Please don't delete or hide your videos man! I've found many of your videos very interesting, informational and overall a good source of reference not only for me but for people I know in the watches hobby. In any case, thank you for all the content you have created and very, very good luck to you if we don't see you around again!
You are the perfect collector/hobbyist. You saw through Tag and Breitling for the crap they are and you weren’t seduced by the vile marketing drivel from Rolex. You were never as popular as the top few ranters (I also love Archie) but perhaps one of the most genuine. Looks like the family and your wife and TRW won out. This is as it should be. You will be missed. Don’t delete your videos.
What an interesting outlook on the hobby. It can be very time consuming (ironically) and take up too much time like you say what with making videos, live-streaming, watching livestreams, checking forum’s and internet magazine articles. Also your point that your attention can continually be focused on the latest watches on offer and whether you need them is very valid. It is so refreshing to see that you have found your ideal trio of watches to enjoy in your life. You have obviously learned a lot about your tastes in watches and have had an enjoyable journey making good friends along the way and forging great memories. Bravo to you my friend. Enjoy your watches and enjoy your life with your lovely family. There will always be chances to join in with the watch community when you wish my friend. ✊
Brother it's sad to see you go I wish you all the best in whatever you choose to do and I hope I get another chance to talk to you again take care and much love
Hi James. Gutted that you are leaving RUclips, it has been amazing to follow your journey and hopefully we will have that beer one day. I hope you keep your videos up. You have an amazing 3 piece collection mate and so pleased you got there (I am envious 😂). Wishing you the very best of luck, health and happiness for the future my friend 🙏🥃
I love watches but the hobby took off during lockdown and before I knew it I had bought about 10 watches (Seiko, Casio, and Seiko homages). I have now settled on Seiko King Turtles and a few G-Shocks and will stop there - so I get it. Albeit my budget was much smaller!
Well done Showcase thanks for all the great vids! After all this I’m surprised you’re after a 16750. Those are great when you have a lot of watches, but when you only have a few you will be disappointed with the bracelet and clasp. So I don’t think the journey is quite over. Hope you will update us from time to time. Best of luck brother
Mission complete! Smaller collections make more sense. Agree with you on how easy it is for this hobby to become all-consuming and sometimes excessively so. It never ends unless you do exactly as you’ve done. Like you, I’ve achieved what I set out to do in the beginning. Now I’m just playing with affordables around the periphery of a small collection of keepers. All the best for your onward journey 😊
This video with your thoughts is such a healthy reality check! At 25:50 'the journey starts off again' That for sure is what the marketers rely on and our consumer behavior. One is happy and content with what one has got until a new product is rolled out making one feel a bit less content with the watch than before and it's a never ending cycle which at the end of the day is why consumerism is great fun but will never be enough. I think the trick is to fill the void with a more creative hobby in addition to loving watches. I bought a Fender guitar and just trying to learn some chords for fun while I'm wearing my Explorer :-) just buying more and more watches will never be enough to make us as happy as when we create something, achieve something or build something like a business.
You nailed it. A true watch enthusiast will not be satisfied by owning a hyped up over priced watch. I went down a similar path with Rolex and learned that GS and Omega do it for me most. I got rid of most of my Rolex over the years and only kept a blue GV Milgauss as I find it to me the most interesting watch Rolex makes and the one Ive enjoyed wearing more than any of the other models! The 321 is absolutely amazing. From a watchmaking perspective, it craps all over anything Rolex makes at the same price point!
Hi James, I thoroughly enjoyed this video. The way you explain and breakdown your thought process which leads you to decisions is beautiful. I love the analytical breakdown and how you ultimately reached an informed conclusion. I think you have found peace. The watch collecting journey can become a burden and weigh us down with the constant chase and constant attempts to figure it out. Wishing you the very best in your future endeavours. Jamie
I’ve enjoyed watching your videos over the years-hope you keep them up on RUclips! I’m almost done with the hobby as I basically have what I want. It’s a bigger world 🌎 above the rabbit 🐇 hole 🕳. You’ve been a great asset to the watch community and I wish you all the best 😎!
I bought a Seamaster Professional (2531.80) “Pierce Brosnan” a month ago and I’m really happy with it. I’m now lusting after the 42mm Planet Ocean (Skyfall), which is how I found your channel. Appreciate the video, brother.
I’ve just found you & your stopping! Everything you’re saying is exactly my thoughts, I have stopped collecting now owning 63 watches, but I now wear my Steinharts most the time now,but my favourite is my 39 explorer,I also don’t like ceramic
Watches aside, you've also brought many of us plenty of fits and giggles across a number of channels you that you also support. For that we all thank you 👍😂😎
This video has helped me so much since I am new to watch collecting. You right it is consuming my time too much. Thanks again and good luck with everything.
Very beautiful William. I'd love to get a closer look at the Aqua Terra Worldtimer in the near future. From visuals, it looks like a fantastic watch on a very comfortable strap?
