Q: How did you get into watch collecting?
I bought an Omega Aqua Terra with a blue dial back in 2004 as my first ‘good watch’. Just because I liked it - which seemed like a good enough reason at the time. This became my daily wearer for the next 14 years or so before a new work colleague spotted it and thought I must be into watches. He asked what else I had and that got me thinking… That was the start of it. That I wore the Omega daily for so long without much comment goes to show how wearable and versatile a watch it is. Needless to say it is still in my small collection and gets regular wrist time. My go to when I want something really nice that won’t attract the wrong sort of attention / judgement. It’s a beautiful piece, runs amazingly, and now my son has his eye on it…. Time has taught me that this is my ‘first good watch’ - all watches are good if you like them, irrespective of price, value or the opinions of others. I love this hobby that allows us to snatch moments throughout the day to enjoy our prized ‘mechanical sculptures’.
Q: What was the first watch you ever owned?
A digital Sekonda on a metal bracelet gifted to me on my 10th birthday in 1983. The backlight was dazzling (?!?)
Q: What is one piece of advice you have for someone just getting into watches?
I don’t really collect for reasons of investment. I’d like some of my watches to appreciate or hold their value, but I don’t expect all of them to. I own some watches just because I like them and appreciate their design. My advice would be to collect what interests you. There are so many differing and completely valid opinions which is what makes watch collecting interesting.
Q: What brands have been getting your attention lately?
I’m starting to look into the myriad Seiko dive references. And if funds ever permit I’d like to add a 36mm Rolex Oyster case to my collection.
Q: What is your grail watch and why?
Rolex Explorer 1016. Simple, functional, legible and getting better with the passing of the years. Enduring design classic with great case size and a romantic back story (even if the truth has been stretched a bit).