The Breitling Premier is one of the most stunning watches, especially the Datora. I got myself the blue dial, normal Premier and there’s no way I’m selling it as it’s my wedding watch. Stunning piece and a shame you got rid of it. Either way, happy new year!
The Breitling is stunning,and not what you usually think of when the brand is mentioned.I don't have mega expensive watches,but enjoy them just the same.
I bought a new Submariner Date around 1999. Wore it a few times. In 2001, I listed it for sale and it sat on the sales forums for 3 months at $2600 until I finally got one response, from a dealer. That's how little interest there was in watches back then. Wish I still had the watch. Happy New Year, Bruce!
Fantastic idea for a video. Fully embracing your flipper persona lol😂. I thought maybe the nomos club sport would sneak on this list. Cheers to another year of amazing watch videos, thank you Bruce!
I'll be honest, I'm surprised the Hulk didn't make the top three. There were soooo many memories you made in that watch with your family and on your adventures. I don't think I could have willingly sold a watch like that
Most people have never picked up and Calatrava so they don't know how fragile they are...The Datora is a more rugged and wearable version of a Calatrava. Breitling is making a big comeback because people are maturing and could care less what others think. Great video
Hi Bruce, what about your Seiko sarb 33 ? Thats the one that got me into buying my first mechanical watch since childhood, a sarb 66 which i do regret selling...
Happy New Year Bruce!! ❤ I will never ever sell my 2 Zenith El Primero watches again. ❤. Both are neo vintage one is a rectangular the other a rainbow diver 😊. Another one I will also never sell again is my entry level Panerai PAM 0380 ❤ I traded all 3 but realized WTF did I do, I was fortunate enough to get them back from the person I traded with
5:35 that Zenith Defy skeleton is on my list. I adore that watch. I always hated skeletons, but I need that one. The pink Breitling is nice as well, but I would rather have an El Primero.
Hello old friend @BruceWilliams. Yes, I dearly missed that Seiko Pogue also. I have asked myself many times why I let it go. Especially, where that watch was originated. Happy New Year to all and send my best wishes to all Utahns.
OMG, Bruce!! I can't believe you sold those 3 watches!! Feel better? Anyway, I feel the pain. I think I regret selling my BALL Hydrocarbon Engineer Racer very much. Oddly enough, even though I have flipped alot of nice watches, the 2 others I miss the most are an Ocean Crawler Navigator and a Coke Helson Shark Diver.
I generally don't regret flipping as I like to experience as many watches as possible and flipping is the only way I can justify funding the hobby. I can definitely say I've regretted selling some pieces too cheaply though! I did have a really cool zodiac pan am edition that I flipped too quickly and I wish I'd held on to it but I'm not heart broken over it.
The Datora is incredible, so it's understandable. No regrets yet, but I almost sold my GS SBGN003 which I know would've been a mistake. I'm tempted to sell my CK859, but I'm hesitant.
I have a small watch collection but a large gun collection. I went in to my local gun shop to sell a "cheap" Romainian AK for something I can't recall. The old timer behind the counter said you should save for what you want and hold on to your guns because you'll regret letting them go. After that AK I've never sold to move up on a piece.
Oh I know the struggle of chasing "grails". I look now at Zenith panda el premiero 21 and i absolutely adore it on my wrist but at the same time I love a 300 $ micros in my collection. It drove me to conclusion that the best way to enjoy any collecting hobby is not to hoard but to cycle while keeping a hard line overall budget.
Thanks Bruce. I have watches I’m ready to flip, but I haven’t figured out how to do it in a safe, hassle free way. What are your suggestions for how best to sell a watch?
I was not surprised to hear you say the Zenith Defy. I remember the way you talked about it in one of your old videos or live streams. It definitely seemed like you loved that watch. I always wanted to ask you how your day date is holding up to wear and tear. I really love the way yellow gold watches look but I am apprehensive about putting scratches on a gold watch band. I have a tendency to hit my forearm against the door lock strike plate or the edge of my car door. Do you find that your day date is significantly softer than a stainless steel watch? I will probably still buy one anyway.