Damn James, I'm sorry to hear this. It's been great listening to you for years and watching your vids and being able to learn through your reviews and from your experiences. I think you can never truly leave the watch hobby and hope this is not actually the last video we see. I'm sure there will be more watches that come out that you will love and want to get in the future. You've also had a lot of watches come and go, which I'm jealous and envious of, but sometimes it's good to just take a step back and enjoy what you have. And I completely agree with having a streamlined collection. It really allows you to enjoy and focus in on what you really want. Whatever you decide I hope you will continue to enjoy your watches and wish you nothing but the best. The one thing I would ask is don't private your videos. I think you should keep them up as there are many that people can go back and watch and learn from them the same way I did and I'm sure others did. Cheers!
Thank you, James! Congratulations!!! 😀 Time itself is the most precious piece, not the timepiece. And that’s the happy owner of the new Explorer 36 TT writing. Not sure about TT, but as for Explorer I being the best and self sufficient - absolutely. Would definitely go for a gmt in Explorer II, but it’s too big for a lady. Planning to get a Speedy FOIS. The same size as in Ed White, but a much more affordable option. And yes, I also intend to have 3-4 pieces that will do all the job. Maybe shrink to Explorer I only one day. Thank you for showing the light! On my way 😉
You should atleast keep this video up. Very few youtubers talk about the watch madness exit, and this is a well thought out, brilliant way to show how the journy can end and do not have to be some sort of perpetual disease. I think this video can help others for sure.
I've re-watched this just today, as recently my addiction in this hobby has gone up tenfold - purchased my first good watch in 2016 (Explorer 214270), second in 2019 (Speedy FOIS) and third in Jan 2020 (Tudor BB58)... this was the pre-covid era. Mid-2021 I got a Milgauss Z-Blue. But in 2022 I've purchased four watches just this year! Zenith Chronomaster El-Primero, 2022 Air King, green IWC Big Pilot 43, and an SMP 300 all black Titanium. I notice you too are back active in the community @showcasewatches - I'm certainly far from ending my time in the hobby as well. lol 😅
Hello James, I just want to say I've never came across your channel before and ironically I find you doing your final video which I have just watched in its entirety and thoroughly enjoyed ! I really wish I'd found you years ago and had subscribed. All the best to you friend for the future .
I can definitely understand why you would want to shut it all down after attaining your perfect 3 watch collection. I don't know if there will ever be an exit watch for me though.
Great video. I am sorry that you are leaving as this is the first of your vids that I have seen. While I have been collecting watches since 1972, I still have not found specific favourites. There are just too many watches that highlight specific moments in my life. Best of luck to you!
James, I watched your video with great distress. I am to a long time collector of 40 years.( Own P.P, A.P.,V.C.,F.P. Journe, Rolex, etc.) However the last 5 have been rather difficult. Its no longer about the watch but rather the hype and business of watches. So I have decided to take a different road. On Dec. 7th I ordered a watch from a small German Co., D.Dornbluth and Sohne. I had it made to my specifications and likening. It will be mine and mine alone. No hype or wondering will it go up in value. I don't care. Its for the love of the watch. I was treated like a family friend rather than a customer. They took great pains to design the watch exactly like I wanted. It will take over a year to receive it, but that's O.K.( Better than a Steel Rolex) Maybe this would be something for you?
Take a break or exit sure, but do you really have to hide all this content, you've made some good relevant videos. Regardless, thanks for everything James, I appreciate your contribution to my entertainment in the hobby the last few years, you seemed like a good guy & your perspective was always valued. Enjoy, hope to see you around again 🍻 P.S. would love to see you & AC3 catch up when he goes to London!!
Great video, touches on so many important subjects we watch addicts have. It's an irony that someone as smart as this gentleman is going off social media because he is precisely the type of interesting personality you want to engage with on social media. All the best to his exit. I can understand his need to leave.
You are my favorite watch youtuber and I appreciate your philosophy and I think we all strive to leave the hobby and be content. I don't have the funds (yet) to have my perfect 3 watch collection, but I still have 3 watches that I adore. I will keep these three until I fund the watches I can upgrade. Ironically, the one I can see myself keeping is the g shock as it is a true beater and can't see the purpose of flipping that watch unless it breaks. I think people in this hobby and others have a collecting/hoarding problem, and I notice I have the most fulfilment with a small collection. My one takeaway is that I am not going to buy anything that I don't truly love and I want to have no complaints with, thus I would never sell it and lust after a different watch. Are you still lusting over the Omega SMPO. I think it would be perfect for you, my only concern would be the thickness. Enjoy your day and keep up the content!
