As an enthusiast and someone who works in the industry, I was an elitist. The other day I came across a fashion brand watch I really liked the design and wouldn’t buy it because it’s “fashion”. My girlfriend called me stupid and you know what, she’s right it is stupid. I ended up getting that watch and I wear it now more than my omega and breitling. Shit it makes me happy and almost weird that I’m wearing a fashion brand after hating on it for so long 😂.
Ditto; I have an A list of grail pieces (GS, Tudor, Omega) about ten mid-levels (Longines, Tissot, Seiko, etc), some lesser-known brands like Momentum, one Timex, and a few Ali Express pieces. But what I wear the most are my B list Frankenwatches from India. I get them dirt cheap with unattractive but reliable movements, change the straps around and create great wardrobe accessories. It makes me happy. Total value per B list unit at about $30. Today I spent the day with a Timex Expedition on my wrist. I learned early on that it is not about owning it but about feeling it and living it. Bonus: I am helping someone in India make a living.
I once read an article in a watch magazine many years ago where the interviewer asked the Editor of that magazine what he thought was the best watch. His answer was not Patek-Phillipe, Rolex, Omega or even a Hamilton. He simply said "The best watch is the watch you enjoy wearing the most". That has been my attitude with watch purchases. Loved that answer.
Damn straight. Best answer yet. I own many, i envy more. But my favorite right now..... is a hamilton. I think on tuesday it will be an invicta. Then friday a tissot. Etc etc
Having built up an collection of 8 in 3 years in my experience the most important is patience. Appreciating your collection is the most important thing. Being broke helps a lot
Yes sir, patience is a must in the hobby. Enjoyment and being content with your watch is another factor many people tend to forget. Owning too many watches takes away from what you really feel. I own 7 luxury timepieces within 25 years of collecting and I came down to wearing two 95% of the time. The rest just sit in my watch roll. In a way it's money spent in limbo. A careful choice selection of quality (sometimes takes years to realize) is better than quantity... Less is more if done right for your individual lifestyle.
@@TomTom-sm7il That is the nice thing about having a couple of favorite watches. Even when we were broke or are currently broke, the watches still bring enjoyment.
@@carlcampbell6827 I agree. When you put it like that, they can be a good investment. We spend a lot of money on things that are very temporary. It's nice to have something that lasts.
And definitely don't listen to brand haters. If a Tag Heuer appeals to you, then buy it. If a Movado was your dream watch, then buy it. Don't get caught up on the haters and the "certain" brand name fan boys where everything sucks except their brand.
@@tomorrowcomestoday1621 Finally returned & fully refund. Aquaracer, bracelet clasp issue & date change issue. I’m totally disappointed with TAG, will never go back to it.
I agree you should follow you heart but man... some brands should just be entirely avoided. Tag being one of them. And fashion brands too. Nothing good ever comes from them.
From my experience, I learned to buy watches that I will ACTUALLY WEAR, not because of specs, or because I anticipate growing into them. That’s why I sold off all my technically superior Seiko divers, but still kept my first one, the SKX, and why the only dress watch I have is the versatile Seiko SARB035. Both watches fit my thin wrist well, both work with my lifestyle, and both are unique in their own way. Furthermore, both will stay with me long term, because being wearable means I’ve had the opportunity to build bonding experiences with them. Next stop for me will be a Rolex Datejust.
The dive depth snobbery has always been a weird one to me. Most recreational divers don't go anywhere near those depths and chances are if they do they aren't wearing their little Seiko 5.
This is hands down some o the best advice on the hobby. Thank you for being down to Earth, straight to the point, and honest about these potential pitfalls. I've bookmarked this video to go back to when I feel overwhelmed with choice.
I fell fast and deep down the rabbit hole, starting with a beautiful $100 Tissot and a Seiko 5 (the 5 SPORT, not 5KX), and one year later ended up with a Tudor Prince and the El Primero. I initially planned out a whole watch collecting journey. But due to some windfalls, I was able to simply save a bit more and went straight to the watches I really wanted. I guess that was my saving grace, as I might've potentially spent way more money on the 'in-between' watches. And yes, now I truly love what I have. Watches come out all the time, and whilst I really like some of them, I look at my watch stand and go 'Nah. I'm good'. I'm not a sports watch person. That's what I realised when I wore the Seiko 5. The El Primero is a chronograph, but it's definitely more dressy than sporty.
The El Primero Chronomaster is a GREAT watch. I feel it is a sporty dressy watch. Think it looks sharp with any kind of a business casual or even formal event.
@@jeremyrice3719 If you keep it on the black leather strap, it looks great as a dress watch. But since I already have a dress watch, I played with the tri-color dial and dressed it down with a green leather strap. Some dress it down further with a Nato or slap on a rally strap. So it's really versatile.
OK, so you had some cash to splash. Wish I could buy a Zenith right now.
4 года назад+31
Hello: I have been collecting watches for way many decades and your video is very useful for new and old generations. I grew up using pocket and wristwatches, nothing electronic :) Cheers from Patagonia, Argentina.
As I "mature" in this hobby I'm learning that not everyone's opinion should be taken as fact. This hobby has a lot of snobby people in it. I just like what I like and I'm not listening to anyone else anymore. Lol
My fiancé has one of the spinning diamond face bulovas that her parents got her, i think its beautiful, especially with the blue mother of pearl face. Im a seiko man myself but they're all personal preference. Bulova is valid alongside all other watches..... yes even fossil 😢@gavingudobba5764
Number 7 is so important. I fell into that trap of listening to the online watch community too closely At some point I found I had collected a number of "WIS favorites". But only after spending the money on for example an Omega Speedmaster Professional (great watch don't get me wrong) did I realize that I don't actually care about the connection to the moon-landing, I hated the bracelet, and while I loved the design of the watch it was not what I was looking for.
I'm a diver and I can tell you that a diver wears a diving watch only on land (and while swimming) and usually not while diving. Underwater we got our computer and don't need a watch anymore. Especially one without a rubber strap. You would have to wear your computer on the one hand an the watch on the other wich makes no sense. So divers usually wear them on land and when they are in company with other divers (in Germany, where I'm from, the most worn are the Citizens).
I`m also a diver, i`m form the south of Argentina, from a place called "Penìnsula Valdès" (Puerto Madryn City // Google it). I`m a dive hunter, so i don't use oxygen, therefore neither dive computer. I were Casio, Seiko and Citizen. I love to do this, when the hunting day ends, me and my friends go to a bar to take a few drinks and when I look at my watch and i remember where i was a few hours ago, deep in the ocean... I Love taht!!!!
Don’t know what you’re on about mate, I wear both when I dive. Electronics fail and do you really want to end your dive just because your dive comp died? I’m starting to suspect that the people who inhabit watch forums that say “I’m a diver and never wear a dive watch actually diving” are not actual divers.
@@psychalogy when my Computer fails I simply use my mates one or I end the dive A watch can't tell you how deep you are and also not how long your deco time is
@@fighting_platypusdevscc1268 hey you do you but i do everything I can not to rely on someone else to keep me alive. I also don’t rely on a dive comp to give me my depth. I’m a fan of redundancy, remember? I use a dual tank pressure and depth gauge. Between that and my dive watch I’m covered. If I’m planning to go to a depth where decomp is needed I know what the times are before I hit the water. But you do you.
