Your watch tells a story

One about the craftsman, about yourself, and the human spirit.

Idea 33 Media uncovers that unique story and shares it with the world.

Todd Searle, the founder of Idea 33 Media -

lifelong watch enthusiast + passionate storyteller.


He connects brands, independent watchmakers, and retailers with discerning collectors — facilitating a reciprocal emotional connection that inspires appreciation and desire.

Todd and Idea 33 reveal captivating content and compelling storylines that define global independent brands. 


Idea 33 Media thrives on building loyal brand connections and amplifying the voices of intentional artists to their collectors around the world. 

In short, Idea 33 Media believes in stories well told.

Meet Todd

An avid collector, creator, writer, advisor, and documentary filmmaker with a drive for entrepreneurship himself. Really just a guy with great hair, a deep knowledge of movie quotes, and a knack for storytelling.

The heart of Idea 33 Media is to craft the emotional connection with every watch, from G-Shock to De Bethune. Todd’s unwavering passion for the captivating world of watches began at age six when he realized watches could be as meanstools for self-expression. Now he helps brands forge emotional connections, breathing life into how they talk about their art form and evoking a sense of pride for collectors. Damn cool watches will not sell without a strategy, and all brands have the opportunity to have viral, sharable content through the images taken, the words crafted, and the intentional planning that creates deep impact.

Learn more about Todd and the Idea 33 Media Story

As a  creative agency, we take action from ideas and create brand stories that resonate around the globe. 

Services

  • Unlock the full potential of your brand’s reach with marketing strategies through video, photo, and storytelling. From Custom Brand Assessments, Voice Development Strategies, PR & Press Training, Brand Content Creation, and more, Idea 33 Media is here to empower your brand to speak with authority, authenticity, and emotionally connect with your ideal collectors.

    Explore Brand Services

  • Let Idea 33 Media be your guide to the world of independent watchmaking. From the industrialized independents to the small ateliers and workshops, Todd can tailor a strategy to help you with your collection goals. Custom Curation Reports and Advisory Services help craft selections that are suited to your taste, provide acquisition guidance, and help connect you to brands you may not have discovered yet.

    Explore Collector Services

  • Todd comes at the watch industry as both an avid collector and journalist. This dual perspective gives Todd a unique emotional connection with watchmakers and a deep understanding of watch collectors, allowing him to develop compelling content that resonates clearly with every audience. Whether it's a one-off article, a newsletter series, or an influential social media package, Idea 33 is ready to define the brand reputation, bring in readership, and share the passion for horology in a way that speaks differently to every watch enthusiast.

    Explore Journalism Services

  • Idea 33 Media understands that intentional photography can redefine and support written brand narratives. Todd is enamored with showcasing artisan’s work in authentic, real-world contexts going beyond traditional studio shots. Idea 33 crafts compelling visual narratives from product photography to lifestyle shoots, capturing watches, craftsmen, and makers in dynamic and engaging settings that have an impact on the marketing strategy.

    Explore Photography Services

  • Idea 33 Media guides retailers seeking to solidify their brand presence and engage collectors more effectively. With Brand Voice Development, Editorial Calendar & Social Management, and Brand Content Creation services, you'll feel empowered to speak with authority about your brand, boutique, and unique abilities. Idea 33 Retail Services transform how you communicate, establishing deeper emotional connections with collectors and creating impactful personalized content aligned to meet revenue and reach goals.

    Explore Retail Services

Forward momentum Podcast

In this digital age of smartphones and atomic clocks, independent mechanical watchmaking perseveres as a functional form of self-expression. While representing only about 1% of Swiss watch exports and less than 1% of the total market value, this mechanical art form represents one of the most dominant forces in the industry. Join me to learn why from those dedicated to safeguarding the identity of their beautiful craft. 

For the watch collector, the watch curious, and the horologically obsessed.

Listen today.

stories well told.

Explore the photography portfolio.

Where does your story start?

While rooted in Chicago, Todd can frequently be found in Switzerland, London, Madrid, Miami, New York, and watch industry hubs around the globe. Wherever you are on the horological map, Todd is ready to curate your collection.

“They say a ride didn't happen unless there are photos. Todd's ability to capture the feel and texture of a ride extends far beyond just bike ride photos. His images allow the viewer to step into the experience and feel they were there too. It takes a strong storyteller to give a sense of inclusion. Todd is gifted with this ability.”

—Tony B., Owner of Velosmith Bicycle Studio