Yeah, the day date is still pretty but definitely lots of hairlines and one good dent. Gold is super soft there is no way to keep it pristine, even if you babied it
Two watches I miss. I had a manual wind calender watch I found for 5 dollars at a yard sale. I sold it for like 380 so made a crazy return to put toward a differnt watch but for the price I paid I should have just kept it because it was such a cool find. I also miss my tag heuer night diver 1500 l, however; a 1000 is really what I want so only it go.
My SKX’s. Had I known they were gonna be collectible, I would have never flipped all 5 of them for chump change on WUS. That said I would never pay today’s asking price for an SKX. It’s a cheap watch, and its price should reflect that.
A rabbit hole or a never ending journey depending on how you refined it, for me, a watch that simply can go anywhere and do anything and just one is what people need, a sound mechanical watch(any makes) run +/-10 sec/day, with 50 m water resistant and weight under 80 gr is a perfect choice. The heavy and chunky diver style watches aren't everyone a cup of tea.
#1 Regret: JLC Reverso Tribute to 1931 I would be interested to hear what your sometime co-presenter regrets selling. You all have a good chemistry. Happy New Year.
Flipped my IWC Pilot’s Chronograph Le Petite Prince three years ago and will probably end up buying another - on the upside it was a 43mm and the 41mm will probably be a better fit, sounds like I’m on my way to the AD doesn’t it??
In terms of looks the 033 is a classic. I am considering referring you to the DOJ for your crime. On the other hand I want my keepers to be the 'full package' - so the loss of a 3Hz movement is not really a crime. (In full disclosure I am considering letting go my SARX055 - the so-called 'baby snowflake'. It is the best dial I own but the stuttering 3Hz movement is a real turn-off).
@ i completely understand and that’s kind of why I sold it but it’s just such a great design and a robust watch for what I paid for it at the time. I really did enjoy wearing it and miss it so much when I see someone post a picture of it 😢
I think you should’ve kept your Rolex and got rid of all that other stuff. Maybe keep the brightening pink Dail gotta go. I thought I agree that they are not investing Watches you don’t spend thousands of thousands of dollars on a watch. It is an investment.
You've certainly had a lot of different pieces Bruce and I think we've all probably regretted selling some and also buying others at one time or another. I'm not a flipper myself but it's been interesting watching your collecting journey. Think you definitely left the best till last . Not really a Breitling fan but the Datora is a stunning piece. A sporty and vintage vibe complication all in one. Like you I' m a bracelet guy but think it probably suits a high quality strap best. All the best to you and your family for the New Year, I'll beat you to it though over here in the UK!
Not surprised to see zenith on the list. I’ve had multiple and have sold them all as well… stings every time, looking back on it. Such an amazing and under appreciated brand. Honestly, same goes for Breitling.
I regret selling my IWC BP43 blue dial. Arguably too big for my wrist, but it was absolutely gorgeous; simplicity executed to perfection. Question re the Datora and the Zenith - were they legible?
I've sold several watches that I miss but my one true regret is a Zenith Rainbow Chrono with white dial and steel bezel. Beautiful watch and a wonderful El Primero movement.
I haven’t flipped anything yet. Not that there’s nothing that deserves the gong. Much love for your former Pogue. Condolences. Elements of that salmon Breitling are just a bit too antique imo. Do love the broken numerals as they work with other, slightly more modern models. And the old gold Rolex too much of a cliche’. Heartiest best wishes for a Happy New Year.!
I am convinced that finding the perfect collection amongst watch enthusiasts is an impossible dream. Too much variety to limit our desires! A few you sold were a surprise. Personally I would never wear a gold Rolex but always admire those I see in the wild. Your DD is the bomb and one you MUST never sell :)
My the most regrettable watch mistake was refusal of buying of AP RO in stainless steel. I was in queue for two years and received a call in January 2022. I thought then: 2022 is going to be a tough year for a guy from Moscow, so I can’t afford spending $20k for a watch.
It is a good thing that taste is in the eye of the beholder. All three watches are not my cup of tea and I would not regret them. I still cannot believe you let go the VC Overseas.
