Blue Mountain State remains a cult classic for a reason, and for many, it was a comedic staple during its run on Spike TV (now Paramount Network). This show, known for its over-the-top portrayal of college life, delivered a unique brand of humor that resonated with audiences seeking a modern American Pie vibe. Beyond the typical college antics, Blue Mountain State occasionally surprised viewers with moments of unexpected cultural relevance, and one such moment is found in the episode “LAX.” For fans compiling a Blue Mountain State Episode Guide, “LAX” is a standout, not just for its prank war plot, but for a particularly sharp joke that landed surprisingly well within the world of luxury watches.
Season one, episode eight, aptly titled “LAX,” dives into the chaotic fallout when a truce between the football team and the lacrosse team at Blue Mountain State is shattered. The official episode synopsis sets the stage: “When Alex is busted with a lacrosse player’s girlfriend, he unwittingly breaks a 24-year football/lacrosse team truce, causing a take-no-prisoners war which he must figure out how to end.” This broken truce ignites a hilarious prank war, showcasing the rivalry between the two athletic factions on campus.
In a scene designed to highlight the perceived stereotypes of lacrosse players – often depicted in American media as affluent, preppy, and perhaps a bit out of touch – two lacrosse players are introduced discussing birthday gifts. As the football team plots to ambush them and cut off their signature long hair (“flows”), these lacrosse athletes, clad in blazers and slacks, casually drop a watch joke that aged remarkably well.
The dialogue unfolds as follows:
“That must have been a horrible birthday. What did you do?”
“I threw that cheap a** Rolex at mom and told her to get me a Pah-Teak – or I was going to Spain for Christmas.”
This brief exchange is comedic gold on multiple levels, especially when viewed through a modern lens. Firstly, the joke highlights the prestige hierarchy within the watch world. Even in 2010, when the episode aired, and likely even earlier when written, the writers were aware of Patek Philippe’s elevated status compared to Rolex. This nuance is something that might have flown over the heads of the mainstream audience at the time, but it resonates strongly now, particularly with the growing interest in luxury watches online.
Secondly, the joke playfully mocks the common mispronunciation of “Patek Philippe” as “Pah-Teak.” This subtle jab at the pronunciation further underscores the intended stereotype of the lacrosse player – someone who is aware of high-end brands but perhaps not entirely versed in the proper etiquette or pronunciation, adding to the comedic effect.
For those creating a blue mountain state episode guide or simply revisiting classic episodes, “LAX” is a must-watch. Beyond the broader comedic narrative of the football versus lacrosse feud, this Patek Philippe joke stands out as a surprisingly insightful piece of pop culture commentary. It’s a testament to the show’s occasionally sharp writing that it managed to weave in such a niche, yet now incredibly relevant, piece of humor. Perhaps revisiting Blue Mountain State will unearth even more hidden gems of cultural and comedic observation, making the show’s enduring cult status all the more understandable.
