Solid advice Teddy! Biggest mistake I made was “hoarding”. At some point I had accumulated more than 15 watches in a year and most of them are barely worn. I now have 4 watches for every occasion and still only 2 of them get the most wrist time. Building a collection you REALLY want is a multi year process. For newbies reading this, enjoy the journey and take your time! Don’t make the mistake I made.
@@christopherfranqui1869 there’s also nothing wrong with having a large collection, but in my experience you will always have watches you wear more than others. Just take your time picking the right watch for you and if that means you have to save money for some time just stick with it and don’t buy a cheaper watch that looks like it! Trust me you will regret it. Good luck building your collection! 😁
I donno, buying a bunch of watches early on really helped me refine my tastes. Sure, you take a loss on selling them if you decide you don’t like them. To be honest though, I have 24 watches and I can’t think of one that I don’t ever wear. I really like them all.
Agreed. That's why I prefer Teddy to other watch TH-camrs like Nico Leonard. He thinks if you're not wearing the same Rolex as a million other people your watch is trash. Anyone who doesn't have the same taste as him shouldn't be allowed to exist. The hobby gets pretty boring when it's the same ol shit over and over.
yes this line was Bang on. well done ted!! i have a very small collection, having purchased less than 5. I only regret one, it was a retail therapy purchase after a family member got a serious diagnosis. years after they are still doing great, and I've achieved enough on a personal level to pull the trigger on the divers I really wanted. Also have a cracking japanese solar watch for travel, so all my bases are covered with a very modest collection !
My advice to all watch buyers, newbie or not, is straight forward. Always buy what you can AFFORD and will ENJOY wearing on your wrist. If it goes up in value great, but think of taking the money and using the savings to invest. Lastly, never feel pressured to buy now until you have done your own research. Watch collecting is addictive and is meant to be enjoyed especially after you have taken your time to buy the right watch for you!
@Terraformer00 well i hate to break it to you but as someone of a younger generation what you call "boomer style" are iconic and don't need to gain traction because they already have it and have a good reputation, overly modern watches look tacky and mass produced not most enthusiasts type of thing
I'm really glad you touched upon the subject of impulse buying. Most beginners like me aren't able to rationalize their decisions while trying to build a collection, and end up pumping green because literally everything looks cool. Remember that watch styles fall out of favor, and the right way to expand your collection is over a period of time.
I have the opposite problem. I know very specifically what I want, I wish I could just make it from scratch, and I think 99% of watch designs are ugly, cluttered, and impractical.
11:58 bought the Pepsi dial Skx back in 2007 as my first real adult watch after seeing the Pepsi dial on the Rolex submariner. Being 18 I couldn’t afford a Rolex but the Skx have served me well allt these year up to now. I have worn it a lot and always taken it to the beach etc to swim with it. This is in my opinion why you should buy a watch, simply to wear it. Not as an investment or any of that bs, wear it and enjoy it in your life.
My big mistake was impulse buying. I bought way too many watches and had watches I didn’t even wear since I had so many. I went down to four watches. I think I need to go to that period to develop a taste of watches too. The four watches I have I really like and the next watch I buy I really know what I need to be happy with a watch.
I did the same thing starting out. Ended up with probably 20-30 watches and most were never worn... ended up selling all of them and putting the money toward one more expensive watch (Omega) which then got worn all the time... but I don't regret it since it let me figure out what I liked and for the most part I probably lost very little or made some money when selling them so it was more like a savings acct to save up for the more expensive watch. But I also bought at low prices to make sure I didn't take a huge hit.
My mistake as a beginner was the size.I sold all my affordable watches and started from scratch, but this time paid 5 times more as most entry level watches are bigger. Now I have 4 watches and I believe this is a sweet spot for me. If I count all my bracelets and straps there are many combinations to choose from, as I can see there is no need to buy more, however it is always tempting to get something different.
He's spot on about buying too much, too soon when you start out. I'm a newbie collector, and I'm already talking myself down from impulse buying. It definitely takes some discipline to not get carried away.
I wore an a168 for about 3 years, then broke the case a month ago, in the meantime i got interested in watches, got something to replace it but wasn't actually fully convinced by/ happy with it, and now im talking myself down from buying 2 more watches and building 2 more myself -_- (all budget pieces but still)
I've been doing the same thing, though I've been wearing all of them. I've started getting old Soviet watches, primarily ones with hand painted dials simply because they look really beautiful and they're cheap. I should probably start focusing on appreciating what I have than getting more.
I bought a Hamilton Khaki as my first mechanical and was expecting to be adjusting the time daily to align with my phone. I was actually looking forward to fiddling with with it daily to adjust. But it has been accurate to with a minute for at least a two week period which I found surprising (and a little disappointing as I don't get to fiddle with it daily).
Mistakes are part of the journey. I think the only real mistake is spending more than you can afford to the detriment of necessities, other interests, and financial goals.
My newbie mistake was getting stuck on brand -- my first "major purchase" (I'm in the affordable collectors group) was an entry-level Bulova with a Miyota movement; if I knew then what I know now, I probably would have skipped that purchase (and avoided Bulova altogether). My most recent purchase, however, also has a Miyota inside, but it's dead-accurate, and the best value watch in my collection with it's T100 tubes... it's branded "Epoch", which most have never even heard of before. My primary advice, don't get stuck on brand; shop for the watch with the form and function that suits your personal taste. Besides, it would be a mighty boring world if everybody had a Rolex for work and a G-Shock for play.
In retrospect, the pandemic saved me from making a lot of these mistakes, particularly impulse buying. My wife got me a very nice entry-level watch for Christmas 2019, and I spent the next month or two getting really interested in next-step-up models (stuff around $500-1000.) Then the shutdown hit Chicago and instead of being able to idly wander around boutiques and department stores with a friend, I was stuck scrolling through endless blogs and vlogs about watch collecting (including this vlog right here.) I was basically forced to take several months to figure out exactly what I did and didn't want in a watch, and while that was very frustrating at the time, I now see that it definitely saved me from making a few poor purchases (and wasting money in the process.)
I feel like the opposite happened to me. Being online and reading about watches, had me making more impulse buys online (not just watches). Now I find myself saying, you know I probably didn't need this. Granted I did pick some pieces which I truly enjoy and plan on keeping. But I have others I do plan on just reselling.
So your wife bought you a crap watch and you spent all the time afterwards looking for better ones. It's the chase for exclusivity for something that cost fuck all to make. Watch collecting, like Golf, is all about c*nts and look at me.
I think you need to make these mistakes and learn from them. Its part of the process and the enjoyment of being an enthusiast. Definitely agree that out tastes change with time.
I've managed to avoid impulse buying so far, I just own two G-Shocks (G-steel and the Rubik's collaboration). I think I would've gotten caught up in the Moonswatch hype and bought if they were available online immediately, the only thing I'm really looking at lately is the Sinn 556, either the mother of pearl or the new red one.
oh boy, the last point is so true, even for experienced collectors. I've bought a 70's datejust just to return it 48 hours later. I wasn't buying it for me, I was buying to join the bandwagon. bought a JLC instead, now I'm happy. buy watches for you, not for others.
Great video, Teddy! My biggest mistake or regret was focusing on specs and initially buying an homage watch. The more I got into watch collecting, the more I realized that originality with design matters.
And this is why Teddy is my go to for watch wisdom. My mother is the greatest watch 'collector' I know, and the collecting part of it was completely unintentional. Growing up she needed a watch to make sure she was on time for things, and ended up with a cool watch collection because she never threw them away. Alot of the collection is quartz timex's about the size of my fingernail from the 70's and 80's, none of them are pieces that people seem to think you have to have to be a 'serious' collector, but I love them because I can tell 50+ years of family history with the collection.
Superb advice. As an art historian, I can say with confidence that your points on the pitfalls of impulse or investment-driven purchases are spot on. I have always cautioned against purchasing artwork as an 'investment' -- there are far better avenues for that. Instead, buy what you love or not at all. As for feeling the impulse to posses a piece that promises to fill a particular gap in my (presently quite modest) collection, it's a nonissue. I spend my days working with rare, practically priceless objects, so I can easily appreciate artwork without a being haunted by a gnawing need to possess it (it is, however, gratifying to share that appreciation with other enthusiasts). I believe that kind of patience translates well to building any collection. That said, there is a positive side to collecting a few relatively inexpensive watches early on: the mistakes you make are less costly. As a newbie who's just begun tinkering with repairs and mods, I've caught myself thinking, "I'm so glad I'm trying this out on THIS watch before I try doing the same with my nicer ones." I predict that as I acquire more skills, become comfortable with my tools, and gain confidence in my abilities, I will more readily venture into tinkering with better pieces. Until then, I'm glad that I have a couple watches to play with, because I won't be devastated if I end up doing irreparable damage to something that can be easily re-purchased!
got my 39mm with the white dial on the 3-link "Bader" bracelet watch on amzwatch 3 weeks ago and am loving it to pieces. Absolute fantastic watch that wears super comfortable on my 6.75 inch wrist. Chose the 3-link over the 5-link bracelet for the toolless quick adjustment. Way more comfortable than my Longines Hydroconquest 41 mm.