The Breitling Premier is one of the most stunning watches, especially the Datora. I got myself the blue dial, normal Premier and there’s no way I’m selling it as it’s my wedding watch. Stunning piece and a shame you got rid of it. Either way, happy new year!
That is a great wedding watch!
I normally contemplate on a specific watch for months before I purchase. Own 20 watches and have never sold a single piece. Happy New Year Bruce! 🎉
Datora ❤ specially this dial 👌
Such a great dial in every way
The Breitling is stunning,and not what you usually think of when the brand is mentioned.I don't have mega expensive watches,but enjoy them just the same.
I have a soft spot for many affordable and mid level prices watches. Great fun to be had regardless of price
Liking the side-part. Happy New Year, Bruce.
I bought a new Submariner Date around 1999. Wore it a few times. In 2001, I listed it for sale and it sat on the sales forums for 3 months at $2600 until I finally got one response, from a dealer. That's how little interest there was in watches back then. Wish I still had the watch. Happy New Year, Bruce!
That was a different era. How far the Rolex market has come in 20 years
Fantastic idea for a video. Fully embracing your flipper persona lol😂. I thought maybe the nomos club sport would sneak on this list. Cheers to another year of amazing watch videos, thank you Bruce!
Love that one too. Working on another video where that watch is heavily mentioned
Great picks buddy. It's good to reflect on watches in the past you've enjoyed because it can help shape where you go with future collecting
I'll be honest, I'm surprised the Hulk didn't make the top three. There were soooo many memories you made in that watch with your family and on your adventures.
I don't think I could have willingly sold a watch like that
That one is up there, but I don't miss it
Most people have never picked up and Calatrava so they don't know how fragile they are...The Datora is a more rugged and wearable version of a Calatrava. Breitling is making a big comeback because people are maturing and could care less what others think. Great video
Having moved watches out for various reasons i miss all of them. I miss having a road map showing my journey. Wish i would have kept them all.
Hi Bruce, what about your Seiko sarb 33 ? Thats the one that got me into buying my first mechanical watch since childhood, a sarb 66 which i do regret selling...
Happy New Year Bruce!! ❤ I will never ever sell my 2 Zenith El Primero watches again. ❤. Both are neo vintage one is a rectangular the other a rainbow diver 😊. Another one I will also never sell again is my entry level Panerai PAM 0380 ❤ I traded all 3 but realized WTF did I do, I was fortunate enough to get them back from the person I traded with
5:35 that Zenith Defy skeleton is on my list. I adore that watch. I always hated skeletons, but I need that one. The pink Breitling is nice as well, but I would rather have an El Primero.
Hello old friend @BruceWilliams. Yes, I dearly missed that Seiko Pogue also. I have asked myself many times why I let it go. Especially, where that watch was originated. Happy New Year to all and send my best wishes to all Utahns.
OMG, Bruce!! I can't believe you sold those 3 watches!! Feel better? Anyway, I feel the pain. I think I regret selling my BALL Hydrocarbon Engineer Racer very much. Oddly enough, even though I have flipped alot of nice watches, the 2 others I miss the most are an Ocean Crawler Navigator and a Coke Helson Shark Diver.
Yes, when I put on say the day date, I totally don't miss them
I definitely understand moving through pieces but I dont understand moving through pieces you love! I thought I was going to see the hulk on this list
My issue is I love too many. I don't mind moving on after time
I generally don't regret flipping as I like to experience as many watches as possible and flipping is the only way I can justify funding the hobby. I can definitely say I've regretted selling some pieces too cheaply though! I did have a really cool zodiac pan am edition that I flipped too quickly and I wish I'd held on to it but I'm not heart broken over it.
The Datora is incredible, so it's understandable. No regrets yet, but I almost sold my GS SBGN003 which I know would've been a mistake. I'm tempted to sell my CK859, but I'm hesitant.
I have a small watch collection but a large gun collection. I went in to my local gun shop to sell a "cheap" Romainian AK for something I can't recall. The old timer behind the counter said you should save for what you want and hold on to your guns because you'll regret letting them go. After that AK I've never sold to move up on a piece.
