All About Timing...

 Ah, Hublot...

Courtesy of Hublot

Now, in fairness, the UEFA Champions League and FIFA are two entirely different entities. And the Hublot + FIFA marriage "took a break" last December.

With that said, following hot on the heels of Gianni Infantino's latest episode channeling Sepp Blatter's "entrepreneurial" spirit, the timing of this new watch drop maybe could have been adjusted. But time (and promotional/ commemorative watches) have their own schedule.

This is the latest Hublot Big Bang. Here are the basics -

Limited edition of 100 pieces
44 mm satin finished and polished titanium case
The movement is Hublot's HUB 1280 Unico Manufacture. The strap is blue rubber and white calf with printed stars with blue stitching, secured with a titanium deployant buckle

The price is about what you'd expect -

$25.200 USD

As Clear As Mud...

Some will tell you that Switzerland and the US are about to reach a tariff agreement. Some will tell you that this is down to the intervention of Swiss business types like a few of the crown princes of WatchTown. Some will hint that it might have something to do with Gianni Infantino (who has the moral maleability necessary to run FIFA and cosy up to despots and military regimes around the world) hinting that the first annual FIFA Peace "prize" will maybe be awarded to the person who single handedly put them collectively over the barrel while encouraging them to squeal like pigs. And the tacky as f*&k Rolex desk watch/clock on his desk has some of Watch Town's "smartest and sharpest" looking at their Magic 8 Balls and informing the anyone who will listen that sunny skies are coming.

The truth? It's as clear as mud...

Brand Ambassador Bingo - The "Free Brittany" Edition

Dear LVMH (and frankly every brand out there),

Consider this your wake-up call. It's time to free yourselves, and free your celebrity partners from the Squid Game that is brand ambassador bingo.

Courtesy of Netflix

So right off the bat, I want to make something crystal clear - the topic of today's post is on the public conduct of brand ambassadors, and why brand ambassadors can all too often come back and bite you in the hind quarters. Brands typically like to have an ambassador that is in the news for positive things, and tends not to be on a soapbox venting his/her spleen. 

So to be clear, this is not a post (or debate) about whether or not vaccines work, whether COVID19 is real as opposed to a plot cooked up by some secret cabal bent on world domination, or even whether or not Bigfoot exists. (As far as Sasquatch goes, I have an open mind).

It is fair to say that the celebrity wranglers in the watch division at LVMH might be reconsidering some of their recent choices. For better or worse, since the somewhat goofy reign of Nataf, Zenith has struggled to fully understand who they are as a brand, what type of  brand they are and how to gain traction in a world chock full of high end manufacturers. All this while coexisting in the fishbowl of a watch group that never met a famous brand ambassador, partner, friend of the brand it didn't like. 

Enter -

AARON RODGERS

"As the top rated quarterback in the NFL and a living legend in American football, Aaron Rodgers knows what it means to reach your star, and do it with impeccable timing." 

At least, that's how Zenith saw it when they signed him to be the face of the brand in North America. I will say I find it intriguing that the folks in Le Locle seem to have an almost fetishistic desire to sign NFL quarterbacks to represent them, yet they also seem to have a knack for picking these guys just after they've reached their "zenith"... see what I did there? Sorry, too soon?  It is a "thirst trap", and apparently they're still thirsty.

Now as someone who prides himself on speaking his mind, I respect Mr. Rodger's right to say or do as he pleases. But then again, Zenith is not dropping tons of cash in my bank account or duking me with multiple chronographs. And as you can tell by looking at the site, I am not courting multiple advertisers.

One other interesting thing to consider in this particular sideshow is the sudden about face of conservative media outlets (and more than a few conservative watch retailers in California) who previously told Colin Kaepernick to stand, and for LeBron James to "shut up and dribble", who demanded that everyone respect the President of the United States... and interesting that many of these same people now laud Mr. Rodgers for his "I don't give a f___!" approach to public relations, and his assertion that the White House is "fake". I would like to think that with the benefit of an undergraduate degree from Cal Berkeley he could have been more eloquent. It's clear that the difference between being a spoiled athlete who should clam up and stick to sports, and being a "freedom loving not afraid to speak his truth individual" is all about perception...or shades thereof.

And speaking of  "challenging" friends of the brand, we come to Hublot. FIFA is a no-win situation unless you concur with FIFA's president, Gianni Infantino's assessment that holding the World Cup twice a year will prevent the death at sea of African migrants -

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/jan/26/fifa-gianni-infantino-biennial-world-cup-could-save-african-migrants-from-death-in-the-sea

And hey, if it just so happens to put some more cash in his and FIFA's bank accounts, what's the harm?

Floyd Mayweather's selection as an ambassador raised such a stink with one NYC based watch maven that they swore they would never darken the door of any event Hublot hosted! That resolve lasted about two weeks. A press lunch with free flowing champagne and an audience with Jean-Claude Biver must have mitigated this individual's (self) righteous indignation.

