you always get more than what you've paid for, that makes them a great company in general, and on top of that, they have heritage. Followed by the Seiko and Grand Seiko, especially GS because they honestly make a better product than most other luxury brands but don't rip you off, and again, similar to Casio, you often get more than what you've paid for.

I am wearing a Lord Matic Seiko from the 1970s. Beautiful watch with day-date function. There are so many wonderful gems available at reasonable prices that we should focus on, if we do hype pieces will deflate and we’ll get back to the days when you could walk into an AD & walk out with a watch at retail price.

The They Live spoof intro was the best one yet for me 😂

This was the best video I've seen on KZfaq, probably ever. It is about so much more than the watch industry.

Very interesting. Though I own no true luxury watches, the nicest ones in my collection by Seiko, Citizen and Mathey-Tissot were all purchased due to seeing honest reviews on KZfaq. I take the good and bad points and make my decision to buy or not buy...big marketing does nothing to impress me. Cheers TGV as always, thank you for being an example of class and honesty.

I’ve never owned a luxury watch. When I see the price, I always think of where else can that money be used.

I found this channel a few months back. I really enjoy your take on watches and the watch industry. Refreshing for someone new to the world of watches. Great video, keep it up!

Your work is beautiful...👌🏼 This is far beyond just a simple channel about⌚️watches...💯✔️ I'm so glad I fell into this rabbit🐇hole...🕳

Excellent TGV. Very thought-provoking. If my watches were lost or stolen I would of course be very upset -- but as you say, they don't define me. In any case, as the old adage goes, there is always, always someone worse off and you don't have to look too hard to see it.

The editing on this channel is immaculate

What a Great Person even though we never met I call you a true friend and an inspiration.

It really feels like in the last ten years or so, the entire industry has really been affected by the whole image obsessed social media world. Hype pieces, marketing that's focused on image and showing off, and just general superficial stuff. I'll never forget a trip I took to LA in the fall of 2013. I literally walked into a Rolex AD in Beverly Hills and every single model, included the sports watches, were in the cases and available at retail prices. Crazy to think about, honestly. Brands such as Rolex and AP have really embraced the hype too it seems, which is a shame. Us enthusiasts have to look a bit deeper now to see past that stuff.

Thanks TGV, excellent points. I personally never understood anyone purchasing a luxury watch merely to impress others, and yet sadly, I believe a significant percentage do.

Great job this was needed in the community

Forgot to add what a gentleman and what a soul. This vid speaks very highly of you. Thanks again.

Way to speak the truth in the face of our manipulative, mass market world. Advertising doesn't have to reach for the lowest common denominator, but sadly most advertising does.

Well said. A much needed vid by the most respected "watch guy" on KZfaq. All my watches are either affordable or affordable vintage. The best advice you give is the treatment of others as we ourselves wish to be treated...because of its divine origin. There's plenty of room in this hobby for all with something for everyone regardless of budget. And, as you correctly state, our hobby should be tempered by the knowledge that things are less important than people. I have always admired your authenticity and sincerity as much as your self evident skill with video and your passion for horology.

This is one of the reasons this channel is my favorite. This Gent is real.

All these years of success and growth, and the Urban Gentry is still humble and sincere. Happy to see this. Keep it going, mang!

Great video!! I love what you discussed. I'll probably never own a "real" luxury brand as the only luxury watch that interests me is the Rolex explorer and I won't play the game to own one. Instead I'll stick to the Affordable luxury brands, IMO, Bulova and Citizen. I absolutely love my Precisionist busy dial and all. I love the look and utility of my citizen ecodrive Altichron with the altimeter and compass perfect to use with a map while exploring Idaho's woods. While I've never gotten lost while exploring as I have a great sense of direction, but it's a great backup. I finally found a g-shock that looks like the original 5000 I bought in 1987, red line surround and all. Everytime I put it on I'm reminded of the people I served with in the Corps. That's what I like about watches the memories they bring back or utility they have now.

A great commentary on the industry! I think as watch enthusiasts, it's easy to get lost in the weeds where we want a luxury watch for what it's supposed to say about us versus enjoying it regardless of what it "says" about us. Thank you again for another great video!

I think this is one of the best videos I've watched on KZfaq in quite a while. A video that simply makes you think and analyse what it is you're really looking for. Very nice, well done :)

Wow my friend! What a great video! Nailed it!!!!!

