The Luxury Dispatch with Tom Chamberlin

In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, we explore the Quartz Crisis, a moment in the 1970s when the Swiss watch industry, long seen as an immovable pillar of luxury, came close to collapse. As quartz technology promised greater accuracy and lower costs, centuries of mechanical watchmaking were suddenly thrown into question.

Tom Chamberlain is joined by writer and historian Nick Foulkes to examine how this technological shock unfolded, why it caused such deep anxiety in Switzerland, and how brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe chose not to compete on precision alone, but to redefine what a luxury watch could be.

From Seiko’s pioneering innovations to the rise of Swatch and the revival of mechanical craftsmanship, this episode looks at how crisis reshaped the industry, and why Swiss watchmaking ultimately survived by changing the rules of the game.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

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In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, we take a look behind the most imposing yet secretive buildings in all of London, the Gentlemen's Clubs of St James's. How they emerged, what they represent and who joins.

Tom’s guests, Geordie Willis and Peter Howarth, discuss how these institutions have lasted up to now and why would you want to be a member.

Available on Spotify, YouTube & Apple.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label. Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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London Clubland: A Companion For The Curious - https://amzn.eu/d/d7Vj4mp

Palaces of Power: The Birth and Evolution of London's Clubland - https://amzn.eu/d/8HzpR0G

The London Club: Architecture, Interiors, Art - https://amzn.eu/d/dNXjRPj
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How did an ancient practice of "back alley symbols" become the ultimate playground for European royalty?

In the latest episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin sits down with Mo Coppoletta, the world-renowned artist who transformed ink into a high-society decorative art. Together, they explore the "refined and rare" history of tattoos, from the skin of King George V to the master craftsmanship of Clerkenwell.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

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The off-roader was never meant to be perfect, polished or precious. So how did it become one of the most desirable luxury objects of the modern age?

In Episode 7 of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin and Simon de Burton dig into the history, myths and contradictions.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatchLearn more about your ad choices at podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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How does a socialist revolution accidentally create one of the world’s most recognisable luxury brands?

In Episode 6 of The Luxury Dispatch, Nick Foulkes joins Tom to discuss the perfect cigar, scarcity and assassination attempts.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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