As it applies to his tennis, and a lot of the really cool things he has done with charity, I am a fan of Novak Djokovic. That being said, one particular irony was this little missive from 2020:

https://novakdjokovic.com/en/news/media/novak-jelena-and-the-ndf-donating-1-million-euros-to-help-serbia-fight-covid-19/

Now before anyone goes crying "fake news", this is from Mr. Djokovic's own website. 

And once more, this is not a post about vaccinations, COVID mortality or the Loch Ness Monster...although I have seen Champ on the Vermont side of Lake Champlain 

Courtesy of https://www.lakechamplainregion.com/heritage/champ

Now that the humor is dispensed with, let's talk about why these situations are bad for business (and public health and the fabric of society).

In Aaron Rodger's case, he is absolutely free to say and feel what he does. That being said, he is a public figure, and as such he is going to come under scrutiny - you take the rough with the smooth. Unfortunately, Mr. Rodgers is serving up his dissatisfaction with a LOT of fairly random and wide-ranging anger and open hostility, and that is never a good look for a brand ambassador. He is now at the center of what is becoming an even more heated and pointless debate. The heated aspect is understandable as there is a ton of anger on both sides. The debate is pointless because neither side is showing any side of changing their mind. It is essentially like pissing into a cup of coffee believing you'll improve the flavor, but you simply end up ruining it for yourself and anyone else.

In the case of Mr. Djokovic, there is probably too much to unpack, but the short form is this - Australia is (sorry Mr. Djokovic Senior) a sovereign country, and their rules are their rules. You don't have to like them, you don't even have to agree with them. But you do have to respect them if you wish to be a guest in their country. What you do in your own place is your own business. That being said, Djokovic the Elder beseeching Queen Elizabeth to intervene as Australia was a Commonwealth country added a bit of slapstick to an otherwise sad and jingoistic pastiche. I am fairly confident that every so-called western country has not and is not actively conniving to keep Mr. Djokovic the Younger from remaining the number 1 tennis player in the world. Although as bat-shit crazy theories go, the idea that the "EVIL WEST" could get its collective act together enough to hatch such a diabolical plot is the stuff of conspiracy theory legend. Consider this, we can't even all agree to use kilometers as opposed to miles, or to all drive on the right hand side of the road as opposed to the left. Or even whether pants are underwear or in fact trousers. The fact that Djokovic the Elder thinks that we are that well organized (and cunning) is flattering, albeit downright laughable. Let's hope some time off and a cool drink (not Kool Aid) will help him get back in touch with his better angels.

In not so distant times, I was responsible for seeking celebrities (both mighty and small) to partner with various brands. And in truth? I was always anxious about it. The rule of thumb was (and probably remains) -

Everyone loves puppies / Nobody likes cancer

Unfortunately, the world of celebrity partnerships seems to be rife with situations that morph into "cancer puppies". And ultimately it serves to remind us of a few important facts of life, not the least of which is that these are people, actual human beings. Just like any "normal" person, for all of their talent, beauty and strength, they are just as flawed as the rest of us. They are just as vulnerable, just as prone to imperfection, just as human. 

So maybe its time to let these folks step down from the pedestal and let them be themselves, let them be "mere mortals". Whether we agree with them or not, particularly in these volatile times, maybe we need to remember what the Police once shared at another tense moment -

"We can all sink or we all float
'Cos we're all in the same big boat"

Free the Ambassadors!

Sticky Fingers and FIFA

Now I know that this is going to come as shocking news, but apparently someone at FIFA might have "misplaced" 6 Hublot watches that were intended to be given as prizes for the recent FIFA award winners.

A source from FIFA was quoted as saying:
"We are looking into what happened to the watches. They went missing somewhere."

Sort of like what happens to monies intended for television rights, developing countries grass roots projects, etc. 

To be very clear, I feel bad for Hublot.  But considering the shenanigans of Sepp Blatter, Michel Platini and others, maybe it is time to move on?

I love football.  I f'ing hate FIFA.

Hublot Loves Football... Sorta'

HUBLOT CREATES FOOTBALL HISTORY AGAIN PELÉ AND MARADONA TOGETHER FOR ONCE IN A LIFETIME MATCH!

Yes, clearly English is a tricky language... 

Hublot has partnered with some famous footballers - past and nearly present - and played a bit of five a sides -

Team Pelé – Ferdinand, Hierro, Dida, Crespo and Bebeto and Team Maradona – Trezeguet, Peruzzi, Ferrara, Materazzi and Seedorf 

Yawn...

Courtesy of Hublot

In a sporting event filled with about as much drama and suspense as a movie you've seen 30 times, 10 old farts rambled around a wildly improbable football pitch more likely found at a millionaire's estate than the real world where the rest of us live.