I'm falling into the hole fast. Started early this year devouring everything I can get on watches. I even dream about this little bastards. The first automatic I got (March), already trade for another one. Now I have the 2-week rule. Never buy by impulse, I must wait 2 weeks before buying any watch. It saved me some money and made me appreciate more the ones I have
Everything you described is part of a journey of collecting anything. They are not mistakes. If you are an enthusiastic beginner you will buy a lot quickly. If you are undecided on what your style is, you buy examples from all styles. Then you spend more time with your collection and eventually it becomes clearer what you like, what fits your wrist and what suits your lifestyle. Then you sell what you don't wear. Then you get bored with what you wear, and start looking for something different. And the process starts again.... This is just a hobby and supposed to be fun, don't beat yourselves up people :-)
I bought a Tudor while waiting for a Rolex…not because it was cheaper, but because there is a much longer waitlist on the Rolex. You are looking at years, vs weeks. The cost is not a concern. I’m still on the Rolex waitlist, but can still tell the time because I have a Tudor. A waitlist doesn’t tell time.
I have really been dedicated to the Citizen Eco-Drive line. Good looking, always reliable, and really affordable. Sold 13 of them because I feel they were becoming to “fashion” focused with their collaborations with Marvel, Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, etc. I find myself wanting and enjoying mechanical watches. Wearing and winding occasionally by hand is fun for me rather than just looking at a variety of watches in the watch box. I am digging many micro-brands and might even buy a Kickstarter watch. Not sure if I can wrap my head around spending more than a grand on something I may knock around. Moral of my story, buy what you want, sell when your tired of them, buy more if you can afford.
So true. I think the most important thing is to wait. When you wait you figure out what you really want, you get exposed to more options, you learn what fits you better in terms of size & style, etc. And also, when you wait you get more chances to find a good price. I noticed that when I wait I suddenly realize I don't really want this particular watch.
I agree that buying a substitute timepiece "to scratch the itch" of getting something that isn't that much more expensive is silly, but if your grail watch is significantly more expensive, there's nothing wrong with finding a more affordable, comparable clone. Case in point, my grail watch is the Tag Heuer Carrera chronograph with the green dial, so in the interim I recently picked up a Fossil FB03 chronograph with a green dial. It's obviously miles apart in quality, but it does, for the time being, scratch the itch.
He said it's not a problem if the watch you buy is way less expensive than the grail one. Of course it doesn't make any sense to buy a 2500$ Tudor if your goal is to get a 5000$ Rolex because you'd use money you'll need to reach the 5000$ needed to get the actual watch you want.
@@_traveller88 there isn't any sense in your Statement.There's not a single rolex at your stated price right now since the owners resell them for like 150% price and you can't get them via waitlist.
Great advice, as usual. I skipped the Seiko 5kx earlier this year, though I really wanted it, and was so happy when the rotating bezel-less 40mm version came out. I got that one, and now it refuses to leave my wrist 😂. Point is, I’m glad I waited.
Waiting after a new watch is released is almost always a good idea. That's why some brands make so many limited models... they don't let you the time to think properly and trigger impulse buys! Thanks for watching
Thank God I'm a 17 year old when starting my watch interest because I'm in the begining phase where I like a lot of watches but I dont have money to buy them😂. I have a cool seiko 5 and I'm thinking about getting an orient kamasu when I go into university and maybe I will buy a vostok. If I had financial liberty I would have pulled the triger in like 5 watches already 😂
Don't rush, you've plenty of time. And from experience, I know excitement fades as soon as you open the box. Take time to try watches in the metal. I try to wait 1 month (3 months if I'm strong) before getting a watch. If I stil think about it and still want, I *may* consider it.
I waited 2 years to get the watch I want. After the wait of 2 years I don't think I would regret or grow out of it soon. Be careful with Seiko 5, that tiny evil thing, before you know it, you will have too many of them. I have 4 Seiko 5.
This is by far the best advice for watch collectors. The points made are mature, eloquently presented and lacks pretension. Thank you very much for this sir.
I agree with you 100%. I set the same budget limit for every watch I purchase, making the search even more fun. At this time I'm looking for a automatic watch within a price range of $90 dollars max. Thanks for such helpful comments. Regards.
Casio (Edifice, G-shock), Seiko... and that's it for my collection. I managed to grip onto something before falling deep in to the rabbit hole. Although the G-Shock GW-M5610U-1ER is a must, I have it amidst my 6 watch collection amassed in one month, monthly adjusting all to it, even my Seiko quartz Chronograph! That G-shock is THE Watch that one would ever need for almost every purpose! Thank you, your words are truly such eye openers!
One of the best videos for new watch enthusiasts. I was in this trap before, when I was buying a lot of watches in short amount of time. Also, I was only looking at high end, particularly Grand Seiko (ended up with 5 of them). Guess what...over the years I started to appreciate cheaper watches to the point, where now Im a huge fan of Russian Vostok watches and I own nearly a dozen of them. Accuracy is not their strongest point and I have to agree with you and add something from my experience - the more watches you have in your collection, the less you look at accuracy. You change them every now and then to enjoy whole collection. 5 or 20sec +/- a day? Doesn't matter to me. Also, Im glad to see you still have a Nighthawk, its one of my fav watches, I have Blue Angels edition. Greetings!
Vostok are easy to regulate! Just get the back open, push the little lever to (minus) if its running fast, and vice versa. Don't even need a timegrapher if you're willing to have some trial & error.
@@kristiangustafson4130 I know, I already did it with one of my amphibians. Komandirskie are really good with accuracy, out of the box only 7 and 9 sec a day, I just got 3rd one and will test it soon. Such a great watches.
@@giliathandtio cool! Yeah I have a 1980s Komandirsky, black dial, brass (?) case, hand-winder. Love it, my daughter thinks its the nicest watch I own (I have a lot...) though it cost me £35. Then three Amphibia (two different Scuba dudes and a baby-turtle one) and then a funky 1970s Pobeda and a Raketa Big Zero... I might have a *wee* problem with Russian watches...
All excellent points. Every new enthusiast should watch this video. One of my more memorable mistakes was buying a Nomos Tangente 180, then realizing Bauhaus inspired design was not for me. That was a costly mistake that I learned from.
What a great video ! "You must be reading my mail" because you've identified, and nailed, practically every mistake I've made. Thanks for that. 😉 And thanks for what you're doing.
Now that 2 years of watch collecting is coming up for me, I look back and realize, THIS GUY KNOWS WHAT HE'S TALKING ABOUT! Listen and carefully consider every point he makes, because he's really really hitting the nail on the head here.
Good points, but I'm going to have to disagree on the point about not buying a Tudor while you wait for a Rolex. The waitlist to buy the Rolex at msrp at the local official retailer could take years. During that time you could be wearing the Tudor, and since Tudor holds value so well you can just sell it if you want once you buy the Rolex.
I have a Citizen Eco Drive Skyhawk and had my eye on the Promaster dive watch, Pro master Blue Angel's & a G Shock full metal. I've had my Skyhawk for 4 years now and wear it constantly but I've been wanting to add to my collection for awhile.
I have a Citizen Skyhawk Blue Angels watch, and I absolutely love it. Stainless steel, not titanium. I find titanium to be too light and, even though it isn't, it feels cheap?
Started collecting 7 years ago... and I’ve owned over 100 watches, always chasing the “perfect” collection. I sure wish there were helpful videos like this back then!