Good points, the last one being true of all enthusiast communities (and I'm a watch 'outcast' who prefers solar movements to mechanical). I'll add a couple. 1). You touched on with point 4 is learning to look/appreciate without having to own it. Just because you like a watch doesn't mean you need to own it. 2). For most people watches are an expense, not an investment. In order to be an investment you have to be buying watches you think are underpriced and actively reselling them. Otherwise 'investment' watches is just a rationalization people use to justify what is really a luxury good purchase.
My view on "mechanical vs. quartz"... Quartz is great, especially when used in a way to achieve things that are impossible or insanely expensive using mechanics. Think Solar, GPS, Multiband time synchronization, fancy complications and functions for an affordable price... Quartz and electronics are great when they add to the watch. And even without that, if the watch as a whole package (watch type and style, intended use, time keeping requirements, price and execution) still make sense, quartz is still great. ... but. mechanical is great too... (btw. am also wearing a solar quartz atm.)
For me, the number one factor when buying (or dreaming of buying) a watch, is that i love when the watch has some sort of unique thing about it. I like to really study the brand and their history, study the movement of the watch, and when ever i come across something with a unique backstory, like Grand Seiko dials inspired by nature, and stuff like that, i find it very interesting, and intriguing. And that goes for affordable watches too. And thanks for a great video
Great video. The one thing I will say is that my taste evolved as I tried new things. So, while impulse buying is certainly an issue, experimenting helps develop your taste. It's hard to find the right middle ground. To your point, most of us end up just buying too much stuff and then downsizing our collections later on to clear out the stuff that we 'grew out of' as our tastes matured.
Thanks for all the humbling knowledge. I have to admit, I am not really a watch collector, but after the hearing about the demand for Rolex, Patek, and AP going up in prices, I started to look around for more affordable watches. Then I saw one of your videos with Mr. Wonderful, about microbrands, and it really opened my eyes to a new world. For years, I told myself to save up for that Daytona, but at these ridiculous prices, that dream has been shot down.
Great video Teddy, I hope all new collectors to the hobby pay close attention to everything you said. I am into my third year of getting into watches and I am definitely guilty of making some purchases I shouldn’t have.
What did you regret buying, which is a collector's watch? Who would regret buying a Speedmaster or a Submariner? Nonsense. Skx is a solid beater entry level dive watch, which many divers use, PADI certification is not easy to get. @Teddy Baldassarre is a contradiction to a watch collector. Every watch collector add one or more iconic watches to their collection, what is the point of collecting if we don't have something commonly exceptional? @Teddy Baldassarre started off good, but he is now creating a new market for all sorts of watches so naturally, he would want you to refrain from asking to get high demand watches.
@@NumairAidroos When I first started into watches I wanted to have watches of every kind and I bought some dress watches that I hardly use because I am more of a diver and sports type person.
@@hcastel Fair enough. I still wear dress watch to tennis and golf at the club. But I won't wear diver or sport watches with a shirt. T shirt is the right attire for it.
I only started to get more into watch buying a few years ago, and videos like this definitely helped give context to me about considerations as I looked at watches that I liked and they definitely helped me avoid purchase mistakes. I've bought and sold a couple of my earlier watches--we will all do that eventually--as I honed in on what works best for me. I'll probably end up cycling through a couple more over time. Watch size is so fluid, as Teddy noted--different combination of diameter, lug-to-lug, thickness/height, dial-to-bezel ratio, how it sits on your wrist, your own wrist shape, etc. Best thing to do is to try it on first before you buy.
Because it is so very visually impactful, a lot of people forget or just don't know how easy it is to change the whole look, or even the 'purpose' of a watch by the simple effort of swapping straps. This was the thing that opened up many more options for me, but at the same time it made me limit myself to watches that use 22mm straps.
Agree here. When I started color coordinating NATOs with my work outfits, it breathed new life into my watches. The watch I get the most compliments on is a pretty normal Citizen Eco Drive but it has an Oxblood leather NATO strap which is a real attention grabber. The straps add incredible value per dollar.
This is one of my favourite videos from you Teddy, I particularly liked the segment dedicated to having a vision around straps. I love dials, value for money and so my Seiko SPB165 with black or brown leather bands has transformed this watch into a favourite. The same goes for getting more versatility from my SRPE57 with a nato strap. Another thing I’ve learnt is to be comfortable sharing with people I’ve started to build my own watch collection, I’ve always loved watches and that was my choice of gift for my 18th birthday from my parents and since then I’ve held off on purchasing any more until this year after purchasing my first home and putting myself in a place financially where I can afford to build a modest collection. Since sharing with my dad that I’ve started on this journey he has pulled out watches from when he was in his 20s that I didn’t even know existed and I’ve now restored those and added them to my collection which wouldn’t have happened had I not felt comfortable sharing that I was building this collection.
As always very informative. I haven’t bought a mechanical watch for more than 30 years, all of my watches are Quartz , some are Solar. My first priority is accuracy since however desirable a watch may be for other reasons, for me, it’s a timepiece. If it doesn’t keep good time it’s only jewellery. In my defence i respect what drives a collector , I just wish that reviews of watches could include a reasonable expectation of their projected time keeping performance for people like me.
Picked up a amzwatch's watch as my first watch last month and I’m absolutely in love with it. Perfect size, looks elegant, very comfortable. Now my only problem is holding off from buying more watches so quickly!
Great ideas here, Teddy. I've been collecting seriously for the past 16 years and the movement of a watch has become a major consideration. I used to love the look of a watch without properly researching what drives it. Now I think about it all the time and make sure I have a reliable source when it comes to service.
I have been collecting since 2004 and started with Seiko, bought a few others and have a favorite Hamilton but my collection consists of mostly Seiko Automatics because I like them. I rotate and wear at least half of the 40 plus watches on a regular basis. Many things you said I 100% agree with, to me my watches are "Jewelery" my expression and I love the fact that man made gears and springs can keep time. To me its a form of mechanical art.
Love your videos ... Thank you. One thing that I think is not talked about enough is how watch type/style affects size and fit. When you add a rotating (or fixed) bezel to a watch, that uses some of the overall width and the result is a much smaller dial. When you look at your wrist it just makes the whole watch look small even if there is a big chunk of metal there. A 39mm field watch looks much bigger on the wrist than a 40mm Diver. I have learned that my "sweet spot" for sizes is 37-39 for watches that are mostly dial, and then 40-42 for watches with large bezels. Lug/Strap width is another important measurement. I bought a beautiful 39mm flieger style watch, but no matter which strap I used, the 18mm lug width just made it feel too dainty ... Live and learn.
Ive learned its all about you: 1. Do you value aesthetic or the movement; is quartz really a dealbreaker? 2. Do you love it despite it not being acknowledged by enthusiasts?
100 % agree about buy what you like. I was just talking to my friend yesterday after a dive trip and he said he wasn’t versed in watches. I told him, regardless of what others think, buy within your means, and make sure you sleep on it/try it on a couple times and assure yourself you actually like it, and it’s not an impulse buy as you mentioned in the video. I have yet to have an impulse watch buy, but then again, the watches I’m interested are currently out of my reach. Buy what you enjoy and if you meet another enthusiast, great.
Thank you young man. I'm an older retired gentleman with limited monetary means.I would like to start a small (10-15) collection of a diverse classification of watches. My 10-20 year plan is to pass it on to my grandchildren. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
@@Duboixofficiel I agree. 6-8 is a nice collection. My advice is to not buy a watch with your grandchildren in mind specifically. The fact that they’re inheriting their grandfathers watch collection means more to them than the brand of watches it consists of. Get what appeals to you
As people said, don't plan on buying watches with the intent of passing them on to your grandchildren. For all you know, your grandchildren might not appreciate them at all and either sell them or just let them collect dust in the attic. Buy them for yourself.
Great video, Teddy. It's so good to hear this type of advice. I was a one watch guy for 13 years and only recently began collection (2019). I joined a watch owners forum to learn more about the hobby, but soon grew tired of some of the people. The insults, criticisms or just plain superior attitudes made me enjoy the hobby way less. I left the forum in late 2020 and haven't missed it for one second. This channel always reminds me that this hobby should be fun first. Or else, why do it.
