THE DO's AND DON'Ts
Having spent some time on this platform, I’ve observed that newcomers to the world of watch collecting could find value in this post. I apologize in advance if this topic has been covered before, but I believe that revisiting it, even as a reminder, can be beneficial. After all, I’ve personally found it helpful.
The Do's and Don'ts of Watch Collecting
Watch collecting is a passion that combines craftsmanship, history, and personal style. Whether you're just starting or have been collecting for years, there are some essential do's and don'ts to keep in mind to make your watch collecting journey more enjoyable and rewarding.
The Do's
1. Educate Yourself:
- Do research and learn about different watch brands, movements, and styles. - Understand the history and heritage of watchmakers you're interested in.
2. Set a Budget:
- Do establish a clear budget for your watch collection to avoid overspending. - Prioritize quality over quantity, investing in watches that truly resonate with you.
3. Buy from Reputable Sources:
- Do purchase watches from authorized dealers, reputable watch shops, or trusted online platforms. - Verify the authenticity of vintage or second-hand watches through experts or certification.
4. Maintain Your Watches:
- Do service and maintain your watches regularly to keep them in good working condition. - Store them properly, away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and magnetic fields.
5. Diversify Your Collection:
- Do diversify your collection with watches of different styles, sizes, and complications. - Explore different brands and horological traditions to appreciate the diversity in watchmaking.
6. Enjoy the Journey:
- Do enjoy the process of collecting, from the hunt for your next piece to the joy of wearing your watches. - Share your passion with fellow collectors and enthusiasts.
The Don'ts:
1. Don't Rush:
- Don't rush into buying watches impulsively. Take your time to make informed decisions. - Avoid buying watches solely as investments, as trends can change.
2. Don't Neglect Authenticity:
- Don't purchase watches without proper authentication or verification. - Beware of counterfeit or fake watches in the market.
3. Don't Neglect Maintenance:
- Don't neglect the maintenance of your watches. Neglect can lead to costly repairs. - Avoid over-winding or mishandling your watches.
4. Don't Overlook Resale Value:
- Don't ignore the potential resale value of a watch, especially if your collecting goals change. - Some watches may appreciate over time, while others may not hold their value.
5. Don't Ignore Your Preferences:
- Don't buy watches solely based on others' opinions or trends. - Collect watches that align with your personal style and preferences.
6. Don't Hoard Watches:
- Don't collect watches excessively to the point of hoarding. - Quality over quantity ensures a more meaningful collection.
In conclusion, watch collecting is a rewarding hobby that requires a balance of passion and knowledge. By following these do's and don'ts, you can build a watch collection that not only reflects your personal style but also holds its value over time.
Remember, collecting watches is about the journey, the stories behind each timepiece, and the joy they bring to your life.
With all that being said I have to ask you?
HOW MANY IS ENOUGH 😎
Seizing moments, cherishing each second, and diving deep into the vibrant world of horology!
I have made every one of those mistakes! LOL! Except the overspending part ... my collection is very "modest" ... that and I rather a "cheap" bastard!! 😉
I have made every one of those mistakes! LOL! Except the overspending part ... my collection is very "modest" ... that and I rather a "cheap" bastard!! 😉
Likewise :)
I’d agree with all except point 2. Do NOT set a budget. Find your dream watch and aspire towards it.
It helps you to not waste money on watches you don’t absolutely love and helps prevent owning watches which just sit around not doing much.
All that money goes into a pot for your dream watch(es).
I’d agree with all except point 2. Do NOT set a budget. Find your dream watch and aspire towards it.
It helps you to not waste money on watches you don’t absolutely love and helps prevent owning watches which just sit around not doing much.
All that money goes into a pot for your dream watch(es).
When I first started, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to achieve. That’s why setting a budget was crucial. As I gained more experience, I became more flexible with my spending.
I like what you had to say. I think they're solid suggestions. To the new watch guy you should take what you want and leave the rest. We all collect different.
