Hi everyone, thanks for watching. As I tried to mention throughout this video, watch collecting at the end of the day is all about having fun, but I know how this fun world can lead to spending serious money and that having some guidelines can be helpful in making your journey more enjoyable. What other point(s) would you mention in your experience with collecting that was not covered? This was the first video of 2021 so Happy New Year as well to you all!
Congratulations Teddy! You are emerging as a leader on You Tube for watches. You're easy to hear, lucid, positive and intelligent. Your enthusiasm is well tempered with realism and common sense. Your factory visits and celebrities appearances add a lot to your channel. Great job!
Knowledge acquired and properly applied has a pruning effect on personal taste. This at least is what I have noticed as regards my own person. Great vid Teddy......
Happy new year as well! One point I would add: only buy what you can afford. The prices are unlimited, be careful. Save up for something and pay what you can miss, don't loan. Buy a house and a car (if necessary) first, watches come last.
Biggest thing i learned in collecting watches: COLLECT FOR YOURSELF. Buy what you like don't buy what influences say you should. It's your money and you are the one wearing the watch.
100%. Well said. Maybe something to add. Try the watch on your wrist. I have made the mistake a few times. Looks good in photos but when you get it in the mail and pop it on then your disappointed.
@Paul Rohrs Sir buy the one you like , enjoy it and pass it on , it's always about ur personal watch with your own story .. I have seen people named Casio , Philippe and Constantine and they dint even own a Luxury watch
True dat! People can't stop telling me that I love the wrong watches, like Hublot and Franck Muller. Instead I should be loving AP, Patek, VC or whatever, because .. idk, everybody does?
One other tip I would give is buy a watch to celebrate a life event, whether that is a Birthday, Anniversary or indeed a milestone in your life. I purchased my first Omega Seamaster back in 2008 to celebrate passing a set of exams. Every time I look at that watch it brings me back to that time and a feeling of pride of how hard I worked. I will never sell that watch now as it has a special meaning.
I have two watches currently, both Seiko 5’s. They are the first automatic watches I have ever owned. Prior to these, I was wearing a Fitbit. I’m really happy with the ones I have. They may not be of the more expensive media hype inducing models but I like them.
Angelo, I am the same. I could afford much more expensive watches now, but my enjoyment is still with the less expensive. I think Casio is just amazing and I really enjoy them. Thank God, it is a lot cheaper that way!
Been into watches since 2012, have bought and sold a few pieces since then. The best lesson is making mistakes : once you’ve got bitten by a disappointingly low resale value, on line purchase that gets stolen before reaching your doorstep or a unexpectedly high service bill, then you know what you want for yourself. And another thing to remember : less than 0.5% of people you’ll meet might have more than a passing interest in your watch. Don’t buy a watch to impress anyone but you.
In my opinion, The second is the one that is in the air but rarely is looked with significance. I believe the reason there are so many fake Rolexes is just to show to people that you are "rich", like if that really helped you in some way. I buy watches to use and admire them, not to shout to hos/her face that I'm important or anything.
The only requirement for a collection, whether it’s 1 or 30 pieces and worth $300 or $300K, is that each one in it would gladly be the only watch you’d wear for the rest of your life. Great video, spot on Teddy.
So true about no one knowing/caring about watches. The entire company I work knows my “hobby” is watches. And everyone of them can’t believe that I’d spend money on anything other than or more expensive than, an Apple Watch. Plus, out of my entire collection, I’ve never been complimented on or sparked a conversation about my watches on a day to day basis. It really humbles me.
It’s tricky, I saw someone with a beautiful Longines and I tried to compliment the choice, I think he thought I was trying to steal it 😅. Not into having a brief repartee, at all. I may have misidentified him as a watch guy.
Totally agree that in-house movements are overrated, especially for watches under $3,000. The serviceability of ETA and Sellita movements is a big plus.
Tbh, my only issue with the ETA or Sellita movements is the power reserve. But even then, my Oris is my everyday watch and literally has never died in the year I've had it
Breitling can be had at upto 40% off msrp grey and secondary market. At those prices they represent tremendous value. You get a very well made watch with heritage and a COSC highly regulated ETA movement that can be easily and affordability serviced.
Teddy, awesome advice mate! I’ e been collecting for the last 25 years and can’t agree more on taking it easy when acquiring new pieces. It’s not the quantity nor the quality that matters, it’s the enjoyment of wearing your watches and saving the memories that counts.
The first point you made about just buying and not waiting for your taste in watches to develop really hit me. I lost a lot of money just buying everything.
Same here. Just fell into watches last year. Now I have 3 affordable watches and i'm already questioning myself if they really were the best choice, while considering my next budget watch (seiko dresskx). On the other hand I ask myself if shouldn't buy smth more special. I mean swiss watches (like tissot, hamilton). But they are already at a pricerange where I could buy something "more reasonable", and for that they don't convince me enough yet. It's difficult 😅.
14:50 yes!! I feel like this needs to be said by more watch people. Too many times I've seen people buying dozens of Orients and microbrands, but then complain how they'll never be able to afford something like an Omega.
People do that is so many genres it’s not funny. I am an avid shooter, I have a small but high end collection of firearms that most of my friends envy. Their collections are mostly 3-4x the size of mine and they always comment about not being able to afford higher quality. It’s hilarious.
@@Heywoodthepeckerwood oh it drives me crazy when people do that with guns lol. Especially since I view guns as much more important than watches, which are a luxury. I always tell people that you only NEED two guns, a rifle and a pistol. Get the best ones you can get without going into debt and get training. I'd always rather have a Daniel and a Glock, over an 5 PSA rifles and a bunch of Hi-Points 😂😂
Wise words. Thanks, Teddy. My collection started with all sentimental pieces that I inherited from people I love. They aren’t necessarily watches I would have picked out for purchase but I love wearing them because of they carry some family history.
Over the 50 yrs or so that I've been into watches, I've definitely bought some peices that a week later I was asking myself why did I buy this . Haha !! I try to look at those instances as learning experiences instead of mistakes. Makes it less painful. Lol
COMPLETELY agree with Cost of Ownership, especially when diving into vintage, let alone high-end in-house movements. No one's making new spare parts for those Polerouters!
Good point on parts! Didn't spend much time discussing that in here but that is another reason number 3 is important. I was close on several occasions to buying a Polerouter. UG has some amazing vintage pieces.
Funny you should say that about a month ago my watchmaker had to modify a gear to fit my 17 jewel Polerouter because most are 24 jewel and the part is impossible to find. I didn't buy it, it was my grandfathers so it is what it is but that is a very well timed example.
Wisdom on young shoulders great video, I’m 69 and been obsessed with watches since I was 15 ,it’s very rare to meet anyone who is into watches,just a few friends,i like Used Rolex’s omega To hmt’s Ricoh etc etc. But mostly vintage, Steinhart ocean 1 is amazing value
Hi Teddy. I'm in awe how a prolific collector like you that can hang with Kevin O'leary really wants to look out for newcomers to this hobby. Always a fan!