Thank you, Teddy, for such a thoughtful and insightful lesson,advice for us starters!! Not to quote everything you’d just talked about- keep it brief, I found this really helpful.
I think this is a mistake that is worth mentioning: Buying a watch which "sort of fits" what you're looking for before looking at enough watches to know what ELSE might fit better. Case in point, I almost bought a (ridiculously marked up) "Seikonaut" because I liked the case shape, and just Googled "watches that look like the Nautilus" and found nothing. I thought that the Seikonaut was my only out. Then, I had the thought that I would probably like something like it, but a bit different - perhaps a DIVER in that shape. Googled that, found nothing. Serendipitously, while NOT searching for it any longer, I came across the Formex Reef which was exactly what I had in mind. TL;DR: Saw a watch that sort of fits, nearly bought; stumbled upon the "right" one just by randomly watching reviews on TH-cam.
Great point. I bought a Black Bay 58 because I thought the 41mm would be too big. Turns out the 58 wasn’t a great fit so I bought a Black Bay 41 and love it.
As a beginner, I think it’s important to buy watches that are very versatile in form. This will alleviate the need to constantly buy new watches because you will be able wear your watch on any occasion. This has helped me save a lot of money since I’ve started collection back in 2018. At the same time, buy something you really like so you get some enjoyment out of wearing your watch. I only have two watches which isn’t much of a collection, but I really both of them and get great usage out of each watch! My first was an affordable Seiko diver (Sea Urchin) for its workhorse movement and sporty/sophisticated design. I recently added a beautiful Frederique Constant dress watch to wear on more formal occasions.
for me it's somewhere along the lines of dimensions. After buying and wearing several watches, from 38mm to 42mm, I realised that i actually prefer smaller watches. 36 to 38mm is ideal for me as I got small wrist. It should also have some heft to it.
I find I quite prefer lightweight watches. I have a ~30 watch collection, and often find myself wearing my £120 Casio Lineage (solar, radio-controlled, about 90 grams ona sailcloth strap) as it just is so light and comfortable. The big bois, I notice now, get less wrist time.
Awesome video, Teddy! I’d like to drop a video idea: as an outdoorsy person who lives in a place that can be -40 degrees C in Feb and +35 degrees C in July, I’d love to see what watches are most resistant to extreme temperatures, and the qualities/characteristics that make them that way!
I wish this video existed 5 years ago! My journey has led me to owning a G-Shock DW5600, Tudor Black Bay Heritage and an 1861 Speedmaster. I think I’m done acquiring anything else.
Today I purchased an SNXS79, as my first mechanical watch. Within an hour, I changed the bracelet for a quality grey suede strap! I’m so happy with my purchase! Next on the list is a tissot prx 35mm and after that I think a diver under 38mm would be great. (that Rado Captain Cook is 🔥 but not for now 😂)
Congrats, a nice one. Also just decided for my first mechanical one yesterday, also a Seiko (SRPF41). Uhhh and that 35mm PRX is sooo nice as well. I hope they bring it with a Powermatic80 like the 40mm.
When I started my watch trip in the early '90 watch magazines and shops were the only source of information and you had not the whole Instagram flexers and YT vloggers world that's just a mess for a newbie. I prepared my first purchase for literally 2 years, saving money, studying, and then I did it. 30 years and a lot of watches after, I can say it was the best choice in that moment, for me, and I don't regret it at all.
I started in about 1989..my dads Rolex..it was all busted up..I had is serviced and wow, a watch worth wearing. I bought a datejust for a little under 1500 bucks in '95..sold it then got on the train I was up to 11 watches and it dawned on me..its expensive hobby..I finally got rid of most I traded 4 nice watches for another Rolex, and now fast forward 30 years I am down to 3 automatics, and two quartz watches that I like..that is enough
“The shared point should be enthusiasm …” Agreed! I’ve been riding a motorcycle 🏍 for more than 15 years; the saying in that community is it’s not about the bike, it’s about the ride.
I got into setting my movements. I find that 7S26 movements are dead accurate when adjusted to +3 sec/day. All of my watches, except for vintage run that close. It was fun learning on cheap Seiko 5's
I have a bad habit of buying a watch which is slightly more expensive than the last one I had (and usually better) and then not wearing the cheaper watch again. I progressed from Timex Weekender > Gshock > Casio Duro > Orient Kamasu > Hamilton Khaki Field Auto. With a few cheap casios in there somewhere that I never wear. Definitely feels like money wasted.
This! I completely agree with you on this. My thought process is… I have a more expensive and more desirable watch than another watch that i own, why would i wear the cheaper one?
@@rcart1 I have a good answer for why you'd wear the cheaper, less "desirable" one: because a) it suits the occasion, and, more importantly, b) you love it! At least that's how it works for me. I happily wear my Casio A 158W, because I appreciate its history *and* its styling. I just don't wear it to the opera (although even there, depending on the production... I'd consider it). When I add a Nomos or JLC Reverso to my collection, I have no doubt that I'll continue to rock my Casio when appropriate, because at the end of the day, the only opinion regarding the desirability of my watch that actually matters to me is my own.
2:09 that is an incredible shot... the way you captured the light reflecting off the glass... I had to look up this watch. Doxa's site pictures dont look half as good as that shot at 2:09.
2.5 yrs into watches, I learned that having 4 watches is enough, and at a safe amount of watch. Although I'm having 8 watch. But selling 2. 1. A dress/formal 2. Dressy casual 3. Daily/sporty/field 4. True beater
I am really impressed with your comments about groupthink. As somebody who is new to the hobby I see a lot of popular opinions that I can't find any basis for besides that a bunch of people collectively decided that's the way it is. It has been hard for me to articulate but it was well said in the video.
Teddy! I’m really glad you made this video. This is something I wish I saw back when I started collecting in 2014. Recently got back into it as I concentrated more on my business. And it is refreshing to see people like you uphold some very good ideas to instill to newer collectors. Cheers man!
I also did a little impulse buying at first. I have since more deliberate. I am more confident in what I like, which has taken some time to develop. It will probably change again. I have 11 watches and I still like at least 9 of them...lol. I have an Omega Speedmaster, which I adore and hope to be able to add more luxury watches in the future. Thanks for a great video Teddy. You are a true watch GURU!
Great video once again 👍 I'd add apiece of advice my older brother gave me (knowing that I'm the type of person who changes his mind all the time) : once you have an eye for your first "expensive" watch (according to your budget) try to wait a couple of months before buying it. If it's still the watch you want after having seen or learned about others over 3 months then go ahead and get it.
I ended up buying a timegrapher just to be able to adjust the accuracy. My watches are now running maximum of +6 seconds/day. I'm pretty satisfied with that.
If were talking abt accuracy, i think it doesn’t bother me at all, because at the end of the day, when the watch dies, you still need to wind it up and set the time again right? 🤷🏻♂️
The best thing I ever did along my collecting journey was selling my four Rolex pieces last year. I bought them because when I was younger I believed that, if you collect watches, you have to own Rolex. Well, I made a lot of money from selling my Rolex watches and have put that cash into buying what I really like. Nothing against Rolex or those folks who like their watches but, it turns out that I never really got excited about them. Now I collect and wear watches that excite my senses are pleasing to me.
I was at a highly recognized cardiologist office and at the clinic staff refered at him as a Rolex collector or something like that. When he came in to consult he told me that he liked very much my wath and what brand it was and I showed it to him. It was a stainless steel black background with just 12, 3, 6, 9 display ( no numbers) NIXON. I don’t know if he was a real watch collector but he kept complementing my watch every visit. It made my day every time. Wich BTW proves your point.
As someone who is 6'5 I got unto watches thinking I needed the biggest flashiest monstrosities. But as my taste got more refined I found that small, more traditional watches were more my style. Ladies watches are also very affordable, like the 33mm Calatrava.
Excellent video, and very helpful. I'm about 2 years into watch collecting...and I've definitely made a couple of these mistakes. Fortunately, I'm still in the entry-level phase so none of those mistakes cost me very much. First mistake I made was buying a Seiko 5 Sport because it was on sale, instead of the one I wanted. I wanted a Seiko 5 Sport...but I bought the one that was on sale. There's nothing wrong with it...it's a perfectly fine daily-wear watch, but if I had taken my time and looked further, I would have ended up with the specific one I wanted.
I honestly think I've made every single mistake in this video starting out. I've loved watches for maybe 4-5 years now, and I'm just starting to figure out what I like. Thankfully I didn't spend thousands on watches I didn't like because I haven't earned enough money to go and do that, but now that I know what I like, I can save up for some more expensive pieces.
