Great video guys. I prefer a smaller collection, something around 3 to 5 watches mainly because I want to wear them all, even my SKX. I really liked the point about 5 $200 pieces that add up to $1000. it's something that I stopped to do months ago, but really, it's something that many people don't realise. Thank you very much! Michele.
you all prolly dont care at all but does someone know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account..? I stupidly forgot my password. I would appreciate any assistance you can give me
@Jeremias Justus thanks so much for your reply. I found the site through google and I'm in the hacking process atm. Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.
I went and looked at my collection, 8 entry level watches! 2 midrange, and 2 over $1000 with a 3rd on the way. So, spot on guys on the new collector pattern. Great video, keep up the good work.
I think 5-6 is the ideal. When you have more your not going to wear them much. I like to use mine. The enough amount is the one you can afford and tour wife will not give you a headache.
Great topic! I've been collecting for over 15 years and although my collection count has not decreased, I have set a hard limit on the total number in my collection. This keeps me from buying too many in the low-mid range, and forces me to part with pieces that no longer hold my interest.
Dress for the most formal settings including black tie events. Sport for outdoor "beater" activities like working in the garden, swimming, hiking, taking the kids to the park, etc. Casual for informal things like dinner with friends or everyday office wear. These are just our thoughts, anyways.
Oh somehow I was thinking you'd go chronodiver for sports since you are very limited for going for 3. So I was thinking the casual one is the beater. time and date with screwdown crown. and then the black tie watch as the 3rd one.
Love the way you two bounce off each other. The best of 'the odd couple'. However, I've got 95 and counting, and all of them get some wrist time. Some get more than others though. I've got them over many decades though and across all styles and price ranges. Only 5 are Quartz from the 80's. Having said that only one of my watches is 5 figures, steerable in the high 4's and a lot in the mid 4 figure range. Interesting how we go on this collecting thing isn't it? No, I haven't sold any ever. They're part of my story and passion and that's not for sale.
+ Mark Percival I agree with your thinking, my view is the bigger the collection the better and would never sell any of mine out of choice. The options on what to wear each morning are great to decide, plus matching the watch to dress style/colour is also fun to do. Good luck with your collection, would be nice to reach 109! Mike.
Although I've (only) got 22 watches, I feel exactly the same way. None of mine are 5 figures, perhaps a quarter or so of them are 4. I'll never sell a watch unless I truly have to, I love all of them.
That is my goal. To amass a large collection and have a story behind each one. I'm up to 5 watches now, with 2 being quartz, one automatic, one light powered, and one smart watch.
Thoroughly agree with your point on buying too many entry-level/mid-level pieces. When I look back I could have bought some "better" pieces AND saved money if I was more patient. That said, I also learned what I really like and don't like, and I knew more of what to look for to satisfy what does it for me....
Hi Federico - I totally agree with you on size and quality of the collection as you grow older. I'm trending in that direction myself. Good video! Regards, John
Less is more to me, I have strict principles that I adhere to such as not buying certain brands and buying a watch every two years. This gives me enough time to evaluate my finances and decide on a model or brand. I love a compact collection with 4 watches of strong brands, nice video gents!
I subscribe to the idea that you only have a limited amount of enjoyment to distribute, the more watches you own, the less likely you are to enjoy a piece individually. When collections get too big, you inevitably find a few that you no longer like as much that sit in the box. At that point, it's probably time to sell. With that said, I try to keep my collection below 10 watches - but that is mostly self-imposted financial reasons. Also, I like to spread out the types of watches I own. If I get too heavy on dive watches, or chronographs, or field watches, I'll look at moving a piece to make room in a category that I don't have as much depth in.
Collecting can get out of hand pretty quickly, I have a watchbox that fits five pieces so I promised myself that I can only have 5 pieces. As of right now I have a dress watch, a diver, a casual sport watch and two random/cheap pieces that I keep for fun. If I want a new piece I have to sell one of my current ones. But just as you say in the video, if you do it right you'll be able to get your money back for the most part. Great video again, loving the content!
I have 12 watches and just bought the 13th. At times I'm thinking of downsizing to 5. Two divers, two dress watches and one versatile piece. Realistically though I can't see myself parting with them. So I guess 13 will be a good number for me. Kind of hard to put a limit to this passion / frenzy / addiction.
I'm in the process of building my collection and my notion of "perfect" example changes from time to time. I tend not to be too rough on my watches anyway, but I suppose it depends on the watch. I, like so many people, love my SKX, so it gets a fair amount of wrist time, and I don't worry about it. You once called it a little "runabout," and I think that's a perfect description.
I have 40 watches in 5 boxes. I rotate them about once every two weeks. Some I wear for a few hours. Some I wear for 2~3 days. Regardless, they all get their turn in the rotation.
I'm not working full time yet, but I think I would want a 3-piece collection. I really love appreciating only a few very highly selected watches. Which would consist of: 1. Historically prestigious piece: my Omega Pie-Pan Constellation (currently own) with the in-house cal. 564 (+/- 2 seconds a day even though it's 50 years old!) 2. Modern active "adventure" watch that can go underwater (most likely a Rolex): I'm thinking maybe a 36mm explorer or datejust. 3. Haute Horology: H. Moser Venturer or Perpetual Calender, or a Lange, or even a Patek Calatrava.
Plus, when you sit there and actually have to save and fantasize about more expensive pieces it means so much more than a bunch of cheaper watches you just easily purchased.
