Fratello Talks: There Are No Tool Watches Above €500

Mechanical watches were once essential tools for pilots, divers, scientists, race car drivers, etc. You’ve probably seen the advertisements in old National Geographic magazines, showing spelunkers proudly wearing their Rolex Explorers or a pilot checking his Breitling Navitimer, using it to calculate fuel consumption. For many years (decades) now, this has been handled digitally, as that’s quicker and perhaps more reliable and precise. Yet, we still call certain timepieces “tool watches.” Prime examples are diving and aviation watches that often cost more than an average monthly salary (or two). As smartwatches from Apple, Samsung, and other purpose-driven brands like Suunto and Garmin are widely available for less than €500, is there a “professional” need for a mechanical watch? In this episode of Fratello Talks, Thomas, Timo, and RJ are discussing whether a tool watch over €500 is just an accessory, a luxury item, or something more.