Discover how to build the best watch collection with expert tips. Learn to curate timeless pieces that reflect your style and passion for horology.
Do you recall seeing a watch and feeling that it was screaming your name? I definitely do, and that is where the addiction begins.
As awe-inspiring as collecting watches is, entire books can, and have been, written about the art of sobering the passions of people’s lives in terms of peak moments and low points in their collection.
Join me as I take you on a ride on how to form a plan for the best watch collection without going schizo or bankrupt in the process.
And Where Do You Begin?
With the fundamental question, Why watches?
Is it crafting history, a legacy, perhaps design, or true horology? The very first watch I fell in love with is forever etched in my memory – a Rolex Submariner and needless to say, I was also a little captivated by the name.
More importantly, it was remarkable because it was famously worn by James Bond in near-death experiences. Just imagine my disappointment in buying one because it was akin to wearing arrogance in a piece of jewelry.
Famed John Mayer once commented, “A great watch collection is like a great record collection – it is a collection that tells your life.” So, pick a purpose and go backward from there.
What’s Your Style?
Do you enjoy boasting or prefer a more discreet existence?
At a stylish cocktail gathering, I noticed a rather distinguished gentleman with a shirt so simple that it came with a free dress cuff. He wore a Patak Philippe Calatra wristwatch.
Even as this gentleman was immersed in the ambiance, he was still trying to hide the designer watch he had on.
Contrary to this, there are those on the other side such as the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak‘s fans, who swear by this watch and who need some attention for being at the top of the list of integrated steel bracelet style watches.
A major tip: Establish Personal Mastery First and Build up from this. Since watches are an adornment for many, it is important that they are comfortable wearing them.
The Hunt: How Do You Find “The One”?
Consider it a treasure map rather than a shopping trip
Every collector has their holy grail. The best one for me was the Omega Speedmaster “Moonwatch.”
It was like the life of the Apollo 11 missions was sitting in the palm of my hands. To be more realistic, live in the universe of watches. Analyze the social networks of the stars of the industry like Ben Clymer from Hodinkee or Biver.
And the secondary market is one of the best sources. Have you ever used Chrono24? It feels like Tinder for timepieces: less heartache in the aftermath.
Should You Be Worried About The Payback Landed?
Well, this is the most frequently asked question.
Some suggest not buying gold when intending to invest. But let’s not kid ourselves; if you got a steel Rolex Daytona straight from the vendor, it must feel like investing in a jackpot. Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona was sold for $17.8 million. Think about this for a second.
However, trying to keep up with the trends is a risky endeavor. Collectors like Adam Golden of Menta Watches emphasize being passionate about what you buy: “If it makes your wrist happy, it’s already worth it.”
How to Stop Making Those Beginning Errors?
Simple, do not chase trends.
When I made a Panerai purchase, which was once regarded as ‘the watch that everyone must have’, I made an impulsive decision to buy it for half my monthly income.
Ironically, the purchase turned out to be quite out of style for me. From this point on, I have made it a point to be careful in my decision-making.
Pay attention to the actions, the materials, and the details. Look for encapsulated tales like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, made for polo players who needed to protect their timepieces while on the field.
What can be done to help build sympathy for your collection?
Rather than making a functional collection, build a playlist: it is more enjoyable to look at the things you have if they are more diverse than monotonous and filled with duplicates of the same thing.
Start with something simple like an antique dress watch, which should be a piece of art like the Omega Seamaster and Asetime. Follow this up with a workhorse chronograph, a tough diver, or an eye-pleasing Nomos Tangente. I believe every piece you add should tell a new aspect of who you are.
To quote Kevin O’Leary, an esteemed watch collector, “Every watch has a reason to be. If it is not speaking to you, sell it.” The depth behind each of his words is massive, and this is only one sentence out of a hundred he must have written.
How exactly do you look after the piece you purchased manually?
Just by showing interest.
Watches are not cabbages. It is a love affair for eternity. Collecting them is difficult but rewarding. Try to become a bit more engaged with communities like Watchuseek – or the RedBar group, where you can get more tips or tricks about other insiders. Do not avoid important happenings like Basilworld or Watches and Wonders.
That is also something else you should focus on. “F.P. Journe or MB&F are changing watchmaking” is one phrase that should be expanded to all designers and brands who are winning awards because of their shocking sounds.
Final Thoughts:
Each watch has its story, and there is a story behind every person who collects them. Is your wrist decorated with crowns? Then, you are one of the many strong-headed Rolex fanatics, but are you a follower of the passionate Seiko worshippers? It does not matter. It is a journey, no matter how you look at it. So step out of your cocoon and let the sound of an artifact lost to time be an everlasting companion. Time.
I can’t wait to hear your stories, but first, can you tell me your strategy for watching the collection? Your comments would prove helpful to me.
FAQ About the Best Watch Collection Strategy
1. How do I save money while building a set of watches?
Start with a few that are small, yet have personal significance. Seek out budget-friendly brands like Seiko, Hamilton, and Tissot. Value can be found in vintage markets for Omega and Longines too. Always seek out fine craftsmanship and look for “the maker” rather than trends and the latest bells and whistles, at the end of the day always buy pieces that are made to last.
2. Is it wise to limit the collection to just vintage pieces, or should there be space for some modern ones as well?
It depends on your individual style as well as your purpose. Vintage watches usually come with their own unique story but require a lot of care. Modern watches, on the other hand, are more reliable and easier to service. A collection that features both styles adds depth and character.
3. What is the best way to avoid being deceived into buying a fake watch?
Examine every aspect of the watch, including, but not limited to, the weight, engraving, and movement. These details should match the brand’s official photographs. If you plan on buying the watch on the Internet, search for an official distributor that has a customer-friendly return policy and authentic items. The forums on Watchuseek are priceless for researching potential suppliers and sellers.
4. How should I best care for and store my watches?
Make sure your watches are in a cool and dry environment, ideally inside a watch box or lined safe. Owned automatic watches that you hardly wear should be placed inside a watch winder. They need gentle cleaning with microfiber cloth and servicing by a professional watchmaker at least every 5 to 7 years.
5. Are rare models more significant than pleasant models to me?
In general, it will make a difference. Amazing pieces, such as a Rolex Submariner or Omega Speedmaster, would tend to sit at the base of almost every collection and have great visibility.
On the other hand, an F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu is significantly more obscure, and much more sympathy is needed to focus on the independent brand. Do what works for you and does not hurt the image you are trying to project.