Very true... I'm ongoing to trade a GS spring drive. 15 years I think about this. It will be a second hand, perfect condition. I can't wait to be able to wear it! :-)
What I do is I have a long term plan for my watch collecting. As someone around 20 years old, the first goal of watch collecting is a 3-piece collection. My plan is to achieve the goal in 5 years in total, and I already made the first 2 pieces in 2 years. - A Rolex Sub-C Date ( An iconic Diver) - An Omega Speedmaster (An iconic Chronograph) - A JLC Master Ultra Thin Moon 39 (An 'affordable' high end dress watch that has Moonphase complication, 'affordable' compare to other brands with the same prestigious that have Moonphase complication) Notice all these 3 pieces are not super high end haute horology timepieces. And 20 to 30 years or maybe even longer down the track after I achieve the first goal. I may increase the number of watches in my collection to 5 pieces, and starting to add in haute horology time pieces. - Add a Lange 1815 Tourbillon or, a Langematic perpetual. One of the two. - Add a Patek Philippe Minute Repeater. Maybe get rid of the JLC Master Ultra Thin Moon 39, and add a watch from an independent watch maker (probably F.P.J) instead. This is a very long term plan. But by work it out step by step. I think I will eventually achieve the 30-year plan and have a perfect 5 piece collection (the perfect collection in my opinion). And to make the chance of achieving the long term goal higher, I'm trying and discipline myself to not waste any unnecessary money on the watches that aren't on my final list, until I've made the long term goal eventually. (in short, I will avoid purchase any watches that aren't on the list, as long as I haven't purchased all watches that on my initial list) At least I'm not very far away from my first goal. (Plus: I don't consider my plan as something snobbery. But I've told the same thing to other people before and one or two of them told me that I've simply been snobbery. What is your thoughts on it? Please let me know if you have time to reply. Thank you Federico.)
My pleasure in a watch does not depend on how expensive it is. I personally find SKX much more beautiful and stylish than a gold Sub(which I will never get, no matter how much money I have). The Rolex I would get, and maybe I will is the Explorer 1. So that the collection gets smaller and more expensive is not valid for me :) My collection gets bigger and more expensive for that reason alone. I have a rule to never sell a watch, because I love them all, I've been through so much emotions and experiences with each one of them, so If I part with anyone, I would loose part of myself. At least for the moment while my collection is below 20 watches. Suppose over time I might go down the route you suggest :)
I also believe the low end buying or the trap is negated once you buy your grail. A lot of small purchases are because you have a hunger that cant be satisfied until getting your grail. Now that I recently got my grail, it places things into perspective because I know my other watches will not be getting wrist time as much if at all.
Nice art ...snazzy stuff overhead..... I can't put a number on the watches ...I collect vintage rolex and with all the dizzying variations on dial and patina etc... its endless .... I collect the rolex primarily for investment. Frederico your not happy with me but I enjoy the watches like you do your art overhead. When you pay 10-25k for a watch condition is everything and the preservation is crucial..... My beater is the 1680 with the date for practicality... ITs a 1975 :) I did buy a non-vintage for investment ~the James Cameron just last week. Thats in the safe. Cheers fellas~ I enjoy and share in your passion.
Thanks for this great video. You are correct about the 'trap' Federico. I myself have found myself buying in excess of 70 midrange watches over the past five years having a collection of thirty six at one point. But I have to say that that journey of buying, selling and flipping is part of the fun of collecting. I was lucky enough to have bought well and sold most of my pieces at a profit resulting in a smaller but certainly more qualitative collection. I am now romancing a vintage Longines 8224 diver with a valjoux 72 as my next purchase with some of the funds of earlier sales.
Federico you talk sense about limiting yourself to one or two low/mid range pieces and then save for something high end. It just needs a bit of discipline and determination. I think some guys get too hung up on building a collection or filling their watch box rather than focussing on getting the one watch they really desire.
I've been contemplating this very topic since I finally became able to start a real collection, which was very recently. I'm obsessed with the brown leather strap/gold tone case look. I have a number of brands that I plan on buying and I know most will be in that style. I can't convince myself that a certain number is enough.
My thoughts are with both of you. As with any type of collecting.... you lust after your AP A.Lange or VC but it's just out of reach in which you realize in order for you to obtain these pieces might take one year or more. So, as humans we need gratification, not necessarily instantly but close to it, you purchase lower but not lesser in quality remember beauty.....It's in the eye of the beholder. So it comes down to Gratification....guys..... agree????
I hear you guys on the SKX, but 3 days ago I just bought the new Seiko srpa21 turtle PADI special edition and it surpasses the skx in every way possible. Had my heart set on the skx009 for a long time and then I came across the new turtle and my heart settled. Would love to hear you guys run your opinion across that piece! Anyway, great video guys. Cheers!
LOL guys, in another video you were talking about expensive swatches. Now believe it or not 3 days ago I accidently bumped into a GZ100 for sale and yesterday I bought it. cheeeeeers!
Great topic. I consider myself a sort of "type" collector, which is common among some coin collectors. My goal is to own my favorite, or ultimate example of particular types of watches, favorite dive watch or aviator, for example.
I invest in the watches because it is like investing into myself. I may not get the money back on them but they help me finding a mate or different jobs over the years. Thanks for the video guys!