True .But it's not too surprising when you consider that these type of videos appeal to more people/ there are more newcomers into the hobby. So from getting as many views as possible this isnt surprising
Great points. I especially liked the point about having a love for consumerism rather than watch collecting. That one was a breath of fresh air, in a community where there is a lot of talk about value propositions and best bang for buck. Well done, Teddy.
I would definitely add, as a starter, set your budget and stick to it, don’t let anyone else make you change your mind. I started small and worked my way up. After 20 years of this I own 7 watches. My first ones were in the hundreds to what I just bought in the thousands. Don’t rush it! Also, unlike Teddy, I have not sold any of my watches, since I buy slowly I am very deliberate and I still wear them all to this day as they all have meaning to me.
i agree 100% i bought a 33mm 36mm watch used not realizing how small it was granted it's one of my favorite time pieces i own (due to historical reasons) but i've been told that it looks out of place on my wrist when my normal wear is 36mm-40mm case sizes and a 40-44 lug to lug
Before I was serious about watches but always LIKED watches and had cheap fashion watches, I got a watch that is 46mm and 56mm lug to lug. I have a 6.375" wrist. LOL. Never again. My next watch was a Seiko SNK at 37mm and that is my sweet spot size. I'll go a little bigger now and again but never to that extreme. Live and learn!
@@tjwright yep me too, a young and impressionable man with a bit of a wedge bought a breitling Superocean heritage 46mm on mesh and I did love that watch, until I matured in all ways and realised it just wasnt class and felt like a snake fanging on my wrist on a daily basis. The fact I could of bought a sub or gmt at the time for not much more is a bit of a killer as it would of near tripled in price now. Why the AD didn't slap me round the face and say "Noooooooo" is beyond me
I love your honesty and how you describe the psyche or mindset of an initial eager collector. It is very important not to get carried away and know the fact that nobody cares about your watch. That point when you said, i got respect for you coz i learnt that the hard way, thanks for your great videos and mentoring!
Great information, especially the point about thinking about maintenance cost when purchasing a watch. It is something most people don't think about when purchasing but like a luxury car maintaining a luxury watch can end up being a large portion of the total cost over the lifetime of ownership.
At the end the day, the personal reason for my collecting is the moment in my life (history behind each watch ) enjoying wearing the watch (an homage to my individuality) and the journey to get it (looking for it, research). Love the journey and enjoy your next watch.
One of the best videos on collecting I have seen. Point 5 and 6 are things that everyone should consider! Completely agree with your philosophy on showing your collection and others’ influence/opinions. It’s unfortunate that other people’s opinions can have such great impacts on our own thoughts concerning the watches we see.
As much as I don't like the product these brands make, I will say, they are amazing at getting people into watches. For that, they are not all bad and I do think are a net positive for the industry.
@@TeddyBaldassarre I agree, but if I was new to watches I would probably look to something like a cheap seiko. That being said yeah it’s a gate way drug to get people into watches
@@henrycollins2478 what about invicta watches, they maybe bulky watches but their great quality and lots of different styles. I owned like 4 of them and Nautica their great.
Overall good advice by Teddy. I would add / emphasise: Enjoy and focus on what you already have, instead of always looking for the next "grail". To keep my collecting itch / "greed" in check, my new rule is: Sell 1 watch of my existing 12-or-so-piece collection before I allow myself to buy a new 1. That way the overall quality of the collection should increase as well. Cheers!
Teddy, This was definitely a video I needed right now. Was thinking about just selling all my watches because honestly I could do with a Casio pro Trek, but your argument about collecting being a marathon and waiting for tastes to develop makes a lot of sense. Thank you.
When i like a watch i place it on my wish list for at least one month before I even start to look at best options to buy it. 80% of the time it doesn’t still scratch my itch in a month or it drops down my priority. Sleeping on watch is best idea and then buy it at the best price ... they are not investments.... so buy low and enjoy it.
Sage advice indeed. Every watch I have bought, was never my first choice in that design/brand/style/whatever. Wait a while, it's the best thing you can ever do.
I went from 3 to 7 watches just since September. I will say I have learned to definitely slow down now and go for quality over quantity. 2 of the latest 4 will almost never be worn due to poor sizing and next to no research. Live and learn.
This video reminded me of the "Is The MVMT Arc Automatic Watch A Good Buy???" by Theo and Harris. Normal people don't know the difference between a $100 watch and a $40,000 watch, so buy it for you, not to impress someone else.
The last 2 chapters of this video are the most important and applicable to other collector hobbies (sneakers, whisky, vinyl, etc) great and honest video. thank you for your amaizng content
Great video! I agree wholeheartedly. I've loved watches all my life. And as I've gotten older, my tastes and needs have changed. For instance, a watch must give me the time of day. If I cannot glace quickly at my watch and make out the time easily, it's just something sparkly on my wrist. So at 53, high contrast and ease of reading have become number one in my every day watches. Thanks Teddy, keep up the great advice!
Fantastic comments, better thoughts. Especially with regards to your view about that “the collection is for yourself and not for someone you do not even know” and about to buy them for yourself and also it should not be influenced by no one because involve serious money, knowledge, and patience”. Since 13 years old I’ve been a collector; mine goes from my first Timex in 1974 a Dad’s gift, my first Casio Gshock in 1984, an Orient Bambino in the 1990s until a Day date Rolex. Keep on going and have fun!
You are by far the best watch guy. You put so much thought into content, not just, state of the collections, reviews and measuring lug to lugs or comparing lume in the dark!
My mom once said to me when I collected keychains when I was younger, "You're not really collecting if you buy everything in one shot". Therefore, tips no. 1 & 6 really hit home with me. I just started collecting watches since 2015 and I only purchase one watch per year. My personal "theme" is that the next purchase must be of a different brand and also style than the previous ones. That way, I could enjoy the watch history little by little with each acquisition of a different type of watch.
I’m steadily going through your old videos and the point number 5 is such great advice and something I haven’t heard from any other you tube videos and I really commend you for saying it.
This is a great video! Thank you for the honest and obvious lessons advice. I could have easily chased the collection had I not pulled back a few times to really think about what I was doing! Your line about "Nobody cares about your watch" is so true!
This video was very insightful to me. I do feel like I'm at the stage where I'm looking and buying a lot and wanting people to notice my watches but I have to remind myself I'm doing this so when I look down at my wrist I smile and marvel at the craftsmanship and not get caught up in whether others notice that.
I finally got my Explorer I and I’m loving it. So subtle and understated . I love the essence of being such a nice watch but blends in and doesn’t scream look at me!!
