I think the single biggest mistake is to buy a watch to impress other people. The value in a watch (or frankly anything material) comes not from its cost or perceived kudos but from the affinity you have with it; what it means to you.
@Gareth Evans. So well put and exactly the reason I stopped going on to watch forums. There is so much snobbery and prejudice in those places that can quickly kill off your enthusiasm. The last straw for me came when a flame war of personal attacks and insults erupted over the best position for the date window. I enjoy it much more now that I keep it to myself and no longer seek approval from strangers.
I generally agree but, as with everything, it’s more nuanced. Sometimes people dress up more than usual to feel better about themselves and that works even better if you get a few compliments. The problem with watches is that nobody really knows about them and the general public will more likely be more impressed by a big ass invicta than with a fine piece so it because moot
I fell into a trap of buying everything that caught my eye early on....quickly found this disappointing so I refined my taste and am quite happy now with my collection in it's refined form. Cheers good sir!
I know how you feel. Its so easy to try a watch on and immediately say " I like this, i want this, I might miss out on this if I don't buy it now." Then you end up with bunch of watches that don't live up to the expectations you had when you first saw it. I like to meditate on new watch at least 1 month before I know if it is for me. I think you'll likely enjoy your collection more with your refined approach. Cheers and have fun!
Jesus H Christ! And here’s me, thinking THAT I WAS OBSESSIVE! My wife is constantly taking the piss out of me for wearing a watch on each wrist. I tell her that it’s service habit and superstition, but she still laughs. The left one is an Eco-Drive Citizen Military 200; the right one a Citizen Pro Diver’s automatic, and after five weeks of meticulous micro adjustment, it’s now losing 0.4 secs in 24 hrs. If I go on, does this make me a bad man? Perhaps I really should get out more 🧐 PS: edit: I have a total of about 11 wrist watches and five old pocket watches, and there is no chance whatsoever of my ever getting shot of any of ‘em 🤡🇬🇧
The greatest way, IMO, to scratch the watch itch is to focus on straps for what you have. My Casio MTD1079D-1AV is my favorite watch in my collection. It was a gift that I received from a loved one and is really a strap monster. With this watch, I've replaced the stock mineral crystal with a domed sapphire crystal and I change the straps to coordinate with my outfits. Appreciate what you have and you can really get into the other aspects of watches.
Hey TGV, I had a great watch encounter today. I met a gentleman today who wore a Speedmaster and I asked him about the piece. It turned out it was a 1970 model that his father had bought in Switzerland and later passed on to him. Great condition and he also mentioned the ease of polishing out scratches from the acrylic crystal. What a great hobby!
@@d2dahaka TGV talked about that ocassionally. Acrylic crystal is stronger than mineral or saphire in terms of breaking resistance, but softer and prone to scratches. But they can be polished out.
Yep. Get polywatch from Amazon or wherever and buff away. Any polishing compound really. It’s interesting to me regarding crystals. People are so into sapphire. I’ve tried it and I really like hardlex, acrylic, hesalite, etc… better. AR coatings only do so much. I get reflections at different depths in the crystal. It’s distracting and hard to read. The watch it self was to remain for decades or generations. The crystals are or were wear items. Like brake pads. They perform a function and when it’s useful life is expended it’s replaced. It’s just part of service. It’s there to provide protection for the face and internals and meant to take the knocks instead of your dial and hands.
I realized very quickly I didnt want to get into luxury watches. I decided on the Orient Kamasu, Citizen Nighthawk, Vostok and the Casio Duro. Just love them and will use them for many years. The Kamasu has a vibrant green dial, excellent wearing dimensions, an incredibly legible set of hands and indices that recall older Seamasters.
I've been a watch lover for many years, but only started collecting in the past year or so. At first I was enamored of solar watches, and I bought several, by Seiko, Casio, and Citizen. I became interested in watchmaking, and came to appreciate the intricacies of mechanical watches. I watched many hours of video by watchmakers, but also the watch and learn series by Marc of LIW. I bought my first automatic from him, an ISL-19. That is now my favorite. I am retired and have a very limited budget, so cannot really add to my collection very often. But I do keep an eye on what's out there. There is a lot that I like, but I suppose my grail watch is the Seiko Spring Drive--fascinating blend of complexity, functionality, and beauty. Very glad that I found your channel. Thanks, and best wishes for 2022!
Hi TGV - I've had a Flightmaster for the past 3+ years and always liked it but never adored it the way so many others have. I recently took it off the bracelet and onto a green NATO. Well...I get it now. Hasn't left my wrist in weeks. So fun! A great piece. Love the thumbnail - keep up the great work.
Solid advice. I remember wanting the Speedy Pro when I got into watches. I bought and sold dozens of watches before buying a Speedy. The crush never left and now it’s the only mechanical watch I wear.
Always good to hear from the Urban Gentry. I see him as one of the charter members of the watch channels which have proliferated to a whole new industry.
Love this video! My first luxury watch will most likely be a quartz piece by Grand Seiko that I adore. But there have been times where I've doubted whether or not I want it because it is quartz. But then I sometimes ask myself, "Who is talking, me or the watch enthusiasts I see online?". I can't wait till I buy this piece and forget the rest. Cheers!
I needed to see this video. I've owned a few watches over the years and lately have been going down the rabbit hole of "I see shiny thing I want" then getting influenced by TH-cam on what is good and what is bad. I have been able to adjust to the "give it time and see if you still want it" mentality and that is the best advice you can give.
I've definitely learned to slow down in this hobby lately. I love building my collection and aim to build it for the full sake of keeping and never to resell. I am more particular for sizes now since I have 6.5" wrists but I do have the exception for Seiko Turtles and G-shocks.
I get that but in the opposite direction, I've gotten watches too small for my 8" wrist. However, on the upside my wife is the beneficiary as they suited her 5.25" wrist. You actually have a pretty good average size that could handle quite a lot of watches and many watches I like don't suit. But I'm not complaining, there are a lot of 42mm and 44mm available so I'm not being left out! I wish I had about a 7.25" wrist though, I think that's perfect for nearly every watch!!