Great video. I'm just starting out my watch collection and I'm certainly falling into all these traps. So far I've bought an orient bambino and a hamilton khaki field mechanical. I do want to check the diver box. Ultimately I'd like it to be an Omega Seamaster 300 but I think maybe getting an orient mako or ray would be a good way to see if a dive watch is right for me before dropping thousands of dollars.
Great advice. I’ve been collecting for decades and it took a considerable amount of time and money to really discern what makes a great watch for me. There’s not many short cuts, sometimes they just don’t click, but this is certainly helpful advice!
Amazing video, definitely could have used this when I started. I think mistakes will be unavoidable as it's hard to know what you will love. The key is to minimize them. And it's a journey not a race...
Totally agree. Buy watches you like and wait to buy what you want. I've always wanted a Doxa, but kept buying cheaper watches to fill the void. Finally I got fed up with having too many low priced watches. I sold most of them and bought a Doxa. I'm soooooo much happier with my small collection that includes a longtime grail. Thanks!
What an absolutely fantastic, honest and objective video. You my friend are a breath of fresh air. I myself have built my collection with watches that I love and resonate with me not anyone else. I personally don't care what others think (other than my beautiful supportive wife) Not everyone can (or will ever) afford an AP, Rolex or even an Omega. All of my collection, bar three, cost me less than $100 AU each ( and yes 90% are Casios) My most expensive cost me $200 AU and it took me a couple of months to save up for it. I love them and love my hobby and I get a lot of pleasure choosing a watch to wear and I wear them all with pride. Cheers!
"Great value for the money" is something that *every* purchaser of a timepiece thinks about and incorporates heavily into their decision. Whether it's a Richard Mille, or a Seiko 5--and for whatever purpose the watch is being purchased--that person's subjective value-to-cost ratio is always part of the equation.
So true, I diminished my collection from 25 to 5 watches wich I intend to keep. 2 Blancpain, one Vulcain Cricket, one Longines Spirit and one Vostok Amfibia for rough use
There is a great reason for purchasing numerous watches when first collecting, and focusing on affordable watches allows you to discover what you really like and wear and value. I'd think it takes a number of different watch purchases for most true enthusiasts to discover the specs and dimensions and design elements that really speak to them. I know that I am just now, 12+ watches into this journey, really discovering what I appreciate and want to wear in my watches. This is not an immediate or obvious process. I think you have to try a bunch of different styles and specs to discover what works for you. And it seems that you really have to live with a watch for a while, or with certain styles, to realize that you just don't enjoy them on your wrist. Then you can move into more costly purchases with confidence. It's only now that I can look at a variety of watches and be able to differentiate what I want as an expression of what I value from all the cool or interesting or beautiful watches that are out there. Affordable (of course "affordable" is subjective) watches really make this a possible exploration.
This video is 100 correct. Appreciate what you have. Right now I am loving Citizen watches, but Seiko has the new SRPG05K1 and the SRPG15J1, not to mention the SSA426. There's plenty of options. We all have unique personalities, lucky for us, we have a market that can support our imaginations. For me, I recommend having 5 watches total. A white/silver dial, a black dial watch, a "my favorite color" dial, a specialty watch, and a grail watch.. That last one is important. It's a watch that has everything you eventually know your specific needs of a watch. A grail watch should never be purchased the first year you start your journey.
Yeah, me too. But too me, that's a very practical and sensible choice. For example, I don't care if a watch is accurate within 1 sec a day. Heck, even 20 secs is good...
Great advice. The only one I'd qualify slightly is the last one: yes, the only opinion that matters in the end is your own, but hearing other people's opinions can help to develop your own, and help spare you from some of the mistakes you describe elsewhere in your video. When anyone describes himself (and it's usually a he) as a rugged individualist who can make his own mind up without being influenced by other people, I usually assume he's deluded (especially if he's wearing a Sub 😉). "No man is an island" and all that.
I completely agree. That's why I say you have to take information in and then decide for yourself. But then again, making mistakes makes you understand things in a new light. "A smart person learns from his mistakes, but a truly wise person learns from the mistakes of others." Seems I'm not wise 😉
Indeed. There's a fine line sometimes, between being informed, and being brainwashed. Soak it all up, then distil it down, until your left with just the essence of what you really are.
I think he meant more being persuaded by YT videos. In the end you gotta get a watch cause you love it, not other people saying they love it. But yeah hearing opinions does help you form your own through time and experience
at 9:00 mins in - my Citizen B877-S015707 Nighthawk is nearly identical to yours, I have other Eco Drives in my small collection , but that one is my go to everyday watch :-)
I agree with a lot of what you've said but there has been instances when a certain watch catches your eye and its just pure😍😍 but you resist the urge & end up thinking about it forever more as you can no longer acquire it due to the short purchase window. I'm sure some of you guys have suffered the same "one that got away" fate.
😂😂 I think I get your point because that's happened to me, once or twice, with ZELOS. I waited for the models I really wanted to drop in price and, of course, they sold out in less than a week !! Now, anyone selling theirs is asking for far more money than the watches cost originally !
Great video. I made many of these mistakes as a young collector and sold 18 watches over 4 months in order to restart my collection based on what I liked.
One thing to be careful of that won't mean much to most people, but I did notice when I was in China a few years back. I was meeting a few suppliers, it was pretty casual, easy going and friendly. Over a two week period I met a good few suppliers and most of the time I was in short sleeves and wore a Casio B640W - it was prefect - lightweight, accurate, Dual time, illuminator, waterproof, and inexpensive in the case it was lost of damaged. I was told by one of my friends that the suppliers look at your watch and judge you. I didn't think too much about it, but when I went back to China a couple of years later, I also took a Rotary dress watch and did notice a difference with the way I was treated
Thanks for educating us and pointing out the mistakes that we make even without realising it ourselves. I am guilty of buying a watch that I seldom wear, especially a homage watch that cost many times less than the real deal. I'm guilty of buying a cheap watch that I don't wear so often. Wished this video came out earlier, then I wouldn't have to make so many mistakes. Thanks for being truthful on your opinions.
I’d never pay thousands for a watch. I always compare those with cars i like... final result... i ended up buying a second hand porsche instead of a grand seiko (my dream watch) happiest decision ever. Insane for that money.
No nonsense tips. Thanks for saving me from jumping off the deep end because I know my personality and I was DEFINITELY about to go overboard with these Seikos I have my eye on. Now I'm only getting two colors, one of each style.
I buy watches that I love, so, when I rotate them, after some time without using a piece, wearing it back is like another honeymoon. When I plan to buy a piece, I do not buy anything else, no matter the price, because I would get me off the final goal. P.D.: Interesting video as always.
I agree with this, I tend to pick a watch and wear it for a week, and if it's been a month or so for that piece, I put it on and fall in love with it all over again
Thank you for this video. Yes, I have made a few mistakes, sometimes a combination of the ones you have listed. But fortunately, I was able to sell a few. But, I love even those which I have now retired from daily wear. Over the years I have grown very careful before buying any watch and have adopted my own check - I keep it in the basket of the website for about a fortnight and after that, if I still feel I love it, I buy it. In this manner, I have avoided unnecessary purchases on many occasions. I follow a simple rule of collecting - segregate my watches into sections - dress watches (quartz, automatic & solar), Swiss watches and since I am also an automobile enthusiast, affordable automobile branded watches. In these I have purchased just one watch from each brand while trying to cover different features. Of course, in very few instances I have broken this rule, having no other option. I also do a lot of hunting on the Net before I settle on any watch. I read a lot of reviews so that I am aware of the pros. and cons. of the watch before I put my money down on it. I hate to return a watch to any channel although most provide easy return options, as I feel that is quite unfair to the merchant. I have stopped raving over top brands (as they are ridiculously priced to own and maintain), thanks to good quality hommages available. I know some enthusiasts may disagree, but going by the fact that I will only live once, I will at least have the joy of having a good alternative to that timepiece on my wrist which would otherwise remain an unfulfilled dream.
