Mobile Content Aggregation

Kevin Rose shares how he created Watchville, a mobile app that aggregated watch content from various sources at a time when most watch websites weren't mobile-optimized. The business later merged with Hodinkee and grew to over $100M in revenue.

Key Points:

• Core Problem Solved:

  • Watch websites weren't mobile-optimized
  • Content was spread across multiple sources
  • Poor reading experience on mobile devices

• Solution:

  • Created a mobile app aggregator for watch content
  • Made content readable on mobile
  • Added push notifications
  • Brought together multiple content sources in one place

• Growth Strategy:

  • Attracted major watch collectors as users
  • Merged with Hodinkee (leading watch content site)
  • Combined Watchville's tech team with Hodinkee's content team
  • Added e-commerce capabilities
  • Created partnerships with major watch brands

• Business Evolution:

  • Started as content aggregator
  • Merged with Hodinkee
  • Became authorized dealer for several watch brands
  • Grew from $1.5-2M to over $100M in annual revenue