I think this news is great for somebody just getting into vintage watches or even seasoned collectors that are dipping their toes into a brand that they don't have any expertise in. That said, I think I speak for a lot of other informed collectors that actually prefer the inefficiency of the current system, given that I don't buy from dealers and specifically look for pieces from original owners that are poorly described and horribly photographed. That's where the edge is!

Regardless, I don't think the Hodinkee Shop will change that, as original owners who threw it in a drawer for 30 years aren't likely to read Hodinkee on a weekly basis and don't give it much thought other than throwing it up on eBay and seeing what happens. If anything, it will force dealers and auction houses to have more accountability in their descriptions, pictures, etc., which is a net positive for the entire industry.