I totally love your perspective here. Thanks for sharing a common sense point of view. Here’s what I heard you say: Have fun. Find satisfaction. Don’t try to impress strangers. Realize most people don’t know what you know and don’t care what you wear. Beware that your acquisitions probably will not be as satisfying as you thought they would be. Be careful that collecting actually enables us to enjoy this hobby. If the joy is gone, it’s time for a change of perspective and approach to acquiring.
Totally agree about the shifting tastes, stiles, sizes, colors, etc! It’s all about building your own style. By the way that’s is your video I like the most! Sometimes I come back to it just to clear thing up
@teddybaldassarre I have been drafting a watch journal, cataloging what, where, when and why I brought those watches. It’s fun reading, adding and editing that journal.
You are spot on , Teddy. I am in my 40's but I got my first automatic watch just 4 years ago. Before that I had stopped wearing watches altogether for 15 years. Admittedly I splurged a little on the purchase but only after I spent three months to pick out a watch that satisfied all of the following criteria: 1. Has a design that I absolutely love for years to come 2. Fits my budget comfortably but it should also stings a little emotionally when writing a check for it 3. MUST be the right size for my wrist 4. Reasonably available (so I don't have to pay over MSRP, or whine and stress incessantly over its lack of availability like some on certain watch forum - it is just a hobby after all). 5. Has reasonable value retention To this day it is my only watch in my "collection". I pay fairly close attention to the watch market and I have yet to come across a watch that better satisfies the aforementioned criteria than the one I currently have.
Great video and advise. I have found that "virtual" collecting works for me before investing in the real thing. Intially my "virtual" collection changed on a weekly basis, but as my preferences matured, my "virtual" collection started to change less and less. These are then the watches I add to my real collection.
Found this really relatable! (like a lot of your videos) Been building a collection by accident over several years and there's definitely gone through some of the same experiences. I give myself a cooling off period before I buy anything now so I don't end up with another impulse buy that sits in the case until I decide it's time to sell it.
Nice video with some great points made! Thank you! I would also encourage new buyers to focus primarily on watches that bring a genuine smile to their faces when they are wearing them. If not, then perhaps they are purchasing impulsively or else trying to please or impress others. Does the watch fit your personality? Is it comfortable on your wrist? Can you easily read it when it’s on your wrist? To the best of your ability to determine, does the watch have the potential to capture your enduring interest? I’ve skipped over many beautiful options, because they did not fit that criteria.
Good point about enjoying the watch for yourself and not needing other people's validation on platforms like Instagram. I recently acquired a bb58 and have not posted it on Instagram at all like everyone else. It's just nice to keep some things to yourself and experience the watch on your own terms.
Teddy, you nailed every point. All of it is so true. To piggy-back on this video, I would love to see a video where you discuss building a legacy collection for kids, grandkids.
Damn Teddy, you've been a touchstone on my entry into the watch world over the last two years, and the advice about having it be about something you love rather then what others think about it is spot on. As I've learned more and more, I've noticed people enjoy the interesting stories about, say, Grand Seiko beating the Swiss at their own game or Breitling's engineering origin, then whatever watch I have on my wrist. The passion should be deeper then the object itself.
Outstanding video, timeless message. My first and current favorite watch is a military-inspired field watch by an American company. Understated, functional, and goes with anything depending on the strap. Black rubber, leather, nylon, steel bracelet... really does it all.
Really great video. Good look into collecting. It’s so true about falling out of love with watches. You lust and lust and then you get it and have a crazy love filled couple of weeks or months and then your eye starts to wander. Sometimes you can get the love/lust back with a new strap or bracelet to keep things spicy. Alas, sometimes the love just isn’t there any more and you have to let it go. There can be regrets though. Most of the time is the regret of the loss of the love you once had not the actual loss... c’est l’amour
I'm really loving this channel. I've owned times and fossil watches all my life, but recently a Citizen that piqued my interest in watches. This channel is adding to the excitement
Thanks for the great tips and ideas. The sentimental aspect beyond tastes and personal likes was a particularly great highlight. Not counting Swatches (which I wanted as a kid but couldn’t obtain until I was an adult, so sentimental in their own way), I got my first budget “luxury” watch as a wedding gift from my wife and then I got my first automatic 10 years later as a tied to a career transition, and then almost exactly 10 years later (this past weekend), I got another automatic because I have had my eye on a few Omegas for years, and earned a reward. Adding to the fun is that my brother has been getting into watches during the last few years, and after I picked something up on his wish list for him during a recent trip to Tokyo, we can geek out together and enjoy shared memories for his most recent watch.
Having gj e through this journey for over 8 years, there are just so many points that you hit the nail in the head. One of the most important, in my opinion, being that nobody cares what watch you have with the large majority asking why your not wearing an Apple Watch instead.
Hi Teddy, I think it was very brave from you to engage in a conversation on your last video, I thoroughly enjoy your videos and your watch enthusiasm! Keep up the good work
There is some very good info and food for thought in this video. As a collector for about 15 years, I especially appreciate your honesty and maturity expressed in points 5 and 6. Good going Teddy!
Teddy, every word you said is very true and valuable for starting and future watch collectors. (Ps. I have been collecting watches for exactly 53 years now)
Wonderful video. Thank you for sharing. I feel like this is great advice for any hobby (obsession). It is so easy to get caught up in having the best or more coveted that you forget what you fell in love with in the first place.
Fully agree you should take your time!! For several years, I just wanted to fill my watchbox, but every time I added a piece to the watchbox, I was already looking for the next. Never really took the time to enjoy a piece for a while. In the past year, I changed my approach and reduced my collection to those pieces I really enjoy wearing, so went from 15 pieces to 6. I recently acquired my grail watch, the JLC MUT Moon (Q1368470) and it feels as if my collection is complete... for now... 😉
A perfect explanation of the journey of watch Collecting and how you shift opinions along the way, this is a great video and I couldn’t agree any more with you on this one. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👌🏻👍🏻🏴
Your first point really resonated with me as I can attest to falling into that trap. As a matter of fact it was Teddy who made me realize this in a round about way... I messaged Teddy out of the blue on Instagram about a Panerai that was for sale. Not only did he take the time to answer my very noob questions in detail, he answered my email within minutes of receiving them. This would have been an impulse buy but the information Teddy gave me made me realize that I needed to slow down and make educated purchases. My uneducated, seat of the pants buying trend I was on made for some transactions that I do regret. Thank you Teddy for the informative videos and for taking the time to answer my messages that day. It changed how I approached watch collecting in a way that will keep me in it for many years to come.
My favorite of all your videos. Great advice, but I'm afraid that me, in my early obsession phase, wouldn't have understood. Me, now, in my late early obsession phase loves this video. And yes, newbies, buy the watches YOU like. Watch all the reviews you can, then get the one you like.
Great advice. I did like micro brands for ‘finding my taste’ before starting to buy some more pricier watches. It was a costly exercise when selling them off but still worth it
Teddy’s comments on collecting and true enjoyment applies to everything. Cars, carpets, paintings, seashells, anything you can imagine spending money on.