Now this is where Iam at after years, I've been here from the beginning and this is the first time I've commented. This is one of my favourite channels as Iam also from the uk, so I could relate and have had some of the same watches which I finally narrowed it down to a 3 piece. I've even thought about a one piece collection, but a 3 piece is perfect and Iam at peace because I know my style also. Great content, I don't think you should remove your videos Broski you've helped alot of people with out knowing. Even helped me a few times on watches I was interested in. But nevertheless what ever you decide to do, I wish you the best of luck with your endeavours.👍🏾
Its true that if you keep following watches you are gonna want more. I have a rolex explorer, 1957 seamaster , vintage rolex oyster. a Patek calatrava and now I want a Cartier Cintree. It just doesn't stop.
Wow, sad to see you go my man. Keep safe and take care. You're right, Rolex became money and investment instead of a watch, which really makes it not fun.
I agree with the "minimalist" view of having one diver, one chronograph, one GMT and (in my case) one dress watch. Just have different tastes, personally. So I own a Submariner (114060), one Speedmaster Pro (hesalite), one Explorer II Polar (42mm) and one DateJust 41 (blue dial). That's ALL I ever need (ok, and a Seiko Turtle for when I do heavy jobs)!
Please don't leave the community though So nice to see your funny comments on Archie's stream (when I get time to watch one!).... what you've done is very sensible. I'll be doing the same after I get the right watch. Still can't decide and selling my 1861 Speedy... maybe Explorer 36mm or another omega will satisfy... so all the best to you.... love your collection
Finally, someone who’s making sense! I think every journey is supposed to make us wiser and your watch journey certainly did that for you. Enjoy your watches! Just leave your videos public, man! Cheers!
1675 gmt, 321 speedmaster and a modern no date submariner is my 3 watch collection + a patek dress watch (5170, preferably) for the dream 4th watch. Sad to see you go but I get it, there’s a very low chance that anything beats those three.
absolutely. That's a killer 3 watch collection. I always think a g shock is a must for the majority of people as a true beater and something you could destroy and have no problems replacing. Then again, some people don' count g shocks lol
Awesome video. It makes perfect sense why you would want to step away from the watch community. I think sometimes watch collecting becomes a bit obsessive but you have the good sense to step back and enjoy the watches you have, rather than relentlessly pursuing the next one. Best of luck to you.
Sorry to see you go I’ve enjoyed and learned so much from your thoughts and honesty good luck with your new ventures with the family and business as always love from London ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hate to see you go, but I completely understand your perspective. It's been great having watched you go through your watch journey, as we all have. It was extremely informative and helpful for me personally. Take care and good luck! Will keep on the lookout for your channel in case you change your mind!
Hi James , thank you for all your videos and watch talk over the years! Mate . Gutted to see you leaving but completely understand, you will be very much missed!! Mate . Wishing you and the family all the best for the future! Thanks again James . All the best nick
Excellent and extremely informative channel. Only just come across it so I'd best knuckle down and watch the videos before they get hidden as I'm currently swotting up on the Speedmaster range and the information here is awesome. Thanks for posting the video's
It was great meeting you James. Wish you well. Just wanted to say that I don’t think it’s worth looking at others and letting them dictate your feelings about a watch brand. I love Rolex and own Rolex and wear Rolex for only one reason, I love it. I love their history and I love the look of the watch. Whether it’s used by others to flex, I don’t care. Doesn’t make sense to live in a way that you can’t like it because others flex. That means no BMW or anything else “flashy” regardless of if you like it.
James , this is like the end of the movie “ the Truman show” with Jim Carrey. Your journey is just over. When it’s over it’s over. Your are a great guy and I always enjoyed having a non character level head around to hear some advice. Also admired your taste watches that wasn’t hype pieces. I wish you luck in the future and hope you are well , and enjoy your 3 piece with health. ✌🏻
First time viewing and pleasantly surprised you arrived to satiate the bug with the Ed White! Currently on a waiting list here in So Cal for the White and I agree with all your points. I too am fed up w the Rolex waiting game and speculation. I have most of the icons I want, Doxa Pro, Monaco, PAM, Tintin and eventually the Ed White will be in the box. My exit watch would be the Pepsi GMT but by the time I get there I will be retired and uninterested or maybe the price gets to sub 20K and somewhat reasonable. Good luck to you and enjoy your excellent collection of Omegas!
Good review James been enlightening. I agree it’s taken me years to realise the Rolex Explorer 114270 is and will be my one and done best Rolex period imho . Enjoy your horological retirement 😌
James - I wish you the very best of success! I will miss you in the hobby. I agree with you that the Explorer is the most Rolex one really ever needs. So minimal yet so versatile, dress up, dress down - great piece. These days, I’ve scaled back how much time I spend on the hobby; perhaps you can find a balance, no reason to go scorched earth. Even if just 1-2 hours a month; I hope to see you around. Ps - hope to grab a beer with this Covid gets behind us all. and Godspeed Blueshirt!
Will very much miss your episodes and opinions as we have a similar taste and watch line up. I do hope you return in some form. Will email you ref one of your watches to move on . Take care and good luck .Capt
Very pertinent points and definitely food for thought. Looks like you really hit the sweet spot with the 321 and the 1957 and what a collection should mean to you.