Probably one of my favourite videos from you. A big middle finger to snobs who look down on other peoples collections or watches because they don’t like the brand.
Mistake #10: dismissing ETA movements. I started my journey collecting watches last year and my first watch is the first generation Omega Aqua Terra with it's modified 2894 ETA movement ( named the Omega 2500 movement) and the first generation ever to have the co axial escapement. That's ETA but with a lot of history. Plus the watch is accurate and sturdy as hell.
YESSSSSS!!! Plus so easy and affordable to have serviced. I have serviced 2 so far and both have run for years, real troopers. Love ETA, it one of the things I like about my vintage Tudors, I don't have to worry about them. Thank you Ricardo, great point. Best regards, TGV
The end for pretty deep there! That’s one thing I’ll always appreciate about TGV… The willingness to go beyond the shallow end and dive right on into the deep end and unclog that drain!
Love your channel because you never say you hate a watch or a brand, and that is respect to the brand and to the owner of a certain watch. I Will NEVER follow a channel that clearly says that hates or talks disrespectful of a brand or a watch.
Whenever I see one of these videos I feel like you've been watching my watch collecting journey because I've made EVERY SINGLE ONE of these mistakes lol. Great video and great advice for anyone joining this crazy cult of ours 😀
And doing these mistakes all over again proves in my view that this hobby ADDS to your life, as opposed to compensate for emptiness (as TGV alluded to).
After many hours looking though the internet I purchased my 1st vintage watch 1965 Omega Seamaster for my birth year I took delivery today and love it even put it on a genuine omega nato looks great
Thank you so much for this - I’ve been saving for my grail watch for a couple of years, and I was wavering recently and thinking of just buying a different watch with what I have saved to date. But you’re right - nothing else will scratch the itch - so, I’ll keep saving until I reach my goal! Great advice!
Simon, what is your current grail watch? I don't have a grail goal at the moment, but the Marathon GSAR has me obsessed. I love how rugged yet minimal and surgical it is.
My biggest halt to expanding my collection was my exclusive obsession with Swiss made watches. Not only the obsession but the deliberate overlooking of Japan made masterpieces like Seiko, Citizen, and orient.
Thanks TGV for your nuanced perspective! My mistake was taking too long to realize my Dad's 1950's 33mm Tissot fits me like a dream. After of course I realized modern equivalents hardly exist. I count it a blessing in disguise.
Spot on with your comments on watch size. We all had to fumble around a bit to find that sweet spot, but every now and then a watch that shouldn’t fit you (on paper) DOES and it’s a wonderful surprise!
Great show T! Yeah the settling for something less when you know deep down if your disciplined in your spending you can get the watch or whatever you’ve got your heart set on! I feel like I give you pain every time I post a pic of the Squale and Sinn!!!!! Sorry my friend!
As always a great video. Lately i've been struggling about getting another automatic watch because i think a man of my age and position at work should wear an automatic. Truth be known, i love my Casio G-Shocks. Thanks to this video, i feel i'll hold off and just keep wearing the watches i love and save my money for something needed.
I recently discovered your channel and love how you encourage being true to your tastes and remain respectful to others. Your advice expands to many things even outside of watch collecting where people are unable to enjoy whatever they own or are doing based on others’ unsolicited opinions and judgments. The way I see it, if you feel so strongly about what watches I need, then I will be happy to accept your money to buy what you want me to wear. But if you’re not ponying up any money, then your opinion simply doesn’t count. Unsurprisingly, I don’t see any watch snobs offering their own money for others to “do it right” 😆.
I've collected for a pretty long time. Half a century or more . I've purchased everything from high-end luxury to a $150 Timex, and everything in between . I just love them all and see a myriad of things in them . The movements, case shapes , dial and hands , and just the flow of a certain peice never ceases to bring me joy and calm my soul . It's a great journey to be on .
@@MagnumBTS I just clicked on your name to reply and see you have your own show going . I didn't get the feeling that it was a watch info. channel . I've never publicly shown off my collection for a myriad of reasons , but am a bit intrigued by your channel . Are you located in the UAE ?
@@MagnumBTS I occasionally watch his channel but have never really seen him feature other people's collections. I just finished watching a few of your videos. Pretty cool stuff . I haven't been to the UAE in 15 yrs or more but always had an interesting time every time I was there . Watching your video from your trip to the States, I saw you wearing a batman. I have that same Rolex GMT . Great watch . Thanx for your communication. I think I'll have to check in to your channel once in a while to see what's up over there . Have a good one bro .
Laughed out loud at the outtakes! My biggest Watch mistake is trying to buy every watch I see… although I’ve now whittled down my collection to the Citizen Promaster Land PMD56-2952 and a G Shock B5600BC (love Bluetooth on these G’s). Now time for me to watch the rest of the video!
I also want every watch on the planet. I try to at least buy a different brand every time so I can experience other things. I’d I want two watches from one brand I’ll probably sell the old watch. I’m only at 4 watches at the moment
Hi TGV! My one great watch collecting mistake happened in the mid 1980's when visiting a favorite jeweler in downtown Chicago during my lunch time when I came across an ultra thin Vacheron dress watch in 18K white gold with the most wonderful ivory/parchment dial. Priced at $1200, I walked away from it as I had recently purchased an Omega Constellation and was a bit tapped out. I have regretted it ever since. That ultra thin case was amazing! Well 35 years later and after many dozens of watches I recently came into a mint condition ultra thin dress watch from Glycine in 14K yellow gold. I never even knew Glycine even made such as thing. The company historian documented the watch for me and advised it was made in 1956. It looks like something that could have been on Don Draper's wrist. The thing that makes this even more incredible is that it was a thrift store find for only $5 and fortunately, this time I was able to afford it!!
Unrelated, but I’d love to see a dress watch review and travel log at Longwood Gardens. I’m sure Hugo would also appreciate an Orchid appetizer before sitting down to a lovely goat dinner.