9:00 is me with my skx007. the 7s26 might be outdated, and the chapter ring's abit misaligned but it's my very first automatic watch so it holds a special place in my heart
Ahhh. Thank you for this video. I just received a caravelle watch from my wife as a gift. Initially, as a "watch collector" it didn't catch my interest. But knowing I shouldnt give a fuck and love it for what it is, accurate, good looking, thoughtful gift is all that matters. Do you!
really good advice alessandro! I totally agree with you: especially with number 6/7. Buying just the specs will make you miss out on really cool watches. In the beginning of my watch collection journey I was strictly against aluminium bezel inserts. Now, I really enjoy the vintage aesthetic. Personal Taste changes over time, especially when it comes to watches.
Great video mate. I WATCHED IT TWICE! You've helped me change my perspective somewhat. I'm constantly on the hunt for my next watch, and have pulled the trigger on lesser watches for the instant gratification. I'm going to save up for my next one!
Honestly for some people, myself included, the mistakes were necessary lessons in the collecting process. Had I saw this video in my early days I probably would’ve made the same mistakes anyways. :)
Yep agree as well.. at the beginning I needed to scratch the itch and explore. I knew what I liked but not what I loved. Solution is simple, I'm selling some watches that I don't love to make room for ones that I do. And now I've gotta lust for a watch for MONTHS before buying. No more impulse buys ;)
For most part of my career I was wearing suits and ties for court and protective details, I was a Deputy US Marshal. I loved watches and still do, but in those days I lost a beloved Seiko dress watch due to my job, during a trial there were 6 defendants from a drug organization and at one point they decided to engage the deputies in court, well they lost but I lost my suit and tie along with my Seiko watch. That same week I went to COSTCO with my wife for grocery shopping and I saw this beautiful diver homage watch for $49.99, please don't hate me it was and Invicta diver watch. Bought it and for 7 years it endured so many fights and arrests while another new deputy lost his graduation gift, a brand new Rolex Submariner. Nowadays after retiring almost three years ago my collection is about sports watches, dive watches and field watches, no dress watches because I don't wear suits and ties unless it is a special occasion. Yes I was like you, I bought about 5 watches at the beginning just to get that watch itch, nowadays I am more choosy with my watches. And yes, I love my Steinhart watches 😁😁😁 Best regards from San Juan, Puerto Rico, stay safe.
Great video, valid points all around. 25yrs collecting, 8 watches. 4 from 2019 alone. I did have some boxes I wanted to check to round out the collection, as I do think one needs some variety. I even have day/night summer/winter styles. In hindsight, 5 of the 8 are TT, and 5 of the 8 are sport/divers. I am retired from collecting, and appreciate them all.
My three rules: 1. The biggest misconception is that you need to dress up to wear a dress watch. I don't need to have a suit on to wear my Calatrava or Datejust, just a Polo shirt, or even jeans and a t. 2. Want to know the difference between a sport watch owner and a diver owner? Sport watch owners are the only ones that admit they don't use their watch for diving. 3. All watches are fashion watches. It is only a TOOL watch when you use the watch as a tool.
I agree... I don’t give a shit what people think and will any damn watch I feel like. I take that back. I will watch that is clearly the wrong choice just for fun at times.
I totally agree. Their is no rules on when you wear a luxury dress watch. You will find me wearing a " Holy Trinity" watch or even a F.P Journe Octa perpetual with jeans.
I only have 2 watches but clicked on this video because the picture is of one of the watches I own. The deep green Seiko, I've had for 3 months and it's great.
![Seiko vs Orient [The ULTIMATE Battle] SKX013 - 5KX - Ray II - Kamasu](/img/1.gif)
As an enthusiast and someone who works in the industry, I was an elitist. The other day I came across a fashion brand watch I really liked the design and wouldn’t buy it because it’s “fashion”. My girlfriend called me stupid and you know what, she’s right it is stupid. I ended up getting that watch and I wear it now more than my omega and breitling. Shit it makes me happy and almost weird that I’m wearing a fashion brand after hating on it for so long 😂.
Which one is it? :)
Yeah but which watch was it?
+1 which watch lol
I have one fashion watch and it's a beauty.
Ditto; I have an A list of grail pieces (GS, Tudor, Omega) about ten mid-levels (Longines, Tissot, Seiko, etc), some lesser-known brands like Momentum, one Timex, and a few Ali Express pieces. But what I wear the most are my B list Frankenwatches from India. I get them dirt cheap with unattractive but reliable movements, change the straps around and create great wardrobe accessories. It makes me happy. Total value per B list unit at about $30. Today I spent the day with a Timex Expedition on my wrist. I learned early on that it is not about owning it but about feeling it and living it. Bonus: I am helping someone in India make a living.
I once read an article in a watch magazine many years ago where the interviewer asked the Editor of that magazine what he thought was the best watch. His answer was not Patek-Phillipe, Rolex, Omega or even a Hamilton. He simply said "The best watch is the watch you enjoy wearing the most". That has been my attitude with watch purchases. Loved that answer.
Perfect!
No sane person would ever argue with that. My favorite watches aren't expensive but I treat them like my babies.
My casio MQ24?
Damn straight. Best answer yet. I own many, i envy more. But my favorite right now..... is a hamilton. I think on tuesday it will be an invicta. Then friday a tissot. Etc etc
Couldn't agree more
COSC? Nah. The real COSC I want is
Casio
Orient
Seiko
Citizen
OH WTF!!! This is EPIC!
This comment need more like
You nailed it bruh!
Exactly what I thought of when he pointed out the Japanese brands 🤣
Good one
Casio, orient, seiko and citizen are literally the only brands in my collection.
You cannot go wrong with any of them.
Cant go wrong to any of it. However, i like watches now with sapphire crystal and/or ecodrive, solar or automatic.
I only have a titan automatic... one rose can be my garden kinda guy. (poor in other words.)
I only miss orient in my collection.. but maybe in the future :)..
Check out Hamilton certina and Tissot you can find some nice cheap swiss autos
Having built up an collection of 8 in 3 years in my experience the most important is patience.
Appreciating your collection is the most important thing.
Being broke helps a lot
Dude, the realization hit my hard too
Yes sir, patience is a must in the hobby. Enjoyment and being content with your watch is another factor many people tend to forget. Owning too many watches takes away from what you really feel. I own 7 luxury timepieces within 25 years of collecting and I came down to wearing two 95% of the time. The rest just sit in my watch roll. In a way it's money spent in limbo. A careful choice selection of quality (sometimes takes years to realize) is better than quantity... Less is more if done right for your individual lifestyle.
I'm broke af. I have all the time in the world to think about what watches I would like. In the meantime, I will enjoy what I have.