Because, you know, Hublot loves football!  

The concept was a "dream team" of world football greats to play in a game that we've apparently always longed to see.

Oh, and new watches and Hublot wall clocks were handed out.  

The new Euro watch was unveiled, limited edition of 100 pieces.

Courtesy of Hublot

Now what would be interesting is if they partnered with Tag Heuer for a smart watch function that could accurately keep a record of:

1.  Number of breaches of ethics and or conduct that happen at FIFA HQ each day

2.  Number of times those breaches are dismissed or ignored by the FIFA "ethics" committee

3.  Total dollar amount of bribes served up in FIFA land to secure the rights to world cups

4.  Number of foreign workers killed while constructing the stadiums for the Qatar World Farce

5.  Number of children in Nepal and other countries who now don't have fathers so that Qatar can build the stadiums for the World Farce that will be obsolete following the tournament

Courtesy of Hublot

And if I sound a bit pissy, you'll have to forgive me.  In fairness to Hublot they actually had a charitable aspect to this circus of the stars - 

At half time, there is a penalty shoot-out for the UEFA Foundation, “UEFA Foundation for the children”. 

This was so important to Hublot that they buried it in the press release and devoted an ENTIRE SENTENCE to it, making no further reference to the amount, what sort of work the UEFA Foundation does, etc.

So since Hublot couldn't be bothered to tell you about what exactly the UEFA Foundation does, allow me -

UEFA for Children was the initiative of Michel Platini.  An organization with very good intentions, the goal is to provide opportunities for less advantaged children in Europe and around the world.  

Hublot, I am really and truly happy that you have started incorporating charitable actions into your events and promotions.  I suppose we shouldn't look a "gift Big Bang" in the mouth.  But you have an audience of millions.  You could actually do something on the level of Omega with Orbis, but of course that would mean that you'd actually also have to WANT to do it.

So Mr. Biver, Mr. Guadalupe - I am throwing down the gauntlet once again. Quit the bullshit and do something real.



Having said that, for those of you out there that really do love football, and actually love people, here are some charities you could consider for a small donation.  No pressure from me, but just so you know they are out there.  

And Tempus Fugit will be making an admittedly modest donation to both organizations this summer -

Charity Ball

What is Charity Ball?

Courtesy of Charity Ball

Charity Ball is a soccer charity that provides, new, quality soccer balls to kids in poverty-stricken communities around the world.

Why?

Good question. Why invest in a soccer ball when there are so many other ways to help children? Consider the following:

• Children in developing countries are forced to deal difficult things like HIV/AIDS, contaminated water and civil war. One way for them to cope is by playing the game of soccer.
• Soccer is an excellent way to learn how to work together and succeed. It promotes friendship and fair play.
• Soccer promotes good health through physical fitness.
• Soccer reduces crime because kids have something constructive to do.
• Many children in developing nations will never get the opportunity to touch or kick a real soccer ball.
• Soccer can help a child develop a strong identity and sense of self worth.

How did Charity Ball start?

Charity Ball Soccer Charity was started in 2010 by Ethan King, who was 10 years old at the time. During the summer of 2009 he visited Mozambique (Africa) with his dad. While his father rehabilitated water wells, Ethan played soccer with the village kids. In one particular village, he decided to give his soccer ball away and quickly discovered the power of generosity. After returning to the United States, he decided that he wanted to do more. He gathered with some friends and officially launched Charity Ball. Read Ethan’s bio

Courtesy of Charity Ball

How does Charity Ball Work?

When you donate $25, a new, quality, soccer ball is purchased for a child. With basic criteria, affiliate organizations help us identify needy villages. When communities are approved, partner organizations help us with shipping and transportation. All Charity Balls are hand delivered. Nobody ever has to wonder if their Charity Ball actually made it into the hands of a child.

Soccer Without Borders

Courtesy of Soccer Without Borders

Soccer Without Borders first began programming in 2006 to address three critical issues facing young people in underserved communities throughout the world: 

1. A lack of safe spaces where young people feel cared for, have a voice and can experience the joy of sport.
2. A lack of opportunity for youth to actively explore social issues and community challenges.
3. A lack of social capital and access to potential opportunities for education, employment and personal growth.

Why soccer?

 

While there are many positive sport experiences, soccer is the most universally accessible; at its most basic level it offers playing opportunities that are low-cost, physically beneficial, inclusive and enjoyable. Soccer also enjoys worldwide popularity, making it the perfect platform from which to develop physically, socially, and individually.

Soccer Without Borders believes that the potential of soccer to make change is deeper than simply playing the game. Rather, our programs are built around the philosophy that soccer’s interpersonal environment has unique potential to meaningfully impact participants. Within that environment, youth are exposed to the benefits of soccer and team sports for their bodies, voices, and minds, and supported in the application of these benefits to their everyday lives and future goals.