Great video. Just got my first luxury Swiss timepiece after consolidating much of my high quality microbrands and entry level Swiss. I liked them all, that's why I bought them. But I never wore most of them for various reasons, they just sat in the safe, and would take them out and admire them. So, I sold about 7 pieces and got a Breitling Airwolf Raven which is super super cool.
I am speechless. I absolutely love your content. Your channel is the only channel that i do not skip through the videos. Dude!! Great advices as well. Thank you.
Excellent video. Everybody should consider these warnings before getting into the watch obsession… I mean harmless hobby of watch collecting 😎 What I find most difficult is when you get lost in specifications. And it’s very difficult when you’re comparing watches online, without actually seeing them or putting them on. I agree that you can pass up on a great watch this way.
I recently bought the Casio MDV 106 for 60€. Put on a Bond nato strap and and I wear it ever since. It‘s pure joy every time I look at it, to have such a good looking watch at this price. totally agree with your opinion! keep up the excellent work!
It's been awhile TGV. You're the guy who got me into this hobby in 2017. A great video about watch collecting! Mentioned all the ups and downs, the pros and cons. Keep it up TGV
I have 3 Citizens, and they're all Marvel Branded. Though there some really great watches out there, and i cannot agree more that you need to keep yourself in check then go on a spending spree. Be cautious and know that there isn't a perfect watch. Love this Channel! ❤
Excellent points there, very useful. I’m often tempted by the fruits of another but have forced myself to be patient and cautious…relax and relish the obsession for a while to see if it really is genuine.
I've subscribed just now because you were totally unbiased in your comments. I've always loved watches, but I'm not a collector. I have copped flak from watch forums and comments on TH-cam when I was researching to get my wife's late brothers first watch a total restoration. I had it done anyway, regardless of any diminished $ value. I did it for my wife. It's the only item she has of his and now it looks good. And that's all that matters.
Great advice! I received one comment on my first fine timepiece (Breitling Colt) that I brought 25 years ago compared to dozens of comments on several far less expensive watches. But that's fine because I buy/wear what suits me and not for the comments or opinions of watch forums; collector clubs, or even casual observers. But, to each his own ...
Good post. It's your final sentiment that I think is important for us all. Time is something we'll never get more of and the appreciation and happiness we receive from this pursuit should add to our lives.
“Taste is very subjective” very true as are opinions about various art forms. Just goto a big gallery with a few friends and see the difference of opinions, likes dislikes, of art hanging on the wall or pottery in cases, etc. What we are drawn to draws on our unique life experience...
TGV, punchy as always, brings it to the point. Not enjoying the hunt is the biggest mistake as our clocks are ticking. I believe that making these mistakes through 'wilful misconduct' is part of the big picture.
"Prelevant" is a marvellous word ! I once bought a Sean Connery 007 homage to scratch the itch BUT I learned that an homage simply will never be enough (for me IMHO). I own some an old Wittnauer chronograph from the fifties. It´s a nice one and it runs and looks great. This lovely ticker was only double the price of the 007 homage but I will never skip the thing while the Bond homage will have to go......sooner or later. Thanks for this wonderful vid and the new word !
Great advice. My first watch was a gift from my girlfriend (Citizen Avion) and nothing will ever top it due to its sentimental value and being the first. I also want to get the Citizen Red Arrows Chronograph as I go to watch them whenever I can, and the Tag Heuer F1 as the sport is a huge part of my life. The collection is for me, not others.
Great video! One of my biggest mistakes, & I’ve had a few, is buying watches I feel are the wrong size for my wrist. In this age of online shopping, it’s difficult to try on the watches before you buy them.
Fabulous video. Wonderful channel and I love that you're an intelligent man with such great style, soul and substance. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Excellent advice as always TGV. My suggestion would be to focus on a type i.e Field Watch, do your research but don't get distracted by looking at GMT's. Dont lose sight of your goal or confuse the issue. Do a pros/cons list and choose the one that wins your heart. Omg that speedy 🥰 Good work fella.
Pay close attention at 10:32 My priorities are. Will I wear it often? Do I enjoy wearing the watch? I for one don't buy watches for the investment. Bottom line, buy what impresses you, not others. I've watched your videos for over 6 months now, gaining information to guide a couple of my purchases, but I just subscribed to your channel after watching this installment. Thank you sir, I enjoy your approach.
All great points and I continue to enjoy the content TGV puts out. The quotes during the segments are always a nice touch on these more 'philosophical' videos.
Great advice! I have bought watches that when they arrived, I didn't like them at all...a couple of months later? I'm over the moon with them. I recently bought the Seiko SNJ025 just because the price dropped nicely, and wondered if I had made the right choice. Now that I have it, I can't stop wearing it, I've never loved a watch so much.
There are no mistakes in watch collecting. Only discoveries and learnings. Anyway. Yet another masterclass by the one and only TGV. Btw, what's the intro music?
Well Put. I once got burned hard on a Movado, I put a video out on it you should check it out I tried to keep it funny lol but ultimately it was a learning experience from a young and naive watch collector
TGV I love the emphasis on enjoyment. To enjoy the hunt, to enjoy the learning, and to enjoy the wearing of our watches (such joy), is to know you're on the right track. When I'm walking my dog, and I look at my watch five times, and then I need to look again to see what time it is, that's what it's all about. So the #1 mistake (aside from buying watches beyond your comfortable means) is not doing this hobby for the joy of it (and it's no coincidence that enjoyment contains the word joy!).
Love the submariner so bought Loreo sub, yes I know , but I love it every day. By the way amazing amount of extra clips in video to be enjoyed every minute.
I can relate to everything in this video. What got me most was the Fortis narrator's words at 12:34. Of all of the watches in my collection, the ones I wear the most are indeed 'true companions'. I've just never heard it described this way before.