Hi James . I’m at a similar stage in my watch journey. I’m even thinking about a one watch collection and be done maybe older aqua terra or explorer 1.. Great three piece collection you’ll have all bases covered. All the best . Hopefully one day you’ll be back.
Justmyopinionuk followed you all the way through when Archie started to promote you. Your videos are really helpful as someone in the UK as well please keep them available. I get the feelings about Rolex im there as well, thinking about liquidating going back to my speedy pro and getting a new bathroom haha. The insurance and risk with Rolex its annoying. Good luck mate.
Ha! I'm after a 16753 root beer for my birth year watch. My logic there is I like the modern pepsi enought that it's likely to make it into my collection. So REAL ROOT BEER, it is!
Fair points for sure. I think this video will hit home to many people who invest too much time in this hobby. When I’m free now I’ll join in here and there. But definitely find myself turning on RUclips and thinking, what am I doing… Get out do some work!! Don’t get me wrong I praise what the community has to offer and a great bunch of people. I think it came a time much needed. Appreciating what I have on a personal level however, I still enjoy very much. Good on you James.
Wow this really made me realize how much time, money and effort I’m throwing away on this, I’m going to try to ease out of it also. The chase never ends.. it’s too stressful
I really hope you leave your videos up for awhile , I've enjoyed watching you on this journey . I hope you show up on the live streams occasionally , Thank you I'll miss seeing you .Best of luck in all you do 🙏
I valórate your honesty, as you I have a “ collection “ of few watches : speedmaster 1861 hesalite, speedmaster sandwich sapphire, speedmaster mark II, speedmaster reduced automatic, Rolex zephyr 1956, universal Geneva polerouter, doxa cricket 🦗, longines, dejo presage a couple Omega seamaster 1960 and an old omega, that is all. And we realized that with 5 grand I have to be in a “ list” for a Rolex entry level … I decided go for the homages…. I am so happy, with 5 grand you can buy more than fifteen San Martin, Pagani, etc etc and they are so nice in the wrist and accurate also , I am happy with this , intercalating de olds ones and the homages….this is at the end that really worth it We will miss your integrity and honesty The best for you Cheers
I was wearing for 40 years happily an Oyster Date since 1975 when nobody heard about the social media and enjoying wearing the watch every day without thinking about buying another watch. When I wear another watch that I am used to just doesn't feel right
I have a few watches but I know my watch is the Tissot T12 Panda dial It has been working perfectly (just a cleaning) since 1974 .. this is the only watch I will ever sell ... and I hope someone will take care of it later!
Please don't delete or hide your videos man! I've found many of your videos very interesting, informational and overall a good source of reference not only for me but for people I know in the watches hobby. In any case, thank you for all the content you have created and very, very good luck to you if we don't see you around again!
You'll be back, mate! You can check out anytime you like, but you can never leave!
Love that Eagles 🦅 song 🎶.
Horological mafia
ABC you wise wise person.
You are the perfect collector/hobbyist. You saw through Tag and Breitling for the crap they are and you weren’t seduced by the vile marketing drivel from Rolex. You were never as popular as the top few ranters (I also love Archie) but perhaps one of the most genuine. Looks like the family and your wife and TRW won out. This is as it should be. You will be missed. Don’t delete your videos.
See you in 4 months my friend !
What an interesting outlook on the hobby. It can be very time consuming (ironically) and take up too much time like you say what with making videos, live-streaming, watching livestreams, checking forum’s and internet magazine articles. Also your point that your attention can continually be focused on the latest watches on offer and whether you need them is very valid.
It is so refreshing to see that you have found your ideal trio of watches to enjoy in your life. You have obviously learned a lot about your tastes in watches and have had an enjoyable journey making good friends along the way and forging great memories.
Bravo to you my friend. Enjoy your watches and enjoy your life with your lovely family. There will always be chances to join in with the watch community when you wish my friend. ✊
Brother it's sad to see you go I wish you all the best in whatever you choose to do and I hope I get another chance to talk to you again take care and much love
Hi James. Gutted that you are leaving RUclips, it has been amazing to follow your journey and hopefully we will have that beer one day. I hope you keep your videos up. You have an amazing 3 piece collection mate and so pleased you got there (I am envious 😂). Wishing you the very best of luck, health and happiness for the future my friend 🙏🥃
I couldn't have said it better !
I love watches but the hobby took off during lockdown and before I knew it I had bought about 10 watches (Seiko, Casio, and Seiko homages). I have now settled on Seiko King Turtles and a few G-Shocks and will stop there - so I get it. Albeit my budget was much smaller!
Well done Showcase thanks for all the great vids! After all this I’m surprised you’re after a 16750. Those are great when you have a lot of watches, but when you only have a few you will be disappointed with the bracelet and clasp. So I don’t think the journey is quite over. Hope you will update us from time to time. Best of luck brother
Agreed. The pursuit of the 16750 is another rabbit hole in this cursed collecting hobby.