Your videos are awesome. I'm just getting into it and even though I'm not concerned about some of this, you just talking about it is amazing and makes it less daunting to get into this. Please keep it up
Hi Teddy. How about doing a compare between a premium used/2nd owner watch like an Omega vs a lower priced new watch such as a Longines or an Oris. See what is the best option for the same price. Thanks, Matt.
What a great common sense video this is. I’ve collected watches and Fountain Pens for a long time and this is all solid advice. Don’t be in a rush to buy anything and whatever you do by you will appreciate more.
amzwatch You are so well-informed about luxury watches. You've obviously done your due diligence and the comparison to the US is very informative...because of course, I live in New York. thank you very much
That was really great. I am thankful for your piece on both the straps and the impulse buying. I also loved the support on investment and whether the watch is timed correctly. Lastly, thank you for steering us away from the influence of wanting acceptance. I hadn't thought that as an issue at all. Overall, I will buy within my price range as well as ensure I don't overwork a collection that seems similar. I figure I will buy a really good watch between $500 and a bit more as a family heirloom. One for my future son and my lady's boy I hold as my son now. I want to have something that when it is time, I can pass it down to them with a good family crest ring. You know, like, a Priest of the family, the oldest son (those two are usually the same), the baby of the family and maybe that Kinsman redeemer kid. I gotta work that all out, but anyway. Thanks. Shared more than I thought, but something of myself for something of yourself!
It's good to reward ourselves sometimes . While I'm not one to spend on high-end watch (I spend too much money on travel, lol), I can appreciate your gorgeous and timeless watch. I love how it's a symbol of all your hard work.And i choose NKUWAN every time honestly
Great video Teddy. As someone that is starting out with this hobby the snobbery I've seen online is bar none. Personal taste is just that. People crapping on other people's choices is just unfortunate. As it draws people away from this hobby.
Some interesting points. As regards the stated accuracy, my theory is the loose tolerances are a cost cutting exercise because assembling a watch is much quicker than the process of adjusting it to achieve its ultimate potential. Recently I bought a Seiko snk805 that was running at about +30 s per day with little daily variation. It was easy to adjust it to about +5s but it took time.
I’ve loved and coveted Speedys since I was a kid wearing my first wristwatch (and not coincidentally, obsessed with NASA’s Apollo program)! Only years later did I learn how obsessed so many watch collectors were with the Omegas
Great content! I went through the impulse buying, what looked cool at the time and suddenly in a very short period (under 3 years) had accumulated over 220 watches. As you correctly stated, tastes changed and I am in the process of selling over 100. I know a 100 still in the collection is massive but we'll see what happens in the next year or so! Thanks again!
I have watched your channel for 3 months now, and i have finally bought my first watch. I bought the Seiko Samurai with the blue dial. It’s a perfect beginner watch, at least for me,. It’s comfortable beefy and i like the looks and feel of it. And I just get really happy looking at it, when I want to know the time.
Collecting watches for me is not about investing but just appreciating your time piece. I probably have far to many but I do rotate enough so they all get wrist time. I know I made zero mistakes as each time I have one of them on the wrist I missed having it there.
I would add buying something which you think is similar to the one that you actually want. For example, I remember being blown away trying out the IWC pilot silver/white dial for the first time at the local AD. I bought three watches which I thought were close to it in style but finally after 5 years saved up and pulled the trigger on the one I wanted all along. Lesson learnt - better to save up and be patient and buy the one which you actually want. Another advise - always try out and spend some time with a watch at the AD if possible, what you see on the internet may not be what you see in the flesh.
I would also add recommendation to keep in mind the cost of the watch service. Buying some affordable watch for $200-300 most likely buying a disposable watch, as to service them in developed countries can cost more than the new watch. And common watch service interval is ~5 years.
I bought a watch case that holds 8 watches. That’s my limit; 8 watches and 1 on my wrist. A couple of dive watches, 3 fields watches, 1 chronometer, 2 dress watches, and 1 quartz. I think that’s a nice cross section of styles available and I’m satisfied with my collection. ;
Perfect & most complete advice.. I can relate to most of you said.. & now I think I am in the last phase of my final selections of my 12 watch in my collections.. Mostly from the 3 brands Casio, Seiko & the last brand I recently collected is tissot prx... I think this is my end game of watch collecting at the age of 51 to my remaining life I can feel that these 12 watches will remain intact until which of us come to an end in this world..
2:34 It's true that you shouldn't expect too much but i've just bought a new €180 Seiko and although officially its rated +30 sec a day i only get like 6s every 24h so don't be too pessimistic about that for day to day use you'll be fine resetting time every 4 days or something like that if you know you'll need accurate timing that day (for example when i have an exam that day) you can set it in the morning that day, it only takes 1 min and for 12 hours it'll be accurate within 3 sec.
I started later than I wanted to in life and made the mistake of buying WAY too many in a rather short time. This caused a lot of trading for others as I figured out what worked for me and what didn't. Basically I went nuts for a year. I've chilled out though. I've only bought one since mid-November and it's a relatively inexpensive piece, while I've sold two pricy pieces that I just wasn't reaching for.
I bought the Tissot Prx Powermatic 80 for 695€ and it has only 6-7 seconds/day. It‘s my first swiss watch and I can really recommend it with the blue dial. Unbelievable watch for that price point. Greetings from germany 🇩🇪
Really love that one, that great classic design. Good choice Sir! It think it's one of those "wear at any time or occasion you like" watches. While the blue dial is really great I fell in love with the green one. The PRX was one of the last 2 contenders to be my first mechanical watch. But since the green dial is not out here... I pulled the trigger on the other one (Seiko SRPF41) today . But the PRX remains in my Head still. In a sense it's good that it's not available yet :-)
Hi Teddy,. My first automatic watch was an Oris Divers, in the spring of 1997 and when I sold it to buy another watch in 2008, I got $600 dollars more than what I paid for it; so, in a way it turned out to be an investment. I've been into watch collecting ever since then and I do agree, most watches are not an investment. I was just lucky, plain and simple. 🙂
Solid advice Teddy! Biggest mistake I made was “hoarding”. At some point I had accumulated more than 15 watches in a year and most of them are barely worn. I now have 4 watches for every occasion and still only 2 of them get the most wrist time. Building a collection you REALLY want is a multi year process.
For newbies reading this, enjoy the journey and take your time! Don’t make the mistake I made.
very true. only thing keeping me back from hoarding watches is me being brokeXD
Thank you much for sharing this. I just started getting into watch collecting and it's comforting to know that if you have a few your pretty good.
@@christopherfranqui1869 there’s also nothing wrong with having a large collection, but in my experience you will always have watches you wear more than others. Just take your time picking the right watch for you and if that means you have to save money for some time just stick with it and don’t buy a cheaper watch that looks like it! Trust me you will regret it. Good luck building your collection! 😁
I donno, buying a bunch of watches early on really helped me refine my tastes. Sure, you take a loss on selling them if you decide you don’t like them. To be honest though, I have 24 watches and I can’t think of one that I don’t ever wear. I really like them all.
100% agree, and those that get the most wrist time for me aren’t always the most expensive ones either
"The shared point should be enthusiasm" is probably the best thing I've EVER heard you say.
Agreed. That's why I prefer Teddy to other watch TH-camrs like Nico Leonard. He thinks if you're not wearing the same Rolex as a million other people your watch is trash. Anyone who doesn't have the same taste as him shouldn't be allowed to exist. The hobby gets pretty boring when it's the same ol shit over and over.
yes this line was Bang on. well done ted!! i have a very small collection, having purchased less than 5. I only regret one, it was a retail therapy purchase after a family member got a serious diagnosis. years after they are still doing great, and I've achieved enough on a personal level to pull the trigger on the divers I really wanted. Also have a cracking japanese solar watch for travel, so all my bases are covered with a very modest collection !
@@BabyJesus66 000000⁰0⁰⁰000
@@BabyJesus66 ⁰00
My advice to all watch buyers, newbie or not, is straight forward. Always buy what you can AFFORD and will ENJOY wearing on your wrist. If it goes up in value great, but think of taking the money and using the savings to invest. Lastly, never feel pressured to buy now until you have done your own research. Watch collecting is addictive and is meant to be enjoyed especially after you have taken your time to buy the right watch for you!
Great advice 👍
The biggest mistake is “Getting into watch collecting” in the first place!
It's a colossal waste of money. One beater. One nice watch. The rest collect dust.
@@GallaghersGrub and one diver.
