The Laings Journal
Watches do so much more than tell the time. For many, they have become collectors’ items, and the community of watch collectors is a growing one. Here we look at why people collect watches and the emotions behind them.
The reasons people collect watches can be hugely varied, and like most collections, each individual usually has their own motivations. However, there are certain themes when it comes to watch collecting and generally it’s more about the emotion of the pieces, rather than logic.
As more and more people are discovering a love of horology, here we explore why some people are inspired to collect watches.
THEY ARE WORKS OF MECHANICAL ART
Many collectors view luxury timepieces as miniature works of art that are masterpieces in their own right. The craftsmanship and expertise that is required to build them makes them something to truly cherish and admire. They are intricate and elaborate mechanisms, with hundreds of tiny parts working in tandem, that require incredible skill to build. Watch collectors are often fascinated by the mechanical movements and advancements in wristwatches. It is this micro-engineering that’s incredibly fascinating, and it continues to develop year on year with amazing new pieces. The harmony between technological advances and the tradition of watchmaking, with the hands-on skills of the craftsmen, is held in high esteem by watch collectors all over the world.
THE THRILL OF THE CHASE
Some watch collectors are passionate about certain brands, functions or aesthetic details. They will search, perhaps for years, for particular pieces to complete their collection. It could be that they’re waiting for new launches to be released, or are searching for limited edition or vintage models. Part of the thrill of collecting comes from this chase and the adrenalin rush of finding that elusive piece.
THEY ARE PART OF HISTORY
Watch collectors may also enjoy the stories that watches tell. For countless years collectable watches have done so much more than tell the time and have been an important part of many historical moments. For example, the OMEGA Speedmaster explored the surface of the moon, whilst the Cartier Santos helped aviators to conquer the skies. Owning these amazing timepieces gives you a connection to these momentous occasions, allowing you to celebrate them and honour them. People want to own something that is, or is soon to become, part of history it’s an honour to own such a prestigious item.
THERE IS A LOT TO LEARN
Luxury wristwatches are incredibly intricate mechanisms and learning about them can be truly fascinating. The more you educate yourself on them the more you appreciate them, and in turn, look to grow your collection. This can even be how many collectors start. Before you buy your first luxury wristwatch it’s likely, because of their higher price point, you’ll do some research. It’s a considered purchase that you enjoy learning about, this can then build into a need to learn more.
THEY ARE PART OF YOUR STORY
A watch collection can tell a very personal story. For some collectors, they may have been gifted their first luxury timepieces on a special occasion, an important birthday, achievement or milestone. This could be the start of your collection and each watch after may tell the story of an important moment in your life. Your collection will therefore build throughout your life, telling your story through the different models.
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