James you're the best,you will be missed. Best wishes
Mission complete! Smaller collections make more sense. Agree with you on how easy it is for this hobby to become all-consuming and sometimes excessively so. It never ends unless you do exactly as you’ve done. Like you, I’ve achieved what I set out to do in the beginning. Now I’m just playing with affordables around the periphery of a small collection of keepers. All the best for your onward journey 😊
Please don’t private this video, this is a great video. Take care.
This video with your thoughts is such a healthy reality check! At 25:50 'the journey starts off again' That for sure is what the marketers rely on and our consumer behavior. One is happy and content with what one has got until a new product is rolled out making one feel a bit less content with the watch than before and it's a never ending cycle which at the end of the day is why consumerism is great fun but will never be enough. I think the trick is to fill the void with a more creative hobby in addition to loving watches. I bought a Fender guitar and just trying to learn some chords for fun while I'm wearing my Explorer :-) just buying more and more watches will never be enough to make us as happy as when we create something, achieve something or build something like a business.
Well said that man
You nailed it. A true watch enthusiast will not be satisfied by owning a hyped up over priced watch. I went down a similar path with Rolex and learned that GS and Omega do it for me most. I got rid of most of my Rolex over the years and only kept a blue GV Milgauss as I find it to me the most interesting watch Rolex makes and the one Ive enjoyed wearing more than any of the other models! The 321 is absolutely amazing. From a watchmaking perspective, it craps all over anything Rolex makes at the same price point!
Hi James, I thoroughly enjoyed this video. The way you explain and breakdown your thought process which leads you to decisions is beautiful. I love the analytical breakdown and how you ultimately reached an informed conclusion.
I think you have found peace. The watch collecting journey can become a burden and weigh us down with the constant chase and constant attempts to figure it out.
Wishing you the very best in your future endeavours.
Jamie
I’ve enjoyed watching your videos over the years-hope you keep them up on RUclips! I’m almost done with the hobby as I basically have what I want. It’s a bigger world 🌎 above the rabbit 🐇 hole 🕳. You’ve been a great asset to the watch community and I wish you all the best 😎!
I bought a Seamaster Professional (2531.80) “Pierce Brosnan” a month ago and I’m really happy with it. I’m now lusting after the 42mm Planet Ocean (Skyfall), which is how I found your channel. Appreciate the video, brother.
Great video James. As always, I enjoyed your commentary. You got me thinking on a deeper level about this whole watch collecting game.
Lots of people are buying watches not because they love them but because they want to do social media grandstanding. Oh then there’s the “investment”.
Who are you kidding burbinghard making Tim write burgers and wearing Tim write explorer 2s
@@PALWE maybe there is more to watch collecting than just being a setup for my cannibalism? 😂
@@burbinghard set your chronograph to give Tim a 60 second head start before you chase him with your rifle into the woods
Good luck in your new adventures!
I can relate. Good luck James, enjoy your watches and all the best with all of the other great things life has to offer
I’ve just found you & your stopping! Everything you’re saying is exactly my thoughts, I have stopped collecting now owning 63 watches, but I now wear my Steinharts most the time now,but my favourite is my 39 explorer,I also don’t like ceramic
Watches aside, you've also brought many of us plenty of fits and giggles across a number of channels you that you also support. For that we all thank you 👍😂😎
This video has helped me so much since I am new to watch collecting. You right it is consuming my time too much. Thanks again and good luck with everything.
I'm sorry to hear, I just picked up the omega aqua terra worldtimer.. Enjoy your watch journey my friend.
Very beautiful William. I'd love to get a closer look at the Aqua Terra Worldtimer in the near future. From visuals, it looks like a fantastic watch on a very comfortable strap?
I really hope you don't delete too many of your videos, you've been a resource for me as well I'm sure for many others. Good luck and be well!
Your horological journey is truly complete, and your a wiser man for it.
Enjoy the rest of your life!
Your knowledge on Omega is highly commendable. Safe to say you're the 🤴 of Ω
You are an inspiration to me , and your chicken conquests . My friend.
Well done James, that is a killer 3 piece collection and very thoughtful reasons why you own them. Wear them in good health and god speed!
Damn James, I'm sorry to hear this. It's been great listening to you for years and watching your vids and being able to learn through your reviews and from your experiences. I think you can never truly leave the watch hobby and hope this is not actually the last video we see. I'm sure there will be more watches that come out that you will love and want to get in the future. You've also had a lot of watches come and go, which I'm jealous and envious of, but sometimes it's good to just take a step back and enjoy what you have. And I completely agree with having a streamlined collection. It really allows you to enjoy and focus in on what you really want. Whatever you decide I hope you will continue to enjoy your watches and wish you nothing but the best.
The one thing I would ask is don't private your videos. I think you should keep them up as there are many that people can go back and watch and learn from them the same way I did and I'm sure others did. Cheers!
