Why Be Boring?  Introducing YB Timepieces
Written and Interviewed by Kenyatta D. Pious

Men are incorrectly thought to have no real flair for accessorizing.  The truth is that most men realize that the right accessory such as vintage Nike’s in the original color scheme or an elegant timepiece can often speak for them before they say a word.  When it comes to selecting a timepiece, one should consider the message.  Should the timepiece evoke power, subtle sex appeal or playful whimsy? 

We stumbled upon www.ybtimepieces.com and felt that this unisex brand has some real stylish timepieces, which can enhance any gentleman’s (or lady’s) appeal.  On deck is a conversation we had with Patrick Martin, CEO Youngblood Timepieces, Inc., as we explored why YB Timepieces is known as “The Next Generation In Timepieces.”

FashionLedge: Timepieces often complement a particular lifestyle.  What is the YB lifestyle?
PM: YB’s lifestyle is sophisticated, innovative, urban, creative, business, global and cross cultural - - from the boardroom to the art gallery and everything in between…

FashionLedge: What differentiates YB Timepieces from other brands?
PM: We have a unique niche of combining mainstream appeal with urban influences, with a touch of sophistication for the mid price mass market. Most brands in our price point either have a street brand image or a mainstream brand image.  We appeal to both while attracting a sophisticating consumer as well.

One way that YB keeps its edge is through the hard work of its namesake, Paul Youngblood.  As Patrick tells us, “Youngblood is the last name of the designer Paul Youngblood, son of a famous Caribbean artist.  It not only stands for the gifts of our talented designer, it also stands for youthful thought, leading, and trend setting.”

FashionLedge: Are the timepieces available only online and what is the price point?
PM: Our timepieces are available on our website (www.ybtimepieces.com) and at select independent stores.

Our niche is to sell to consumers in the mid price point which is between $79-$300 per piece. We want to bring quality and urban sophisticating at an affordable price point.

FashionLedge: Do you create custom pieces?
PM: We do produce custom timepieces.  We have been approached by high profile athletes and entertainers to produce custom pieces.  We have also been asked by other brands to produce timepieces for them. 

We have entered into a private label deal to produce timepieces for a new up and coming sports fashion brand called Zipway.   We are very impressed with this company [as it has] launched into Footlocker as well as stores in Asia. 

FashionLedge: How often are new YB collections launched?
PM: We plan to launch new collections quarterly as we scale up.  We have several innovative, cutting edge concepts to where we almost want to introduce all of them as quickly as possible…hahaha

According to Patrick, YB seeks out a consumer between the ages of 20-45 with a sophisticated taste and some urban influences.  The brand has relied on word of mouth for its impressive growth although, Patrick points out that “viral online marketing [and] online affiliate channels [as well as PR-driven] activities” are on deck as possibilities to get the name out. 

FashionLedge: What are some of the challenges you face?
PM: One challenge is locating the right manufacturer.  The other challenge is building the right relationships to open the doors for your product to be seen by the key decision makers.  It can be difficult at times to learn who can be trusted.  

FashionLedge: Where do you see YB Timepieces in 5-10 years?
PM: YB will be a sophisticated urban lifestyle brand with a global presence and many products under in its channel.  YB will introduce cutting edge fashion as well as other accessories.

For more information:
Visit: www.ybtimepieces.com