When it comes to marginalized populations such as refugees, soccer offers an accessible, familiar space to build friendships and social capital, gain confidence, experience success, acclimate to new surroundings, and heal.

Soccer provides an avenue for positive engagement, a platform for personal growth, and a toolkit for a brighter future.

So as we roll into summer and get excited about the Euro tournament, consider putting a few dollars towards some organizations that are doing something positive through soccer to benefit people who could really use the help.

Celebrity Brand Ambassadors Can Hurt You...

I realize that this is one of my favorite topics, probably because I used to spend good chunks of my days prospecting, negotiating and in some instances signing agreements for "friends of the brand" or "partners".  And it is particularly ironic that the brand that has in many ways refined the celebrity partner business model down to a seemingly exact science has had such phenomenally bad luck this year.

Yes, once again it is Hublot that I am writing about.  Now there are some cynical (as well as simply pragmatic) people out there who will smile and say and make "if it bleeds it leads" references.  Whether or not that is the case is down to the Hublot brain trust.

So the good (1 or 2), the bad (too many for many other brands' comfort) and the ugly -

1.  Bar Refaeli - recently detained in her native Israel over allegations of tax evasion.  I will defer to the informed folks at Vogue for the info:
http://www.vogue.co.uk/news/2015/12/18/bar-refaeli-detained-israeli-police-tax-evasion-accusation

2.  Floyd Mayweather - Perhaps we've "beaten-up" on him enough...
sorry, couldn't resist.  Mr. Mayweather has yet to get out from under the clouds of accusation regarding domestic violence.

3.  FIFA - Don't get me started ; )
But with the hearings this week, it may finally come to pass that Blatter and his cronies will finally be evicted from the halls of power.  And at that point it might be time to revisit that CNN interview -

http://www.cnn.com/videos/tv/2015/10/16/exp-jean-claude-biver-ceo-of-tag-heuer--chairman-of-hublot-discusses-fifa.cnn


4.  The "Special One", Jose Mourinho - In fairness, I think he is a gifted coach.  By that same token, a wise man knows that it is always best to leave the party while it is still full.  In other words, when things are going badly, never assume that you will be immune to the sack.  Mr. Mourinho was handed his walking papers earlier this week.  As yet no Big Bang "Special Ones" have been spotted on Ebay.  Let's hope he lands on his feet.

5.  The Los Angeles Lakers - in fairness, this might have been simply about timing, or an intern in Nyon not getting the message and failing to update the Hublot website for several days after it was announced that the Lakers were in fact in a newly announced partnership with Tissot.  In the end all was updated, but it did not make for a great impression, particularly as that partnership had only run for about one year.

And the good - probably more than I am giving credit to, but Lang Lang and his support for WildAid is a great ambassador.  Will Hublot make a WildAid watch - you know, "the fusion of charity with branding"?  It remains to be seen.

Hublot and FIFA - a Year Later

I first put this out there more than a year ago in the run-up to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.  In the wake of all of the turmoil with FIFA, it seemed like a good time to "re-heat" this one.  

So here you go -

Asking Hublot an Uncomfortable Question About FIFA

Many of you will no doubt be aware of the turmoil that FIFA is experiencing now less than ten days to their biggest event - the World Cup in Brazil.  What many of us are now struggling with is the fact that FIFA has probably brought a lot of this turmoil onto themselves.

The Olympics and the World Cup are HUGE money spinning mechanisms for the IOC and FIFA.  When that much money is involved, and that much power is involved… let's just say we shouldn't be shocked.  The "selection" process is a high stakes beauty pageant with "pageant moms" often resorting to whatever means they think will get their "little girl" the crown of "pageant queen".

Point of full disclosure - YES - I work with brands to help place watches on the wrists of athletes, actors, etc.  So I am fully aware that it is a very, very fine line to walk.  I would also say that just because a brand is involved with a group that is experiencing some controversy doesn't make the brand "BAD".  Having said that, I also think that a brand does have the power to confront and question the behavior of their partners - and if necessary end the relationship.  I also realize that it is easy for me, or others to critique.

To Hublot's credit, when this partnership first started the deal was that instead of HUBLOT, the time indicators displayed an anti-racism message.  These were noble, sincere intentions.  But as we can see with the rampant spread of neo-Nazism throughout European football, with racist groups openly organizing and recruiting IN the stadiums AT the games in SPAIN, ITALY, ENGLAND and elsewhere - this is something that FIFA is paying a lot of lip service to, but not really working to solve.

I applaud OMEGA for their charitable work, and their watches are amazing.  I applaud HUBLOT for their charitable work and their innovative spirit.  But I will say the same thing I said around Sochi - you are not responsible for your partner's actions, but YOU ARE responsible for choosing to continue with them.