Mr. Teddy, i gotta say, you've saved me. I was so crazy about watches that i forgot that i just want one. Thank you for reminding me what's the most important. You're my personal watch savior. All the best to you.
I feel like I dodged a bullet by getting into watches at the very end of 2019. By the time I got the "itch" to really look into starting a collection, the world had shut down and I had nowhere to go with the few watches I'd managed to collect up to that point. I got three "my first _____" watches between last Christmas and the initial Covid lockdown, and still haven't gotten the chance to wear them in their proper environments. Having these terrific pieces just sitting on my desk has helped me keep a lid on my still-strong urges to expand my collection. On the plus side, my wife has gotten interested in watches this year, so she got a Marlin from Teddy's site for Christmas last month. She loves it!
I also love your points made in Point #6. Don't be into consumerism, be into watches. I like that. Although he has a crazy number of pieces, this thought kind of reminds me a bit of Kevin O'Leary's approach he talked about where he said he was buying watches attached to deals they made.
Great video and perspective, honest and real. Believe some of these considerations can be applied to real life and not just watch collecting. Just started collecting, 2 Longines and a Movado. Thank you Teddy and keep up the great work! Cheers!
I’m just starting (or restarting) into collecting and I couldn’t pass this by when it came up in my feed. I’ve definitely stumbled over a few of these, but thankfully this video came before I tripped or fell. Time to dial back the enthusiasm I think. As for the style though, that one’s easy; all the watches (or specifically style of watch) the majority of the watch world seems to hate, I love. Not to Invicta levels of gaudiness, but what can I say? Ostentation is my jam.
Excellent video as usual, honest, informative, made me consider things I’d never even thought of. With the occasional image of that VC overseas❤ Top work teddy and team
THANK YOU! I have been totally obsessed with your videos and feel the addiction of discovering and purchasing all of these different watch brands. I bought a burgundy Seiko 5 sport watch which I thought looked so great and it was $200 instead of $350 and thought I was getting such a great deal after I learned about the Seiko brand. HOWEVER, I quickly learned that the watch didn’t not fit my personality or dress style. And BESIDES buying a bunch of watches for $500 or $1000, I would actually have patience and buy a watch like an Omega or Rolex with the classic black dial and metal band that are $3,000-6,000. I think at that price range you are actually purchasing something with value that as a collector you can be proud of. And although I have friends argue “the black face and metal band are old fashion”, that is the style I like and fits me the best. I like having a collection that have a theme yet have small differences that differentiate them from one another. I have 3-4 watches in mind that I hope to acquire in the future, but in between I am excited to build my knowledge of what makes all these watches so special.
Like Teddy said, remember not to build a collection to show off or buying from FOMO. You'll regret it! I always buy my watches to celebrate a significant event in my life. Enjoy your excitement and I hope you have success and happiness in collecting time pieces. Cheers!
Great video Teddy. I just recently got into watches roughly about a month ago and all I wanna do is buy, buy, and buy some more but I've been down this road with fragrances and it resulted in me purchasing and owning far too many fragrances. I need to take a better approach when it comes to my interest in watches! By the way I purchased an Orient with a blue dial from your website and you guys have great customer service. I look forward to purchasing from you again someday in the future!
Watches with an interesting story has been a fun theme for me. Lots of options from a wide range of price points. But sometimes I get one because it's too cool to pass up ( and in my price range ). I love and appreciate this channel and wish you all the best in the new year!
This is one of THE best videos about watches and collecting I’ve ever seen. This should be required viewing for anyone just starting out in the hobby. I’ve lost THOUSANDS on buying watches that were “popular” that I didn’t even like, and the “no one else gives a damn” is so true. So many channels talk about “heavy hitters.” Well, its only a heavy hitter if anyone even noticed or cared; and most don’t. In my 20 years+ of collecting, I’ve had someone comment on my watch exactly twice, and one was when I was wearing my DSSD, and was asked “is that real?” (A common question for Rolex wearers). Buy what you like, but LEARNING to know what you actually like is important. And as far as an investment? Put that money into an ETF or hell, even a money market account. You’ll do better. Great video Teddy.
Great content! I went on a JLC vintage binge once and sent two watches off to service at the NY boutique; $3800 bill (power reserves and alarm functions) along with the straps. Wish I would have learned earlier about Cost of Ownership.
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Hi everyone, thanks for watching. As I tried to mention throughout this video, watch collecting at the end of the day is all about having fun, but I know how this fun world can lead to spending serious money and that having some guidelines can be helpful in making your journey more enjoyable. What other point(s) would you mention in your experience with collecting that was not covered? This was the first video of 2021 so Happy New Year as well to you all!
Congratulations Teddy! You are emerging as a leader on You Tube for watches. You're easy to hear, lucid, positive and intelligent. Your enthusiasm is well tempered with realism and common sense. Your factory visits and celebrities appearances add a lot to your channel. Great job!
Knowledge acquired and properly applied has a pruning effect on personal taste. This at least is what I have noticed as regards my own person. Great vid Teddy......
Happy new year as well! One point I would add: only buy what you can afford. The prices are unlimited, be careful. Save up for something and pay what you can miss, don't loan. Buy a house and a car (if necessary) first, watches come last.
Do you send to UK?
Teddy, I'm still hoping you will get back to me. Thanks from Lagos Nigeria
Biggest thing i learned in collecting watches: COLLECT FOR YOURSELF. Buy what you like don't buy what influences say you should. It's your money and you are the one wearing the watch.
So true. Totally agree.
100%. Well said. Maybe something to add. Try the watch on your wrist. I have made the mistake a few times. Looks good in photos but when you get it in the mail and pop it on then your disappointed.
@Paul Rohrs Sir buy the one you like , enjoy it and pass it on , it's always about ur personal watch with your own story .. I have seen people named Casio , Philippe and Constantine and they dint even own a Luxury watch
True dat! People can't stop telling me that I love the wrong watches, like Hublot and Franck Muller. Instead I should be loving AP, Patek, VC or whatever, because .. idk, everybody does?
Amen! Unless it's Hublot. 😂
One other tip I would give is buy a watch to celebrate a life event, whether that is a Birthday, Anniversary or indeed a milestone in your life. I purchased my first Omega Seamaster back in 2008 to celebrate passing a set of exams. Every time I look at that watch it brings me back to that time and a feeling of pride of how hard I worked. I will never sell that watch now as it has a special meaning.
Right now, my collection is full of Timex and Casio, but I love it
Have gone down that Casio rabbit hole too, soo many fun and cool ones to buy every year. But have no Timex, maybe in 2021 🤗⌚⌚⌚
Casio are a good brand and there durable as hell especelly the casio g shock
I have two watches currently, both Seiko 5’s. They are the first automatic watches I have ever owned. Prior to these, I was wearing a Fitbit. I’m really happy with the ones I have. They may not be of the more expensive media hype inducing models but I like them.
Angelo, you're doing it right.
