My One Brand 3-Piece Watch Collection.
One of my main goals for 2023 is to collect the watches I really love without trying to have a lot of diversity just for the sake of it. In the past I’ve bought a GS because I ‘needed’ a dress watch in the collection. 3 months later I sold it again because it just didn’t make me feel as excited about it as some of my other watches did. Same thing happened when I bought an Oris Aquis because I ‘needed’ a diver.
That being said I’m glad I tried them as it helped me figure out where I want to take my collection. And even though I don’t regret selling them, I do look at those fondly when I see an old picture. Here’s a few shots off some watches which served their purpose and have moved on to happy new owners.
The more I got into watches, the more IWC kept popping back up in my shortlist. This eventually made me shell out for an IWC Mark XVIII, cementing my love for the brand once and for all.
This Mark XVIII has since also moved on as I learned more about the brand and started looking for more specific models. But it will always remain a special model for me.
The love for IWC eventually progressed into a 3 piece collection with models I love, while covering all possible scenarios for me. An everyday watch, a chronograph and a dress watch.
The Everyday Watch:
IWC Mark XV.
Sometimes regarded as the last ‘true Mark’ because of the old RAF style hands. This is an absolute classic 38mm pilots watch on the pyramid style bracelet. It’s extremely comfortable on wrist and runs about as accurate as you could ever wish from a mechanical watch. It’s just a masterclass by IWC in wearability and design. For me one of the best watches they have ever made. Quite possible one of the best watches full stop, for me at least.
The Chronograph:
IWC Pilot’s Watch Spitfire Chronograph.
One of the most wearable IWC Pilots Chrono’s with its 41mm case. I love how they reference the IWC Mark 11 with the faux patina lume. It also has small details I appreciate like the flat four and old style seconds hand counter balance. This was bought on my birthday while on the very first big vacation trip with my girlfriend, a very special watch to me for that reason too.
The Dress Watch:
IWC Mark XVI Spitfire.
While not your classic dress watch, it’s all the dress watch I’ll ever need. A Portugieser would make a lot of sense as a dress watch, but I just really love the pilot style and I personally think it doesn’t get any better than this watch as a ‘Pilot Dress Watch’. A beautiful 39mm case, applied numerals and multiple finishing techniques on the dial. One of IWC’s most underrated pieces to date.
What do you guys think, would you have a one brand 3 piece collection? And if so, which brand and what would it look like?
PS: I also own a Hamilton Khaki Field and Casio World Timer, but let’s keep that between us. It’s a ‘side collection’, right?
Formerly known as AntwerpWatch. Instagram: @triangle.at.twelve
I enjoy a bit of variety and like the idea of wearing a watch that you don’t see often. It’s why I’m drawn to microbrands. I could probably have a collection made up solely of micros but would struggle with just one brand.
I enjoy a bit of variety and like the idea of wearing a watch that you don’t see often. It’s why I’m drawn to microbrands. I could probably have a collection made up solely of micros but would struggle with just one brand.
That would be a cool way to create a 3 watch collection though! My very first watch was a micro brand, I really love the value and designs they bring.
Thanks for the kind words, I really am enjoying this collection. It seems like it also has helped me calm down and be more focused in my collecting strategy.
That would be a cool way to create a 3 watch collection though! My very first watch was a micro brand, I really love the value and designs they bring.
Same here it’s why I’ve currently got 6 micros in my collection. Expecting to have 8 before the Summer.
Three really nice watches. Kudos!
Very nice collection. And I agree—there's no sense in having a diverse collection just for the sake of it. If you want your collection to be mainly comprised of a brand you really like, I say send it.
That silver-dialed one is beautiful, I had no idea IWC made these!
That silver-dialed one is beautiful, I had no idea IWC made these!
They seem to be rather under appreciated nowadays. A very unique model imo!
I love that IWC Mark XV. I've been searching for one myself, but they are getting hard to come by in good condition unless outrageously expensive. Great collection!