Philosophy, ethics and integrity tgv . What is life without honour ?

I don't know if the Invictas I own are better than any other watch but they were the watches I could afford. I suspect that there are better quality watches available at greater cost and I'm okay with that.

Wow, TGV, I have an immense amount of respect for you in making this video. You defined this industry along with many others perfectly.

Videos like this one are what sets this channel apart. Thank you for another thoughtful and inspiring episode!

Just being subscribed to this channel and enjoying the niche content makes me feel luxurious and fancy! Iv been slowly climbing the cost rungs on the watch collecting ladder, and Im in no rush to breach the more approachable brackets. Thank you for bringing the world up with you!

Amazing writing as usual. On you're point about how the tiered watch value associated to price approach doesn't measure up when it comes to watch fans. You nailed it! Amazing point. Some of my most treasured watches are not my mostly costly ones, I would gladly give up an Omega to keep a personal favorite Seiko.

Always good to hear your perspective. Nice work.

First video of yours I’ve watched in a while. It’s great to see that you’re still putting out quality content.

TGV, pretty humble and honest comments, and final message: None of it defines us (watches, cars, luxury items). What moves a watch enthusiast is only the love for watches..! You mentioned once: “nobody cares what you´re wearing; so wear what you love”.

Tristano Editing ffin top notch as always, but this topic was so needed Iam glad you put this in to prospective wow💯👊🏾

Awesome content, with an actual and relevant message. Love the production value of your videos as well🙌

Just recently discovered the channel while looking for some hands-on reviews of a watch I was interested in. But the insightful commentary about consumerism and consumer products, as well as the late Gen-X/early Millennial perspective have made it into one of my favorite channels - period.

So true everything you mentioned. Awesome content

Great video! I feel like you've had this argument in the back of your mind for a while, so it's nice to see it all come together in a video. I'm afraid the divide between "watch lifestyle" and "watch enthusiasm" has really begun to widen this year for better or worse. I appreciate your perspective on this kind of stuff and of course your other videos.

Wow. Great essay!

I absolutely am in love this channel and it’s following. I love how TGV shows us good qualities that everyone should follow. I love you TGV!!!!! ❤

"You can't be a watch dealer and a watch reviewer at the same time"- BRAVO! Finally someone has said that! That's the exact reason why some guys out there, like Teddy B. are lying about the true reasons why they don't reveal their SOTC! They don't do it, because they know it would be a conflict of interest with his business partners (watchmakers). See how those "watch dealers-reviewers" never really criticise reviewed products? They "present" watches, but don't really tell you about their cons... One of the exceptions (most of the times) is TGV's friend from Long Island Watches, but the other big ones like Teddy, Federico or Nico...Neehhh!

Excellent video. Glad I subscribed way back when. Love the message!

I watch all of your videos. This is by far one of the best. I love your candid take on everything and full transparency of thought. Very cool, keep it up!

Great message!

Thank you TGV for your work and dedicating time to share with us.

Lovely vid! Thanks

Great video brother, loved it 👏

Simply outstanding! Thank you TGV.

Now that was a refreshing perspective. Great channel.

Thank you for keeping it real for so many years!!!

Outstanding content, enjoyed it, learned something, thanks

Easily my favorite video you've ever posted. Great work and thank you for the honesty.

Love this type of video, this is less than 20 minutes but felt a lot more substantial than that, really enjoyed this docu style video.

Mate that was pure class and excellence! Love the message. It's not what wear that defines us. It's more who we are deep inside that counts as well as how we treat others. Nice stuff!

Your best video yet! Lovely video and a lot of life lessons here. Hope you are well

Once again TGV you have made a great video. I started my watch collecting journey quite late in life (50s) and have loved every minute of it; but I am still quite a newbie in our great (endless)hobby. Your videos have given me so much enjoyment and inspiration and have often been part of my research (or have given me a springboard from which to launch further research) Thanks for a great channel. Please keep up the good work!

Good video overall Long time subscriber. Love the channel

By far the best video of you! I love how much passion and effort you put into your content. The quote at start is so dark but in many cases very true and sad. Thank you for your wonderful videos. Much love and respect from Austria!

From one Brit to another... Absolutely first class. Impressive. From start...to finish. Lots of thought. Lots of effort. Lots of detail. Lots to think about.

Profound and well said! Thank you!

Good to see your positivity and authenticity are intact after all of these years.