In fairness, the IOC and FIFA have long been suspected of less than ethical behavior on a LOT of levels.  This is not "new" news.  But I will ask Hublot the same question that I asked OMEGA -
Are you really sure you want to continue on with this partnership after this World Cup is completed?

You can't change what has happened - but you can make changes for the future.  Now the last time I said something like this, the OMEGA people were courteous enough to hear me out in person, gave me a glass of juice and an espresso, and essentially "excommunicated" me from the "Church of the SWATCH GROUP".  For Hublot I am a tiny fly in the corporate ointment, and I am not exactly on Mr. Biver's Christmas card list, so I suspect that this will not even raise a whisper at Hublot HQ ; )

Let's hope for a beautiful World Cup, an elimination of racist groups at football stadia, an end to the allegations of bribery and corruption in the IOC and FIFA, and a speedy return of Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny ; )

Enjoy your watches!

The Slippery Slope

In news that barely rippled the already fetid and murky scum floating atop "Loc Fifa", the FIFA "ethics committee" (perhaps the greatest working example of an oxymoron ever) DEMANDED that  all of the "gifted" Parmigiani Fleurier watches be "handed over" immediately - or else!

Insert gasp of shock here...

This story was posted on November 26, 2015.  The original story regarding the "ill-gotten goodies" from Parmigiana Fleurier broke over A YEAR AGO!  And only now are we hearing from the "Ethics Committee" that the watches need to be returned?!?

Football may be the "beautiful game" but the business behind it is dirty, and the boys and girls flipping the levers behind the curtain at FIFA and its "partners" are slipperier than a whale's turd on an ice floe.  

More than a year to come to the conclusion that was already reached (albeit by the court of public opinion) that maybe, just maybe it was a bad thing that members of FIFA had not turned in their watches already?  Michel "what, me worry?" Platini at the time crowed that he would NOT return the watch as it was a "present" and it was bad manners to return a "present".  This is, at least, consistent with his attitude to most FIFA "business".

But don't worry!  FIFA has proudly announced that the "slightly used/low mileage" watches would be donated to a non-profit organization.  I can only assume that means a yard sale to try and get some money out of the watches and then use the funds for charities in Brazil.  

But don't worry, Hublot STILL LOVES FOOTBALL, and if Jean-Claude Biver's comments on CNN a while back regarding Sepp Blatter's presumed "innocence" are anything to go on, it seems clear that like Tammy Wynette, he's going to stand by his man.

The Company You Keep - An Open Letter to Hublot

Maybe, just maybe it is time to rethink your partnership.  Tempting though it is to comment further,  I am going to simply allow the words of another organization to speak.  Hublot www.hublot.com, if you REALLY LOVE FOOTBALL - walk away from this asshole.  You are better than this.

Courtesy of the INFOWEB

Quoted directly from For The Win (a sports blog for USA Today) -
http://ftw.usatoday.com/2015/10/13-ridiculous-things-sepp-blatter-said-in-this-wild-interview

Sepp Blatter said so much Sepp Blatter-esque stuff in this interview with Russian newswire TASS. No point waiting around, let’s dive right in:

1. “Everybody said who is responsible for [the FIFA scandal]: “That’s the president, Blatter, he is responsible!” But I object. How can I be responsible morally for all the people? “

If there’s evidence widespread corruption taking place at an organization where you’re the president, you’re going to be held responsible for it. It’s a negative incentive, which is why good leaders prioritize rooting-out wrongdoing in their organizations.

2. “It is then those, who have lost the World Cup. England against Russia. They lost the World Cup. And the USA lost the World Cup against Qatar … the FIFA president is a ball in the big political power game.”

Even if there were political motivations driving the FIFA investigation, as Blatter suggests, that doesn’t then negate the evidence of wrongdoing authorities subsequently found. Blatter’s theorizing about different motivations is a red herring.

3. “You cannot destroy FIFA. FIFA is not the Swiss bank. FIFA is not a commercial company.”

Wait for it …

4. “Since I became president of FIFA, we have made FIFA a big commercial company.”

In the space of two questions, Blatter referred to FIFA as both “not a commercial company” and “a big commercial company.

5. “All other members are elected by their Confederations. So, therefore, I am the boss of the government that has not been elected by me. And therefore it is very difficult to govern FIFA.”

Blatter is trying to absolve himself of blame, but is essentially describing a federalist system. Difficult to govern at times, yes, but the idea of diversifying power is actually an incredibly effective tool of fighting large-scale corruption.

6. “I think this crisis, and this is also the idea of my lawyers, has nothing to do with any criminal activity.”

No, the crisis has everything to do with allegations of criminal activity.

7. “They wanted to say – We, Ethics Committee, we are not at the service of the president, we are totally independent. This is wrong. They can be independent but they don’t need to be against me.”

The ethics committee does need to be against any FIFA president — unless there’s evidence of unethical behavior.