@@TomTom-sm7il That is the nice thing about having a couple of favorite watches. Even when we were broke or are currently broke, the watches still bring enjoyment.
@@carlcampbell6827 I agree. When you put it like that, they can be a good investment. We spend a lot of money on things that are very temporary. It's nice to have something that lasts.
And definitely don't listen to brand haters. If a Tag Heuer appeals to you, then buy it. If a Movado was your dream watch, then buy it. Don't get caught up on the haters and the "certain" brand name fan boys where everything sucks except their brand.
I did this with Tag... three times back to service in 8 months, never again 😡
Invicta 🤯🤩😍🔥🎯
@@SK-xg9rs did you claim your warranty? What model was defective?
@@tomorrowcomestoday1621 Finally returned & fully refund. Aquaracer, bracelet clasp issue & date change issue. I’m totally disappointed with TAG, will never go back to it.
I agree you should follow you heart but man... some brands should just be entirely avoided. Tag being one of them. And fashion brands too. Nothing good ever comes from them.
From my experience, I learned to buy watches that I will ACTUALLY WEAR, not because of specs, or because I anticipate growing into them. That’s why I sold off all my technically superior Seiko divers, but still kept my first one, the SKX, and why the only dress watch I have is the versatile Seiko SARB035. Both watches fit my thin wrist well, both work with my lifestyle, and both are unique in their own way. Furthermore, both will stay with me long term, because being wearable means I’ve had the opportunity to build bonding experiences with them. Next stop for me will be a Rolex Datejust.
I’m only 3 minutes in, and I love this guy! Talk about pearls of wisdom and common sense! Awesome!
The dive depth snobbery has always been a weird one to me. Most recreational divers don't go anywhere near those depths and chances are if they do they aren't wearing their little Seiko 5.
This is hands down some o the best advice on the hobby. Thank you for being down to Earth, straight to the point, and honest about these potential pitfalls. I've bookmarked this video to go back to when I feel overwhelmed with choice.
I fell fast and deep down the rabbit hole, starting with a beautiful $100 Tissot and a Seiko 5 (the 5 SPORT, not 5KX), and one year later ended up with a Tudor Prince and the El Primero. I initially planned out a whole watch collecting journey. But due to some windfalls, I was able to simply save a bit more and went straight to the watches I really wanted. I guess that was my saving grace, as I might've potentially spent way more money on the 'in-between' watches.
And yes, now I truly love what I have. Watches come out all the time, and whilst I really like some of them, I look at my watch stand and go 'Nah. I'm good'.
I'm not a sports watch person. That's what I realised when I wore the Seiko 5. The El Primero is a chronograph, but it's definitely more dressy than sporty.
"Nah, I'm good" - you know you have exactly what you're supposed to, well done!
The El Primero Chronomaster is a GREAT watch.
I feel it is a sporty dressy watch. Think it looks sharp with any kind of a business casual or even formal event.
@@jeremyrice3719 If you keep it on the black leather strap, it looks great as a dress watch. But since I already have a dress watch, I played with the tri-color dial and dressed it down with a green leather strap.
Some dress it down further with a Nato or slap on a rally strap. So it's really versatile.
OK, so you had some cash to splash. Wish I could buy a Zenith right now.
Hello: I have been collecting watches for way many decades and your video is very useful for new and old generations. I grew up using pocket and wristwatches, nothing electronic :) Cheers from Patagonia, Argentina.
As I "mature" in this hobby I'm learning that not everyone's opinion should be taken as fact. This hobby has a lot of snobby people in it. I just like what I like and I'm not listening to anyone else anymore. Lol
Agreed I have heard a lot of hate in Bulova and Jugnhaus, but I love my Bulova and one of those minimalistic German brands is my dream watch
My fiancé has one of the spinning diamond face bulovas that her parents got her, i think its beautiful, especially with the blue mother of pearl face. Im a seiko man myself but they're all personal preference. Bulova is valid alongside all other watches..... yes even fossil 😢@gavingudobba5764
It's a snobby hobby
Number 7 is so important. I fell into that trap of listening to the online watch community too closely At some point I found I had collected a number of "WIS favorites". But only after spending the money on for example an Omega Speedmaster Professional (great watch don't get me wrong) did I realize that I don't actually care about the connection to the moon-landing, I hated the bracelet, and while I loved the design of the watch it was not what I was looking for.
We need more of this kind of video in the watch community. So spot on.
I'm a diver and I can tell you that a diver wears a diving watch only on land (and while swimming) and usually not while diving.
Underwater we got our computer and don't need a watch anymore. Especially one without a rubber strap. You would have to wear your computer on the one hand an the watch on the other wich makes no sense.
So divers usually wear them on land and when they are in company with other divers (in Germany, where I'm from, the most worn are the Citizens).
I`m also a diver, i`m form the south of Argentina, from a place called "Penìnsula Valdès" (Puerto Madryn City // Google it). I`m a dive hunter, so i don't use oxygen, therefore neither dive computer. I were Casio, Seiko and Citizen. I love to do this, when the hunting day ends, me and my friends go to a bar to take a few drinks and when I look at my watch and i remember where i was a few hours ago, deep in the ocean... I Love taht!!!!
I've talked to a few divers and they wear both because they've had their dive computers fail
Don’t know what you’re on about mate, I wear both when I dive. Electronics fail and do you really want to end your dive just because your dive comp died? I’m starting to suspect that the people who inhabit watch forums that say “I’m a diver and never wear a dive watch actually diving” are not actual divers.
@@psychalogy when my Computer fails I simply use my mates one or I end the dive
A watch can't tell you how deep you are and also not how long your deco time is
@@fighting_platypusdevscc1268 hey you do you but i do everything I can not to rely on someone else to keep me alive. I also don’t rely on a dive comp to give me my depth. I’m a fan of redundancy, remember? I use a dual tank pressure and depth gauge. Between that and my dive watch I’m covered. If I’m planning to go to a depth where decomp is needed I know what the times are before I hit the water. But you do you.
I’ll repeat what’s been said a dozen times already, this is good advice that could save you money, time and future headache and heartbreak.
I'm falling into the hole fast. Started early this year devouring everything I can get on watches. I even dream about this little bastards. The first automatic I got (March), already trade for another one. Now I have the 2-week rule. Never buy by impulse, I must wait 2 weeks before buying any watch. It saved me some money and made me appreciate more the ones I have
Next step: make that waiting time 2 months 😉💪 Or not, It's just my opinion!
@@TimedSquare I'm sure I will have to 😅
Dude... you just describe my whole watch life of the past years.... AMEN to this video!!!
This was put onto my recommendations, glad it was, many wise words said throughout, really enjoyed and glad to be a new subscriber
Superb advice, maybe the best I've seen in 3-4 years watching watch commentary on RUclips.
Wow, thanks!
Anyone new to this hobby should watch this video.
Looking at the local second hand market, you quickly see what mistakes people make.
I've found that not looking at the "next watch" leads me to notice and appreciate my current watches more. Thanks for number 4!
Well that's epic! That means you have the watches you're supposed to have already, well done!
I second that!
7:22 - 100% agree, and a statement which I struggle with when pulling the trigger on a Luxury watch.