Happy New Year Bruce!
Happy new year!
Happy New Year to you and your family Bruce!
Happy new year Scott!
Good talk as always.
Can you share advices on the process of flipping/selling pieces?
I can: Do not lose too much money.
Ill add it to the list of planned videos to make
Zenith chronomaster original reverse panda
Such a cool watch
Looks stunning
Wears amazingly and a sweet movement
Oh I know the struggle of chasing "grails". I look now at Zenith panda el premiero 21 and i absolutely adore it on my wrist but at the same time I love a 300 $ micros in my collection. It drove me to conclusion that the best way to enjoy any collecting hobby is not to hoard but to cycle while keeping a hard line overall budget.
Great comment
I had a cushion case Rolex from 1928 that I regret selling. I would love to buy it back.
Good to hear from you Bruce! Happy New Year for 2025! 🎉
Happy New Year!
Thanks Bruce. I have watches I’m ready to flip, but I haven’t figured out how to do it in a safe, hassle free way. What are your suggestions for how best to sell a watch?
There is no completely safe and hassle free way imo. Ill have to make a video about this in the future for best tips
@ I’d love that, Bruce!
I was not surprised to hear you say the Zenith Defy. I remember the way you talked about it in one of your old videos or live streams. It definitely seemed like you loved that watch.
I always wanted to ask you how your day date is holding up to wear and tear. I really love the way yellow gold watches look but I am apprehensive about putting scratches on a gold watch band. I have a tendency to hit my forearm against the door lock strike plate or the edge of my car door. Do you find that your day date is significantly softer than a stainless steel watch? I will probably still buy one anyway.
Yeah, the day date is still pretty but definitely lots of hairlines and one good dent. Gold is super soft there is no way to keep it pristine, even if you babied it
Two watches I miss. I had a manual wind calender watch I found for 5 dollars at a yard sale. I sold it for like 380 so made a crazy return to put toward a differnt watch but for the price I paid I should have just kept it because it was such a cool find. I also miss my tag heuer night diver 1500 l, however; a 1000 is really what I want so only it go.
The night diver is one of my favorite Tag Heuers
My SKX’s. Had I known they were gonna be collectible, I would have never flipped all 5 of them for chump change on WUS. That said I would never pay today’s asking price for an SKX. It’s a cheap watch, and its price should reflect that.
Thanks for all the great content in 2024.
A rabbit hole or a never ending journey depending on how you refined it, for me, a watch that simply can go anywhere and do anything and just one is what people need, a sound mechanical watch(any makes) run +/-10 sec/day, with 50 m water resistant and weight under 80 gr is a perfect choice.
The heavy and chunky diver style watches aren't everyone a cup of tea.
#1 Regret: JLC Reverso Tribute to 1931
I would be interested to hear what your sometime co-presenter regrets selling. You all have a good chemistry. Happy New Year.
I'm editing our most recent video and look forward to many more with Robert. He's a good dude
Embracing your flipper side is essential.
Good thing about selling regret is you can always re-buy!!!
Flipped my IWC Pilot’s Chronograph Le Petite Prince three years ago and will probably end up buying another - on the upside it was a 43mm and the 41mm will probably be a better fit, sounds like I’m on my way to the AD doesn’t it??
I'm rooting for you
The watch I regret selling the most is also not really expensive at all but now prices are really stupid for the watch it is- the sarb033
In terms of looks the 033 is a classic. I am considering referring you to the DOJ for your crime. On the other hand I want my keepers to be the 'full package' - so the loss of a 3Hz movement is not really a crime. (In full disclosure I am considering letting go my SARX055 - the so-called 'baby snowflake'. It is the best dial I own but the stuttering 3Hz movement is a real turn-off).
@ i completely understand and that’s kind of why I sold it but it’s just such a great design and a robust watch for what I paid for it at the time. I really did enjoy wearing it and miss it so much when I see someone post a picture of it 😢
When the prices go crazy it keeps me from a rebuy
Bruce, you don’t collect watches, you collect watch experiences!