Angelo,
I am the same. I could afford much more expensive watches now, but my enjoyment is still with the less expensive. I think Casio is just amazing and I really enjoy them. Thank God, it is a lot cheaper that way!
Been into watches since 2012, have bought and sold a few pieces since then.
The best lesson is making mistakes : once you’ve got bitten by a disappointingly low resale value, on line purchase that gets stolen before reaching your doorstep or a unexpectedly high service bill, then you know what you want for yourself. And another thing to remember : less than 0.5% of people you’ll meet might have more than a passing interest in your watch. Don’t buy a watch to impress anyone but you.
In my opinion, The second is the one that is in the air but rarely is looked with significance.
I believe the reason there are so many fake Rolexes is just to show to people that you are "rich", like if that really helped you in some way. I buy watches to use and admire them, not to shout to hos/her face that I'm important or anything.
I agree. I buy cheap and expensive quality watches. But I'm always having fun!
Add dont buy a watch if ur ever selling it!
Buy to keep forever. If u have to sell u really shouldn’t buy
The name of my theme is - They are my watches.
The only requirement for a collection, whether it’s 1 or 30 pieces and worth $300 or $300K, is that each one in it would gladly be the only watch you’d wear for the rest of your life. Great video, spot on Teddy.
A very good philosophy!
That's obviously not a requirement
Bro, thank you for the wisdom. I've had a paradigm shift.
Dress watches are rarely worn for a lot of people but still valuable in a collection, so wrong
That’s dumb af lol
So true about no one knowing/caring about watches. The entire company I work knows my “hobby” is watches. And everyone of them can’t believe that I’d spend money on anything other than or more expensive than, an Apple Watch.
Plus, out of my entire collection, I’ve never been complimented on or sparked a conversation about my watches on a day to day basis. It really humbles me.
It’s tricky, I saw someone with a beautiful Longines and I tried to compliment the choice, I think he thought I was trying to steal it 😅. Not into having a brief repartee, at all. I may have misidentified him as a watch guy.
Totally agree that in-house movements are overrated, especially for watches under $3,000. The serviceability of ETA and Sellita movements is a big plus.
I am 100% fine with ETA / Sellita movements as long as the watch is priced accordingly
@@michaelbishop9157 *cough cough* Breitling & Hublot
Tbh, my only issue with the ETA or Sellita movements is the power reserve. But even then, my Oris is my everyday watch and literally has never died in the year I've had it
Breitling can be had at upto 40% off msrp grey and secondary market. At those prices they represent tremendous value. You get a very well made watch with heritage and a COSC highly regulated ETA movement that can be easily and affordability serviced.
@@michaelriera6277 agree 100% with you that Breitling are over priced by 40/50 percent
Teddy, awesome advice mate! I’ e been collecting for the last 25 years and can’t agree more on taking it easy when acquiring new pieces. It’s not the quantity nor the quality that matters, it’s the enjoyment of wearing your watches and saving the memories that counts.
The first point you made about just buying and not waiting for your taste in watches to develop really hit me. I lost a lot of money just buying everything.
I think many of us have been there. I certainly was..
Same here.
Just fell into watches last year.
Now I have 3 affordable watches and i'm already questioning myself if they really were the best choice, while considering my next budget watch (seiko dresskx).
On the other hand I ask myself if shouldn't buy smth more special. I mean swiss watches (like tissot, hamilton). But they are already at a pricerange where I could buy something "more reasonable", and for that they don't convince me enough yet.
It's difficult 😅.
@@TeddyBaldassarre as have I, but I honestly think it's important to go through it so you really figure out what you love/dislike
Probably the reason why i never wear half of my watches
14:50 yes!! I feel like this needs to be said by more watch people. Too many times I've seen people buying dozens of Orients and microbrands, but then complain how they'll never be able to afford something like an Omega.
People do that is so many genres it’s not funny. I am an avid shooter, I have a small but high end collection of firearms that most of my friends envy. Their collections are mostly 3-4x the size of mine and they always comment about not being able to afford higher quality. It’s hilarious.
@@Heywoodthepeckerwood oh it drives me crazy when people do that with guns lol. Especially since I view guns as much more important than watches, which are a luxury.
I always tell people that you only NEED two guns, a rifle and a pistol. Get the best ones you can get without going into debt and get training. I'd always rather have a Daniel and a Glock, over an 5 PSA rifles and a bunch of Hi-Points 😂😂
"Wenn, donn glei wos gscheids.", is a bavarian saying. Meaning: "If, then something good the first time." So totally with you on that!
Wise words. Thanks, Teddy. My collection started with all sentimental pieces that I inherited from people I love. They aren’t necessarily watches I would have picked out for purchase but I love wearing them because of they carry some family history.
Over the 50 yrs or so that I've been into watches, I've definitely bought some peices that a week later I was asking myself why did I buy this . Haha !! I try to look at those instances as learning experiences instead of mistakes. Makes it less painful. Lol
COMPLETELY agree with Cost of Ownership, especially when diving into vintage, let alone high-end in-house movements. No one's making new spare parts for those Polerouters!
Good point on parts! Didn't spend much time discussing that in here but that is another reason number 3 is important. I was close on several occasions to buying a Polerouter. UG has some amazing vintage pieces.
Funny you should say that about a month ago my watchmaker had to modify a gear to fit my 17 jewel Polerouter because most are 24 jewel and the part is impossible to find. I didn't buy it, it was my grandfathers so it is what it is but that is a very well timed example.
Wisdom on young shoulders great video, I’m 69 and been obsessed with watches since I was 15 ,it’s very rare to meet anyone who is into watches,just a few friends,i like Used Rolex’s omega To hmt’s Ricoh etc etc. But mostly vintage, Steinhart ocean 1 is amazing value
+1 to steinhart in general, can vouch for their Ocean one in 39 ceramic. Crazy, feels like a watch that costs so much more.
Hi Teddy. I'm in awe how a prolific collector like you that can hang with Kevin O'leary really wants to look out for newcomers to this hobby. Always a fan!
True .But it's not too surprising when you consider that these type of videos appeal to more people/ there are more newcomers into the hobby. So from getting as many views as possible this isnt surprising
i think Kevin O'leary should be in awe that Teddy is nice enough to let Kevin near him.
Individual journey can be isolated. So true!
@@Ev-vf6ry I need to find that friend!
Great points.
I especially liked the point about having a love for consumerism rather than watch collecting.
That one was a breath of fresh air, in a community where there is a lot of talk about value propositions and best bang for buck.
Well done, Teddy.
I would definitely add, as a starter, set your budget and stick to it, don’t let anyone else make you change your mind. I started small and worked my way up. After 20 years of this I own 7 watches. My first ones were in the hundreds to what I just bought in the thousands. Don’t rush it! Also, unlike Teddy, I have not sold any of my watches, since I buy slowly I am very deliberate and I still wear them all to this day as they all have meaning to me.
