I am a watch collector. I collect a few things, but I love watch collecting. There is nothing more satisfying than collecting things that go up in value. Of course, not every watch has been a good investment. Some have gone down in value. Some I have had to give away for a song because I wanted to break up with them. I can be fickle with my watches!
But, I have learned so much about what is worth the time and money and what will give the best return on the investment with it comes to watch collecting, that I thought it was time to pass on that knowledge to my readers who are either watch collectors or just starting on their journey.
Watch Collecting – Investment Vs. Collecting
First, you need to understand the difference between watch collecting as an investment and as a collectible. When you collect as an investment, the watches are rare and nearly always in very good condition and have the original box and papers. When you collect as a collector your collecting for features that interest you but might not interest anyone else. Rarity is not so much a consideration, just satisfaction for you is.
Is one better than the other? It really just depends on what you are trying to do. But, let’s say you are trying to start watch collecting to become an investor, stick with brands, such as Rolex and Patek Phillippe. Try some Vacheron Constantin, Audemars Piguet and Jaeger LeCoultre.
Watch Collecting – What to Look For
There are specific things to look for when you are looking for a watch to collect as an investment:
• Precious metals such as gold and platinum
• Complications are good
• Nicely aged patina or in very good condition
• Provenance or where the watch came from
• Specific model numbers
So, now that you are on your way and know what to look for, next time, I will talk about different places you can buy investment watches and how to take care of your investment watches.