8. “Now Europe has eight members and three vice presidents. Why Europe should have three vice presidents when Africa has more member associations? That’s not correct.”

This mindset has been formalized by FIFA and is why Blatter’s has remained so powerful, but it’s the same reason why FIFA is so prone to corruption.

9. “UEFA is affected by anti-FIFA virus for years before my presidency. They have an anti-FIFA virus.”

Yup, that’s what all this anti-FIFA stuff is. A virus.

10. “If the UEFA will take the presidency, then we are lost. UEFA wanted to change the organization of FIFA. FIFA is actually a federation of 209 national associations. What UEFA wanted to do is to make FIFA a holding of only six confederations.”

UEFA wants to correct a system where China has the same amount of organizational power as Montserrat. It’d be the most sane thing FIFA would’ve ever done.

11. “I still have the full support of President Putin. This is good. And I support him in all discussions, in all situations.”

A bold declaration of support. When’s Putin next up for reelection? 2018? Maybe Sepp’s angling for a Putin-Blatter ticket.

12. “The Swiss media got very aggressive against me because I am from a very small canton, Valais, in the mountains and some of the people here think those coming from the mountains eat with their fingers. Primitive.”

Ah, yes, the old ‘the media hate be because they think I eat with my fingers’ defense.

13. “If God is with me, I do hope that I’ll be back as president of FIFA. Then I could at least conduct this congress. This is my dream.”

There’s a scary thought.

Disruptive! Well, Sort of...

I am going to simply let this CNN interview speak for itself, the link takes you directly to the CNN website, so you will need to come back to finish ; )

http://www.cnn.com/videos/tv/2015/10/16/exp-jean-claude-biver-ceo-of-tag-heuer--chairman-of-hublot-discusses-fifa.cnn


I have to be honest, and maybe it's just me, but I've lost faith.

Associating a brand with people like Floyd Mayweather, Sepp Blatter, Bernie Ecclestone, and Michel Platini is not what traditional marketing folks would cite as "wise".  Now the counter argument could be made that a brand is being "edgy" or "disruptive".  Hmm....

The Big Bang was disruptive.  Carbon Fiber?  Disruptive.  An all black chronograph?  Disruptive.  And all in positive ways!  And Hublot makes some wonderful watches.  But if I am being honest with myself and with all of you - when a brand attaches SO MUCH importance to the partners that they have, and (seemingly) go out of their way to court not just controversy but some truly "bad actors", and then glibly refer to it as being "disruptive" it is clear that there is a disconnect.

Now maybe the disconnect is mine, maybe I am the only one who feels that a pretty clear line has been crossed from "edgy" to something truly distasteful.  But it is something I am no longer willing to entertain.

And understand, I do not live in a fantasy world where I think anyone at Hublot is the least little bit concerned with what I think.  If you read this blog, it is because you are looking for something different.  And as I am not dependent upon advertising dollars (or francs), I am free to call it like I see it.

Hublot has done some very good things, but it seems to be a case of extremes from truly icky - Floyd Mayweather, to truly nice - WWF.

And if I am truly bearing my soul - Michel Platini was my hero.  But his behavior when "gifted" with a very expensive Parmigiani watch and his subsequent refusal to return it and then being fully ready to throw others under the bus was beyond the pale.  Yes, even crusty 47 year olds in Santa Barbara have heroes, and France's #10 was mine.  But ultimately, heroes are only human, and human nature is not always what we would hope for in our heroes.  Avarice was not chosen at random as one of the seven deadly sins.

So until there is a "sea change" in Nyon, I encourage you to follow and support Hublot if that is in your wheelhouse, you will just need to look for that news somewhere else.

Peace -

What is Wrong with FIFA

Is that people who know better, who should know better and should say so - don't.

The Company You Keep - Part the Third

This morning the air smelled a little better, the birds were singing, there was a certain air of possibility in the air. I woke to the particularly joyful news that Sepp Blatter, Michel Platini, Jérôme Valcke and Chung Mong-joon have all been "suspended" for 90 days. And like a particularly hefty pair of turds that jam the toilet, this morning many of us are happy to know that Blatter and Platini have (hopefully) been finally flushed.

But before we grab our boots and head out to the park for a kick-around, let's have a look at who will be "stepping into the void" at FIFA - yet another crony from the shadows. Issa Hayatou who has less than a "shining reputation" is next in line for the big seat.

For realsies?

I never thought I would be looking to McDonalds and Coca-Cola as shining examples of doing good, but in all honesty they showed the corporate world something - that as a company, your image suffers when you are connected to a particularly sleazy group of people, and you can use your check book to force change.  

The sad fact is, that unless the entire offices of FIFA are cleared out, this will be an ongoing problem.

