How to Influence Others Into This Hobby

Recently, I have been hanging out with some people who do not share the same level of enjoyment of watches that I do. To be fair, it is a very information-heavy hobby, so not having the same excitement about the new Rolex 1165120394820974593 compared to their 1999 Supra or other hobby is completely fine.

They always do compliment my watches though, and always say things like "I wish I could rock a/that watch...", to which I reply, you can! Eventually, after a couple of months of planting the seeds of horology in their heads, I was able to get them to make their first purchases and become members of a rich community.

There are a lot of reasons why people don't wear watches nowadays, the most obvious one is having a clock on hand at all times through our phones, computers, and smartwatches. That last point is the most obvious, since if one has an Apple Watch, what is the incentive for them to wear a mechanical watch?

Well here are a few points that I have used to slowly get the unconverted into our space. The obvious disclaimer is that results may vary and that the power of influencing weighs a lot on an individual's own charisma.

Use Watches That Have High Impact as an Example

A lot of people will simply not care if you cannot grab their attention with a quick anecdote, so try to show them watches that have a very rich heritage or are worn by people they adore. The easiest example is the Omega Speedmaster [and/or MoonSwatch], first watch on the moon, saved astronauts' lives, has a versatile design, what more could you want out of a watch? Another great example could be the Rolex GMT, created or Pan Am pilots in the 50's, iconic colorways, and elegant simplicity all in one package.

Wearing Watches as Heirloom Pieces

Now usually when we say heirloom pieces, we mean things like a solid 18k gold Rolex that will be aged in 50 years for when you pass it on to your kids. It doesn't have to be the most expensive watch, but when you wear it enough and create your own story with it, then it can be passed down to whoever you wish to give it to so that they can continue the journey. Engraving a watch is also a great way to personalize these pieces a step further, and to nail in the emotional connection to such a small object.

Take Them to a Watch Store

I'm sure we have all done this a million times to the point where it bores our non-watch friends, but having them be able to try on a large selection of watches all at once may help them find The One for them. Obviously don't plan it out and tell them, but rather try to make it seem spontaneous about going in and checking them at a mall. This is how I got my friends to purchase their watches, and hopefully, the salesperson will also help you out in convincing your friends about financial factors and demystifying the watch-buying experience.

Let Them Wear Your Watches

Most of us here have multiple watches that may or may not get enough wear time throughout the week, so bringing an extra watch to a get-together and letting your trusted friends wear them around or a day is a great way to see if they like it or not. Don't explain how the watch works or what it is, simply let them wear it and they'll ask all the right questions without you having to go on the deep end of your knowledge.

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What are your guys' stories on getting your friends into the hobby? Are these tips helpful/applicable? Let me know in the comments and thanks for reading!