Tristano is gonna get in trouble for this one! Hahaha. I'm very content with my three piece collection. Manufacture Moonphase Frederique Constant, Hamilton Khaki Pilot, and Seiko 5. Will add a Chrono.. Gave away my cheap watches over the years as my taste has changed. Keep up the good work, and Cheers to loving watching, good times, in good health.
My ideal collection is 2 plus 1. The 2 are a diver and a dressy sports watch. The plus one is my dad's two tone Seiko quartz ES. In my current collection the 2 are the Orient Ray 2 and the Alpha Explorer. In my next price range they are the Steinhart OVM and the Glycine Incursore. If I find myself with a lot of cash, the two would be the Rolex Sea Dweller Deep Sea and the Rolex Explorer.
I would say a collection which consists of less than 30 watches is small. I now have about 48? Of course not all are luxury/expensive watches. To my amazement, I do find the time to enjoy all of them.
CC -- Cardboard Cutout... Freaking good. Federico, you should try it one day. :-) Federico, you've really hit the nail on the head. Maybe the next episode should be about watch collector psychology/obsession. As for me, I'm at the point where I need to reduce my watch collection size; but I'm obsessed about precision -- I want my expensive mechanical watches to be precise... at least COSC precise. You see, If you are to spend a lot of money on a watch, you want it to perform superlatively -- any watch that doesn't meet my expectations, I'll get rid of. Just my point of view. Really enjoyed this one. Your observations are spot on.
Nice discussion Federico! the keepers part is very recognisable, and sometimes you loose interest in a keeper because of upgrades. good discussion! like these team ups!
I believe ideally many of us would love just a handful of watches in our collection. But ine factor to consider that I feel brings the quantity up is attachment or sentimental value. Sometimes we have like 3 watches somebody bought for us for a special moment and we may not wear them now but mean so much to us and just add to the numbers.
Nice video Federico! I would stay with less pieces that you love over many you don't. It's like a closet full of poor fitting clothes vs a few great suits. Looking good TGV!
Federico, Great Video. I really like the concept you brought up regarding the 1 or 2 Mid range piece per year. I think that's really good advice. I've been moulding my Watch list for over a year now, & all I have is SKX 009 & 007, but giving it time & really thinking about it is the best thing someone can do who is contemplating building a watch collection, the more research & learning you do, really has a direct impact on your decision making. Maybe less really is more?! BMJ ENGLAND.
very interesting points! I have a few peices that I dont really wear, a 1974 seiko pogue but I wont sell it as its box and papers, a seagull 1963 that was a birthday present, a 70s valjoux chronograph but they dont owe me much plus hopefully ill come back to them.
For me a 7 watch collection is perfect for covering all my bases for a collection. 12 might be my max and I could never comfortably own a watch over $1000. The set up would be a Dive watch, Dress watch, Field watch, Beater watch, Chronograph watch, Aviator watch, and Everyday watch.
Hi Federico, It's a question you could debate about for ages! ;) I already bought a watch box for only five watches. Because five is the number I would like to go. My Rolex and my Nomos are set. I'm looking for a nice diver - maybe from Omega. One slot is reserved for a nice vintage piece. Must be 36 mm at least. Creamy dial and a respected brand. The last slot could be for a Junghans or maybe a wild card watch. Best regards, Claus
very informative piece I usually zero in in a certain model like I have a GMT MASTER II EXPLORER II and a SUBMARINER an OMEGA VINTAGE in gold as my dress option, ORIENT MAKO preowned of course would like to ad up an OMEGA SPEEDMASTER and maybe an ORIS AQUIS
I have 2 collections. Automatics and quartzes. Aside from the fact that the Q's keep perfect time, I have several that I'll never get rid of because of the connection I have to them. Case in point: I'm a bicyclist. I have a Festina Tour de France that I consider a wrist sculpture. The Bezel is a bike chain, the pushers are lug nuts, one of the three chrono wheels is a bike wheel that spins round and round for the first 30 seconds of a timing and does nothing else. Upstanding Swiss mechanical watchmakers would never do this. It's novelty, but it makes me happy every time I look at it. How about a video on dual collections, auto versus electronic? (I'm happy to lend you my Festina if you do.)
Great video and perspective. I think I fall into those situations myself. On a side note. I think tgv would like the monster but I don't think you would. I recently picked up the new srp779 turtle and love it. My skx009 is in danger of being reallocated. Visited Marshall pierce in Chicago and the gentlemen associate was telling me that my collection would thin and streamline as I go. Great content Federico! Watch all of your videos!
Federico, how much wrist time could you give a Lange or an F.P. Journe? As much as they need to be loved, they need to be coddled. I wear a platinum Franck Muller with a polo and cargo shorts; not often, but since I don't dress formally any more I have little choice. I'm currently considering a Vianney Halter which I know I'll never wear outside the house. But I gotta have it!
Federico...total up your Seiko dreams and (at $1700) you are basically at (or close enough to) a Marinemaster 300. Even in the Seiko sphere is it better to buy right once rather than pick here and there to get 3-4 pieces that ultimately won't cut it. Reality is that a MM300 is far and away good enough to fill one's "diver slot" in basically any collection.
I still need to get pictures to you of my 400 watch collection maybe you and TGV can do an intervention with me. I'll have never photograph all my watches so this week I'll try to do that and get you some pictures to you. I have a lot of designer watches which I know I'll divest myself of, some good pieces to Breitling, Omega, Sinn. Keep up the good work guys you guys have good chemistry and work well together and enjoy your joint podcasts.