This is from a far better write than myself, David Conn writing for the Guardian - 

Criminal cases and investigations are proceeding in the US and Switzerland, including into the World Cups voting process, and Fifa’s own ethics committee is examining more allegations surrounding it, including rule-breaking by vote collusion, which Teixeira recently appeared to admit.

If this toxic, multiple collapse of leaders and reputations, with more to come and no end in sight, was happening to Fifa’s finances, the organisation would long ago have been declared insolvent. A standard process would then take over: professionally qualified outsiders – administrators or receivers – would have been appointed to take legal charge of Fifa, out of the control of its executives. The insolvency practitioners would clear out and liquidate what they find to be unsalvageable, work to reshape the heart of the body which could have a credible future – which in Fifa’s case remains the golden, glittering, lucrative prize of football itself – then hand it back to new custodians with reformed structures in place to enable it to be run properly.

Hublot (yes, you knew I was heading here) - you say you "LOVE FOOTBALL", but I am beginning to seriously doubt that.  If you REALLY LOVE FOOTBALL - walk away from FIFA.  Work with some grass roots organizations to actually, I don't know, PROMOTE football.  Quit all the bullshit with FIFA.  FIFA loves MONEY, FIFA encourages CORRUPTION, FIFA (in its present form) needs to end.  And if you REALLY LOVE FOOTBALL - you will stop financially supporting these people.  Because yes, we are rid of four bad actors, but there will always be another turd jamming up the toilet as long as FIFA is allowed to carry on as they have.  And let's be honest, the main reason why these suspensions were handed out was NOT in response to the outrage of fans.  The main reason was MONEY and the message delivered to them in no uncertain terms that there would be no "Happy Meals" washed down with Budweiser if they didn't cut the bullshit out.

Hublot, If you really LOVE FOOTBALL - show us.

The Company You Keep - Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini

With the news breaking yesterday that FIFA's "Smiling" Sepp Blatter had finally been "touched" by the Swiss authorities, it seems that there will be no "happy ending" for FIFA and band of thieves running it.

For those of you who have been on the moon the past 24 hours, here is some information from the 4th estate in Britain:

The Telegraph:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/sepp-blatter/11891462/Sepp-Blatter-under-criminal-investigation-at-Fifa-live.html

Essentially, it would appear that the authorities in Switzerland have uncovered sufficient evidence to launch a formal criminal investigation and Mr. Blatter has scurried away from the spotlight he so covets not unlike a cockroach when you turn the light on in the kitchen.

You may recall earlier last week that Mr. Blatter very kindly threw his "trusted colleague"
Jérôme Valcke under the bus and had him banished from the kingdom for alleged impropriety.  And yet, Mr. Blatter is under formal criminal investigation and he is "presumed innocent" by his cronies in FIFA?  

And it gets even better - Michel Platini is now under the microscope and being about as helpful as a fox at a chicken convention.  

From the Guardian:

http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/26/michel-platini-sepp-blatter-fifa-payment

Okay, so what the fu*% has this got to do with watches? Hublot continues to hang onto their partnership with FIFA for deal life, and continue to tell anyone who will listen that -

HUBLOT LOVES FOOTBALL!

Hublot, if you REALLY LOVE FOOTBALL - drop these assholes and support some organizations that are actually doing something FOR FOOTBALL and not for their own wallets.

You have done some really positive things this year, and you backed that "lover of women" Floyd Mayweather - okay, so nobody's perfect.  But maybe it is time to stop embracing controversy, and maybe try to flex some "soft power" muscles?  FIFA has got a stink on it like a backed up sewage system and that stench is slowly but surely attaching itself to everyone around it.

FIFA is in a catastrophic mess, and appears to be rotten to the core.  The patients have been free to run the asylum for too long, and do not appear to have any intention of owning up to their treachery.

To quote the Wire -

"This is some shameful shit."

The Company you Keep - Hublot and FIFA

Hublot today proudly unveiled their "countdown clock" in downtown Moscow.

Courtesy of Hublot

In what must be considered by many as one of the worst-timed PR events of all time, let me share with you some recent FIFA and geopolitical news -

Hublot and UEFA

The good news - Hublot has been named the official licensed watch partner for the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League.

Courtesy of Hublot

In and of itself, this is kinda' cool.  We all love the Champions League.  It does not lend itself to the same sort of skulduggery that FIFA and UEFA itself seem to be mired in right now.

But as they say, it is all about timing -

Yesterday news broke that a "poison envelope" was sent from "someone, somewhere" within FIFA essentially stating that UEFA Boss Michel Platini might be coming in for some "closer scrutiny" by the authorities.  To wit - and I am paraphrasing here - Mr. Platini is just as corrupt as Blatter and everyone who was indicted.

Oy!

And here's where it gets murky, frustrating and downright disappointing.  If we are being honest here, I don't think that there is any doubt that finding an "honest broker" within FIFA, UEFA, CONCACAF and any of the other regional governing bodies of world football is about as likely as finding a "vegan" fox taking up residency in a hen-house.