@Terraformer00 well i hate to break it to you but as someone of a younger generation what you call "boomer style" are iconic and don't need to gain traction because they already have it and have a good reputation, overly modern watches look tacky and mass produced not most enthusiasts type of thing
Agreed. Watches are just items of jewelry. Why on earth does anyone want to possess lots of them?
@@GallaghersGrub should the beater for a trade worker be a square g shock or a citizen tough?
I'm really glad you touched upon the subject of impulse buying. Most beginners like me aren't able to rationalize their decisions while trying to build a collection, and end up pumping green because literally everything looks cool. Remember that watch styles fall out of favor, and the right way to expand your collection is over a period of time.
I have the opposite problem. I know very specifically what I want, I wish I could just make it from scratch, and I think 99% of watch designs are ugly, cluttered, and impractical.
11:58 bought the Pepsi dial Skx back in 2007 as my first real adult watch after seeing the Pepsi dial on the Rolex submariner. Being 18 I couldn’t afford a Rolex but the Skx have served me well allt these year up to now. I have worn it a lot and always taken it to the beach etc to swim with it. This is in my opinion why you should buy a watch, simply to wear it. Not as an investment or any of that bs, wear it and enjoy it in your life.
Have you serviced it ?
My big mistake was impulse buying. I bought way too many watches and had watches I didn’t even wear since I had so many. I went down to four watches. I think I need to go to that period to develop a taste of watches too. The four watches I have I really like and the next watch I buy I really know what I need to be happy with a watch.
I was able to catch myself before buying too many. A good strategy was to buy a higher priced watch and enjoy it LOL.
I'm currently in that phase. How do I figure out what I like without buying several watches?
Same here, 18 watches now ;)
I did the same thing starting out. Ended up with probably 20-30 watches and most were never worn... ended up selling all of them and putting the money toward one more expensive watch (Omega) which then got worn all the time... but I don't regret it since it let me figure out what I liked and for the most part I probably lost very little or made some money when selling them so it was more like a savings acct to save up for the more expensive watch. But I also bought at low prices to make sure I didn't take a huge hit.
@@BabyJesus66 Which Omega did you get. I bought a Seamaster two weeks ago.
My mistake as a beginner was the size.I sold all my affordable watches and started from scratch, but this time paid 5 times more as most entry level watches are bigger. Now I have 4 watches and I believe this is a sweet spot for me. If I count all my bracelets and straps there are many combinations to choose from, as I can see there is no need to buy more, however it is always tempting to get something different.
Having been a watch collector for 10+ years I can say from my own experience that you are spot on with your advice. Great video.
He's spot on about buying too much, too soon when you start out. I'm a newbie collector, and I'm already talking myself down from impulse buying. It definitely takes some discipline to not get carried away.
I wore an a168 for about 3 years, then broke the case a month ago, in the meantime i got interested in watches, got something to replace it but wasn't actually fully convinced by/ happy with it, and now im talking myself down from buying 2 more watches and building 2 more myself -_- (all budget pieces but still)
I've been doing the same thing, though I've been wearing all of them. I've started getting old Soviet watches, primarily ones with hand painted dials simply because they look really beautiful and they're cheap. I should probably start focusing on appreciating what I have than getting more.
I bought a Hamilton Khaki as my first mechanical and was expecting to be adjusting the time daily to align with my phone. I was actually looking forward to fiddling with with it daily to adjust. But it has been accurate to with a minute for at least a two week period which I found surprising (and a little disappointing as I don't get to fiddle with it daily).
Mistakes are part of the journey. I think the only real mistake is spending more than you can afford to the detriment of necessities, other interests, and financial goals.
My newbie mistake was getting stuck on brand -- my first "major purchase" (I'm in the affordable collectors group) was an entry-level Bulova with a Miyota movement; if I knew then what I know now, I probably would have skipped that purchase (and avoided Bulova altogether).
My most recent purchase, however, also has a Miyota inside, but it's dead-accurate, and the best value watch in my collection with it's T100 tubes... it's branded "Epoch", which most have never even heard of before.
My primary advice, don't get stuck on brand; shop for the watch with the form and function that suits your personal taste. Besides, it would be a mighty boring world if everybody had a Rolex for work and a G-Shock for play.
In retrospect, the pandemic saved me from making a lot of these mistakes, particularly impulse buying. My wife got me a very nice entry-level watch for Christmas 2019, and I spent the next month or two getting really interested in next-step-up models (stuff around $500-1000.) Then the shutdown hit Chicago and instead of being able to idly wander around boutiques and department stores with a friend, I was stuck scrolling through endless blogs and vlogs about watch collecting (including this vlog right here.) I was basically forced to take several months to figure out exactly what I did and didn't want in a watch, and while that was very frustrating at the time, I now see that it definitely saved me from making a few poor purchases (and wasting money in the process.)
Interesting use of the word 'perpetuated' when discussing watches as investments 🤔 😉
I feel like the opposite happened to me. Being online and reading about watches, had me making more impulse buys online (not just watches). Now I find myself saying, you know I probably didn't need this. Granted I did pick some pieces which I truly enjoy and plan on keeping. But I have others I do plan on just reselling.
That's a bummer, but hey, silver lining: now you know firsthand what you do and don't like on your wrist.
Seiko divers are pretty neat
So your wife bought you a crap watch and you spent all the time afterwards looking for better ones. It's the chase for exclusivity for something that cost fuck all to make. Watch collecting, like Golf, is all about c*nts and look at me.
I think you need to make these mistakes and learn from them. Its part of the process and the enjoyment of being an enthusiast.
Definitely agree that out tastes change with time.
I've managed to avoid impulse buying so far, I just own two G-Shocks (G-steel and the Rubik's collaboration). I think I would've gotten caught up in the Moonswatch hype and bought if they were available online immediately, the only thing I'm really looking at lately is the Sinn 556, either the mother of pearl or the new red one.
oh boy, the last point is so true, even for experienced collectors. I've bought a 70's datejust just to return it 48 hours later. I wasn't buying it for me, I was buying to join the bandwagon. bought a JLC instead, now I'm happy. buy watches for you, not for others.
Good that you were able to see through your decision and correct it!
48 hours +/- 50s 😁
Great video, Teddy! My biggest mistake or regret was focusing on specs and initially buying an homage watch. The more I got into watch collecting, the more I realized that originality with design matters.
And this is why Teddy is my go to for watch wisdom. My mother is the greatest watch 'collector' I know, and the collecting part of it was completely unintentional. Growing up she needed a watch to make sure she was on time for things, and ended up with a cool watch collection because she never threw them away. Alot of the collection is quartz timex's about the size of my fingernail from the 70's and 80's, none of them are pieces that people seem to think you have to have to be a 'serious' collector, but I love them because I can tell 50+ years of family history with the collection.
Superb advice. As an art historian, I can say with confidence that your points on the pitfalls of impulse or investment-driven purchases are spot on. I have always cautioned against purchasing artwork as an 'investment' -- there are far better avenues for that. Instead, buy what you love or not at all. As for feeling the impulse to posses a piece that promises to fill a particular gap in my (presently quite modest) collection, it's a nonissue. I spend my days working with rare, practically priceless objects, so I can easily appreciate artwork without a being haunted by a gnawing need to possess it (it is, however, gratifying to share that appreciation with other enthusiasts). I believe that kind of patience translates well to building any collection.
That said, there is a positive side to collecting a few relatively inexpensive watches early on: the mistakes you make are less costly. As a newbie who's just begun tinkering with repairs and mods, I've caught myself thinking, "I'm so glad I'm trying this out on THIS watch before I try doing the same with my nicer ones." I predict that as I acquire more skills, become comfortable with my tools, and gain confidence in my abilities, I will more readily venture into tinkering with better pieces. Until then, I'm glad that I have a couple watches to play with, because I won't be devastated if I end up doing irreparable damage to something that can be easily re-purchased!
got my 39mm with the white dial on the 3-link "Bader" bracelet watch on amzwatch 3 weeks ago and am loving it to pieces. Absolute fantastic watch that wears super comfortable on my 6.75 inch wrist. Chose the 3-link over the 5-link bracelet for the toolless quick adjustment. Way more comfortable than my Longines Hydroconquest 41 mm.
Good points, the last one being true of all enthusiast communities (and I'm a watch 'outcast' who prefers solar movements to mechanical). I'll add a couple.
1). You touched on with point 4 is learning to look/appreciate without having to own it. Just because you like a watch doesn't mean you need to own it.
2). For most people watches are an expense, not an investment. In order to be an investment you have to be buying watches you think are underpriced and actively reselling them. Otherwise 'investment' watches is just a rationalization people use to justify what is really a luxury good purchase.
hi5, fellow solar movement fan :D
My view on "mechanical vs. quartz"...
