Collector’s Speak: Uncovering The Passion Of Watch Collectors

Luxury watch collecting is a captivating passion that has enthralled countless enthusiasts worldwide. It is more than just a hobby; it’s a pursuit of excellence, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the art of timekeeping.

For many collectors, the allure of luxury watches lies in their intricate mechanisms, exquisite designs, and the stories they tell. Each timepiece is a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who poured their hearts and souls into its creation. From the precision of the movements to the intricate details of the cases and dials, every element is carefully crafted to achieve horological perfection.

The nuances of watch collecting are what make it truly fascinating. Collectors meticulously study the history, heritage, and pedigree of the brands they admire, developing a profound understanding of their significance and rarity. They appreciate the innovative techniques, materials, and complications that set certain watches apart from the rest.

Beyond the technical aspects, watch collecting also involves a deep emotional connection. For some, it’s a way to honor family traditions, passing down cherished timepieces from one generation to the next.

For others, it’s a means of self-expression, reflecting their personal style and taste. The thrill of the hunt is another nuance that adds to the excitement of watch collecting. Scouring auctions, estate sales, and specialty dealers in pursuit of that elusive grail watch is an adventure in itself. The anticipation of acquiring a rare and coveted piece is a feeling that only true enthusiasts can truly understand.

Moreover, the watch-collecting community is a vibrant and welcoming one, where like-minded individuals share their knowledge, experiences, and passion. Collectors often form lasting friendships and bonds, united by their love for these intricate mechanical marvels. In the end, luxury watch collecting is not just about amassing timepieces; it’s about appreciating the artistry, craftsmanship, and history behind each one. It’s a journey of discovery, a celebration of human ingenuity, and a testament to the enduring allure of timeless design.

Here are a few Collector’s and their timepiece treasures!

Danar Widanarto

“As you probably know, I wear watches differently and love combining watches with fashion. This is how I appreciate watches :) It’s my latest creation : my TI[m]E feat. DOXA Army

I love this piece since the first time I saw it on their launch in 2022 during the Geneva Watch Week. Why I love it? Because of its retro look (reborn of DOXA army from 1969), the green bezel (as green is my favourite colour), the iconic hands with their arrow design and bold orange tone.”

Gregory Selch

“About thirty years ago, i was starting to learn about vintage watches. I stumbled on a Zenith chronograph from the 40s or 50s and it had broken and missing parts. Zenith watches from before the 1980s were virtually unknown in the USA and i couldnt find anyone who knew about these old chronographs. Looking through duscussion forums, i learned that Zenith chronographs from the 40s and 50s were in fact made in the same plant in ponts-de-martel as universal geneve chronographs. I had never heard of "universal geneve". a quick look on the internet and my collecting world exploded. One search on ebay revealed dozens of chronographs just like my zenith but branded universal geneve. Thus my connection to Universal Geneve began. This tricompax model in solid 18k gold with beautiful dial and details plus its huge case was one of the last tricompax models made and sold by Universal Geneve before the closed up in the 70s. It took me years to find this one and i have only seen three others, in person, in my life. I remember that i traded three other vintage watches to get it. Viva Universal Geneve.”

Mihir Joshi

“I've been a collector of pop culture and cool things for as long as I can remember. And for me, whenever I collect something, I have to feel connected to it through its story. Be it comic books, sneakers or watches...the story behind the product is what draws me to it.

The new Everest watch by the Delhi Watch Company instantly caught my attention for just that reason. They made a beautiful looking watch to pay homage a watch that was tied to an incredible story of human achievement - the climbing of Mount Everest. The watch has a fantastic Seiko movement and it looks absolutely stunning. And I definitely can see myself styling it with some of my favourite sneakers too. Oh and you could most definitely wear it with a fancy suit as well. It is a versatile watch, great value for money and I absolutely love it.”

Andrea Casalegno

“My favorite watch in general surely is something that is and will be hard to buy since we’re talking above one million whatever coin you use, therefore what I chose is my favorite watch from my own collection, and it is a Tank Louis from Cartier, which to me is the most stylish watch that was ever created. It has nothing to do with my family’s heirlooms, my work, or my friends, I just once saw pictures of the watch from articles, archives, and so on, and I found it so fascinating since I was a kid. Thinking about Muhammad Ali, Andy Warhol, nobles from all around the world, entrepreneurs, stars, and so on owning one, and all of them being as fascinating as the watch is, made me want one so bad. I feel like this is the Datejust of the 2020s, and I literally had the urge to own one, so I contacted a friend of mine who owned it, and he sold it to me for super cheap as he felt my urge to own it and also was happy I am using it more than he ever did. And here it is, my first true (serious) vintage watch I bought myself.”

Katia Jundi

“My watch story!

I would choose my Franck Muller Double Mystery I love how bold and unapologetic the watch is. It’s the kind of watch that people just notice and have to comment on. I love watches that are great conversation starters and the double mystery does just that.”

Shivraj Khachar

“Maharajas of India and their association with pocket watches and timepieces go way back. Brands came forward and indulged in customising watches for the royal families. Shivraj Khachar shared, “My great-grandfather was a watch collector, therefore over the years he received many timepieces as gifts. A special watch was presented to my grandfather by Another Rolex watch was presented to my grandfather by his father-in-law (Late HH Maharaja Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad) on his engagement with my grandmother. It has the Baroda state emblem engraved at the back. This watch has our state emblem engraved on the dial. ”

Vintage watch collections are always considered special. They strike a chord that transports you to a place of a special memory, good times and maybe even, euphoria. What makes Ala Khachar the 2nd watch collection so special? He said, “What makes this assemblage of pocket, wrist, and table clocks unique is that its collections span six generations and more than 170 years. Throughout history, all generations have appreciated and occasionally repaired these exquisite wristwatches. One of the timepieces in this collection was made specifically for the Ruler of Jasdan at the time. There are also numerous examples of art deco pieces.”

Vintage pieces are often considered heirlooms and passed on to the next generation. Sharing his personal favourite he said, “The Universal Geneve custom-made for my great-grandfather with the Jasdan state emblem on the dial is the one. Apart from this, we don’t see many people wear pocket watches today, owing to the age of complications, technology and more. However, I have my eyes on my great-grandfather’s pocket watch with the angels ringing the bells. It is an early 1900s piece and the intricate craftsmanship truly intrigues me.”

Dr Samir Shah

“Now this is a huge challenge for me as there are many that classify as favourites ....however if I have to pick one for this article, then it would be my Red Star Omega aka The Teddington Model primarily due to its sheer rarity and the condition.

In 1940, Omega broke all records and was awarded the best results for timekeeping in history at the Kew Teddington Observatory for a wristwatch. Only timing mechanisms of perfect technical finish, proven design, and expert regulation were chosen and given a chance to compete in the intense 44 days of testing with 5-positional and 3-temperature changes.

Released exclusively for the Brazilian market .... The star on the dial indicates the Teddington model as the wristwatch that carries a similar movement that was awarded a prize as the most accurate ever at the Teddington Observatory . The movement powering this is the legendary cal. 30T2 SC. Due to the humidity levels... most red star omegas have dials which are destroyed and subsequently repainted. With an original scientific dial and a period correct strap , this has been an incredibly difficult watch for me to acquire.”