Haha that is true
Does flipping mean making money on each “flip” or is it a cost each time to just for the pleasure?
i bought this exact Zenith in Juli 2024 (after i watched all your videos of the watch) and am still in LOVE with it. Happy & healthy new Year btw^^
Such a good one!
I think you should’ve kept your Rolex and got rid of all that other stuff. Maybe keep the brightening pink Dail gotta go. I thought I agree that they are not investing Watches you don’t spend thousands of thousands of dollars on a watch. It is an investment.
I’m a never seller. But I also move slowly in the market and experience far fewer pieces. But the ones I own are rich with memories
New Year, new hair style 😎
BW !! a new 'do ? interesting.the gold day date - that is a GREAT piece. have a wonderful 2025 . peace ~ JDS/CT
You've certainly had a lot of different pieces Bruce and I think we've all probably regretted selling some and also buying others at one time or another. I'm not a flipper myself but it's been interesting watching your collecting journey. Think you definitely left the best till last . Not really a Breitling fan but the Datora is a stunning piece. A sporty and vintage vibe complication all in one. Like you I' m a bracelet guy but think it probably suits a high quality strap best. All the best to you and your family for the New Year, I'll beat you to it though over here in the UK!
Happy new year Mark!
Once a flipper, always a flipper!
Buying too many watches too quickly without thinking about what makes me like some more than others
Your review convinced me to pick up the Defy. I love it! I have had a regret or two for watches that I have let go. Sadly we cant keep them all.
Truth
Great idea for a video, and I learned a few things about you. Happy New Year Bruce!
That Zenith is so badass
Not surprised to see zenith on the list. I’ve had multiple and have sold them all as well… stings every time, looking back on it. Such an amazing and under appreciated brand. Honestly, same goes for Breitling.
Have a great New year Bruce.
My biggest watch regret was flipping my Sinn u50 mop and Sinn r500 both limited .
I regret selling my IWC BP43 blue dial. Arguably too big for my wrist, but it was absolutely gorgeous; simplicity executed to perfection. Question re the Datora and the Zenith - were they legible?
To answer- yes. They had surprising contrast. The big pilot is a goal of mine
You only have so much love to give and only have 2 wrists so watches come and go!
I've sold several watches that I miss but my one true regret is a Zenith Rainbow Chrono with white dial and steel bezel. Beautiful watch and a wonderful El Primero movement.
I haven’t flipped anything yet. Not that there’s nothing that deserves the gong.
Much love for your former Pogue. Condolences.
Elements of that salmon Breitling are just a bit too antique imo. Do love the broken numerals as they work with other, slightly more modern models. And the old gold Rolex too much of a cliche’.
Heartiest best wishes for a Happy New Year.!
I am convinced that finding the perfect collection amongst watch enthusiasts is an impossible dream. Too much variety to limit our desires! A few you sold were a surprise. Personally I would never wear a gold Rolex but always admire those I see in the wild. Your DD is the bomb and one you MUST never sell :)
I always loved that Breitling Bruce oh if I could have a few of the ones I’ve sold. 😊
Oh Bruce that Breitling is beautiful .. I’d miss that more than some of the women I’ve loved 😂
My the most regrettable watch mistake was refusal of buying of AP RO in stainless steel.
I was in queue for two years and received a call in January 2022.
I thought then:
2022 is going to be a tough year for a guy from Moscow, so I can’t afford spending $20k for a watch.
It is a good thing that taste is in the eye of the beholder. All three watches are not my cup of tea and I would not regret them. I still cannot believe you let go the VC Overseas.
If I ever bought an overseas again it would be a dual time
The Datora is up there on my list for 2025! ✌🏻
Flipping is all part of the hobby. Been there done that many times.
The Datora is awesome. Who cares if someone thinks it looks like a Patek?
I usually regret more not buying a watch than selling one
That Thailand Seiko is so ugly it’s almost flipped to looking cool
That is the magic of the monster haha
First
Your step parent must be so proud.
When you see one of your grails in the thumbnail (b25 datora in salmon) thats never a good sign haha 🫣. Happy New Year, and thanks for the content!