This episode has been a couple of years in the making and it is guest hosted by watchmaker, diver, raconteur, and friend-of-the-show, Jason Gallop. As many of you already know, Jason is the proprietor Roldorf & Co, a watch business in Vancouver, Canada that offers both sales and service. What may also be known is that, in April of 2022, the building that hosted Roldorf & Co all but burned to the ground in a deadly and devastating fire that affected a wide range of people in Vancouver’s downtown core.
I recall you taking about the Roldorf fire on an episode last year, but to hear Jason recount in detail how it unfolded was incredible; fascinating but devastating at the same time.
Was in Vancouver last September, unfortunately the new Roldorf location wasn't open yet. Hopefully I will get another opportunity.
On James' recommendation, I visited "The German" watchmaker shop in Yaletown...very nice gentleman, but he no longer sells watches, only does services.
Also visited Otto Fridel consignment shop in the basement of the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Super friendly people, with some interesting items. Very knowledgeable staff, seemed like "real" watch people.
The main floor of the Fairmont had an Omega boutique, and we stopped in since we were already there. For a major brand boutique in a big city, I have to say they were also very welcoming and accommodating.
Great episode and story of resilience.
I recall you taking about the Roldorf fire on an episode last year, but to hear Jason recount in detail how it unfolded was incredible; fascinating but devastating at the same time.
Was in Vancouver last September, unfortunately the new Roldorf location wasn't open yet. Hopefully I will get another opportunity.
On James' recommendation, I visited "The German" watchmaker shop in Yaletown...very nice gentleman, but he no longer sells watches, only does services.
Also visited Otto Fridel consignment shop in the basement of the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Super friendly people, with some interesting items. Very knowledgeable staff, seemed like "real" watch people.
The main floor of the Fairmont had an Omega boutique, and we stopped in since we were already there. For a major brand boutique in a big city, I have to say they were also very welcoming and accommodating.
Maybe it's true that Canadians really are nicer?
Fantastic interview. I'd love to see a write up or video report of the Roldorf saga on Hodinkee some day.