Quartz is great, especially when used in a way to achieve things that are impossible or insanely expensive using mechanics.
Think Solar, GPS, Multiband time synchronization, fancy complications and functions for an affordable price...
Quartz and electronics are great when they add to the watch.
And even without that, if the watch as a whole package (watch type and style, intended use, time keeping requirements, price and execution) still make sense, quartz is still great.
... but. mechanical is great too...
(btw. am also wearing a solar quartz atm.)
For me, the number one factor when buying (or dreaming of buying) a watch, is that i love when the watch has some sort of unique thing about it. I like to really study the brand and their history, study the movement of the watch, and when ever i come across something with a unique backstory, like Grand Seiko dials inspired by nature, and stuff like that, i find it very interesting, and intriguing. And that goes for affordable watches too.
And thanks for a great video
You've said it before. Biggest mistake is thinking anyone but you cares about your watches.
Great video. The one thing I will say is that my taste evolved as I tried new things. So, while impulse buying is certainly an issue, experimenting helps develop your taste. It's hard to find the right middle ground. To your point, most of us end up just buying too much stuff and then downsizing our collections later on to clear out the stuff that we 'grew out of' as our tastes matured.
Thanks for all the humbling knowledge. I have to admit, I am not really a watch collector, but after the hearing about the demand for Rolex, Patek, and AP going up in prices, I started to look around for more affordable watches. Then I saw one of your videos with Mr. Wonderful, about microbrands, and it really opened my eyes to a new world. For years, I told myself to save up for that Daytona, but at these ridiculous prices, that dream has been shot down.
Great video Teddy, I hope all new collectors to the hobby pay close attention to everything you said. I am into my third year of getting into watches and I am definitely guilty of making some purchases I shouldn’t have.
What did you regret buying, which is a collector's watch? Who would regret buying a Speedmaster or a Submariner? Nonsense. Skx is a solid beater entry level dive watch, which many divers use, PADI certification is not easy to get. @Teddy Baldassarre is a contradiction to a watch collector. Every watch collector add one or more iconic watches to their collection, what is the point of collecting if we don't have something commonly exceptional? @Teddy Baldassarre started off good, but he is now creating a new market for all sorts of watches so naturally, he would want you to refrain from asking to get high demand watches.
@@NumairAidroos When I first started into watches I wanted to have watches of every kind and I bought some dress watches that I hardly use because I am more of a diver and sports type person.
@@hcastel Fair enough. I still wear dress watch to tennis and golf at the club. But I won't wear diver or sport watches with a shirt. T shirt is the right attire for it.
I only started to get more into watch buying a few years ago, and videos like this definitely helped give context to me about considerations as I looked at watches that I liked and they definitely helped me avoid purchase mistakes. I've bought and sold a couple of my earlier watches--we will all do that eventually--as I honed in on what works best for me. I'll probably end up cycling through a couple more over time.
Watch size is so fluid, as Teddy noted--different combination of diameter, lug-to-lug, thickness/height, dial-to-bezel ratio, how it sits on your wrist, your own wrist shape, etc. Best thing to do is to try it on first before you buy.
Well said, Teddy. I have made all these mistakes 😊. This video should be mandatory viewing for anyone planning to get into watch collecting.
Because it is so very visually impactful, a lot of people forget or just don't know how easy it is to change the whole look, or even the 'purpose' of a watch by the simple effort of swapping straps. This was the thing that opened up many more options for me, but at the same time it made me limit myself to watches that use 22mm straps.
Agree here. When I started color coordinating NATOs with my work outfits, it breathed new life into my watches. The watch I get the most compliments on is a pretty normal Citizen Eco Drive but it has an Oxblood leather NATO strap which is a real attention grabber. The straps add incredible value per dollar.
This is one of my favourite videos from you Teddy, I particularly liked the segment dedicated to having a vision around straps. I love dials, value for money and so my Seiko SPB165 with black or brown leather bands has transformed this watch into a favourite. The same goes for getting more versatility from my SRPE57 with a nato strap.
Another thing I’ve learnt is to be comfortable sharing with people I’ve started to build my own watch collection, I’ve always loved watches and that was my choice of gift for my 18th birthday from my parents and since then I’ve held off on purchasing any more until this year after purchasing my first home and putting myself in a place financially where I can afford to build a modest collection. Since sharing with my dad that I’ve started on this journey he has pulled out watches from when he was in his 20s that I didn’t even know existed and I’ve now restored those and added them to my collection which wouldn’t have happened had I not felt comfortable sharing that I was building this collection.
I love that you consider the little guys like us
As always very informative. I haven’t bought a mechanical watch for more than 30 years, all of my watches are Quartz , some are Solar. My first priority is accuracy since however desirable a watch may be for other reasons, for me, it’s a timepiece. If it doesn’t keep good time it’s only jewellery. In my defence i respect what drives a collector , I just wish that reviews of watches could include a reasonable expectation of their projected time keeping performance for people like me.
Picked up a amzwatch's watch as my first watch last month and I’m absolutely in love with it. Perfect size, looks elegant, very comfortable. Now my only problem is holding off from buying more watches so quickly!
Great ideas here, Teddy. I've been collecting seriously for the past 16 years and the movement of a watch has become a major consideration. I used to love the look of a watch without properly researching what drives it. Now I think about it all the time and make sure I have a reliable source when it comes to service.
I have been collecting since 2004 and started with Seiko, bought a few others and have a favorite Hamilton but my collection consists of mostly Seiko Automatics because I like them. I rotate and wear at least half of the 40 plus watches on a regular basis. Many things you said I 100% agree with, to me my watches are "Jewelery" my expression and I love the fact that man made gears and springs can keep time. To me its a form of mechanical art.
👏👏 exactly my thoughts and what I actually do as well.
Love your videos ... Thank you. One thing that I think is not talked about enough is how watch type/style affects size and fit. When you add a rotating (or fixed) bezel to a watch, that uses some of the overall width and the result is a much smaller dial. When you look at your wrist it just makes the whole watch look small even if there is a big chunk of metal there. A 39mm field watch looks much bigger on the wrist than a 40mm Diver. I have learned that my "sweet spot" for sizes is 37-39 for watches that are mostly dial, and then 40-42 for watches with large bezels. Lug/Strap width is another important measurement. I bought a beautiful 39mm flieger style watch, but no matter which strap I used, the 18mm lug width just made it feel too dainty ... Live and learn.
Ive learned its all about you:
1. Do you value aesthetic or the movement; is quartz really a dealbreaker?
2. Do you love it despite it not being acknowledged by enthusiasts?
@Dell Wright yes yes yes
100 % agree about buy what you like. I was just talking to my friend yesterday after a dive trip and he said he wasn’t versed in watches. I told him, regardless of what others think, buy within your means, and make sure you sleep on it/try it on a couple times and assure yourself you actually like it, and it’s not an impulse buy as you mentioned in the video. I have yet to have an impulse watch buy, but then again, the watches I’m interested are currently out of my reach. Buy what you enjoy and if you meet another enthusiast, great.
love this, learning a lot!
wil what is your hairstyle
Ano yung daily watch mo Wil?
Thank you young man. I'm an older retired gentleman with limited monetary means.I would like to start a small (10-15) collection of a diverse classification of watches. My 10-20 year plan is to pass it on to my grandchildren. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
10-15 is quite a lot sir! I’m not sure how many grandchildren you have but I would personally stick with a smaller number like 6-8 maximum
@@Duboixofficiel I agree. 6-8 is a nice collection. My advice is to not buy a watch with your grandchildren in mind specifically. The fact that they’re inheriting their grandfathers watch collection means more to them than the brand of watches it consists of. Get what appeals to you
As people said, don't plan on buying watches with the intent of passing them on to your grandchildren. For all you know, your grandchildren might not appreciate them at all and either sell them or just let them collect dust in the attic. Buy them for yourself.
When the US stock market crash, buy them index S&P 500 and dont sell ever. Grandkids will thank you in 30 years.
Great video, Teddy. It's so good to hear this type of advice. I was a one watch guy for 13 years and only recently began collection (2019). I joined a watch owners forum to learn more about the hobby, but soon grew tired of some of the people. The insults, criticisms or just plain superior attitudes made me enjoy the hobby way less. I left the forum in late 2020 and haven't missed it for one second. This channel always reminds me that this hobby should be fun first. Or else, why do it.
You have have an astonishing comment that got my attention.