Know your wrist size would be my tip, and buy accordingly
i agree 100% i bought a 33mm 36mm watch used not realizing how small it was granted it's one of my favorite time pieces i own (due to historical reasons) but i've been told that it looks out of place on my wrist when my normal wear is 36mm-40mm case sizes and a 40-44 lug to lug
@@davidpugh8772 I've found 36 is the optimum size for my 6.5 inch wrist
@@davidb9531 ya I have 1 44 that fits my 6 1/2 wrist nicely as well but its a Frankenstein watch that I put together lol
Before I was serious about watches but always LIKED watches and had cheap fashion watches, I got a watch that is 46mm and 56mm lug to lug. I have a 6.375" wrist. LOL. Never again. My next watch was a Seiko SNK at 37mm and that is my sweet spot size. I'll go a little bigger now and again but never to that extreme. Live and learn!
@@tjwright yep me too, a young and impressionable man with a bit of a wedge bought a breitling Superocean heritage 46mm on mesh and I did love that watch, until I matured in all ways and realised it just wasnt class and felt like a snake fanging on my wrist on a daily basis. The fact I could of bought a sub or gmt at the time for not much more is a bit of a killer as it would of near tripled in price now. Why the AD didn't slap me round the face and say "Noooooooo" is beyond me
I love your honesty and how you describe the psyche or mindset of an initial eager collector. It is very important not to get carried away and know the fact that nobody cares about your watch. That point when you said, i got respect for you coz i learnt that the hard way, thanks for your great videos and mentoring!
Great information, especially the point about thinking about maintenance cost when purchasing a watch. It is something most people don't think about when purchasing but like a luxury car maintaining a luxury watch can end up being a large portion of the total cost over the lifetime of ownership.
At the end the day, the personal reason for my collecting is the moment in my life (history behind each watch ) enjoying wearing the watch (an homage to my individuality) and the journey to get it (looking for it, research). Love the journey and enjoy your next watch.
One of the best videos on collecting I have seen. Point 5 and 6 are things that everyone should consider! Completely agree with your philosophy on showing your collection and others’ influence/opinions. It’s unfortunate that other people’s opinions can have such great impacts on our own thoughts concerning the watches we see.
Rule one: don’t buy any Daniel Wellington mvmnt or other junk.
As much as I don't like the product these brands make, I will say, they are amazing at getting people into watches. For that, they are not all bad and I do think are a net positive for the industry.
@@TeddyBaldassarre I agree, but if I was new to watches I would probably look to something like a cheap seiko. That being said yeah it’s a gate way drug to get people into watches
@@henrycollins2478 what about invicta watches, they maybe bulky watches but their great quality and lots of different styles. I owned like 4 of them and Nautica their great.
@@juny1982 I’ll give them a pass, I was really talking about the companies that boast about cutting out the middle man and what not
Invicta pro diver for life, heard there is a great bargain on them right now, hurry up 😋
I’ve just added my first Casio. The silver Full Metal Square...it’s stunning!
Overall good advice by Teddy. I would add / emphasise: Enjoy and focus on what you already have, instead of always looking for the next "grail". To keep my collecting itch / "greed" in check, my new rule is: Sell 1 watch of my existing 12-or-so-piece collection before I allow myself to buy a new 1. That way the overall quality of the collection should increase as well. Cheers!
Teddy,
This was definitely a video I needed right now. Was thinking about just selling all my watches because honestly I could do with a Casio pro Trek, but your argument about collecting being a marathon and waiting for tastes to develop makes a lot of sense. Thank you.
When i like a watch i place it on my wish list for at least one month before I even start to look at best options to buy it. 80% of the time it doesn’t still scratch my itch in a month or it drops down my priority. Sleeping on watch is best idea and then buy it at the best price ... they are not investments.... so buy low and enjoy it.
Very true, should never really pay full price for a watch
Sage advice indeed. Every watch I have bought, was never my first choice in that design/brand/style/whatever. Wait a while, it's the best thing you can ever do.
I went from 3 to 7 watches just since September. I will say I have learned to definitely slow down now and go for quality over quantity. 2 of the latest 4 will almost never be worn due to poor sizing and next to no research. Live and learn.
This video reminded me of the "Is The MVMT Arc Automatic Watch A Good Buy???" by Theo and Harris.
Normal people don't know the difference between a $100 watch and a $40,000 watch, so buy it for you, not to impress someone else.
The last 2 chapters of this video are the most important and applicable to other collector hobbies (sneakers, whisky, vinyl, etc) great and honest video. thank you for your amaizng content
Love the separation of collection from addictive consumerism in this video. Something that needs to be talked about a lot more.
Great video! I agree wholeheartedly. I've loved watches all my life. And as I've gotten older, my tastes and needs have changed. For instance, a watch must give me the time of day. If I cannot glace quickly at my watch and make out the time easily, it's just something sparkly on my wrist. So at 53, high contrast and ease of reading have become number one in my every day watches. Thanks Teddy, keep up the great advice!
Fantastic comments, better thoughts. Especially with regards to your view about that “the collection is for yourself and not for someone you do not even know” and about to buy them for yourself and also it should not be influenced by no one because involve serious money, knowledge, and patience”. Since 13 years old I’ve been a collector; mine goes from my first Timex in 1974 a Dad’s gift, my first Casio Gshock in 1984, an Orient Bambino in the 1990s until a Day date Rolex. Keep on going and have fun!
You are by far the best watch guy. You put so much thought into content, not just, state of the collections, reviews and measuring lug to lugs or comparing lume in the dark!
My mom once said to me when I collected keychains when I was younger, "You're not really collecting if you buy everything in one shot". Therefore, tips no. 1 & 6 really hit home with me. I just started collecting watches since 2015 and I only purchase one watch per year. My personal "theme" is that the next purchase must be of a different brand and also style than the previous ones. That way, I could enjoy the watch history little by little with each acquisition of a different type of watch.
Just curious, how many keychains did you get ??
I had a Keychain collection as a kid as well! I believe it took me around 5 years to collect all my keychains
Teddy, you forgot the most important thing to consider!! Don’t let your accountant (aka your significant other) know how much you spent!! 😂😂
But the problem is when you die and she sells them for what you told her you bought them for...😂
Exactly 🤣
@@andrewnyveldt1663 Well, that's her problem ... 😀
@@matto.4558 This is true... We all just want to know her so we can get the good deals. 🤣🤣
I gave to her the interest for watches so problem resolved :D
I’m steadily going through your old videos and the point number 5 is such great advice and something I haven’t heard from any other you tube videos and I really commend you for saying it.
This is a great video! Thank you for the honest and obvious lessons advice. I could have easily chased the collection had I not pulled back a few times to really think about what I was doing! Your line about "Nobody cares about your watch" is so true!