Everything you described is part of a journey of collecting anything. They are not mistakes. If you are an enthusiastic beginner you will buy a lot quickly. If you are undecided on what your style is, you buy examples from all styles. Then you spend more time with your collection and eventually it becomes clearer what you like, what fits your wrist and what suits your lifestyle. Then you sell what you don't wear. Then you get bored with what you wear, and start looking for something different. And the process starts again.... This is just a hobby and supposed to be fun, don't beat yourselves up people :-)
I bought a Tudor while waiting for a Rolex…not because it was cheaper, but because there is a much longer waitlist on the Rolex. You are looking at years, vs weeks. The cost is not a concern. I’m still on the Rolex waitlist, but can still tell the time because I have a Tudor. A waitlist doesn’t tell time.
I have really been dedicated to the Citizen Eco-Drive line. Good looking, always reliable, and really affordable. Sold 13 of them because I feel they were becoming to “fashion” focused with their collaborations with Marvel, Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, etc. I find myself wanting and enjoying mechanical watches. Wearing and winding occasionally by hand is fun for me rather than just looking at a variety of watches in the watch box. I am digging many micro-brands and might even buy a Kickstarter watch. Not sure if I can wrap my head around spending more than a grand on something I may knock around. Moral of my story, buy what you want, sell when your tired of them, buy more if you can afford.
So true. I think the most important thing is to wait. When you wait you figure out what you really want, you get exposed to more options, you learn what fits you better in terms of size & style, etc. And also, when you wait you get more chances to find a good price. I noticed that when I wait I suddenly realize I don't really want this particular watch.
I've never seen such an honest list before. I just subscribed.
I agree that buying a substitute timepiece "to scratch the itch" of getting something that isn't that much more expensive is silly, but if your grail watch is significantly more expensive, there's nothing wrong with finding a more affordable, comparable clone. Case in point, my grail watch is the Tag Heuer Carrera chronograph with the green dial, so in the interim I recently picked up a Fossil FB03 chronograph with a green dial. It's obviously miles apart in quality, but it does, for the time being, scratch the itch.
He said it's not a problem if the watch you buy is way less expensive than the grail one. Of course it doesn't make any sense to buy a 2500$ Tudor if your goal is to get a 5000$ Rolex because you'd use money you'll need to reach the 5000$ needed to get the actual watch you want.
@@_traveller88 Ah, ok. That I agree with. I'm jonesing for a Rolex Submariner these days, so I probably won't be buying any new timepieces soon...
@@_traveller88 there isn't any sense in your Statement.There's not a single rolex at your stated price right now since the owners resell them for like 150% price and you can't get them via waitlist.
Great advice, as usual. I skipped the Seiko 5kx earlier this year, though I really wanted it, and was so happy when the rotating bezel-less 40mm version came out. I got that one, and now it refuses to leave my wrist 😂. Point is, I’m glad I waited.
Waiting after a new watch is released is almost always a good idea. That's why some brands make so many limited models... they don't let you the time to think properly and trigger impulse buys! Thanks for watching
@@TimedSquare So true.
what is the 40mm model?
what model is that?
Thank God I'm a 17 year old when starting my watch interest because I'm in the begining phase where I like a lot of watches but I dont have money to buy them😂.
I have a cool seiko 5 and I'm thinking about getting an orient kamasu when I go into university and maybe I will buy a vostok. If I had financial liberty I would have pulled the triger in like 5 watches already 😂
Same, I'm 16 years old and I'm very happy with my Orient Blue Ray 2.
It's hard to resist buying more watches hahaha
Don't rush, you've plenty of time. And from experience, I know excitement fades as soon as you open the box. Take time to try watches in the metal. I try to wait 1 month (3 months if I'm strong) before getting a watch. If I stil think about it and still want, I *may* consider it.
I waited 2 years to get the watch I want. After the wait of 2 years I don't think I would regret or grow out of it soon.
Be careful with Seiko 5, that tiny evil thing, before you know it, you will have too many of them. I have 4 Seiko 5.
@@TimedSquare thanks man great advice 🙌
@@MT-mt2yn thanks man
This is terrific advice and it applies to any kind of collecting.
This is by far the best advice for watch collectors. The points made are mature, eloquently presented and lacks pretension. Thank you very much for this sir.
Much appreciated!
Beautifully said Alessandro, clear concise advice from your experience, excellent !!
I agree with you 100%. I set the same budget limit for every watch I purchase, making the search even more fun. At this time I'm looking for a automatic watch within a price range of $90 dollars max. Thanks for such helpful comments. Regards.
This is the best collecting mistake video I’ve seen. Bravo sir!
Casio (Edifice, G-shock), Seiko... and that's it for my collection. I managed to grip onto something before falling deep in to the rabbit hole. Although the G-Shock GW-M5610U-1ER is a must, I have it amidst my 6 watch collection amassed in one month, monthly adjusting all to it, even my Seiko quartz Chronograph! That G-shock is THE Watch that one would ever need for almost every purpose! Thank you, your words are truly such eye openers!
Sound advice, and well delivered. Thank you for the reinforcement of these sensible principles.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Fantastic advice! I've made each of these mistakes in the past. Now I've learned to slow down and think.
One of the best videos for new watch enthusiasts. I was in this trap before, when I was buying a lot of watches in short amount of time. Also, I was only looking at high end, particularly Grand Seiko (ended up with 5 of them). Guess what...over the years I started to appreciate cheaper watches to the point, where now Im a huge fan of Russian Vostok watches and I own nearly a dozen of them. Accuracy is not their strongest point and I have to agree with you and add something from my experience - the more watches you have in your collection, the less you look at accuracy. You change them every now and then to enjoy whole collection. 5 or 20sec +/- a day? Doesn't matter to me. Also, Im glad to see you still have a Nighthawk, its one of my fav watches, I have Blue Angels edition. Greetings!
Vostok are easy to regulate! Just get the back open, push the little lever to (minus) if its running fast, and vice versa. Don't even need a timegrapher if you're willing to have some trial & error.
@@kristiangustafson4130 I know, I already did it with one of my amphibians. Komandirskie are really good with accuracy, out of the box only 7 and 9 sec a day, I just got 3rd one and will test it soon. Such a great watches.
@@giliathandtio cool! Yeah I have a 1980s Komandirsky, black dial, brass (?) case, hand-winder. Love it, my daughter thinks its the nicest watch I own (I have a lot...) though it cost me £35. Then three Amphibia (two different Scuba dudes and a baby-turtle one) and then a funky 1970s Pobeda and a Raketa Big Zero... I might have a *wee* problem with Russian watches...
All excellent points. Every new enthusiast should watch this video. One of my more memorable mistakes was buying a Nomos Tangente 180, then realizing Bauhaus inspired design was not for me. That was a costly mistake that I learned from.
What a great video ! "You must be reading my mail" because you've identified, and nailed, practically every mistake I've made. Thanks for that. 😉 And thanks for what you're doing.
Now that 2 years of watch collecting is coming up for me, I look back and realize, THIS GUY KNOWS WHAT HE'S TALKING ABOUT! Listen and carefully consider every point he makes, because he's really really hitting the nail on the head here.
Your videos Alessandro are real gems in the horology business
Good points, but I'm going to have to disagree on the point about not buying a Tudor while you wait for a Rolex. The waitlist to buy the Rolex at msrp at the local official retailer could take years. During that time you could be wearing the Tudor, and since Tudor holds value so well you can just sell it if you want once you buy the Rolex.
I have a Citizen Eco Drive Skyhawk and had my eye on the Promaster dive watch, Pro master Blue Angel's & a G Shock full metal. I've had my Skyhawk for 4 years now and wear it constantly but I've been wanting to add to my collection for awhile.
