3DLANES #95 - The Watch Function Nobody Talks About

Zenith is preparing for a major strategic repositioning, moving toward lower-volume, higher-end watchmaking. But is there room at the top?For episode 100 of 3DLANES, we look beyond the restructuring announcement to examine the business decisions behind it. Zenith has already demonstrated its ability to produce expensive watches, but can the success of limited editions translate into sustainable demand?We explore lessons from Zodiac's limited-edition strategy, how a K-shaped economy might influence luxury watchmakers, and whether Zenith's move upmarket could create competition within LVMH's own portfolio of watch brands.With Zenith's manufacturing capabilities and its role as a movement supplier, the implications may extend beyond the watches carrying its name.More at https://3dlanes.com

European automakers are losing ground in China while Chinese manufacturers are expanding their presence in Europe. How can established brands respond?In this episode of 3DLANES, we explore two strategies emerging across the European automotive industry: bringing back familiar names and designs, and improving engineering efficiency to make electric vehicles more affordable.From Renault and Volkswagen to Citroën and Alfa Romeo, we look at the return of automotive heritage, smaller batteries, shared platforms, reduced complexity, and the challenges of competing with China's manufacturing advantages.But nostalgia alone isn't enough. The Fiat 500e offers a reminder that recognizable design doesn't necessarily translate into commercial success.Can European automakers combine their history with smarter engineering to remain competitive in the EV market?

Why are Point-and-Shoot cameras so popular now? I've been trying to get a Ricoh but I only see the prices go up or being backorder.

Today we look at the Rolex RCPO model, does it make sense and why does it exist?

Ford Rally did not start with the Escort, better yet, we can now confirm that it is still alive. In this episode, we cover a car that I wanted to cover for a while, why it happened and do a brief compare and contrast with the announcement that Ford will be back for the FIA World Rally in 2028.

What is the watch function nobody talks about? People complain about the date, that is fine, get rid of it. What about what it is already there, like the hour hand? Why can't it be changed independently?

Is the Nikon F2 an analog to the Speedmaster? Was this a camera that NASA took to the moon? We will discuss this and why the F2 is actually a Rolex Explorer of cameras, NOT a Speedy.

Did Volkswagen remember how to be Volkswagen again? After seeing the Mission Efficiency and what was behind it, I have hope.

Today we look into a topic that went by me rather quietly. Kodak has been renaming their film since last year, but why?!

Is all this consolidation good or bad for industries? Not just the watch industry, but others in general. I want to make a comparison between the watch industry and movie industry.