I ran into the trap that Federico describes of buying too many pieces. Obviously, it takes much longer to sell than to buy. While I getting "better', I not cured and settled down but tend to turn watches over faster. I have stopped buying low-end pieces but VINTAGE not Seiko continue to be my demise.
Great video guys... I am definitely infected.. 14 watches so far from a cheapo retro casio digital to the steel and gold rolex turn-o-graph....Cant get rid of my moonwatch speedy though TGV... just love it too much...and my treasured omega manual winding seamaster now nearly half a century old.. i keep wanting more... never sold any ever hehehe... and am now bitten with the german watch bug, so a junghans meister calendar has made it to my collection as well... time to relax I guess... keep your videos going... luv 'em
Very nice presentation, Federico. I still think, even though it's just semantics, that you must include the SKXs as part of the collection, even if there is a stark contrast between it and other pieces and that it's not even a remote obstacle for you in purchasing the 2 x $1ks per year or the grail pieces. All great pieces mentioned by the way and I appreciate the Breitling. I've got to get me one of those one day...
I think of my collection as a monetary amount of my worth. What I have (not what I make) - what I owe = net worth. I will not go over x% of my net worth for the luxury of a watch. I have been broke and I have been in debt before. No watch I have seen would make me happier than not owing anyone anything. When my cap was $1500 I had 8 watches because I know I will never be happy with less than 3 watches (ABC for play, Tool for work, Dress for dress). Bang for buck between $200 and $500 watch is negligible but as I could afford more, yes, my collection will shrink in size but grow in value. P.S. Do not go into debt for luxury items.
I think a decent collection should contain a diver, chrono, a dress watch with a black and a brown alligator strap, a beater for everyday use such as a Seiko Monster and a g shock for gym. What watch you choose depends on your budget
Hello Federico, would you do a video on what you consider an entry level, mid, high and ultra high range price point? Obviously I imagine it's subjective to a great degree to who you talk to but you are someone I would regard as "realistic" versus a snob that feels anything less than 5 digits is garbage. Thanks for all the great videos and keep up the great work! Cheers.
I myself try to not have to much overlap in the collection in regards to dial color/intended use/etc.. If I get a new watch that takes the spot of an existing one in my collection then I usually flip the previous one... That being said, particularly for vintage collectors, I think there is a legitimate reason to have a large number of watches in the collection. I can see how they could have more of a connection to some of their pieces and may never want to part with them.
I'm definitely at a point where I am going to reduce my collection, but I wouldn't want to go below ten watches as to me that is a sweet spot. less than ten and it doesn't feel like a collection...but that's just me
I really do not understand the point of buying and selling the mid range or lower priced watches. The way I look at it you buy a watch because you like it enough, don't you?
Great video guys.
I prefer a smaller collection, something around 3 to 5 watches mainly because I want to wear them all, even my SKX.
I really liked the point about 5 $200 pieces that add up to $1000. it's something that I stopped to do months ago, but really, it's something that many people don't realise.
Thank you very much!
Michele.
Federico scolding TGV about selling the Tissot at 4:38 : just like an old married couple...
What model were they talking About?
+alter3go The Tissot Janeiro
you all prolly dont care at all but does someone know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account..?
I stupidly forgot my password. I would appreciate any assistance you can give me
@Wesson Harrison Instablaster =)
@Jeremias Justus thanks so much for your reply. I found the site through google and I'm in the hacking process atm.
Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.
I went and looked at my collection, 8 entry level watches! 2 midrange, and 2 over $1000 with a 3rd on the way. So, spot on guys on the new collector pattern. Great video, keep up the good work.
I think 5-6 is the ideal. When you have more your not going to wear them much. I like to use mine. The enough amount is the one you can afford and tour wife will not give you a headache.
Great topic! I've been collecting for over 15 years and although my collection count has not decreased, I have set a hard limit on the total number in my collection. This keeps me from buying too many in the low-mid range, and forces me to part with pieces that no longer hold my interest.
Very smart... I don't quite have that level of self control
I was just about to get three Seikos this month. Holy Shit. The timing of this video is perfect.
From a practical standpoint, three is enough--dress, sport, casual. From a watch lover's standpoint, all bets are off. To each his own.
well said!
4... Depending on your job/hobby it is nice to have a beater.
I thought the casual one is the beater.
Dress for the most formal settings including black tie events. Sport for outdoor "beater" activities like working in the garden, swimming, hiking, taking the kids to the park, etc. Casual for informal things like dinner with friends or everyday office wear. These are just our thoughts, anyways.
Oh somehow I was thinking you'd go chronodiver for sports since you are very limited for going for 3. So I was thinking the casual one is the beater. time and date with screwdown crown. and then the black tie watch as the 3rd one.
Love the way you two bounce off each other. The best of 'the odd couple'. However, I've got 95 and counting, and all of them get some wrist time. Some get more than others though. I've got them over many decades though and across all styles and price ranges. Only 5 are Quartz from the 80's. Having said that only one of my watches is 5 figures, steerable in the high 4's and a lot in the mid 4 figure range. Interesting how we go on this collecting thing isn't it? No, I haven't sold any ever. They're part of my story and passion and that's not for sale.
