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Published on:

28th Jan 2025

29 | R.T. Custer | Vintage Visions: Scaling New Heights in a Handmade World

In today's episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill is joined by R.T Custer, founder of the Vortic Watch Company.

During this inspiring conversation, R.T. shares his path from humble beginnings to spearheading a venture that blends history, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Along the way, he reflects on the significance of preserving tradition while embracing innovation, offering a glimpse into the values and mindset that fuel his success.

You'll hear about the challenges and triumphs that define a business’s evolution, including a high-stakes legal battle that tested the founder's resolve and principles. The discussion highlights the importance of standing firm in the face of adversity, guided by a deep belief in one's mission and an unwavering commitment to ethics and creativity.


The conversation also touches on the joy of collaboration and the energy that comes from surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals. The excitement of building something bigger than oneself shines through, as does the dedication to leaving a lasting legacy. 


With an emphasis on fun, purpose, and the power of proximity, this episode serves as a testament to the transformative potential of entrepreneurship and a reminder that every challenge is an opportunity to innovate and inspire.


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Enjoy!



In This Episode You'll Learn:

  • The lack of American-made products, particularly watches, and the decision to explore the possibility of making watches in the USA. 
  • The initial launch of Vortic on Kickstarter in November 2014, where they raised $41,000, far exceeding their $10,000 goal.
  • The marketing strategies for both Vortic and the Colorado Watch Company, focusing on the unique process of converting pocket watches. 
  • The legal battle with the Swatch Group, which accused Vortic of trademark infringement and counterfeiting for using antique Hamilton pocket watches. 
  • And much more...



Resources:

Vortic Watch Company

R.T.'s LinkedIn


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About the Podcast

Fingerprints On Success
Welcome to “Fingerprints on Success,” the podcast that highlights the distinctive imprints left by influential business leaders, mentors, and thriving entrepreneurs.

Your host is none other than Bill Barrett, an award-winning corporate and business law attorney, and the CEO of Mandelbaum Barrett PC. Join us every week as we explore the captivating stories and insights of a diverse array of serial entrepreneurs, seasoned professionals, inspiring leaders, and accomplished coaches.

Together, we'll uncover the hidden secrets and strategies that have propelled our guests to success in both their professional and personal lives.

At Mandelbaum Barrett PC, Bill and his team have been providing comprehensive legal services to businesses and individuals across the country. Now, they are excited to bring that same level of knowledge and experience to these podcast discussions.

Get ready to be inspired, informed, and motivated. It's time to dive into the stories that have shaped success. Without further ado, let's get to the show!"
Learn more: https://www.mblawfirm.com/

About your host

Profile picture for William Barrett

William Barrett

Chief Executive Officer and Corporate Law attorney William S. Barrett provides strategic advice to companies and organizations of all sizes from formation to dissolution and every stage in between. He has over 20 years of experience representing a wide range of businesses with a unique focus in mergers and acquisitions. He is known for the personal attention that he gives his clients and the energy he brings to every deal. Bill has a reputation as a deal maker who knows how to be creative and get things done.

Bill often serves the role as outside general corporate counsel to his clients and advises them on issues concerning contracts, employment law compliance, developing policies, executive compensation programs and agreements, as well as business succession and related tax planning. His representative clients include commercial organizations and entrepreneurs in the areas of manufacturing, industry, service, banking, finance, insurance, construction, real estate development, as well as healthcare professionals of varying disciplines and organizations. Throughout his career, Bill has successfully managed the purchase or sale of hundreds of businesses, professional practices and facilities.

In the healthcare space, Bill is well recognized as a transactional lawyer in dental and medical practice transitions, practice sales and purchases, associate buy-ins, start-ups, and the structuring of dental services organizations (DSOs) and management services organizations (MSOs).

He is the author of “Pain-Free Dental Deals: An Entrepreneurial Dentist’s Guide to Buying, Selling and Merging Practices” and “The DSO Decision: Winning Answers from Every Angle.” He has written many articles addressing the legal and business needs of licensed professionals and facilities. He regularly speaks on a wide variety of topics to professional tradeshows, associations, study groups, societies, as well as students and residents at dental schools across the country.