New feature starting today on aBlogtoRead.com. You’ll begin to see some award icons on select posts. The system is meant to place emphasis on various products, brands, services, events, innovations, etc… that represent one of three ideals. I am going to be selective when it comes to awarding these icons, so just because an article doesn’t have an icon, does not mean it wouldn’t necessarily deserve such an award.

Now let’s become acquainted with the three new icons that you’ll begin to see on aBlogtoRead.com. Note that I am also going to slowly revisit existing articles and award the icons where appropriate.

The first icon award is the most straight forward. The “Good Value” Award will be merited when something offers a lot for what it costs. It is not necessarily about something being inexpensive, but rather representing a good value in comparison with the competition and items within the price range. Thus, a $50 watch might not be a good value, because you can get the same for $25. Along the same lines a $50,000 watch could be a good value because you can’t find the same features or level of craftsmanship in watches at that price level and would have to spend much more for something similar.

It is also worth noting that a good value can also be achieved based on an item’s market price. Say for example that a watch retails at $1,000 and would be appropriate for that price given the quality, etc… If an available price for the watch on the market is significantly less, that price instance could merit a Good Value Award. This will come in a variety of circumstances and may include a one time deal where a watch can be purchased on eBay for a good value, or an ongoing market price that can be enjoyed through any number of retailers. Overall, if you see something with a Good Value Award, you can be sure that if you spend the money, you will feel as though you received a great deal.

The next icon is the Seal of Approval Award. The origin of this award stems from my picky nature and the trust that the people in my life have in my taste, as well as my position as someone who ‘knows enough about watches’ to make a value judgment. My seal of approval designates that something is so impressive, I cannot help but elaborate my sentiments through the gifting of an symbolic award.

A lot of things can merit such a seal; and like the Good Value Award, it is not necessarily an item, but it could be an event, action, brand, occurrence or otherwise. If you see a Seal of Approval award, it means that I fully endorse the subject of the article without any major reservations. While you are free to disagree with my opinions, you can be sure that I put time and thought in to evaluating the subject matter to make sure it is impressively outstanding enough. A Seal of Approval on a watch usually means it is certainly worth owning, if you can afford it and appreciate its qualities.

With all this praise must be an indication of dismay. The Bad Idea Award is my Orwellian manner of disapproval. Something is very wrong with the item or event that receives this award. While the item might not be wholly bad, there is at least one significant flaw or problem with it. Usually this flaw is so bad, that I would caution against purchase. It is OK if you get it for free. The bad idea element might manifest itself in various forms. It might be a quality or aesthetic element. It might be a functionality problem, or an exaggeration in asking price so extreme it should be protested. Bad Idea Award articles are usually imbued with a degree of humor (unless it was myself who had to experience the ‘pain’ first hand). This is so to help you smirk at the follies of others. When you see a Bad Idea Award it is usually worth your time to read about my thoughts as you will be enlightened and entertained, as well as warned to stay clear of something worth avoiding.

To help you keep up with all the new awards given, see the “Good Value Award,” “Seal of Approval Award,” and “Bad Idea Award” Categories located on the right column. Clicking on the category itself will give you a list of all the articles that contain the award.

UPDATE — As the blog evolved, we dropped this system of rating, but it was fun while it lasted 🙂 01.25.2014