Text me immediately.👆👆👆
Thank you, Teddy, for such a thoughtful and insightful lesson,advice for us starters!! Not to quote everything you’d just talked about- keep it brief, I found this really helpful.
I think this is a mistake that is worth mentioning:
Buying a watch which "sort of fits" what you're looking for before looking at enough watches to know what ELSE might fit better. Case in point, I almost bought a (ridiculously marked up) "Seikonaut" because I liked the case shape, and just Googled "watches that look like the Nautilus" and found nothing. I thought that the Seikonaut was my only out.
Then, I had the thought that I would probably like something like it, but a bit different - perhaps a DIVER in that shape. Googled that, found nothing. Serendipitously, while NOT searching for it any longer, I came across the Formex Reef which was exactly what I had in mind.
TL;DR: Saw a watch that sort of fits, nearly bought; stumbled upon the "right" one just by randomly watching reviews on TH-cam.
Great point. I bought a Black Bay 58 because I thought the 41mm would be too big. Turns out the 58 wasn’t a great fit so I bought a Black Bay 41 and love it.
The Reef is a great looking watch. Good find.
As a beginner, I think it’s important to buy watches that are very versatile in form. This will alleviate the need to constantly buy new watches because you will be able wear your watch on any occasion. This has helped me save a lot of money since I’ve started collection back in 2018. At the same time, buy something you really like so you get some enjoyment out of wearing your watch. I only have two watches which isn’t much of a collection, but I really both of them and get great usage out of each watch! My first was an affordable Seiko diver (Sea Urchin) for its workhorse movement and sporty/sophisticated design. I recently added a beautiful Frederique Constant dress watch to wear on more formal occasions.
for me it's somewhere along the lines of dimensions. After buying and wearing several watches, from 38mm to 42mm, I realised that i actually prefer smaller watches. 36 to 38mm is ideal for me as I got small wrist. It should also have some heft to it.
I find I quite prefer lightweight watches. I have a ~30 watch collection, and often find myself wearing my £120 Casio Lineage (solar, radio-controlled, about 90 grams ona sailcloth strap) as it just is so light and comfortable. The big bois, I notice now, get less wrist time.
@@kristiangustafson4130 Nice! wear what you like and that defines your style.
Awesome video, Teddy!
I’d like to drop a video idea: as an outdoorsy person who lives in a place that can be -40 degrees C in Feb and +35 degrees C in July, I’d love to see what watches are most resistant to extreme temperatures, and the qualities/characteristics that make them that way!
I wish this video existed 5 years ago! My journey has led me to owning a G-Shock DW5600, Tudor Black Bay Heritage and an 1861 Speedmaster. I think I’m done acquiring anything else.
Solid three watch collection right there.
Today I purchased an SNXS79, as my first mechanical watch. Within an hour, I changed the bracelet for a quality grey suede strap! I’m so happy with my purchase! Next on the list is a tissot prx 35mm and after that I think a diver under 38mm would be great. (that Rado Captain Cook is 🔥 but not for now 😂)
Congrats, a nice one.
Also just decided for my first mechanical one yesterday, also a Seiko (SRPF41).
Uhhh and that 35mm PRX is sooo nice as well. I hope they bring it with a Powermatic80 like the 40mm.
@@pierre4695 Well now we are hooked 🤣. I’m also waiting for that automatic prx 35mm!
When I started my watch trip in the early '90 watch magazines and shops were the only source of information and you had not the whole Instagram flexers and YT vloggers world that's just a mess for a newbie. I prepared my first purchase for literally 2 years, saving money, studying, and then I did it. 30 years and a lot of watches after, I can say it was the best choice in that moment, for me, and I don't regret it at all.
I’m kind of jealous. Wish I had gotten into watches in the 90s. I got into watches in recent years and you’re right. It’s all flexing and hype.
I started in about 1989..my dads Rolex..it was all busted up..I had is serviced and wow, a watch worth wearing.
I bought a datejust for a little under 1500 bucks in '95..sold it then got on the train I was up to 11 watches and it dawned on me..its expensive hobby..I finally got rid of most I traded 4 nice watches for another Rolex, and now fast forward 30 years I am down to 3 automatics, and two quartz watches that I like..that is enough
“The shared point should be enthusiasm …” Agreed! I’ve been riding a motorcycle 🏍 for more than 15 years; the saying in that community is it’s not about the bike, it’s about the ride.
I got into setting my movements. I find that 7S26 movements are dead accurate when adjusted to +3 sec/day. All of my watches, except for vintage run that close. It was fun learning on cheap Seiko 5's
I have a bad habit of buying a watch which is slightly more expensive than the last one I had (and usually better) and then not wearing the cheaper watch again. I progressed from Timex Weekender > Gshock > Casio Duro > Orient Kamasu > Hamilton Khaki Field Auto. With a few cheap casios in there somewhere that I never wear. Definitely feels like money wasted.
Pass those Casios along and get a new person interested in watches! Casios are great for kids and can plant the seed. Money well spent!
This! I completely agree with you on this. My thought process is… I have a more expensive and more desirable watch than another watch that i own, why would i wear the cheaper one?
@@rcart1 I have a good answer for why you'd wear the cheaper, less "desirable" one: because a) it suits the occasion, and, more importantly, b) you love it! At least that's how it works for me. I happily wear my Casio A 158W, because I appreciate its history *and* its styling. I just don't wear it to the opera (although even there, depending on the production... I'd consider it). When I add a Nomos or JLC Reverso to my collection, I have no doubt that I'll continue to rock my Casio when appropriate, because at the end of the day, the only opinion regarding the desirability of my watch that actually matters to me is my own.
2:09 that is an incredible shot... the way you captured the light reflecting off the glass... I had to look up this watch. Doxa's site pictures dont look half as good as that shot at 2:09.
2.5 yrs into watches, I learned that having 4 watches is enough, and at a safe amount of watch. Although I'm having 8 watch. But selling 2.
1. A dress/formal
2. Dressy casual
3. Daily/sporty/field
4. True beater
☝️ scam
I like this approach. The distinction between formal and dressy casual is an important one.
I am really impressed with your comments about groupthink. As somebody who is new to the hobby I see a lot of popular opinions that I can't find any basis for besides that a bunch of people collectively decided that's the way it is. It has been hard for me to articulate but it was well said in the video.
Teddy! I’m really glad you made this video. This is something I wish I saw back when I started collecting in 2014. Recently got back into it as I concentrated more on my business. And it is refreshing to see people like you uphold some very good ideas to instill to newer collectors.
Cheers man!
I also did a little impulse buying at first. I have since more deliberate. I am more confident in what I like, which has taken some time to develop. It will probably change again. I have 11 watches and I still like at least 9 of them...lol. I have an Omega Speedmaster, which I adore and hope to be able to add more luxury watches in the future. Thanks for a great video Teddy. You are a true watch GURU!
As a habitual hobbyist and collector, i learned to limit my self to one hobby purchase a month. Its very easy to go overboard right away.
Great video once again 👍 I'd add apiece of advice my older brother gave me (knowing that I'm the type of person who changes his mind all the time) : once you have an eye for your first "expensive" watch (according to your budget) try to wait a couple of months before buying it. If it's still the watch you want after having seen or learned about others over 3 months then go ahead and get it.
Thanks for the info Teddy, it helps to keep one grounded especially when lots of money can be involved 😀
Thanks for watching, Kyle!
@@TeddyBaldassarre this company sent me watch’s the broken first day and never worked and now they are denied my return for months
I ended up buying a timegrapher just to be able to adjust the accuracy. My watches are now running maximum of +6 seconds/day. I'm pretty satisfied with that.
If were talking abt accuracy, i think it doesn’t bother me at all, because at the end of the day, when the watch dies, you still need to wind it up and set the time again right? 🤷🏻♂️
The best thing I ever did along my collecting journey was selling my four Rolex pieces last year. I bought them because when I was younger I believed that, if you collect watches, you have to own Rolex. Well, I made a lot of money from selling my Rolex watches and have put that cash into buying what I really like. Nothing against Rolex or those folks who like their watches but, it turns out that I never really got excited about them. Now I collect and wear watches that excite my senses are pleasing to me.
I was at a highly recognized cardiologist office and at the clinic staff refered at him as a Rolex collector or something like that. When he came in to consult he told me that he liked very much my wath and what brand it was and I showed it to him. It was a stainless steel black background with just 12, 3, 6, 9 display ( no numbers) NIXON. I don’t know if he was a real watch collector but he kept complementing my watch every visit. It made my day every time. Wich BTW proves your point.
As someone who is 6'5 I got unto watches thinking I needed the biggest flashiest monstrosities. But as my taste got more refined I found that small, more traditional watches were more my style. Ladies watches are also very affordable, like the 33mm Calatrava.