I really enjoyed this video. You invited watchers to share what they do, so here's my life: I'm an aeroplane pilot. I've been interested in watches off and on for a long time, but I don't consider myself to be a collector. I love them because, as a person who works with machines, I consider clocks, especially the mechanical wristwatch, to be the most elegant of mankind's solutions to one of our biggest little problems. I travelled to Greenwich (I'm Canadian) just so I could see Harrison's sea clock with my own eyes. I can't afford a luxury watch. I always have repairs pending on my vehicle, my house, my (extremely humble and home-made) sailboat. I can't have luxuries. The nicest watch I have, one of a toss-up between microbrands, two with Miyota 9100 movements and the other with a Sellita movement. I have a couple of quartz ones too, and nothing I have cost more than $500. I will never have any of the luxury watches you talk about. Personally I have lusted for years after a Grand Seiko "Snowflake". But I can not envision a future for myself where I can spare $8000. I enjoyed your video because when speaking of collecting, you express several high concepts including wisdom, humility, patience, consideration of others, appreciation of beauty, and gentlemanly thought and behaviour. I found it calming to listen to. I sometimes feel like buying a Seiko SNXS79 for $100 and wearing it every day as a statement, because if people were wristwatches, I would be a $100 Seiko 5. At least that's my current feeling. A GS "snowflake" on my wrist would be like putting a top hat on a donkey. Anyway, I enjoy your videos, not because I'll ever have the watches, but I enjoy your philosophies.
Thanks for the video, TGV. Nice as always. I have started in this hobby not long ago, and I agree with you on the appreciation of what makes you happy. I have nice Seikos and Tissots, that I like a lot, but also some Vostoks, Timex and a G-Shock that I simply love wearing. So, it is about happiness and you feeling good wearing your watches, not about the rest of the world. At the end of the day, it is really hard to find someone to talk about watches that really appreciate the hobby - it is incredibly uncommon.
This is a really interesting topic, TGV. I also made a few mistakes, especially when buying vintage watches. I think every collector goes through it. The best advice is possibly "dont rush" :) Greetings, Sebastian
Definitely one of your finest, Sir. You brought all that experience to bear and then delivered it with a soft touch. Very helpful. What was the watch on the right at 8:17, that was a nice one. Thanks.
TGV I am not really a watch collector but have a few - I dare not sell any of them and only buy what I can afford !. I like buying them for gifts too and love it when they wear them - the watch loving family Haha an opening for a new channel ......... cheers Pete
As someone who is fairly new to studying horology and collecting timepieces, I fell into the trap of buying lots of watches as well as a pocket sundial. 6 months on, I bought a watch box and found there are certain watches that stand out as not being part of the collection. Pieces that end up being hidden in drawers. However it has been an education. I've learned from it and what kind of collector I am. For me the history, design and craftsmanship is what matters. Owning pieces of horological significance or with a great design or story attached is what interests me.
Man, I love your videos. Like a little kind vacation. Also, you’re the guy who got me to buy my Sinn 104 A! There may be other watches in my collection I like better, but none as perfect. It is a masterpiece.
I found this video quite enjoyable. I was trying to see how many mistakes I have done myself, and confess only to one: I did buy a Sea-Dweller 43 to "scratch my itch". I don't see watches as an investment, merely a temporary placement of funds, and watches (at least my watches) have no 'status'. I prefer stainless steel sports watches, which by now are like Holier and Holier Grails, but in the end the watches are merely material goods. I do enjoy the hunt more than the trophy. LOL. Once one gets involved in vintage watches the need to study the topic more in detail increases, and this makes the hunt more fun!
My biggest watch collecting mistake was buying my first watch. Downward spiral ever since.
Haha what was it ?
Bulova lunar pilot started me down the space watch rabbit hole
@@Phillies2008WSChamps Only space watch I own is a Casio 5600 series but I am happy I own it.
I hear you brother
Truer words have never been spoken.
I think the single biggest mistake is to buy a watch to impress other people. The value in a watch (or frankly anything material) comes not from its cost or perceived kudos but from the affinity you have with it; what it means to you.
As Marc said (LIW) paraphrased 'wear what you(sic) want'
@Gareth Evans.
So well put and exactly the reason I stopped going on to watch forums. There is so much snobbery and prejudice in those places that can quickly kill off your enthusiasm. The last straw for me came when a flame war of personal attacks and insults erupted over the best position for the date window. I enjoy it much more now that I keep it to myself and no longer seek approval from strangers.
especially when 90% of people cant tell the difference between a Citizen and a Rolex unless you tell them
@@pokie6087 Cheers fella. Unfortunately some people confuse their own opinion with fact.
I generally agree but, as with everything, it’s more nuanced. Sometimes people dress up more than usual to feel better about themselves and that works even better if you get a few compliments. The problem with watches is that nobody really knows about them and the general public will more likely be more impressed by a big ass invicta than with a fine piece so it because moot
I fell into a trap of buying everything that caught my eye early on....quickly found this disappointing so I refined my taste and am quite happy now with my collection in it's refined form. Cheers good sir!
How many watches do you now have in its refined form ?
Nice way of describing your 3 Casios! Keep it going!
I know how you feel. Its so easy to try a watch on and immediately say " I like this, i want this, I might miss out on this if I don't buy it now." Then you end up with bunch of watches that don't live up to the expectations you had when you first saw it. I like to meditate on new watch at least 1 month before I know if it is for me. I think you'll likely enjoy your collection more with your refined approach. Cheers and have fun!
@@stevea2639 Steve how many watches do you have
Jesus H Christ! And here’s me, thinking THAT I WAS OBSESSIVE! My wife is constantly taking the piss out of me for wearing a watch on each wrist. I tell her that it’s service habit and superstition, but she still laughs. The left one is an Eco-Drive Citizen Military 200; the right one a Citizen Pro Diver’s automatic, and after five weeks of meticulous micro adjustment, it’s now losing 0.4 secs in 24 hrs. If I go on, does this make me a bad man? Perhaps I really should get out more 🧐 PS: edit: I have a total of about 11 wrist watches and five old pocket watches, and there is no chance whatsoever of my ever getting shot of any of ‘em 🤡🇬🇧
The greatest way, IMO, to scratch the watch itch is to focus on straps for what you have. My Casio MTD1079D-1AV is my favorite watch in my collection. It was a gift that I received from a loved one and is really a strap monster. With this watch, I've replaced the stock mineral crystal with a domed sapphire crystal and I change the straps to coordinate with my outfits. Appreciate what you have and you can really get into the other aspects of watches.