+ Mark Percival I agree with your thinking, my view is the bigger the collection the better and would never sell any of mine out of choice. The options on what to wear each morning are great to decide, plus matching the watch to dress style/colour is also fun to do. Good luck with your collection, would be nice to reach 109! Mike.
Although I've (only) got 22 watches, I feel exactly the same way. None of mine are 5 figures, perhaps a quarter or so of them are 4. I'll never sell a watch unless I truly have to, I love all of them.
That is my goal. To amass a large collection and have a story behind each one. I'm up to 5 watches now, with 2 being quartz, one automatic, one light powered, and one smart watch.
11:35 TGV saw the future so clearly
you guys should consider making a weekly podcast.
I'd definitely listen in.
TheBlackDog73 p
Only seeing this now. Great to see a collaboration between two of the great motivators in the watch collecting world.
Thoroughly agree with your point on buying too many entry-level/mid-level pieces. When I look back I could have bought some "better" pieces AND saved money if I was more patient. That said, I also learned what I really like and don't like, and I knew more of what to look for to satisfy what does it for me....
I really enjoy watching you guys! I am happy with 5. Enough for variety, but not so many so that pieces won't get neglected. Keep up the good work!
"You're doing that cardboard cut out thing" hahhhahaaha :) Nice video
every time!
Hi Federico - I totally agree with you on size and quality of the collection as you grow older. I'm trending in that direction myself. Good video! Regards, John
Alright, I admit that I now officially have a "watch disease" and I I blame TGV for it ...LOL !
Less is more to me, I have strict principles that I adhere to such as not buying certain brands and buying a watch every two years. This gives me enough time to evaluate my finances and decide on a model or brand. I love a compact collection with 4 watches of strong brands, nice video gents!
I subscribe to the idea that you only have a limited amount of enjoyment to distribute, the more watches you own, the less likely you are to enjoy a piece individually. When collections get too big, you inevitably find a few that you no longer like as much that sit in the box. At that point, it's probably time to sell. With that said, I try to keep my collection below 10 watches - but that is mostly self-imposted financial reasons.
Also, I like to spread out the types of watches I own. If I get too heavy on dive watches, or chronographs, or field watches, I'll look at moving a piece to make room in a category that I don't have as much depth in.
Collecting can get out of hand pretty quickly, I have a watchbox that fits five pieces so I promised myself that I can only have 5 pieces.
As of right now I have a dress watch, a diver, a casual sport watch and two random/cheap pieces that I keep for fun.
If I want a new piece I have to sell one of my current ones.
But just as you say in the video, if you do it right you'll be able to get your money back for the most part.
Great video again, loving the content!
I have 12 watches and just bought the 13th. At times I'm thinking of downsizing to 5. Two divers, two dress watches and one versatile piece. Realistically though I can't see myself parting with them. So I guess 13 will be a good number for me. Kind of hard to put a limit to this passion / frenzy / addiction.
I'm in the process of building my collection and my notion of "perfect" example changes from time to time. I tend not to be too rough on my watches anyway, but I suppose it depends on the watch. I, like so many people, love my SKX, so it gets a fair amount of wrist time, and I don't worry about it. You once called it a little "runabout," and I think that's a perfect description.
its just a great multi purpose watch... Thanks for watch Gordon!
I have 40 watches in 5 boxes. I rotate them about once every two weeks. Some I wear for a few hours. Some I wear for 2~3 days. Regardless, they all get their turn in the rotation.
I'm not working full time yet, but I think I would want a 3-piece collection. I really love appreciating only a few very highly selected watches. Which would consist of:
1. Historically prestigious piece: my Omega Pie-Pan Constellation (currently own) with the in-house cal. 564 (+/- 2 seconds a day even though it's 50 years old!)
2. Modern active "adventure" watch that can go underwater (most likely a Rolex): I'm thinking maybe a 36mm explorer or datejust.
3. Haute Horology: H. Moser Venturer or Perpetual Calender, or a Lange, or even a Patek Calatrava.
I agree about the entry level trap. I'm glad I jumped into the high end and got what I really wanted.
Congrats man!
Plus, when you sit there and actually have to save and fantasize about more expensive pieces it means so much more than a bunch of cheaper watches you just easily purchased.
Very true... I'm ongoing to trade a GS spring drive. 15 years I think about this. It will be a second hand, perfect condition. I can't wait to be able to wear it! :-)
What I do is I have a long term plan for my watch collecting.
As someone around 20 years old, the first goal of watch collecting is a 3-piece collection. My plan is to achieve the goal in 5 years in total, and I already made the first 2 pieces in 2 years.
- A Rolex Sub-C Date ( An iconic Diver)
- An Omega Speedmaster (An iconic Chronograph)
- A JLC Master Ultra Thin Moon 39 (An 'affordable' high end dress watch that has Moonphase complication, 'affordable' compare to other brands with the same prestigious that have Moonphase complication)
Notice all these 3 pieces are not super high end haute horology timepieces.
And 20 to 30 years or maybe even longer down the track after I achieve the first goal. I may increase the number of watches in my collection to 5 pieces, and starting to add in haute horology time pieces.
- Add a Lange 1815 Tourbillon or, a Langematic perpetual. One of the two.
- Add a Patek Philippe Minute Repeater.
Maybe get rid of the JLC Master Ultra Thin Moon 39, and add a watch from an independent watch maker (probably F.P.J) instead.