Thank you, James! Congratulations!!! 😀
Time itself is the most precious piece, not the timepiece.
And that’s the happy owner of the new Explorer 36 TT writing. Not sure about TT, but as for Explorer I being the best and self sufficient - absolutely.
Would definitely go for a gmt in Explorer II, but it’s too big for a lady. Planning to get a Speedy FOIS. The same size as in Ed White, but a much more affordable option.
And yes, I also intend to have 3-4 pieces that will do all the job. Maybe shrink to Explorer I only one day.
Thank you for showing the light! On my way 😉
James always you are on our hearts and thoughts as great person represents everything about joy, honesty and moderation in this hoppy ✌️from Dubai
You should atleast keep this video up. Very few youtubers talk about the watch madness exit, and this is a well thought out, brilliant way to show how the journy can end and do not have to be some sort of perpetual disease. I think this video can help others for sure.
I've re-watched this just today, as recently my addiction in this hobby has gone up tenfold - purchased my first good watch in 2016 (Explorer 214270), second in 2019 (Speedy FOIS) and third in Jan 2020 (Tudor BB58)... this was the pre-covid era. Mid-2021 I got a Milgauss Z-Blue. But in 2022 I've purchased four watches just this year! Zenith Chronomaster El-Primero, 2022 Air King, green IWC Big Pilot 43, and an SMP 300 all black Titanium. I notice you too are back active in the community @showcasewatches - I'm certainly far from ending my time in the hobby as well. lol 😅
Thank you James for sharing ur Journey into horology, it’s been enlightening buddy
Hello James, I just want to say I've never came across your channel before and ironically I find you doing your final video which I have just watched in its entirety and thoroughly enjoyed ! I really wish I'd found you years ago and had subscribed. All the best to you friend for the future .
James - thank you for your videos and your watch talk. I wish you and you family all the best. you will be missed. Take care.
I can definitely understand why you would want to shut it all down after attaining your perfect 3 watch collection. I don't know if there will ever be an exit watch for me though.
Bro just take a break. Please don’t leave us!!
Great video. I am sorry that you are leaving as this is the first of your vids that I have seen. While I have been collecting watches since 1972, I still have not found specific favourites. There are just too many watches that highlight specific moments in my life. Best of luck to you!
Thanks James for sharing your journey. All the best to you and your family and happy Christmas 🎄
James, I watched your video with great distress. I am to a long time collector of 40 years.( Own P.P, A.P.,V.C.,F.P. Journe, Rolex, etc.) However the last 5 have been rather difficult. Its no longer about the watch but rather the hype and business of watches.
So I have decided to take a different road. On Dec. 7th I ordered a watch from a small German Co., D.Dornbluth and Sohne. I had it made to my specifications and likening. It will be mine and mine alone. No hype or wondering will it go up in value. I don't care. Its for the love of the watch.
I was treated like a family friend rather than a customer. They took great pains to design the watch exactly like I wanted. It will take over a year to receive it, but that's O.K.( Better than a Steel Rolex)
Maybe this would be something for you?
Godspeed James! From an Old fan of the Channel, thank you for your advise and all watchnut memories you have shared!
Amazing watch journey, James... you've been blessed as we all have to enjoy the love of time. Cheers mate and all the best in your future successes!
I wish you a nice, happy and healthy life buddy. Loved your video's
Take a break or exit sure, but do you really have to hide all this content, you've made some good relevant videos.
Regardless, thanks for everything James, I appreciate your contribution to my entertainment in the hobby the last few years, you seemed like a good guy & your perspective was always valued. Enjoy, hope to see you around again 🍻
P.S. would love to see you & AC3 catch up when he goes to London!!
Great video, touches on so many important subjects we watch addicts have. It's an irony that someone as smart as this gentleman is going off social media because he is precisely the type of interesting personality you want to engage with on social media. All the best to his exit. I can understand his need to leave.
You are my favorite watch youtuber and I appreciate your philosophy and I think we all strive to leave the hobby and be content. I don't have the funds (yet) to have my perfect 3 watch collection, but I still have 3 watches that I adore. I will keep these three until I fund the watches I can upgrade. Ironically, the one I can see myself keeping is the g shock as it is a true beater and can't see the purpose of flipping that watch unless it breaks. I think people in this hobby and others have a collecting/hoarding problem, and I notice I have the most fulfilment with a small collection. My one takeaway is that I am not going to buy anything that I don't truly love and I want to have no complaints with, thus I would never sell it and lust after a different watch. Are you still lusting over the Omega SMPO. I think it would be perfect for you, my only concern would be the thickness. Enjoy your day and keep up the content!
@@TheWatchDoggg The SMPO's thickness and price are issues. I'm rather fond of my SPB143 and find myself wearing most of the time. Best.