For me 3 to 5 carefully selected watches is more than enough
I'd like to add one more rule for consideration. Don't drink and eBay shop for watches.....ever.
For me 3 to 5 carefully selected watches is more than enough
I wish I have that mindset
I like what you had to say. I think they're solid suggestions. To the new watch guy you should take what you want and leave the rest. We all collect different.
Correct
Correct
Sorry bro I didn't know that comment was posted. I started and got a phone call. I edited it. But I think you got the just.
Thanks for the friendly reminder. Great little post
Great post. Too bloody late though 😁
Rules… rules… rules… c’mon who needs rules….
Great post. Too bloody late though 😁
I think so 😊
Rules… rules… rules… c’mon who needs rules….
Suggestions
I don't know...maybe I'm a bit of an anarchist but....no rules! Whatever works for you!
I don't know...maybe I'm a bit of an anarchist but....no rules! Whatever works for you!
Suggestions
Suggestions
Knowing the right way is finding out you went the wrong way… period. And also the right way is not always right … digest that…
Whatever works for the individual...I've got a watch "hoard" and I enjoy most of them...I've got a few to get rid of...When collecting Vintage, I'd say pay attention to originality...a little bit of patina can be ok...I agree with educating yourself on the history and subject but not everyone is going to take collecting watches as seriously as I do....beware of buying Vintage pieces from south America....don't buy them from India....that's about it....enjoy it!
Well said and put together!
Well said and put together!
Thank you
If you follow all the do nots though, you wouldn't have the chance for stuff like this little bit of awesome ness to poke all the "gnu-vole, HAWT horologist" types....🤏🏻😜
#crotchshot #crocshot #crotch-w-crocshot #EmprahProtects
🤪🤣🤘🏻🤙🏻
If you follow all the do nots though, you wouldn't have the chance for stuff like this little bit of awesome ness to poke all the "gnu-vole, HAWT horologist" types....🤏🏻😜
#crotchshot #crocshot #crotch-w-crocshot #EmprahProtects
🤪🤣🤘🏻🤙🏻
You damned kids and your crotches and crocs and skulls.
I'd like to add one more rule for consideration. Don't drink and eBay shop for watches.....ever.
That drunk buy will getcha 😉
You damned kids and your crotches and crocs and skulls.
Who you calling kids, yo......🤪😜🤣😂😆
.....granted pretty sure my wife would say I have a juvenile mindset at times......🤔😅🫣
I agree with most of it. I don’t see watches as an investment. I see collecting more as a creative endeavor in trying to find the right watch for the moment I’m in. My tastes have changed over time and I expect that will continue. If the search makes you happy then the watch will be satisfying. If you indulge in a spontaneous purchase then accept that you are making that choice. I like the clarity of thought that is required.
I agree with most of it. I don’t see watches as an investment. I see collecting more as a creative endeavor in trying to find the right watch for the moment I’m in. My tastes have changed over time and I expect that will continue. If the search makes you happy then the watch will be satisfying. If you indulge in a spontaneous purchase then accept that you are making that choice. I like the clarity of thought that is required.
Agree
To be honest, I always think that horological tradition and history is far overestimated. I know I don't find many who think so too. But in all respect the «tradition» is in most cases a sign of inability or unwillingness to step into future, to develop, to engineer ... to put the next thought into watchmaking 🤷🏻♂️.Or history and tradition are the only fairy tales to put some thousands of euros/dollars on a price anywhere near a reasonable value.
Maintenance is so sooooo important. Like with any other machine mechanical watches need this extra money. There is no value in a 150+ watches collection that overpowers financial capability to be maintained.
I'd add to the list:
Don't be afraid of mistakes. Sometimes it is necessary to learn and feel that a watch doesn't match. Physical contact elaborates the own taste and insight in oneself.
Make up your mind why and for what you want to own watches.