ichibra
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Q: How did you get into watch collecting?
I used to adore the ads of Rolex and Seiko in TIME and NEWSWEEK magazines when I was in my early teens (in the late 1960’s). My watch “collection” started when my parents bought me a Seiko celebrating my elementary school graduation. My scuba diving activities during university accelerated my watch loving since they were essential equipment. My business career took me to all corners of the globe making me conscious of time differences, business attire and it also provided me abundant opportunities window shop. Now being semi-retired, I am much more interested in the “maintenance” of my accumulated collection of expensive/cheap, mechanical/quartz watches. My collection peaked at 108 a couple of years ago. 108 is the number of earthly desires according to the teachings of Buddhism.
Q: What was the first watch you ever owned?
Seiko automatic 7006-7080 “Batman case”
Q: Do you have a watch with a particularly interesting story behind it?
Nothing really serious. Orfina/Porsche Design (black/Valjoux 7550) : Tom Cruise wore the same watch in both “Top gun” movies. I bought it in 1985 just a year before the movie was released. Audemar Piguet B36200 : It was given to me as a “giveaway gift” from the Jordanian Royal family in the early 1990’s. Make no mistake, not exactly a big deal for both sides. It came with a Longines belt so I thought the watch was too for a long time. The dial was gold-flaked with arabic insignia and I missed the Audemar Piguet above 6. After joining Watchcrunch, I openned it, and to my surprise the movement was AP cal. 2090.
Q: What is one piece of advice you have for someone just getting into watches?
Follow your desires and instincts but don’t buy something out of financial compromise. Having said that nobody can create a perfect collection. Waste money and consider it tuition. By the time you pass twenty or so pieces you will start to form your very own rationale.If you look into my collection you can see that I was going through a long process of trial and error. Back and forth, left and right, up and down.
Q: What brands have been getting your attention lately?
GRAND SEIKO.
Q: What is your grail watch and why?
Theoretically I no longer have a “grail” since I’ve passed the “collecting” phase and am now in the “maintenance” phase. I used to crave for a Vacheron Constantin “Soleil Levant” ref. BC91020 00011 / cal. 1017.
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