@@JeffreyMcMahon that's fantastic, that is a gorgeous watch. Even people that aren't a big fan of seiko enjoy that watch. Kind regards
Now this is where Iam at after years, I've been here from the beginning and this is the first time I've commented. This is one of my favourite channels as Iam also from the uk, so I could relate and have had some of the same watches which I finally narrowed it down to a 3 piece. I've even thought about a one piece collection, but a 3 piece is perfect and Iam at peace because I know my style also.
Great content, I don't think you should remove your videos Broski you've helped alot of people with out knowing. Even helped me a few times on watches I was interested in.
But nevertheless what ever you decide to do, I wish you the best of luck with your endeavours.👍🏾
I hope you change your mind. I enjoyed your videos and you were a great help to buffering AC3. Best!
Its true that if you keep following watches you are gonna want more. I have a rolex explorer, 1957 seamaster , vintage rolex oyster. a Patek calatrava and now I want a Cartier Cintree. It just doesn't stop.
I am pretty sorry to learn that you quit. I learnt a lot of from you. But I respect your decision. Hope that change your mind.
All my respect
Levent
Watchmaking is a better hobby as is it is much deeper than simply buying watches. Buying and collecting stuff is not creative, it's just buying stuff.
This is amazing; this might be the first time we've witnessed someone come to the end of "the journey"
It never ends 😂 but Great channel. Hope you leave your videos up for information to buyers. Loved your content
Wow, sad to see you go my man. Keep safe and take care. You're right, Rolex became money and investment instead of a watch, which really makes it not fun.
I agree with the "minimalist" view of having one diver, one chronograph, one GMT and (in my case) one dress watch. Just have different tastes, personally. So I own a Submariner (114060), one Speedmaster Pro (hesalite), one Explorer II Polar (42mm) and one DateJust 41 (blue dial). That's ALL I ever need (ok, and a Seiko Turtle for when I do heavy jobs)!
Great collection!
You’ve hit horological Nirvana. Best of luck and thanks for your contribution to this space.
Please don't leave the community though
So nice to see your funny comments on Archie's stream (when I get time to watch one!).... what you've done is very sensible. I'll be doing the same after I get the right watch. Still can't decide and selling my 1861 Speedy... maybe Explorer 36mm or another omega will satisfy... so all the best to you.... love your collection
Finally, someone who’s making sense! I think every journey is supposed to make us wiser and your watch journey certainly did that for you. Enjoy your watches!
Just leave your videos public, man! Cheers!
1675 gmt, 321 speedmaster and a modern no date submariner is my 3 watch collection + a patek dress watch (5170, preferably) for the dream 4th watch. Sad to see you go but I get it, there’s a very low chance that anything beats those three.
absolutely. That's a killer 3 watch collection. I always think a g shock is a must for the majority of people as a true beater and something you could destroy and have no problems replacing. Then again, some people don' count g shocks lol
Will miss you James! I completely understand with RUclips and the hobby consuming your time. Enjoy life! 🍻👍
Awesome video. It makes perfect sense why you would want to step away from the watch community. I think sometimes watch collecting becomes a bit obsessive but you have the good sense to step back and enjoy the watches you have, rather than relentlessly pursuing the next one. Best of luck to you.
Sorry to see you go I’ve enjoyed and learned so much from your thoughts and honesty good luck with your new ventures with the family and business as always love from London ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This sucks, I've thoroughly enjoyed your channel learned a lot. Thanks fr sharing all this stuff with us.
Hate to see you go, but I completely understand your perspective. It's been great having watched you go through your watch journey, as we all have. It was extremely informative and helpful for me personally. Take care and good luck! Will keep on the lookout for your channel in case you change your mind!
I'll always remember you for giving the finger to the AD 😁
Thanks James
I’ve only just started watching your channel the past few months and now you are going! Good luck in whatever you do and do it in good health mate. 👍🏻
Terrible news love the vids take care all the best
Hi James , thank you for all your videos and watch talk over the years! Mate . Gutted to see you leaving but completely understand, you will be very much missed!! Mate . Wishing you and the family all the best for the future! Thanks again James . All the best nick
I wish you all the best in life, take care brother
I’m glad you’ve decided to keep your videos up James. I’ve been back to watch this one 4 times already!
Best of luck on the next chapter mate! My favourite watch channel! Was good whilst it lasted!
That Ed White is incredible. So cool.
I have the same taste in watches as you. It was good to see an omega fan in the mist of Rolex hype train. OMEGAAAA!!
Excellent and extremely informative channel.
Only just come across it so I'd best knuckle down and watch the videos before they get hidden as I'm currently swotting up on the Speedmaster range and the information here is awesome.
Thanks for posting the video's
Nothing wrong with just wanting to enjoy things. Have a good one!
Wow great video ur be miss ive got on to tudor and bulova lunar pilot and g shock 😀 thank you 😊
It was great meeting you James. Wish you well.
Just wanted to say that I don’t think it’s worth looking at others and letting them dictate your feelings about a watch brand. I love Rolex and own Rolex and wear Rolex for only one reason, I love it. I love their history and I love the look of the watch. Whether it’s used by others to flex, I don’t care. Doesn’t make sense to live in a way that you can’t like it because others flex. That means no BMW or anything else “flashy” regardless of if you like it.