This video was very insightful to me. I do feel like I'm at the stage where I'm looking and buying a lot and wanting people to notice my watches but I have to remind myself I'm doing this so when I look down at my wrist I smile and marvel at the craftsmanship and not get caught up in whether others notice that.
I finally got my Explorer I and I’m loving it. So subtle and understated . I love the essence of being such a nice watch but blends in and doesn’t scream look at me!!
I totally love your perspective here. Thanks for sharing a common sense point of view. Here’s what I heard you say: Have fun. Find satisfaction. Don’t try to impress strangers. Realize most people don’t know what you know and don’t care what you wear. Beware that your acquisitions probably will not be as satisfying as you thought they would be. Be careful that collecting actually enables us to enjoy this hobby. If the joy is gone, it’s time for a change of perspective and approach to acquiring.
I'm 24 and I have an oyster perpetual and a cellini both with box and papers. I want a 36mm datejust next then a platinum yachtmaster 37mm.
Totally agree about the shifting tastes, stiles, sizes, colors, etc! It’s all about building your own style.
By the way that’s is your video I like the most! Sometimes I come back to it just to clear thing up
This is the realest video you've done, saved me a purchase. Appreciate it Teddy!
My theme is simple. I worked hard to get promoted. The watches mark my hard work or special moments in my life.
I like that
Some people get a tattoo in place of watch. A watch is better. Lol
Good solid advice for beginners. Reflection for intermediates and veterans. Take stock. Ask why on every level.
@teddybaldassarre I have been drafting a watch journal, cataloging what, where, when and why I brought those watches. It’s fun reading, adding and editing that journal.
You are spot on , Teddy. I am in my 40's but I got my first automatic watch just 4 years ago. Before that I had stopped wearing watches altogether for 15 years. Admittedly I splurged a little on the purchase but only after I spent three months to pick out a watch that satisfied all of the following criteria:
1. Has a design that I absolutely love for years to come
2. Fits my budget comfortably but it should also stings a little emotionally when writing a check for it
3. MUST be the right size for my wrist
4. Reasonably available (so I don't have to pay over MSRP, or whine and stress incessantly over its lack of availability like some on certain watch forum - it is just a hobby after all).
5. Has reasonable value retention
To this day it is my only watch in my "collection". I pay fairly close attention to the watch market and I have yet to come across a watch that better satisfies the aforementioned criteria than the one I currently have.
Congrats! What was your purchase?
I’ve been looking at getting a watch that will be a good conversation starter. You’ve changed my mind, thanks Teddy
I bought my first watch last year with the help of this channel and it was a Seiko SRPG37. I absolutely love wearing it 😎.
Great video and advise. I have found that "virtual" collecting works for me before investing in the real thing. Intially my "virtual" collection changed on a weekly basis, but as my preferences matured, my "virtual" collection started to change less and less. These are then the watches I add to my real collection.
Clever idea!
Watched a lot of your videos...you've been a big part of my watch journey, but I think this is by far and away one of your best videos.
Fantastic advice yet again Teddy. Appreciate your sensible, sober advice at all times.
Found this really relatable! (like a lot of your videos) Been building a collection by accident over several years and there's definitely gone through some of the same experiences. I give myself a cooling off period before I buy anything now so I don't end up with another impulse buy that sits in the case until I decide it's time to sell it.
Nice video with some great points made! Thank you! I would also encourage new buyers to focus primarily on watches that bring a genuine smile to their faces when they are wearing them. If not, then perhaps they are purchasing impulsively or else trying to please or impress others. Does the watch fit your personality? Is it comfortable on your wrist? Can you easily read it when it’s on your wrist? To the best of your ability to determine, does the watch have the potential to capture your enduring interest? I’ve skipped over many beautiful options, because they did not fit that criteria.
One of the better advice vids on ANY passionate pursuit. Well done.
Good point about enjoying the watch for yourself and not needing other people's validation on platforms like Instagram. I recently acquired a bb58 and have not posted it on Instagram at all like everyone else. It's just nice to keep some things to yourself and experience the watch on your own terms.
Teddy, you nailed every point. All of it is so true. To piggy-back on this video, I would love to see a video where you discuss building a legacy collection for kids, grandkids.
Damn Teddy, you've been a touchstone on my entry into the watch world over the last two years, and the advice about having it be about something you love rather then what others think about it is spot on. As I've learned more and more, I've noticed people enjoy the interesting stories about, say, Grand Seiko beating the Swiss at their own game or Breitling's engineering origin, then whatever watch I have on my wrist. The passion should be deeper then the object itself.
I like your last point. Well stated!
Sincere, thoughtful and credible delivery. Well done.
Outstanding video, timeless message. My first and current favorite watch is a military-inspired field watch by an American company. Understated, functional, and goes with anything depending on the strap. Black rubber, leather, nylon, steel bracelet... really does it all.
Really great video. Good look into collecting. It’s so true about falling out of love with watches. You lust and lust and then you get it and have a crazy love filled couple of weeks or months and then your eye starts to wander. Sometimes you can get the love/lust back with a new strap or bracelet to keep things spicy. Alas, sometimes the love just isn’t there any more and you have to let it go. There can be regrets though. Most of the time is the regret of the loss of the love you once had not the actual loss... c’est l’amour
Really loving the Navitimer and breitling also Moonphase calendars
I'm really loving this channel. I've owned times and fossil watches all my life, but recently a Citizen that piqued my interest in watches. This channel is adding to the excitement
"Falling in love with the purchasing.." Excellent point. I appreciate you saying that. Great vid. Keep it up.
Thanks for the great tips and ideas. The sentimental aspect beyond tastes and personal likes was a particularly great highlight. Not counting Swatches (which I wanted as a kid but couldn’t obtain until I was an adult, so sentimental in their own way), I got my first budget “luxury” watch as a wedding gift from my wife and then I got my first automatic 10 years later as a tied to a career transition, and then almost exactly 10 years later (this past weekend), I got another automatic because I have had my eye on a few Omegas for years, and earned a reward. Adding to the fun is that my brother has been getting into watches during the last few years, and after I picked something up on his wish list for him during a recent trip to Tokyo, we can geek out together and enjoy shared memories for his most recent watch.
Great video 🙂
Started collecting about 2 years ago... becoming more mature and calm about everything as time passes.
Having gj e through this journey for over 8 years, there are just so many points that you hit the nail in the head. One of the most important, in my opinion, being that nobody cares what watch you have with the large majority asking why your not wearing an Apple Watch instead.
Hi Teddy, I think it was very brave from you to engage in a conversation on your last video, I thoroughly enjoy your videos and your watch enthusiasm! Keep up the good work
There is some very good info and food for thought in this video. As a collector for about 15 years, I especially appreciate your honesty and maturity expressed in points 5 and 6. Good going Teddy!
Teddy, every word you said is very true and valuable for starting and future watch collectors. (Ps. I have been collecting watches for exactly 53 years now)
Just graduated from college and bought a watch as a gift to myself. Hell off til after the last class and it felt good. I was glad I waited.