But I also think that by aligning with the more obviously commercial aspects of UEFA - the Champions League, Hublot has managed to back something that is not quite as jaded and potentially tainted as the Wold Cup.

But, as they say, talk is cheap.  John Oliver put his mouth where his money was in his effort to get FIFA to clean house -



Let us hope that Blatter, Platini and all of the other "Bad Santas" out there leave FIFA with all of the other rats fleeing that particular sinking ship, and we all get our game back.  The beautiful game has been ravaged by "Blatter Cancer" and we need to surgically remove it.

The Beautiful Game...

For the five of you out there who have not already read/heard the news, this morning Swiss police swept in and rounded up a few of FIFA's bag men.  As is often the case, the Kingpin and those closest to him seem to have somehow avoided the long arm of the law.  But if you've seen enough movies depicting organized crime it is seldom the top dog who takes the fall.

I've asked the question before, but perhaps it's time to ask it again - if you are a brand owner/manager, is this REALLY an organization you want to be associated with?  Hublot, now would be the ideal time to shake hands and part company with FIFA.

Pay to play is by no means a new concept - the Dassler brothers were known to pass brown bags to gain access to soccer federations, Olympic athletes and international decision makers.  Adidas and Puma were built on more than just sexy shoes.  This still seems to be the case only it has become a case of "everybody does it".

Remember the "scandal" involving another famous Swiss brand's watches being "gifted" by the Brazilian football federation to some 30 + FIFA officials.  I say scandal because it was such a blatant violation by the Brazilian federation and the Fifa cronies who received the watches that it defies belief to claim ignorance.  But that is just what FIFA tried to do.

It seems that at least a few chickens have come home to roost.  We shall see what comes of this.  But Hublot, you are judged by the company you keep -

1.  A man who when he's not beating the hell out of another boxer beats the hell out of the mother of his children.

2.  A "sporting" organization that is so corrupt it makes Syria look like a UN model government by comparison.

Don't wait for number 3.

Nuking the PR Fridge with Hublot

Hublot partnerships are becoming about as unique and special as, I don't know, a Hublot partnership...

Shamelessly borrowed from the internet

So hang onto your hats sports fans, here's the latest "exclusive"partnership trotted out by the folks in Nyon -

Courtesy of Hublot

So behold, the Big Bang Unico Bi-retrograde Chronograph Limited Edition for the Guangzhou Evergrande Taobao FC.  No, if I'm honest I've never heard of this team either.  But Hublot's press release dispelled all of my doubts -

Guangzhou Evergrande Taobao Football Club, as one of the top football clubs in Asia, has achieved outstanding triumphs. From 2011 to 2014, the club made it to the top of Chinese Football Association Super League for 4 consecutive seasons. In 2013, Evergrande won the first place in AFC Champions League and became the first champion of the league in Chinese football history. Behind these brilliant achievements is Evergrande's spirit of proactive self-improvement, breaking limits and never give up. And it is Evergrande's spirit that has moved countless football fans and become the best interpretation of Hublot's spirit of pioneering and innovation.

I'm not sure about the grammar, but with a "spirit of proactive self-improvement, breaking limits and (my personal favorite) never give up" ...

For "realsies"?

But with a team slogan like "Be the Best Forever" I have absolutely no doubt we'll be hearing quite a bit from this amazing team in the near future...

And in fairness, perhaps I do not follow football in China as closely as I should.

Courtesy of Hublot

And as if that wasn't enough, what's a circus without two other Hublot ambassadors to further confuse the message?  Hublot's ambassadors Lang Lang and Pele himself were there as well!

But wait, there's more!  Mr. Fabio Cannavaro, the new "executive chief coach" was there!  I have a shiny new Hublot Big Bang for the person who can explain (rationally) what the f*&(k an "executive chief coach" is...

Here's the thing - I am GLAD, THRILLED, ECSTATIC that Hublot "loves football" -  but what I'd really like to see is, I don't know, some of that Hublot "magic money" go to fund football in countries that actually really need the help.  Plenty of kids in India, Kenya, Tanzania, and other "less sexy" places like to play football too.  And continuing a partnership with FIFA which is about as corrupt as an organization gets is NOT something I would be proudly announcing.

Partnerships like these are beginning to get extremely cynical, but as a friend mentioned to me, it's not a bad business plan - create a partner watch and you're guaranteed to sell 40 or so pieces.

Here's the thing - Hublot is not a charity, it is a company that makes watches - very nice watches.  And they do a lot of good - but they don't publicize this good NEARLY enough.  When all I get in the "in box" is another "here we are with this famous person" it makes me feel a bit like the expectation  of Hublot's PR office is that we should all be sycophants, and just "drink the Kool-Aid".