Thank you for all your great videos. They are some of the most informative and interesting on RUclips.
James , this is like the end of the movie “ the Truman show” with Jim Carrey. Your journey is just over. When it’s over it’s over. Your are a great guy and I always enjoyed having a non character level head around to hear some advice. Also admired your taste watches that wasn’t hype pieces. I wish you luck in the future and hope you are well , and enjoy your 3 piece with health. ✌🏻
First time viewing and pleasantly surprised you arrived to satiate the bug with the Ed White! Currently on a waiting list here in So Cal for the White and I agree with all your points. I too am fed up w the Rolex waiting game and speculation. I have most of the icons I want, Doxa Pro, Monaco, PAM, Tintin and eventually the Ed White will be in the box. My exit watch would be the Pepsi GMT but by the time I get there I will be retired and uninterested or maybe the price gets to sub 20K and somewhat reasonable. Good luck to you and enjoy your excellent collection of Omegas!
Good review James been enlightening. I agree it’s taken me years to realise the Rolex Explorer 114270 is and will be my one and done best Rolex period imho . Enjoy your horological retirement 😌
James - I wish you the very best of success! I will miss you in the hobby. I agree with you that the Explorer is the most Rolex one really ever needs. So minimal yet so versatile, dress up, dress down - great piece. These days, I’ve scaled back how much time I spend on the hobby; perhaps you can find a balance, no reason to go scorched earth. Even if just 1-2 hours a month; I hope to see you around.
Ps - hope to grab a beer with this Covid gets behind us all. and Godspeed Blueshirt!
Will very much miss your episodes and opinions as we have a similar taste and watch line up. I do hope you return in some form. Will email you ref one of your watches to move on . Take care and good luck .Capt
Very pertinent points and definitely food for thought. Looks like you really hit the sweet spot with the 321 and the 1957 and what a collection should mean to you.
Hi James . I’m at a similar stage in my watch journey. I’m even thinking about a one watch collection and be done maybe older aqua terra or explorer 1.. Great three piece collection you’ll have all bases covered. All the best . Hopefully one day you’ll be back.
Justmyopinionuk followed you all the way through when Archie started to promote you. Your videos are really helpful as someone in the UK as well please keep them available. I get the feelings about Rolex im there as well, thinking about liquidating going back to my speedy pro and getting a new bathroom haha. The insurance and risk with Rolex its annoying. Good luck mate.
Ha! I'm after a 16753 root beer for my birth year watch. My logic there is I like the modern pepsi enought that it's likely to make it into my collection. So REAL ROOT BEER, it is!
Fair points for sure.
I think this video will hit home to many people who invest too much time in this hobby.
When I’m free now I’ll join in here and there. But definitely find myself turning on RUclips and thinking, what am I doing…
Get out do some work!!
Don’t get me wrong I praise what the community has to offer and a great bunch of people.
I think it came a time much needed.
Appreciating what I have on a personal level however, I still enjoy very much.
Good on you James.
Best video I've watched in a long time, well done mate. Best of luck to the future. Regards Rosco
Wow this really made me realize how much time, money and effort I’m throwing away on this, I’m going to try to ease out of it also. The chase never ends.. it’s too stressful
I really hope you leave your videos up for awhile , I've enjoyed watching you on this journey . I hope you show up on the live streams occasionally ,
Thank you I'll miss seeing you .Best of luck in all you do 🙏
I valórate your honesty, as you I have a “ collection “ of few watches : speedmaster 1861 hesalite, speedmaster sandwich sapphire, speedmaster mark II, speedmaster reduced automatic, Rolex zephyr 1956, universal Geneva polerouter, doxa cricket 🦗, longines, dejo presage a couple Omega seamaster 1960 and an old omega, that is all.
And we realized that with 5 grand I have to be in a “ list” for a Rolex entry level … I decided go for the homages…. I am so happy, with 5 grand you can buy more than fifteen San Martin, Pagani, etc etc and they are so nice in the wrist and accurate also , I am happy with this , intercalating de olds ones and the homages….this is at the end that really worth it
We will miss your integrity and honesty
The best for you
Cheers
Cool vid. See you over at Archies.
Godspeed james...
All the best. Enjoyed your content over the years, best wishes to you and yours.
Thank you for all your content. Good luck!
Thanks for all to our content over the years!!!
I was wearing for 40 years happily an Oyster Date since 1975 when nobody heard about the social media and enjoying wearing the watch every day without thinking about buying another watch. When I wear another watch that I am used to just doesn't feel right
I understand, if I could get my dream watch I’d leave the hobby too.
I have a few watches but I know my watch is the Tissot T12 Panda dial
It has been working perfectly (just a cleaning) since 1974 .. this is the only watch I will ever sell ... and I hope someone will take care of it later!