I understand.
But the old saying in retail is: "the customer is always right" That is why the customer's expectation, no matter how "over the top" is usually respected.
Perhaps that is a good interpretation of Villeret...it is the atelier of MB watchmaking so " the investment of time and traditional hand labor well beyond other Manufactures" argument may fly. I own many pieces from members of AHCI. Oversights on cosmetic appearance are routinely justified among collectors as "quirks of the maker" but the same oversights on pieces by established brands are considered "defects" by the exact same collectors. I would hazard to guess that this group of high end collectors would not consider MB Villeret to be independent pieces but judge these as products of a large brand.
Also, I appreciate pieces like the Bicylindrique, Exotourbillon. But as a student of horology, would MB show chronometric data to see whether or not these concepts really work? Afterall they are marketed as new innovations. From the Exotourbillon PR: "Another essential advantage: Being separated from the rotating cage, the balance is not adversely affected by the inertia of the cage and consequently oscillates with greater precision" So if you don't want to test it via a third/independent party can you at least show us the internal data to justify the marketing claim?
But I worry about the viewpoint: there are those for whom a Villeret watch is not suitable.
Seriously? A customer has to understand this ethos before he is "worthy" to own a Villeret?
For me that is troublesome. As Mr. Cabiddu is an artist and proven craftsman, I completely understand this but from a business point of view it is not a pathway to success imho.
This post is not meant to put you on the spot Dean Nor am I calling out Mr. Cabbidu
Just provoking thoughts that quite honestly can apply to many HH brands.
Best, Mike