What I like about mechanical watches is that, having survived a near-death experience when quartz watches were introduced, they’ve evolved into a completely different kind of product. It’s fascinating that, unlike most other businesses and products, people don’t buy them for their utility, and the less automated their production process, the better. Brands like A. Lange & Söhne even pride themselves on assembling their movements twice.

When inefficiency and craftsmanship are considered features rather than flaws, you have an industry that won’t easily be replaced by AI or robots.