I have a Citizen Skyhawk Blue Angels watch, and I absolutely love it. Stainless steel, not titanium. I find titanium to be too light and, even though it isn't, it feels cheap?
@@markdarwin4390 I know what you mean with Titanium. I prefer Stainless Steel for my watches.
Started collecting 7 years ago... and I’ve owned over 100 watches, always chasing the “perfect” collection. I sure wish there were helpful videos like this back then!
Me too... I'm still learning! 😉
That’s insane! I managed to get off the bus before I was too addicted but still ended up owning up a few Sh!7ers like The Squalllleeeee 🦈
Great video. I'm just starting out my watch collection and I'm certainly falling into all these traps. So far I've bought an orient bambino and a hamilton khaki field mechanical. I do want to check the diver box. Ultimately I'd like it to be an Omega Seamaster 300 but I think maybe getting an orient mako or ray would be a good way to see if a dive watch is right for me before dropping thousands of dollars.
One of the most honest videos I have seen on this topic.
You earned a sub.
Spot on with "you do you"...keep up the great content
Thank you Craig!
Great advice. I’ve been collecting for decades and it took a considerable amount of time and money to really discern what makes a great watch for me. There’s not many short cuts, sometimes they just don’t click, but this is certainly helpful advice!
Amazing video, definitely could have used this when I started. I think mistakes will be unavoidable as it's hard to know what you will love. The key is to minimize them. And it's a journey not a race...
Exactly!
Totally agree. Buy watches you like and wait to buy what you want. I've always wanted a Doxa, but kept buying cheaper watches to fill the void. Finally I got fed up with having too many low priced watches. I sold most of them and bought a Doxa. I'm soooooo much happier with my small collection that includes a longtime grail. Thanks!
Alessandro, thank you for this video. It helped me in reconsidering selling some of my watches. Seriously, this was great!
I like your approach to collecting. I think it applies to anything collectible. Collect what you want to collect! 🤙
Where'd you go man?
I agree strongly about number 3. I found out that I prefer dresswatches mostly. And don't care about chronograph and GMT watches at all.
Oh man thank you so so much, I'm just starting and I feel every single advice you talk about in the video. Thank you, it's really helpful!
What an absolutely fantastic, honest and objective video.
You my friend are a breath of fresh air.
I myself have built my collection with watches that I love and resonate with me not anyone else. I personally don't care what others think (other than my beautiful supportive wife)
Not everyone can (or will ever) afford an AP, Rolex or even an Omega. All of my collection, bar three, cost me less than $100 AU each ( and yes 90% are Casios)
My most expensive cost me $200 AU and it took me a couple of months to save up for it.
I love them and love my hobby and I get a lot of pleasure choosing a watch to wear and I wear them all with pride.
Cheers!
"Great value for the money" is something that *every* purchaser of a timepiece thinks about and incorporates heavily into their decision. Whether it's a Richard Mille, or a Seiko 5--and for whatever purpose the watch is being purchased--that person's subjective value-to-cost ratio is always part of the equation.
Thank you for this eye opener!!! Big help! Prolly the most helpful watch related video I've ever watched this year!
So true, I diminished my collection from 25 to 5 watches wich I intend to keep. 2 Blancpain, one Vulcain Cricket, one Longines Spirit and one Vostok Amfibia for rough use
I love that you keep the vostok. Great watch
There is a great reason for purchasing numerous watches when first collecting, and focusing on affordable watches allows you to discover what you really like and wear and value. I'd think it takes a number of different watch purchases for most true enthusiasts to discover the specs and dimensions and design elements that really speak to them. I know that I am just now, 12+ watches into this journey, really discovering what I appreciate and want to wear in my watches. This is not an immediate or obvious process. I think you have to try a bunch of different styles and specs to discover what works for you. And it seems that you really have to live with a watch for a while, or with certain styles, to realize that you just don't enjoy them on your wrist. Then you can move into more costly purchases with confidence. It's only now that I can look at a variety of watches and be able to differentiate what I want as an expression of what I value from all the cool or interesting or beautiful watches that are out there. Affordable (of course "affordable" is subjective) watches really make this a possible exploration.
What happened to this guy? it’s been 3 years
Same. One of the first watch tubers I followed.
Did he die?
This video is 100 correct. Appreciate what you have. Right now I am loving Citizen watches, but Seiko has the new SRPG05K1 and the SRPG15J1, not to mention the SSA426. There's plenty of options. We all have unique personalities, lucky for us, we have a market that can support our imaginations.
For me, I recommend having 5 watches total. A white/silver dial, a black dial watch, a "my favorite color" dial, a specialty watch, and a grail watch..
That last one is important. It's a watch that has everything you eventually know your specific needs of a watch. A grail watch should never be purchased the first year you start your journey.
The only spec I really look for is a sapphire crystal, because no matter how hard I try, I know I'm going to beat the crap out of it.
Yeah, me too. But too me, that's a very practical and sensible choice. For example, I don't care if a watch is accurate within 1 sec a day. Heck, even 20 secs is good...
Thanks for that quick shot of your SNX79. It looks SO MUCH BETTER since you swapped out the case...! Sembra spettacolare...!!
Great advice. The only one I'd qualify slightly is the last one: yes, the only opinion that matters in the end is your own, but hearing other people's opinions can help to develop your own, and help spare you from some of the mistakes you describe elsewhere in your video.
When anyone describes himself (and it's usually a he) as a rugged individualist who can make his own mind up without being influenced by other people, I usually assume he's deluded (especially if he's wearing a Sub 😉). "No man is an island" and all that.
I completely agree. That's why I say you have to take information in and then decide for yourself. But then again, making mistakes makes you understand things in a new light.
"A smart person learns from his mistakes, but a truly wise person learns from the mistakes of others." Seems I'm not wise 😉
Indeed. There's a fine line sometimes, between being informed, and being brainwashed. Soak it all up, then distil it down, until your left with just the essence of what you really are.
Very true indeed.
However...
I'm pretty sure that Marlon Brando ᴡᴀs an island by the end. And he had that gorgeous bezel-less GMT...
😶
A wise man seeks many advisors (and then is informed enough to make his or her own good decision.
I think he meant more being persuaded by YT videos. In the end you gotta get a watch cause you love it, not other people saying they love it. But yeah hearing opinions does help you form your own through time and experience
at 9:00 mins in - my Citizen B877-S015707 Nighthawk is nearly identical to yours, I have other Eco Drives in my small collection , but that one is my go to everyday watch :-)
I agree with a lot of what you've said but there has been instances when a certain watch catches your eye and its just pure😍😍 but you resist the urge & end up thinking about it forever more as you can no longer acquire it due to the short purchase window. I'm sure some of you guys have suffered the same "one that got away" fate.
😂😂 I think I get your point because that's happened to me, once or twice, with ZELOS. I waited for the models I really wanted to drop in price and, of course, they sold out in less than a week !! Now, anyone selling theirs is asking for far more money than the watches cost originally !
Finally some sound advice. I have probably made all those mistakes but now I know what I like and what works for me. Great video!!!
I think we all made them 😉Thanks for watching!
Another great video with very good advice, it's easy to be influenced by other watch reviewers on RUclips when the only view that matters is your own.