Excellent video, and very helpful. I'm about 2 years into watch collecting...and I've definitely made a couple of these mistakes. Fortunately, I'm still in the entry-level phase so none of those mistakes cost me very much. First mistake I made was buying a Seiko 5 Sport because it was on sale, instead of the one I wanted. I wanted a Seiko 5 Sport...but I bought the one that was on sale. There's nothing wrong with it...it's a perfectly fine daily-wear watch, but if I had taken my time and looked further, I would have ended up with the specific one I wanted.
I honestly think I've made every single mistake in this video starting out. I've loved watches for maybe 4-5 years now, and I'm just starting to figure out what I like.
Thankfully I didn't spend thousands on watches I didn't like because I haven't earned enough money to go and do that, but now that I know what I like, I can save up for some more expensive pieces.
I’ve also been in the hobby for about 5 years.
😊😊
😊😊
Your videos are awesome. I'm just getting into it and even though I'm not concerned about some of this, you just talking about it is amazing and makes it less daunting to get into this. Please keep it up
The ‘financially able hoarding’ is the THE most perfect way to explain early watch collecting. Excellent prose
Hi Teddy. How about doing a compare between a premium used/2nd owner watch like an Omega vs a lower priced new watch such as a Longines or an Oris. See what is the best option for the same price.
Thanks, Matt.
As someone who's collected different things over my lifetime (headphones, knives, shoes, etc.), these themes are universal and go way beyond watches.
What a great common sense video this is. I’ve collected watches and Fountain Pens for a long time and this is all solid advice. Don’t be in a rush to buy anything and whatever you do by you will appreciate more.
amzwatch You are so well-informed about luxury watches. You've obviously done your due diligence and the comparison to the US is very informative...because of course, I live in New York. thank you very much
That was really great. I am thankful for your piece on both the straps and the impulse buying. I also loved the support on investment and whether the watch is timed correctly. Lastly, thank you for steering us away from the influence of wanting acceptance. I hadn't thought that as an issue at all.
Overall, I will buy within my price range as well as ensure I don't overwork a collection that seems similar. I figure I will buy a really good watch between $500 and a bit more as a family heirloom. One for my future son and my lady's boy I hold as my son now. I want to have something that when it is time, I can pass it down to them with a good family crest ring. You know, like, a Priest of the family, the oldest son (those two are usually the same), the baby of the family and maybe that Kinsman redeemer kid. I gotta work that all out, but anyway.
Thanks. Shared more than I thought, but something of myself for something of yourself!
It's good to reward ourselves sometimes . While I'm not one to spend on high-end watch (I spend too much money on travel, lol), I can appreciate your gorgeous and timeless watch. I love how it's a symbol of all your hard work.And i choose NKUWAN every time honestly
Great video Teddy. As someone that is starting out with this hobby the snobbery I've seen online is bar none. Personal taste is just that. People crapping on other people's choices is just unfortunate. As it draws people away from this hobby.
Some interesting points. As regards the stated accuracy, my theory is the loose tolerances are a cost cutting exercise because assembling a watch is much quicker than the process of adjusting it to achieve its ultimate potential. Recently I bought a Seiko snk805 that was running at about +30 s per day with little daily variation. It was easy to adjust it to about +5s but it took time.
Teddy, you’re killing it with these videos! Great help to new collectors.
I’ve loved and coveted Speedys since I was a kid wearing my first wristwatch (and not coincidentally, obsessed with NASA’s Apollo program)! Only years later did I learn how obsessed so many watch collectors were with the Omegas
I've heard from a ton of people that the Speedmaster was the first watch to catch their eye, mine included, has to be something to it
Great advice. All of those points are very true. Very easy to follow the crowd for that 'status' watch.
Great content! I went through the impulse buying, what looked cool at the time and suddenly in a very short period (under 3 years) had accumulated over 220 watches. As you correctly stated, tastes changed and I am in the process of selling over 100. I know a 100 still in the collection is massive but we'll see what happens in the next year or so! Thanks again!
🤯
Thank you for making high quality videos!Love amzwatch ’s watches
11:19 Don't buy what you want, buy what you love and puts a smile on your face every time you look at it.
I have watched your channel for 3 months now, and i have finally bought my first watch. I bought the Seiko Samurai with the blue dial. It’s a perfect beginner watch, at least for me,. It’s comfortable beefy and i like the looks and feel of it. And I just get really happy looking at it, when I want to know the time.
Not getting notifications for this FYI Teddy. Might be worth making a community post , those often show up in the recommend feed
Not much I can do. TH-cam seems to want to do what it wants. Appreciate you for watching and finding the content
@@TeddyBaldassarre i was browsing your videos when i noticed one was JUST uploaded. Even after nearly 10 minutes still no notifications... GJ TH-cam
Collecting watches for me is not about investing but just appreciating your time piece. I probably have far to many but I do rotate enough so they all get wrist time. I know I made zero mistakes as each time I have one of them on the wrist I missed having it there.
I would add buying something which you think is similar to the one that you actually want. For example, I remember being blown away trying out the IWC pilot silver/white dial for the first time at the local AD. I bought three watches which I thought were close to it in style but finally after 5 years saved up and pulled the trigger on the one I wanted all along. Lesson learnt - better to save up and be patient and buy the one which you actually want. Another advise - always try out and spend some time with a watch at the AD if possible, what you see on the internet may not be what you see in the flesh.
I would also add recommendation to keep in mind the cost of the watch service. Buying some affordable watch for $200-300 most likely buying a disposable watch, as to service them in developed countries can cost more than the new watch. And common watch service interval is ~5 years.
I bought a watch case that holds 8 watches. That’s my limit; 8 watches and 1 on my wrist. A couple of dive watches, 3 fields watches, 1 chronometer, 2 dress watches, and 1 quartz. I think that’s a nice cross section of styles available and I’m satisfied with my collection.
;
Which 8?
When you want a new watch just sell your least favorite to make room !
Perfect & most complete advice.. I can relate to most of you said.. & now I think I am in the last phase of my final selections of my 12 watch in my collections.. Mostly from the 3 brands Casio, Seiko & the last brand I recently collected is tissot prx... I think this is my end game of watch collecting at the age of 51 to my remaining life I can feel that these 12 watches will remain intact until which of us come to an end in this world..
Buy the watch you want, put it on the wrist and enjoy it.
2:34 It's true that you shouldn't expect too much but i've just bought a new €180 Seiko and although officially its rated +30 sec a day i only get like 6s every 24h so don't be too pessimistic about that for day to day use you'll be fine resetting time every 4 days or something like that if you know you'll need accurate timing that day (for example when i have an exam that day) you can set it in the morning that day, it only takes 1 min and for 12 hours it'll be accurate within 3 sec.
I started later than I wanted to in life and made the mistake of buying WAY too many in a rather short time. This caused a lot of trading for others as I figured out what worked for me and what didn't. Basically I went nuts for a year. I've chilled out though. I've only bought one since mid-November and it's a relatively inexpensive piece, while I've sold two pricy pieces that I just wasn't reaching for.
sounds like things worked out for you in the end.
@@martintanz9098 absolutely
Because of you I have gotten into watch collecting, bravo sir
I bought the Tissot Prx Powermatic 80 for 695€ and it has only 6-7 seconds/day. It‘s my first swiss watch and I can really recommend it with the blue dial. Unbelievable watch for that price point. Greetings from germany 🇩🇪
just got the quartz version with blue dial today
Really love that one, that great classic design. Good choice Sir!
It think it's one of those "wear at any time or occasion you like" watches.
While the blue dial is really great I fell in love with the green one.
The PRX was one of the last 2 contenders to be my first mechanical watch. But since the green dial is not out here... I pulled the trigger on the other one (Seiko SRPF41) today .
But the PRX remains in my Head still. In a sense it's good that it's not available yet :-)
Can you make a video on cleaning and watch care? My metal bands always get gunk and dust in the crevices etc.
Hi Teddy,. My first automatic watch was an Oris Divers, in the spring of 1997 and when I sold it to buy another watch in 2008, I got $600 dollars more than what I paid for it; so, in a way it turned out to be an investment. I've been into watch collecting ever since then and I do agree, most watches are not an investment. I was just lucky, plain and simple. 🙂
Great video Teddy. I have definitely experienced my tastes in watches changing. Now I focus on models I will likely wear long term.
Lug to lug is the biggest factor I look at when deciding to buy a watch or not.
Same here
Same.
Good video. Great point about accuracy. Get a Quartz if you are gonna obsess over the +/- accuracy of an automatic.