This is a very long term plan. But by work it out step by step. I think I will eventually achieve the 30-year plan and have a perfect 5 piece collection (the perfect collection in my opinion). And to make the chance of achieving the long term goal higher, I'm trying and discipline myself to not waste any unnecessary money on the watches that aren't on my final list, until I've made the long term goal eventually. (in short, I will avoid purchase any watches that aren't on the list, as long as I haven't purchased all watches that on my initial list)
At least I'm not very far away from my first goal.
(Plus: I don't consider my plan as something snobbery. But I've told the same thing to other people before and one or two of them told me that I've simply been snobbery. What is your thoughts on it? Please let me know if you have time to reply. Thank you Federico.)
My pleasure in a watch does not depend on how expensive it is. I personally find SKX much more beautiful and stylish than a gold Sub(which I will never get, no matter how much money I have). The Rolex I would get, and maybe I will is the Explorer 1. So that the collection gets smaller and more expensive is not valid for me :) My collection gets bigger and more expensive for that reason alone. I have a rule to never sell a watch, because I love them all, I've been through so much emotions and experiences with each one of them, so If I part with anyone, I would loose part of myself. At least for the moment while my collection is below 20 watches. Suppose over time I might go down the route you suggest :)
I also believe the low end buying or the trap is negated once you buy your grail. A lot of small purchases are because you have a hunger that cant be satisfied until getting your grail. Now that I recently got my grail, it places things into perspective because I know my other watches will not be getting wrist time as much if at all.
Nice art ...snazzy stuff overhead..... I can't put a number on the watches ...I collect vintage rolex and with all the dizzying variations on dial and patina etc... its endless .... I collect the rolex primarily for investment. Frederico your not happy with me but I enjoy the watches like you do your art overhead. When you pay 10-25k for a watch condition is everything and the preservation is crucial..... My beater is the 1680 with the date for practicality... ITs a 1975 :) I did buy a non-vintage for investment ~the James Cameron just last week. Thats in the safe. Cheers fellas~ I enjoy and share in your passion.
Thanks for this great video. You are correct about the 'trap' Federico. I myself have found myself buying in excess of 70 midrange watches over the past five years having a collection of thirty six at one point. But I have to say that that journey of buying, selling and flipping is part of the fun of collecting. I was lucky enough to have bought well and sold most of my pieces at a profit resulting in a smaller but certainly more qualitative collection. I am now romancing a vintage Longines 8224 diver with a valjoux 72 as my next purchase with some of the funds of earlier sales.
Federico you talk sense about limiting yourself to one or two low/mid range pieces and then save for something high end. It just needs a bit of discipline and determination. I think some guys get too hung up on building a collection or filling their watch box rather than focussing on getting the one watch they really desire.
I've been contemplating this very topic since I finally became able to start a real collection, which was very recently. I'm obsessed with the brown leather strap/gold tone case look. I have a number of brands that I plan on buying and I know most will be in that style. I can't convince myself that a certain number is enough.
I love you Frederico! Your passion is contagious
My thoughts are with both of you. As with any type of collecting.... you lust after your AP A.Lange or VC but it's just out of reach in which you realize in order for you to obtain these pieces might take one year or more. So, as humans we need gratification, not necessarily instantly but close to it, you purchase lower but not lesser in quality remember beauty.....It's in the eye of the beholder. So it comes down to Gratification....guys..... agree????
I hear you guys on the SKX, but 3 days ago I just bought the new Seiko srpa21 turtle PADI special edition and it surpasses the skx in every way possible. Had my heart set on the skx009 for a long time and then I came across the new turtle and my heart settled. Would love to hear you guys run your opinion across that piece! Anyway, great video guys. Cheers!
I've got my eye on it it looks lovely
LOL guys, in another video you were talking about expensive swatches. Now believe it or not 3 days ago I accidently bumped into a GZ100 for sale and yesterday I bought it. cheeeeeers!
personally
Personally, I have watches only above 100k
do a video on A. Lange & Sohne. their history and which ones are your favorite models.... please :)
will do!
Great topic. I consider myself a sort of "type" collector, which is common among some coin collectors. My goal is to own my favorite, or ultimate example of particular types of watches, favorite dive watch or aviator, for example.
so do you always keep them mint?
I invest in the watches because it is like investing into myself. I may not get the money back on them but they help me finding a mate or different jobs over the years. Thanks for the video guys!
Tristano is gonna get in trouble for this one! Hahaha. I'm very content with my three piece collection. Manufacture Moonphase Frederique Constant, Hamilton Khaki Pilot, and Seiko 5. Will add a Chrono.. Gave away my cheap watches over the years as my taste has changed. Keep up the good work, and Cheers to loving watching, good times, in good health.
thank you for the very kind words Erik!
You two together. Just gold. VEry enjoyable.
My ideal collection is 2 plus 1. The 2 are a diver and a dressy sports watch. The plus one is my dad's two tone Seiko quartz ES. In my current collection the 2 are the Orient Ray 2 and the Alpha Explorer. In my next price range they are the Steinhart OVM and the Glycine Incursore. If I find myself with a lot of cash, the two would be the Rolex Sea Dweller Deep Sea and the Rolex Explorer.
I would say a collection which consists of less than 30 watches is small. I now have about 48? Of course not all are luxury/expensive watches. To my amazement, I do find the time to enjoy all of them.