Wonderful video. Thank you for sharing. I feel like this is great advice for any hobby (obsession). It is so easy to get caught up in having the best or more coveted that you forget what you fell in love with in the first place.
Fully agree you should take your time!! For several years, I just wanted to fill my watchbox, but every time I added a piece to the watchbox, I was already looking for the next. Never really took the time to enjoy a piece for a while. In the past year, I changed my approach and reduced my collection to those pieces I really enjoy wearing, so went from 15 pieces to 6. I recently acquired my grail watch, the JLC MUT Moon (Q1368470) and it feels as if my collection is complete... for now... 😉
A perfect explanation of the journey of watch Collecting and how you shift opinions along the way, this is a great video and I couldn’t agree any more with you on this one. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👌🏻👍🏻🏴
Your first point really resonated with me as I can attest to falling into that trap. As a matter of fact it was Teddy who made me realize this in a round about way... I messaged Teddy out of the blue on Instagram about a Panerai that was for sale. Not only did he take the time to answer my very noob questions in detail, he answered my email within minutes of receiving them. This would have been an impulse buy but the information Teddy gave me made me realize that I needed to slow down and make educated purchases. My uneducated, seat of the pants buying trend I was on made for some transactions that I do regret. Thank you Teddy for the informative videos and for taking the time to answer my messages that day. It changed how I approached watch collecting in a way that will keep me in it for many years to come.
My favorite of all your videos. Great advice, but I'm afraid that me, in my early obsession phase, wouldn't have understood. Me, now, in my late early obsession phase loves this video. And yes, newbies, buy the watches YOU like. Watch all the reviews you can, then get the one you like.
Great advice. I did like micro brands for ‘finding my taste’ before starting to buy some more pricier watches. It was a costly exercise when selling them off but still worth it
Love the video, spot on advice. Wishing everyone a positive journey in this great hobby.
Teddy’s comments on collecting and true enjoyment applies to everything. Cars, carpets, paintings, seashells, anything you can imagine spending money on.
Great video. I’m pretty new to collecting and definitely had some early signals of many of the less advisable traits you’ve mentioned in there!
Mr. Teddy, i gotta say, you've saved me. I was so crazy about watches that i forgot that i just want one. Thank you for reminding me what's the most important. You're my personal watch savior. All the best to you.
I feel like I dodged a bullet by getting into watches at the very end of 2019. By the time I got the "itch" to really look into starting a collection, the world had shut down and I had nowhere to go with the few watches I'd managed to collect up to that point. I got three "my first _____" watches between last Christmas and the initial Covid lockdown, and still haven't gotten the chance to wear them in their proper environments. Having these terrific pieces just sitting on my desk has helped me keep a lid on my still-strong urges to expand my collection.
On the plus side, my wife has gotten interested in watches this year, so she got a Marlin from Teddy's site for Christmas last month. She loves it!
The most honest watch video. To date the only time I've had my watch commented on was when it was hideously oversized. Thank you Teddy.
I also love your points made in Point #6. Don't be into consumerism, be into watches. I like that.
Although he has a crazy number of pieces, this thought kind of reminds me a bit of Kevin O'Leary's approach he talked about where he said he was buying watches attached to deals they made.
Great video and perspective, honest and real. Believe some of these considerations can be applied to real life and not just watch collecting. Just started collecting, 2 Longines and a Movado. Thank you Teddy and keep up the great work! Cheers!
I’m just starting (or restarting) into collecting and I couldn’t pass this by when it came up in my feed.
I’ve definitely stumbled over a few of these, but thankfully this video came before I tripped or fell. Time to dial back the enthusiasm I think.
As for the style though, that one’s easy; all the watches (or specifically style of watch) the majority of the watch world seems to hate, I love. Not to Invicta levels of gaudiness, but what can I say? Ostentation is my jam.
Excellent video as usual, honest, informative, made me consider things I’d never even thought of. With the occasional image of that VC overseas❤
Top work teddy and team
THANK YOU! I have been totally obsessed with your videos and feel the addiction of discovering and purchasing all of these different watch brands. I bought a burgundy Seiko 5 sport watch which I thought looked so great and it was $200 instead of $350 and thought I was getting such a great deal after I learned about the Seiko brand. HOWEVER, I quickly learned that the watch didn’t not fit my personality or dress style. And BESIDES buying a bunch of watches for $500 or $1000, I would actually have patience and buy a watch like an Omega or Rolex with the classic black dial and metal band that are $3,000-6,000. I think at that price range you are actually purchasing something with value that as a collector you can be proud of. And although I have friends argue “the black face and metal band are old fashion”, that is the style I like and fits me the best. I like having a collection that have a theme yet have small differences that differentiate them from one another. I have 3-4 watches in mind that I hope to acquire in the future, but in between I am excited to build my knowledge of what makes all these watches so special.
Like Teddy said, remember not to build a collection to show off or buying from FOMO. You'll regret it! I always buy my watches to celebrate a significant event in my life. Enjoy your excitement and I hope you have success and happiness in collecting time pieces. Cheers!
Great video Teddy. I just recently got into watches roughly about a month ago and all I wanna do is buy, buy, and buy some more but I've been down this road with fragrances and it resulted in me purchasing and owning far too many fragrances. I need to take a better approach when it comes to my interest in watches! By the way I purchased an Orient with a blue dial from your website and you guys have great customer service. I look forward to purchasing from you again someday in the future!
Watches with an interesting story has been a fun theme for me. Lots of options from a wide range of price points. But sometimes I get one because it's too cool to pass up ( and in my price range ).
I love and appreciate this channel and wish you all the best in the new year!
I collect vintage Timex pretty exclusively and I couldn't be happier. It's all about what makes you happiest!
This is one of THE best videos about watches and collecting I’ve ever seen. This should be required viewing for anyone just starting out in the hobby. I’ve lost THOUSANDS on buying watches that were “popular” that I didn’t even like, and the “no one else gives a damn” is so true. So many channels talk about “heavy hitters.” Well, its only a heavy hitter if anyone even noticed or cared; and most don’t. In my 20 years+ of collecting, I’ve had someone comment on my watch exactly twice, and one was when I was wearing my DSSD, and was asked “is that real?” (A common question for Rolex wearers). Buy what you like, but LEARNING to know what you actually like is important. And as far as an investment? Put that money into an ETF or hell, even a money market account. You’ll do better. Great video Teddy.
This is exactly the video which i was looking for, thanks man you are the best!
Thanks for watching, my friend! Wishing you a great 2021!
Great content! I went on a JLC vintage binge once and sent two watches off to service at the NY boutique; $3800 bill (power reserves and alarm functions) along with the straps. Wish I would have learned earlier about Cost of Ownership.
My God.
3:02 the omega constallation it’s my Favourite watch of all time I have one of the 70s models and I love it
Teddy,
Brilliant discussion. The best point: keep it in perspective.