Guide to KickStart Your Watch Collection

Buying a watch is an overwhelming yet rewarding experience.

17:55 22 November 2020

Not only will you see various brands of timepieces, but there will also be various types of wristwatches, costs also range and make. Do you want a chrome digital watch? Are you interested in a bling-laden piece?

 

As you start looking around, you will realize that there is more to a watch than hands and dials. There are small ones, big ones, shiny silver ones, and ones with Pepsi-colored bezels. Then you also need to consider if you are a diver, a cyclist of a golfer. You will have so many options that it will soon be confusing. What started as a fun watch-hunt could be frustrating.

 

Now, building a watch collection is something of another level. It brings a different sense of pride as you look back after years of collecting. Needless to say, it takes time and effort more than cash.

 

Here is how to do it.

 

More than the brand

 

Everyone watch enthusiast would dream to have a Patek Philippe. Once you have one, it will surely be one of your favorites. But you have to accept the reality that it would not be the first piece that will be in your collection unless you are a multi-million dollar business owner or an heir to a hotel chain.

 

You can opt to buy a less expensive piece you can realistically afford for now. One highly expensive watch will not make a collection. Consider yourself as a beginner. You are still dipping your toes into it so it does not hurt to buy let’s say a Submariner. Do not forget to consider your lifestyle and personality when choosing your first watch. While the brand speaks volumes, your collection should reflect you.

 

Think about accessibility

 

If you really want to collect watches, you don’t have to buy a highly sophisticated brand yet. You need to think about your budget too. This means you have to explore pre-loved market or go for less obvious brands. Starting a collection does not mean breaking the bank. It should be a hobby that you can sustain while living within your means.

 

It needs the discipline to stick to your budget and avoid going overboard. Keep a mindset that you are working your way up. As a beginner, look for steel watches. Steel is practical and very unpretentious. This first purchase will not make you broke.

 

A timepiece with a steel case will surely cost less than golden watches with diamond embellishments. A vintage steel watch is also a good option if you chance upon it in a pre-loved marketplace. Don’t fret too much if the vintage has small dings, it simply adds to its authenticity. Scratches are part of a history as long as it is not too deep.

 

Keep your own style

 

After we have talked about looking for a watch that you can afford, we must also understand that even a non-luxurious watch can speak to you. You will come across a timepiece that will stay in your mind. A watch that will put you into submission once you hear its ticking.

 

Your watch collection will be pitiful if it stays in a box. Each timepiece is meant to be worn to adorn your wrist not just to tell you time. It should identify your style, personality, and even mindset. While your family and friends can voice their opinion, it is on you to choose your own preference. You are bound to keep your collection for years to come so choose a watch you are comfortable to keep and use from time to time.

 

Get to know people

 

Naturally, since you are looking into building your watch collection, you will have the curiosity to know more about watches. Join forums and get to know other watch enthusiasts. The more people you know, especially the veteran collectors, the more good advice and valuable information you will get. From care tips to the best place to find good deals. Most of the time, the information you will get is not easily available anywhere else, so take the time to spread your network.

 

Do not be afraid to ask questions especially if you want to buy pre-owned watches. It will be easier to find reputable sellers. Many veteran collectors also share how to find the best watches and how to ensure that a piece is worth the price.

 

A trained eye for a good pre-loved eye is not easy to develop. So having an experienced collector among your network will save you money and time. If you get into modified watches, there are also groups of watch modders among watch collectors whom you can talk to.

 

Starter Timepiece

 

It is inevitable for many to get a Rolex as one of their first watches. The brand is already a household name anywhere you go. But it will not be surprising to know collectors who have stated with Seiko to build a serious watch collection. Needless to say, the iconic models are usually from Grand Seiko line. Another crowd favorite among beginners is Orient. This Japanese brand has earned its right to have a strong following among younger collectors.

 

Your first piece does not have to be among these brands, but you can eventually add these names along the way.

 

Final Words

 

Your watch preference might change over time and it is perfectly fine. You might fall head over heels for a classic diver watch but you might also get interested in a modified watch with dark green bezel inserts or painted dials. You might want to collect one type of watch but you could also get tired of it and start looking for an unconventional taste.

 

It will take years to build your collection, but the most important thing is to enjoy the experience. Let no one take that enjoyment away from you. You can have your own style and personality to be reflected in your collection. You can even express yourself by incorporating your wristwatch into your fashion.