I'm still debating if I'm going to have a watch collection of 3 or 5 but I know the watches are going to be 2 Seiko Sups and some Citizens.
CC -- Cardboard Cutout... Freaking good. Federico, you should try it one day. :-)
Federico, you've really hit the nail on the head. Maybe the next episode should be about watch collector psychology/obsession. As for me, I'm at the point where I need to reduce my watch collection size; but I'm obsessed about precision -- I want my expensive mechanical watches to be precise... at least COSC precise. You see, If you are to spend a lot of money on a watch, you want it to perform superlatively -- any watch that doesn't meet my expectations, I'll get rid of. Just my point of view.
Really enjoyed this one. Your observations are spot on.
Individually you guys are great, together you guys are fantastic!
Great topic and should mention you got some love from J Anthony's channel talking about your 'state of the Swiss watch industry'.
Nice discussion Federico! the keepers part is very recognisable, and sometimes you loose interest in a keeper because of upgrades. good discussion! like these team ups!
I believe ideally many of us would love just a handful of watches in our collection. But ine factor to consider that I feel brings the quantity up is attachment or sentimental value. Sometimes we have like 3 watches somebody bought for us for a special moment and we may not wear them now but mean so much to us and just add to the numbers.
Nice video Federico! I would stay with less pieces that you love over many you don't. It's like a closet full of poor fitting clothes vs a few great suits.
Looking good TGV!
4 pilot's watches, 4divers watches, 4 dress watches and 4 all round watches is perfect number :-)
Federico, Great Video. I really like the concept you brought up regarding the 1 or 2 Mid range piece per year. I think that's really good advice. I've been moulding my Watch list for over a year now, & all I have is SKX 009 & 007, but giving it time & really thinking about it is the best thing someone can do who is contemplating building a watch collection, the more research & learning you do, really has a direct impact on your decision making. Maybe less really is more?! BMJ ENGLAND.
very interesting points! I have a few peices that I dont really wear, a 1974 seiko pogue but I wont sell it as its box and papers, a seagull 1963 that was a birthday present, a 70s valjoux chronograph but they dont owe me much plus hopefully ill come back to them.
Love the humor among the knowledge bombs in the video. Keep it up fine gents!
I've been eyeing off a 28 slot watch box...only 5 or 6 I'm really proud of though - and 4 quartz beaters...and the rest...
Awesome vid guys really enjoyed it . Federico how do you feel about Wittnauer?
Great show Federico and TGV! Understand this is on your channel Federico but wanted to inquire what beaded bracelet TGV is wearing? Thanks!
im not sure... but I think he has made a video about it... Search "bracelet" on his channel...
+Federico I (Federico Talks Watches) thanks!
For me a 7 watch collection is perfect for covering all my bases for a collection. 12 might be my max and I could never comfortably own a watch over $1000. The set up would be a Dive watch, Dress watch, Field watch, Beater watch, Chronograph watch, Aviator watch, and Everyday watch.
that makes a lot of sense... I can definitely agree with your category system...
Why the field and aviator watches? I always saw those as specialty-types that most people simply do not own.
Garry Perkins I can interchange them as an everyday watch. It also has some historical value to me as well.
Hi Federico,
It's a question you could debate about for ages! ;)
I already bought a watch box for only five watches. Because five is the number I would like to go. My Rolex and my Nomos are set. I'm looking for a nice diver - maybe from Omega. One slot is reserved for a nice vintage piece. Must be 36 mm at least. Creamy dial and a respected brand. The last slot could be for a Junghans or maybe a wild card watch.
Best regards,
Claus
Loyd Garth Thank you for your respectful and constructive comment. I'm sure, +Federico I (Federico Talks Watches) finds it as helpful as I do!
Love you guys sitting together talking great stuff!
Outstanding video as always! Can you do a top 5 video on your favorite gold watches?
very informative piece I usually zero in in a certain model like I have a GMT MASTER II EXPLORER II and a SUBMARINER an OMEGA VINTAGE in gold as my dress option, ORIENT MAKO preowned of course would like to ad up an OMEGA SPEEDMASTER and maybe an ORIS AQUIS
Can't believe you sold the Speedmaster, that's one of my favorite from your collection
UG love your style on that vneck tshirt!! Suits you perfectly
I have 2 collections. Automatics and quartzes. Aside from the fact that the Q's keep perfect time, I have several that I'll never get rid of because of the connection I have to them. Case in point: I'm a bicyclist. I have a Festina Tour de France that I consider a wrist sculpture. The Bezel is a bike chain, the pushers are lug nuts, one of the three chrono wheels is a bike wheel that spins round and round for the first 30 seconds of a timing and does nothing else. Upstanding Swiss mechanical watchmakers would never do this. It's novelty, but it makes me happy every time I look at it. How about a video on dual collections, auto versus electronic? (I'm happy to lend you my Festina if you do.)
Frederico, I love your Breitling! Great you wear it on leather. Looks awesome!
Great video and perspective. I think I fall into those situations myself. On a side note. I think tgv would like the monster but I don't think you would. I recently picked up the new srp779 turtle and love it. My skx009 is in danger of being reallocated. Visited Marshall pierce in Chicago and the gentlemen associate was telling me that my collection would thin and streamline as I go. Great content Federico! Watch all of your videos!