Great video. I made many of these mistakes as a young collector and sold 18 watches over 4 months in order to restart my collection based on what I liked.
“Listen to me: Don’t listen to others!”
Ok… 😄
10:49 😉
One thing to be careful of that won't mean much to most people, but I did notice when I was in China a few years back. I was meeting a few suppliers, it was pretty casual, easy going and friendly. Over a two week period I met a good few suppliers and most of the time I was in short sleeves and wore a Casio B640W - it was prefect - lightweight, accurate, Dual time, illuminator, waterproof, and inexpensive in the case it was lost of damaged. I was told by one of my friends that the suppliers look at your watch and judge you. I didn't think too much about it, but when I went back to China a couple of years later, I also took a Rotary dress watch and did notice a difference with the way I was treated
Like any hobby, collection or life itself - watch collecting is a journey. Remember this: there are no mistakes...
...if you learn from them.
Thanks for educating us and pointing out the mistakes that we make even without realising it ourselves. I am guilty of buying a watch that I seldom wear, especially a homage watch that cost many times less than the real deal. I'm guilty of buying a cheap watch that I don't wear so often. Wished this video came out earlier, then I wouldn't have to make so many mistakes. Thanks for being truthful on your opinions.
I’d never pay thousands for a watch.
I always compare those with cars i like... final result... i ended up buying a second hand porsche instead of a grand seiko (my dream watch) happiest decision ever.
Insane for that money.
No nonsense tips. Thanks for saving me from jumping off the deep end because I know my personality and I was DEFINITELY about to go overboard with these Seikos I have my eye on. Now I'm only getting two colors, one of each style.
I buy watches that I love, so, when I rotate them, after some time without using a piece, wearing it back is like another honeymoon.
When I plan to buy a piece, I do not buy anything else, no matter the price, because I would get me off the final goal.
P.D.: Interesting video as always.
I agree with this, I tend to pick a watch and wear it for a week, and if it's been a month or so for that piece, I put it on and fall in love with it all over again
Thank you for this video. Yes, I have made a few mistakes, sometimes a combination of the ones you have listed. But fortunately, I was able to sell a few. But, I love even those which I have now retired from daily wear.
Over the years I have grown very careful before buying any watch and have adopted my own check - I keep it in the basket of the website for about a fortnight and after that, if I still feel I love it, I buy it. In this manner, I have avoided unnecessary purchases on many occasions.
I follow a simple rule of collecting - segregate my watches into sections - dress watches (quartz, automatic & solar), Swiss watches and since I am also an automobile enthusiast, affordable automobile branded watches. In these I have purchased just one watch from each brand while trying to cover different features. Of course, in very few instances I have broken this rule, having no other option.
I also do a lot of hunting on the Net before I settle on any watch. I read a lot of reviews so that I am aware of the pros. and cons. of the watch before I put my money down on it. I hate to return a watch to any channel although most provide easy return options, as I feel that is quite unfair to the merchant.
I have stopped raving over top brands (as they are ridiculously priced to own and maintain), thanks to good quality hommages available. I know some enthusiasts may disagree, but going by the fact that I will only live once, I will at least have the joy of having a good alternative to that timepiece on my wrist which would otherwise remain an unfulfilled dream.
"...wow! This thing is AWESOME!"
That's it.
9:00 is me with my skx007. the 7s26 might be outdated, and the chapter ring's abit misaligned but it's my very first automatic watch so it holds a special place in my heart
I just ordered Tissot now 💪🏻
Quality watches at a decent price. I've got a couple now. Enjoy!
Thank you for this video. You are so right, about the choices we must make. Not only for watches, but for all stuff we want to buy.
Ahhh. Thank you for this video. I just received a caravelle watch from my wife as a gift. Initially, as a "watch collector" it didn't catch my interest. But knowing I shouldnt give a fuck and love it for what it is, accurate, good looking, thoughtful gift is all that matters. Do you!
Why are you not making videos
really good advice alessandro! I totally agree with you: especially with number 6/7.
Buying just the specs will make you miss out on really cool watches. In the beginning of my watch collection journey I was strictly against aluminium bezel inserts. Now, I really enjoy the vintage aesthetic. Personal Taste changes over time, especially when it comes to watches.
I found it absolutely hilarious when he said "just get a quartz watch" 😂😂 destroys the point of automatic lol
Same, hahah
Great video mate. I WATCHED IT TWICE!
You've helped me change my perspective somewhat.
I'm constantly on the hunt for my next watch, and have pulled the trigger on lesser watches for the instant gratification.
I'm going to save up for my next one!
Honestly for some people, myself included, the mistakes were necessary lessons in the collecting process.
Had I saw this video in my early days I probably would’ve made the same mistakes anyways. :)
Totally agree -you have to live through some of these experiences
Yep agree as well.. at the beginning I needed to scratch the itch and explore. I knew what I liked but not what I loved. Solution is simple, I'm selling some watches that I don't love to make room for ones that I do. And now I've gotta lust for a watch for MONTHS before buying. No more impulse buys ;)
Agreed, live and learn.
Such great advice! Wonderful video.
For most part of my career I was wearing suits and ties for court and protective details, I was a Deputy US Marshal. I loved watches and still do, but in those days I lost a beloved Seiko dress watch due to my job, during a trial there were 6 defendants from a drug organization and at one point they decided to engage the deputies in court, well they lost but I lost my suit and tie along with my Seiko watch. That same week I went to COSTCO with my wife for grocery shopping and I saw this beautiful diver homage watch for $49.99, please don't hate me it was and Invicta diver watch. Bought it and for 7 years it endured so many fights and arrests while another new deputy lost his graduation gift, a brand new Rolex Submariner. Nowadays after retiring almost three years ago my collection is about sports watches, dive watches and field watches, no dress watches because I don't wear suits and ties unless it is a special occasion. Yes I was like you, I bought about 5 watches at the beginning just to get that watch itch, nowadays I am more choosy with my watches. And yes, I love my Steinhart watches 😁😁😁 Best regards from San Juan, Puerto Rico, stay safe.
Great video, valid points all around.
25yrs collecting, 8 watches.
4 from 2019 alone.
I did have some boxes I wanted to check to round out the collection, as I do think one needs some variety. I even have day/night summer/winter styles.
In hindsight, 5 of the 8 are TT, and 5 of the 8 are sport/divers.
I am retired from collecting, and appreciate them all.
My three rules:
1. The biggest misconception is that you need to dress up to wear a dress watch. I don't need to have a suit on to wear my Calatrava or Datejust, just a Polo shirt, or even jeans and a t.
2. Want to know the difference between a sport watch owner and a diver owner? Sport watch owners are the only ones that admit they don't use their watch for diving.
3. All watches are fashion watches. It is only a TOOL watch when you use the watch as a tool.
The biggest misconception is that you need a dress watch.
I agree... I don’t give a shit what people think and will any damn watch I feel like. I take that back. I will watch that is clearly the wrong choice just for fun at times.
I totally agree. Their is no rules on when you wear a luxury dress watch. You will find me wearing a " Holy Trinity" watch or even a F.P Journe Octa perpetual with jeans.
That Seiko watch in the beginning of this vid is amazing. Love that green color. 😍
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I only have 2 watches but clicked on this video because the picture is of one of the watches I own. The deep green Seiko, I've had for 3 months and it's great.
Great video
This was actually a well thought out video and much appreciated! Great content
2nd ?
yup, lol