Navigating the digital landscape with a unique approach.
Dive into the visionary strategies shaping our platform, especially in the context of data-driven landscapes. Gain insights from an exclusive interview with co-founder of Time District.
Caroline Hengesse-Brault, co-founder of Time District, shares insights into how Time District aims to create a distinct value proposition in a world seemingly dominated by data, especially in the realms of marketing and commerce, ensuring the security and privacy of every collector within its community.
Q: First of all, could you tell us about your connection with the watch collecting community and what led to the creation of Time District?
A: My fascination with discovering new aspects of horology, be it intricates movements or materials, is a constant source of intrigue. However, my deepest enthusiasm lies in the individuals themselves, ranging from watchmakers to the community of watch aficionados. With over 15 years of experience in the watch industry, I've gained invaluable insights from these connections, surpassing any other source of knowledge. It's always astonishing to witness the childlike sparkle in the eyes of a passionate individual when discussing horology. This phenomenon is truly remarkable and has forged meaningful connections with enthusiasts. This profound attachment to the individuals within the community served as the catalyst for the inception of Time District, driven by the question, "How can I help them?"
Q: Caroline, as the co-founder of Time District, can you share your vision behind Time District?
A: Certainly. The project originated from years of the recollection of comments shared by watch collectors and enthusiasts. The recurrent points arising, above all else, were about security—and confidentiality, while enjoying the Community. Therefore, Time District was conceived not just as an app but as a community—a global hub for watch enthusiasts. Acknowledging the sensitive nature of personal data in the digital age, we made data security a foundational pillar. Our vision is to provide a secure space where every collector and enthusiast can share their passion without compromising their privacy and security.
Caroline Hengesse-Brault - Co-founder at Time District - © Time District SA
Q: Now let’s delve into how does Time District tackle the security challenges associated with online transactions, especially in an industry as niche as watch collecting?
A: The watch collecting community is diverse, with enthusiasts ranging from public figures to newcomers. Security challenges are inherent when dealing with valuable assets. At Time District, we prioritise security by stripping down what’s currently in use and implementing strong measures from inception. One of them is the fact that we decided not to store any personal data on our servers. Our decentralised approach ensures that each collectors has control over their information, mitigating risks associated with centralised data storage.
Q: In terms of data security, how does Time District differentiate itself from other platforms, and what measures are in place to protect the privacy of its members?
A: What sets Time District apart is our unwavering commitment to safeguarding user confidentiality within our community space. We've adopted a disrupted approach by choosing not to store personal data while ensuring identity verification. Whether you're a public figure or a novice in the world of horology, our members can engage with confidence, knowing that their privacy and security are our top priorities.
Q: Can you elaborate on how Time District’s approach to decentralisation data aligns with its commitment to user privacy?
A: Decentralisation data is a fundamental aspect of our commitment to user privacy. In the world of watch collecting, where sentiment and personal history are embedded in every piece, the security of personal data is non-negotiable. By giving control back to our members, we do not only mitigate security risks but also empower our community to engage authentically without concerns about privacy breaches.
“We believe in the power of tailored content without the need for extensive personal data. ”
Q: Caroline, in a world increasingly driven by data, particularly in marketing and commerce, how does Time District carve out a unique proposition to secure its place in this landscape?
A: It’s a crucial question, and one we took seriously when establishing Time District. We are deeply anchored in the digital world, observing its evolution closely. Throughout our journey, we've explored more than just decentralising data to demonstrate our commitment to reshaping the horological landscape with disruptive and privacy-focused practices. As an example, instead of conforming to traditional customer data-centric models (CRM)—often perceived as intrusive by our community, or even rushing into trends—of which many are considered as not mature solutions, we took a step back and we’ve challenged the status quo by adopting a product-centric approach. This shift in focus means that we prioritise understanding users' interests and the watches they own, all solely associated with a username, rather than seeking to know every detail about the individual. In essence, we believe in the power of tailored content without the need for extensive personal data.
Beyond being a marketplace, Time District stands as a testament to the commitment to user privacy and security—a sanctuary where every collector, regardless of their background, can cherish their passion for watches with confidence. Time District underscores the importance of preserving the art of watch collecting, done right and with the utmost care for the individuals who make up the vibrant Time District community.