I am not alone
Hey TGV, I had a great watch encounter today. I met a gentleman today who wore a Speedmaster and I asked him about the piece. It turned out it was a 1970 model that his father had bought in Switzerland and later passed on to him. Great condition and he also mentioned the ease of polishing out scratches from the acrylic crystal. What a great hobby!
So glad I saw this post. I never even considered the possibility of polishing out the scratches.
@@d2dahaka TGV talked about that ocassionally. Acrylic crystal is stronger than mineral or saphire in terms of breaking resistance, but softer and prone to scratches. But they can be polished out.
Pretty amazing backstory on that encounter. Haven’t met to many real watch enthusiasts out and about
Yep. Get polywatch from Amazon or wherever and buff away. Any polishing compound really. It’s interesting to me regarding crystals. People are so into sapphire. I’ve tried it and I really like hardlex, acrylic, hesalite, etc… better. AR coatings only do so much. I get reflections at different depths in the crystal. It’s distracting and hard to read. The watch it self was to remain for decades or generations. The crystals are or were wear items. Like brake pads. They perform a function and when it’s useful life is expended it’s replaced. It’s just part of service. It’s there to provide protection for the face and internals and meant to take the knocks instead of your dial and hands.
@@klausm5460 or replaced for next to nothing with a new one from omega
I realized very quickly I didnt want to get into luxury watches. I decided on the Orient Kamasu, Citizen Nighthawk, Vostok and the Casio Duro. Just love them and will use them for many years.
The Kamasu has a vibrant green dial, excellent wearing dimensions, an incredibly legible set of hands and indices that recall older Seamasters.
VALUE FOR MONEY I agree , also what you like
Those Duro Watches are fun to buy a few and switch out all types of bands and bezel inserts on.
Completely agree. They show time got gods sake
Luxury watches are like the diamond market no point in buying a diamond for thousands when you get the same effect out of the cheap one.
Just ordered a green teal Kamasu. Waiting to arrive. My first mechanical watch.
Just concerned about the bracelet but will give it a go.
Just started my collection this year since i found your videos... now i have a g shock 5600 and a casio duro.. i started with the beaters 😂
I've been a watch lover for many years, but only started collecting in the past year or so. At first I was enamored of solar watches, and I bought several, by Seiko, Casio, and Citizen. I became interested in watchmaking, and came to appreciate the intricacies of mechanical watches. I watched many hours of video by watchmakers, but also the watch and learn series by Marc of LIW. I bought my first automatic from him, an ISL-19. That is now my favorite.
I am retired and have a very limited budget, so cannot really add to my collection very often. But I do keep an eye on what's out there. There is a lot that I like, but I suppose my grail watch is the Seiko Spring Drive--fascinating blend of complexity, functionality, and beauty.
Very glad that I found your channel. Thanks, and best wishes for 2022!
That’s my story, as well! Best wishes to you! 👍🏼
TGV you really are making videos that speak for the mass of watch collectors!
Hi TGV - I've had a Flightmaster for the past 3+ years and always liked it but never adored it the way so many others have. I recently took it off the bracelet and onto a green NATO. Well...I get it now. Hasn't left my wrist in weeks. So fun! A great piece. Love the thumbnail - keep up the great work.
Solid advice. I remember wanting the Speedy Pro when I got into watches. I bought and sold dozens of watches before buying a Speedy. The crush never left and now it’s the only mechanical watch I wear.
Always good to hear from the Urban Gentry. I see him as one of the charter members of the watch channels which have proliferated to a whole new industry.
Love this video! My first luxury watch will most likely be a quartz piece by Grand Seiko that I adore. But there have been times where I've doubted whether or not I want it because it is quartz. But then I sometimes ask myself, "Who is talking, me or the watch enthusiasts I see online?". I can't wait till I buy this piece and forget the rest. Cheers!
I needed to see this video. I've owned a few watches over the years and lately have been going down the rabbit hole of "I see shiny thing I want" then getting influenced by TH-cam on what is good and what is bad. I have been able to adjust to the "give it time and see if you still want it" mentality and that is the best advice you can give.
I've definitely learned to slow down in this hobby lately. I love building my collection and aim to build it for the full sake of keeping and never to resell.
I am more particular for sizes now since I have 6.5" wrists but I do have the exception for Seiko Turtles and G-shocks.
I get that but in the opposite direction, I've gotten watches too small for my 8" wrist. However, on the upside my wife is the beneficiary as they suited her 5.25" wrist. You actually have a pretty good average size that could handle quite a lot of watches and many watches I like don't suit. But I'm not complaining, there are a lot of 42mm and 44mm available so I'm not being left out! I wish I had about a 7.25" wrist though, I think that's perfect for nearly every watch!!
Probably one of my favourite videos from you. A big middle finger to snobs who look down on other peoples collections or watches because they don’t like the brand.
This hobby has connected me with so many new and interesting people. For that alone, I am eternally grateful.
Mistake #10: dismissing ETA movements. I started my journey collecting watches last year and my first watch is the first generation Omega Aqua Terra with it's modified 2894 ETA movement ( named the Omega 2500 movement) and the first generation ever to have the co axial escapement. That's ETA but with a lot of history. Plus the watch is accurate and sturdy as hell.
YESSSSSS!!! Plus so easy and affordable to have serviced. I have serviced 2 so far and both have run for years, real troopers.
Love ETA, it one of the things I like about my vintage Tudors, I don't have to worry about them.
Thank you Ricardo, great point.
Best regards,
TGV
@@theurbangentry yessir
This has to be the best into of TH-cam videos in the entire history. I get goosebumps every time. Please don't change it!
The end for pretty deep there! That’s one thing I’ll always appreciate about TGV… The willingness to go beyond the shallow end and dive right on into the deep end and unclog that drain!
Love your channel because you never say you hate a watch or a brand, and that is respect to the brand and to the owner of a certain watch. I Will NEVER follow a channel that clearly says that hates or talks disrespectful of a brand or a watch.