Federico, how much wrist time could you give a Lange or an F.P. Journe? As much as they need to be loved, they need to be coddled. I wear a platinum Franck Muller with a polo and cargo shorts; not often, but since I don't dress formally any more I have little choice. I'm currently considering a Vianney Halter which I know I'll never wear outside the house. But I gotta have it!
If you pay attention to how much tgv says yeah it gets really distracting
Absolutely no substance at all!
He's from London mate, we use it a lot here
Federico...total up your Seiko dreams and (at $1700) you are basically at (or close enough to) a Marinemaster 300. Even in the Seiko sphere is it better to buy right once rather than pick here and there to get 3-4 pieces that ultimately won't cut it. Reality is that a MM300 is far and away good enough to fill one's "diver slot" in basically any collection.
I still need to get pictures to you of my 400 watch collection maybe you and TGV can do an intervention with me. I'll have never photograph all my watches so this week I'll try to do that and get you some pictures to you. I have a lot of designer watches which I know I'll divest myself of, some good pieces to Breitling, Omega, Sinn. Keep up the good work guys you guys have good chemistry and work well together and enjoy your joint podcasts.
Makes my 210 seem small by comparison.
Top work thanks for the amazing talk and advices!
Down to two keepers! Lets see how long this lasts
LOL that intro is scary as anything lol
it really freaks me out too...
Call me crazy, but I would rather have a SARB, Sumo and a Monster than a gold Rolex, ha ha. So I'm happy to fall into the lower/mid-tier "trap."
All but one or two of the watches I'm in love with are under 1k
I ran into the trap that Federico describes of buying too many pieces. Obviously, it takes much longer to sell than to buy. While I getting "better', I not cured and settled down but tend to turn watches over faster. I have stopped buying low-end pieces but VINTAGE not Seiko continue to be my demise.
Less is more! My goal is a two watch collection. Sub C and an Everrose Daytona. Maybe a 3rd with the DJII or even better a Patek!
How about a discussion on recommended path to sell the non-keepers in ones collection!!
Great video guys... I am definitely infected.. 14 watches so far from a cheapo retro casio digital to the steel and gold rolex turn-o-graph....Cant get rid of my moonwatch speedy though TGV... just love it too much...and my treasured omega manual winding seamaster now nearly half a century old.. i keep wanting more... never sold any ever hehehe... and am now bitten with the german watch bug, so a junghans meister calendar has made it to my collection as well... time to relax I guess... keep your videos going... luv 'em
Very nice presentation, Federico. I still think, even though it's just semantics, that you must include the SKXs as part of the collection, even if there is a stark contrast between it and other pieces and that it's not even a remote obstacle for you in purchasing the 2 x $1ks per year or the grail pieces. All great pieces mentioned by the way and I appreciate the Breitling. I've got to get me one of those one day...
I think of my collection as a monetary amount of my worth. What I have (not what I make) - what I owe = net worth. I will not go over x% of my net worth for the luxury of a watch. I have been broke and I have been in debt before. No watch I have seen would make me happier than not owing anyone anything. When my cap was $1500 I had 8 watches because I know I will never be happy with less than 3 watches (ABC for play, Tool for work, Dress for dress). Bang for buck between $200 and $500 watch is negligible but as I could afford more, yes, my collection will shrink in size but grow in value.
P.S. Do not go into debt for luxury items.
I was surprise to hear the size of your collection, I envisioned you guys owning like sixty to eighty watches.
I think a decent collection should contain a diver, chrono, a dress watch with a black and a brown alligator strap, a beater for everyday use such as a Seiko Monster and a g shock for gym.
What watch you choose depends on your budget
yeah this definitely works...
After you pay to have your first Chrono serviced you might change your mind.
I'm in a good place with a collection size of nine. The only piece i'd ever consider buying now is my grail.
Hello Federico, would you do a video on what you consider an entry level, mid, high and ultra high range price point? Obviously I imagine it's subjective to a great degree to who you talk to but you are someone I would regard as "realistic" versus a snob that feels anything less than 5 digits is garbage. Thanks for all the great videos and keep up the great work!
Cheers.
I myself try to not have to much overlap in the collection in regards to dial color/intended use/etc.. If I get a new watch that takes the spot of an existing one in my collection then I usually flip the previous one... That being said, particularly for vintage collectors, I think there is a legitimate reason to have a large number of watches in the collection. I can see how they could have more of a connection to some of their pieces and may never want to part with them.
I personally find it hard to sell my pieces, I grow attached... But I have shifted one or two of them...
Does anyone know why these guys stopped doing videos?
11,000 subs! Nice work! Well deserved!
What Tissot-Model is TGV talking about?
Now that Federico has left WuW, will you guys be working together again?
One watch of every company !
I'm definitely at a point where I am going to reduce my collection, but I wouldn't want to go below ten watches as to me that is a sweet spot. less than ten and it doesn't feel like a collection...but that's just me
Great collaboration guys.
the end shot😂😂😂priceless! so what exactly is too much? 300 watches? 500 watches? 1 million watches? enjoyed that anyway✌
I really do not understand the point of buying and selling the mid range or lower priced watches. The way I look at it you buy a watch because you like it enough, don't you?
Taste can change with time.
Why you don't have a tv talk show about watches? Should be very interesting like they have about books etc.
Interesting topic and a nice conversation
thank you Karachi...
+Federico I (Federico Talks Watches) Kakashi :)
these colaboration videos seriously need to be longer =D