Starting Your Watch Collection

 

www.centralwatch.com

Photo via Flickr / DCT Photography

Watches, a common gift to mark major milestones like a graduation, marriage, or years of dedicated service. But watches have evolved from much more than just a gift - they’re functional and fashionable pieces to be worn daily.

Whether you prefer vintage or new, starting a watch collection is a great way to invest in a lifelong passion. Here’s what you need to get started:

Getting Started - First thing’s first, do some research. Educate yourself on the different trends, styles, prices, and consider the true value of each watch. If you don’t absolutely love a timepiece, don’t purchase it. One of the biggest mistakes collectors make is purchasing something they don’t truly love just for the sake of having it.

New vs. Vintage - When it comes to new watches, your options are practically endless. Explore all your choices before committing to one. In terms of vintage timepieces, you likely will need to conduct more research. Look into the working condition of each timepiece, consider how much its repair cost may be compared to what you are paying for the watch. Whether new or vintage, investing in quality pieces with good resale value can help your collection in the future.

Brands to Invest In - When it comes to watch purchasing, choosing a watch from a brand that has been in the business for a long time is generally a safe investment. Additionally, vintage watches from select brands continue to increase in value over time (consider Rolex, Patek Phillipe, and Breitling). Including these types of pieces in your collection are ideal, especially should you want to sell one to acquire a potentially pricier piece.

Care and Storage -  When not wearing your timepieces, be sure to have a place to properly store them - either in their original cases or in a box built specifically for watch storage. In caring for your watch, maintenance will be required. Bringing it in to a professional (like Central Watch) will keep your watch running properly and ensuring its life for years to come.

At Central Watch, we are committed to providing the highest quality watch repair and restoration. Our watchmakers are all masters of their their trade working with the most state-of-the-art equipment available: 914-930-7943