Whenever I see one of these videos I feel like you've been watching my watch collecting journey because I've made EVERY SINGLE ONE of these mistakes lol. Great video and great advice for anyone joining this crazy cult of ours 😀
And doing these mistakes all over again proves in my view that this hobby ADDS to your life, as opposed to compensate for emptiness (as TGV alluded to).
After many hours looking though the internet I purchased my 1st vintage watch 1965 Omega Seamaster for my birth year I took delivery today and love it even put it on a genuine omega nato looks great
Thank you so much for this - I’ve been saving for my grail watch for a couple of years, and I was wavering recently and thinking of just buying a different watch with what I have saved to date. But you’re right - nothing else will scratch the itch - so, I’ll keep saving until I reach my goal! Great advice!
Simon, what is your current grail watch? I don't have a grail goal at the moment, but the Marathon GSAR has me obsessed. I love how rugged yet minimal and surgical it is.
My biggest halt to expanding my collection was my exclusive obsession with Swiss made watches. Not only the obsession but the deliberate overlooking of Japan made masterpieces like Seiko, Citizen, and orient.
I want a Red Dial Orient Kamasu, but I'm ashamed for wanting it...
Change the bracelet if you get one
Kudos to you. This video shows you are a genuine watch lover and not a snob at all. Love your outlook. Wish more tubers thought the the same
As long as you genuinely love the watch and want to keep it, it was never a mistake.
Preach
Right but what about the one night stands?
Let’s say: it wasn’t a mistake for •you•.
@@alfonsoaguado3453 They are just that. A short distraction. Fun that doesn't last long. In the end you lose money.
Thanks TGV for your nuanced perspective! My mistake was taking too long to realize my Dad's 1950's 33mm Tissot fits me like a dream. After of course I realized modern equivalents hardly exist. I count it a blessing in disguise.
Spot on with your comments on watch size. We all had to fumble around a bit to find that sweet spot, but every now and then a watch that shouldn’t fit you (on paper) DOES and it’s a wonderful surprise!
Great show T! Yeah the settling for something less when you know deep down if your disciplined in your spending you can get the watch or whatever you’ve got your heart set on!
I feel like I give you pain every time I post a pic of the Squale and Sinn!!!!! Sorry my friend!
As always a great video. Lately i've been struggling about getting another automatic watch because i think a man of my age and position at work should wear an automatic. Truth be known, i love my Casio G-Shocks. Thanks to this video, i feel i'll hold off and just keep wearing the watches i love and save my money for something needed.
I real enjoy this episode . My number one rule,only buy what YOU like and enjoy. Show was great ,Thanks
I've been watching your videos for years now and they just get better and better!
You are spot on and during the 45 plus years of collecting - all that you have mentioned crops up regularly.
I have my vintage thin o matic Hamilton on the way and a new urban gentry video. Life is good.
I recently discovered your channel and love how you encourage being true to your tastes and remain respectful to others. Your advice expands to many things even outside of watch collecting where people are unable to enjoy whatever they own or are doing based on others’ unsolicited opinions and judgments. The way I see it, if you feel so strongly about what watches I need, then I will be happy to accept your money to buy what you want me to wear. But if you’re not ponying up any money, then your opinion simply doesn’t count. Unsurprisingly, I don’t see any watch snobs offering their own money for others to “do it right” 😆.
Wise words TGV. Thanks for sharing, it's important to hear.
Wise words indeed. Very true at the same time.BUT whether a person who just love watches can practice it is something else altogether!
I've collected for a pretty long time. Half a century or more . I've purchased everything from high-end luxury to a $150 Timex, and everything in between . I just love them all and see a myriad of things in them . The movements, case shapes , dial and hands , and just the flow of a certain peice never ceases to bring me joy and calm my soul . It's a great journey to be on .
Would love to see your collection to be featured on here!
@@MagnumBTS I just clicked on your name to reply and see you have your own show going . I didn't get the feeling that it was a watch info. channel . I've never publicly shown off my collection for a myriad of reasons , but am a bit intrigued by your channel . Are you located in the UAE ?
@@timmanion7459 I meant to be featured on The Urban’s channel, my bad for being inaccurate. Yes i am based in UAE-Dubai!
@@MagnumBTS I occasionally watch his channel but have never really seen him feature other people's collections. I just finished watching a few of your videos. Pretty cool stuff . I haven't been to the UAE in 15 yrs or more but always had an interesting time every time I was there . Watching your video from your trip to the States, I saw you wearing a batman. I have that same Rolex GMT . Great watch . Thanx for your communication. I think I'll have to check in to your channel once in a while to see what's up over there . Have a good one bro .
Laughed out loud at the outtakes! My biggest Watch mistake is trying to buy every watch I see… although I’ve now whittled down my collection to the Citizen Promaster Land PMD56-2952 and a G Shock B5600BC (love Bluetooth on these G’s). Now time for me to watch the rest of the video!
I also want every watch on the planet. I try to at least buy a different brand every time so I can experience other things. I’d I want two watches from one brand I’ll probably sell the old watch. I’m only at 4 watches at the moment
@@WatchUnwind I had 28+ watches but used my channel to downsize my collection. Happy with 2 watches now!
@@simonthewatchguy6073 if you want to go down to one send your other one here
Hi TGV! My one great watch collecting mistake happened in the mid 1980's when visiting a favorite jeweler in downtown Chicago during my lunch time when I came across an ultra thin Vacheron dress watch in 18K white gold with the most wonderful ivory/parchment dial. Priced at $1200, I walked away from it as I had recently purchased an Omega Constellation and was a bit tapped out. I have regretted it ever since. That ultra thin case was amazing! Well 35 years later and after many dozens of watches I recently came into a mint condition ultra thin dress watch from Glycine in 14K yellow gold. I never even knew Glycine even made such as thing. The company historian documented the watch for me and advised it was made in 1956. It looks like something that could have been on Don Draper's wrist. The thing that makes this even more incredible is that it was a thrift store find for only $5 and fortunately, this time I was able to afford it!!
Unrelated, but I’d love to see a dress watch review and travel log at Longwood Gardens. I’m sure Hugo would also appreciate an Orchid appetizer before sitting down to a lovely goat dinner.
I second this! Always after more dress watch reviews!
Great video. Just got my first luxury Swiss timepiece after consolidating much of my high quality microbrands and entry level Swiss. I liked them all, that's why I bought them. But I never wore most of them for various reasons, they just sat in the safe, and would take them out and admire them. So, I sold about 7 pieces and got a Breitling Airwolf Raven which is super super cool.
Best intro and song too... can't get better than this!!!
...discovering your channel!
Bought so many watches in the beginning of my journey thanks to your channel.
I am speechless. I absolutely love your content. Your channel is the only channel that i do not skip through the videos. Dude!! Great advices as well. Thank you.
I am excited have nearly got all my parts for my Vostok amphibia mod project
Really delving deep in the philosophy of "gentry" - fab - fun and quite essential
Thank you TGV for all your wonderful suggestions! This helps a lot! Stay healthy and well! Nicholas
Thank you Nicolas, Always appreciated, stay safe and well too, onwards and upwards!
Best regards,
TGV
The great thing about TGV is he says what you always wanted to hear. And it is sound advice. Thanks for this episode. Cheers!
TH-cam legend for sure. Much respect!
Probably the most honest tips for newbies you will find. Great content as always :)
The fortis fragment evokes so many emotions. Thanks again for your dedication to each video.
Excellent video. Everybody should consider these warnings before getting into the watch obsession… I mean harmless hobby of watch collecting 😎
What I find most difficult is when you get lost in specifications. And it’s very difficult when you’re comparing watches online, without actually seeing them or putting them on.
I agree that you can pass up on a great watch this way.
I recently bought the Casio MDV 106 for 60€. Put on a Bond nato strap and and I wear it ever since. It‘s pure joy every time I look at it, to have such a good looking watch at this price. totally agree with your opinion! keep up the excellent work!
It's been awhile TGV. You're the guy who got me into this hobby in 2017. A great video about watch collecting! Mentioned all the ups and downs, the pros and cons. Keep it up TGV
I really enjoy your (talks) videos. Your sense of history, and sound advise. Time is most precious commodity.
I have 3 Citizens, and they're all Marvel Branded. Though there some really great watches out there, and i cannot agree more that you need to keep yourself in check then go on a spending spree.
Be cautious and know that there isn't a perfect watch.
Love this Channel! ❤
Sounds need are they different superhero’s ?
@@WatchUnwind I have 2 that are based on Black Panther and is chronograph, as the other is basic. Lastly, is the Avengers Logo that is my first watch.
Excellent points there, very useful. I’m often tempted by the fruits of another but have forced myself to be patient and cautious…relax and relish the obsession for a while to see if it really is genuine.
Thumbs up for mentioning the casio dw290. Such an awesome watch for the price.
You have by far the best intro on any youtube channel!!
I've subscribed just now because you were totally unbiased in your comments. I've always loved watches, but I'm not a collector. I have copped flak from watch forums and comments on TH-cam when I was researching to get my wife's late brothers first watch a total restoration. I had it done anyway, regardless of any diminished $ value. I did it for my wife. It's the only item she has of his and now it looks good. And that's all that matters.
Great advice! I received one comment on my first fine timepiece (Breitling Colt) that I brought 25 years ago compared to dozens of comments on several far less expensive watches. But that's fine because I buy/wear what suits me and not for the comments or opinions of watch forums; collector clubs, or even casual observers. But, to each his own ...
Good post. It's your final sentiment that I think is important for us all. Time is something we'll never get more of and the appreciation and happiness we receive from this pursuit should add to our lives.
Great point on dimensions. Not every watch is the same. Ultimately you got to try them on.
I really enjoyed this episode - so much food for thought. Philosophically significant well beyond watch collecting. Thank you, TGV.
“Taste is very subjective” very true as are opinions about various art forms. Just goto a big gallery with a few friends and see the difference of opinions, likes dislikes, of art hanging on the wall or pottery in cases, etc. What we are drawn to draws on our unique life experience...
I have wrestled with many of these issues, and have seen it play out in my watch journey. Good video. Thanks for pointing out these catches.
TGV, punchy as always, brings it to the point. Not enjoying the hunt is the biggest mistake as our clocks are ticking. I believe that making these mistakes through 'wilful misconduct' is part of the big picture.
"Prelevant" is a marvellous word ! I once bought a Sean Connery 007 homage to scratch the itch BUT I learned that an homage simply will never be enough (for me IMHO). I own some an old Wittnauer chronograph from the fifties. It´s a nice one and it runs and looks great. This lovely ticker was only double the price of the 007 homage but I will never skip the thing while the Bond homage will have to go......sooner or later. Thanks for this wonderful vid and the new word !
#8 "Scratch the itch watch." I *still* get tempted by this one constantly. Good list & great Nostromo hat!
Great advice. My first watch was a gift from my girlfriend (Citizen Avion) and nothing will ever top it due to its sentimental value and being the first. I also want to get the Citizen Red Arrows Chronograph as I go to watch them whenever I can, and the Tag Heuer F1 as the sport is a huge part of my life. The collection is for me, not others.
This is just the holy grail of watch info,.,TGV. You sir are a gentleman and a scholar
Great video! One of my biggest mistakes, & I’ve had a few, is buying watches I feel are the wrong size for my wrist. In this age of online shopping, it’s difficult to try on the watches before you buy them.
Thank you TGV, Another awesome installment.
A great refresh of why I truly got into this hobby. Thanks, I needed that!
Fabulous video. Wonderful channel and I love that you're an intelligent man with such great style, soul and substance. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Excellent advice as always TGV. My suggestion would be to focus on a type i.e Field Watch, do your research but don't get distracted by looking at GMT's. Dont lose sight of your goal or confuse the issue. Do a pros/cons list and choose the one that wins your heart.
Omg that speedy 🥰
Good work fella.
Pay close attention at 10:32 My priorities are. Will I wear it often? Do I enjoy wearing the watch? I for one don't buy watches for the investment. Bottom line, buy what impresses you, not others. I've watched your videos for over 6 months now, gaining information to guide a couple of my purchases, but I just subscribed to your channel after watching this installment. Thank you sir, I enjoy your approach.
Love the Casio Edifice EF527D shoutout, that watch is as close to a daily driver as I have come to.
All great points and I continue to enjoy the content TGV puts out. The quotes during the segments are always a nice touch on these more 'philosophical' videos.
Wow these were spot on. I feel like all watch collectors should view this !
Great advice! I have bought watches that when they arrived, I didn't like them at all...a couple of months later? I'm over the moon with them. I recently bought the Seiko SNJ025 just because the price dropped nicely, and wondered if I had made the right choice. Now that I have it, I can't stop wearing it, I've never loved a watch so much.
There are no mistakes in watch collecting. Only discoveries and learnings. Anyway. Yet another masterclass by the one and only TGV. Btw, what's the intro music?
Well Put. I once got burned hard on a Movado, I put a video out on it you should check it out I tried to keep it funny lol but ultimately it was a learning experience from a young and naive watch collector
TGV I love the emphasis on enjoyment. To enjoy the hunt, to enjoy the learning, and to enjoy the wearing of our watches (such joy), is to know you're on the right track. When I'm walking my dog, and I look at my watch five times, and then I need to look again to see what time it is, that's what it's all about. So the #1 mistake (aside from buying watches beyond your comfortable means) is not doing this hobby for the joy of it (and it's no coincidence that enjoyment contains the word joy!).
Love the submariner so bought Loreo sub, yes I know , but I love it every day.
By the way amazing amount of extra clips in video to be enjoyed every minute.
I can relate to everything in this video. What got me most was the Fortis narrator's words at 12:34. Of all of the watches in my collection, the ones I wear the most are indeed 'true companions'. I've just never heard it described this way before.
Im new here and i just learned about Fortis in this video. I am excited to know more about it!
This video has one of your best intros. The music is awesome 👌
Great video, TGV! Your intro is so amazing, I always enjoy just watching that at the start of the video!
I really enjoyed this video. You invited watchers to share what they do, so here's my life: I'm an aeroplane pilot. I've been interested in watches off and on for a long time, but I don't consider myself to be a collector. I love them because, as a person who works with machines, I consider clocks, especially the mechanical wristwatch, to be the most elegant of mankind's solutions to one of our biggest little problems. I travelled to Greenwich (I'm Canadian) just so I could see Harrison's sea clock with my own eyes. I can't afford a luxury watch. I always have repairs pending on my vehicle, my house, my (extremely humble and home-made) sailboat. I can't have luxuries. The nicest watch I have, one of a toss-up between microbrands, two with Miyota 9100 movements and the other with a Sellita movement. I have a couple of quartz ones too, and nothing I have cost more than $500. I will never have any of the luxury watches you talk about. Personally I have lusted for years after a Grand Seiko "Snowflake". But I can not envision a future for myself where I can spare $8000. I enjoyed your video because when speaking of collecting, you express several high concepts including wisdom, humility, patience, consideration of others, appreciation of beauty, and gentlemanly thought and behaviour. I found it calming to listen to. I sometimes feel like buying a Seiko SNXS79 for $100 and wearing it every day as a statement, because if people were wristwatches, I would be a $100 Seiko 5. At least that's my current feeling. A GS "snowflake" on my wrist would be like putting a top hat on a donkey. Anyway, I enjoy your videos, not because I'll ever have the watches, but I enjoy your philosophies.
Thanks for the video, TGV. Nice as always.
I have started in this hobby not long ago, and I agree with you on the appreciation of what makes you happy. I have nice Seikos and Tissots, that I like a lot, but also some Vostoks, Timex and a G-Shock that I simply love wearing. So, it is about happiness and you feeling good wearing your watches, not about the rest of the world. At the end of the day, it is really hard to find someone to talk about watches that really appreciate the hobby - it is incredibly uncommon.
This is a really interesting topic, TGV. I also made a few mistakes, especially when buying vintage watches. I think every collector goes through it. The best advice is possibly "dont rush" :)
Greetings,
Sebastian
Thank you Sebastian, always good to see you my friend!
Best regards,
TGV
Definitely one of your finest, Sir. You brought all that experience to bear and then delivered it with a soft touch. Very helpful. What was the watch on the right at 8:17, that was a nice one. Thanks.
TGV I am not really a watch collector but have a few - I dare not sell any of them and only buy what I can afford !. I like buying them for gifts too and love it when they wear them - the watch loving family Haha an opening for a new channel ......... cheers Pete
God tier video!! Much better then some of the dealer's videos with a cash counter in the background.
Love the experience of getting new watches. Usually on here learning about them before purchase
As someone who is fairly new to studying horology and collecting timepieces, I fell into the trap of buying lots of watches as well as a pocket sundial. 6 months on, I bought a watch box and found there are certain watches that stand out as not being part of the collection. Pieces that end up being hidden in drawers.
However it has been an education. I've learned from it and what kind of collector I am. For me the history, design and craftsmanship is what matters. Owning pieces of horological significance or with a great design or story attached is what interests me.
There is nothing better than starting my Friday morning commute with an Urban Gentry video! But where's Hugo, haven't seen him in a while?
Man, I love your videos. Like a little kind vacation. Also, you’re the guy who got me to buy my Sinn 104 A! There may be other watches in my collection I like better, but none as perfect. It is a masterpiece.
I found this video quite enjoyable. I was trying to see how many mistakes I have done myself, and confess only to one: I did buy a Sea-Dweller 43 to "scratch my itch". I don't see watches as an investment, merely a temporary placement of funds, and watches (at least my watches) have no 'status'. I prefer stainless steel sports watches, which by now are like Holier and Holier Grails, but in the end the watches are merely material goods. I do enjoy the hunt more than the trophy. LOL. Once one gets involved in vintage watches the need to study the topic more in detail increases, and this makes the hunt more fun!
I just started watch collecting and your videos have helped me immensely!