Watch Collector Introductory Guide ｜ How to collect a watch for the first time

Watches have become more than just a time-checking tool, both a fashion item and an investment-worthy collection. More and more people, especially recently, are interested in investing in luxury watches and collecting watches, and a growing number of people are making watches a hobby of collecting them. So, how do beginners start collecting watches? Today, I’ll show you some basic guides for becoming a watch collector.

the charm of collecting watches
Collecting watches is not just a consumption, but a hobby that can enjoy cultural values and historical meanings together. Luxury watches also increase in value over time, as they contain longstanding craftsmanship and skills.

Fashion Item: A watch alone will change your style.
Value of Investment: Limited Edition, Popular Brand Watches May Increase In Price Over Time.
Historical Meaning: An old vintage watch becomes a historical record in itself.
What You Need to Know Before You Get a Clock Collection
1. Clockwise: Mechanical vs Quartz

Mechanical Clock (Automatic/Manual): Powered by springs and gears, it values sensitivity, brand philosophy and precision. It best reflects management, appreciation and collector tastes.
Quartz Watch: Battery powered and timed more accurately. Practical and easy to manage, but emotional elements can be a bit weak.
Your choice of introductory brands and models will depend on the values you value (emotional, management convenience, brand).

watch collectors’ favorite brands
In the introductory stage of watch collection, it is recommended to look at popular brands first.

Rolex
the world’s most popular luxury watch brand
Recommended for investment due to high potential for value increase

Omega (OMEGA)
Swiss watch brand with both cost-effectiveness and historicity
The speed master and the Sea Master line are famous

Tag Heuer
Popular for sports watches, and at a relatively reasonable price point
Suitable as an introductory luxury watch

Cartier
It is also famous for its jewelry brand, but the watch design is also luxurious.
Suitable for those who want fashion and collection at the same time

Patek Philippe
Called the pinnacle of high-end watches, it’s rare and valuable
Recommended for experienced collectors rather than beginners

First Step in Clock Collection: Buying & Managing Tips
There are various purchasing methods such as official stores, used transactions, and overseas direct purchases. For beginners, it is recommended to use certified stores and official sales outlets.
If it’s used and vintage, it’s essential to check the resell and authenticity by receiving ‘box, guarantee, and inspection history’ together.
Storage/Management:
Watchbox dedicated to watches, humidity and temperature maintenance, periodic management and overhaul (mechanical limited) are important.
When not in use, use the enclosed case and watch winder when purchasing.
Genuine Identification: Make sure to check the serial, marking, and status of the back case (back of the case) and dial (text plate). Vintage Seiko, Rolex, Omega, etc. may vary in value by several orders of magnitude depending on the serial number and the imprint standard.
Clock storage and management
The watch must be stored correctly to maintain its value.

Watch Winder: useful for storing automatic watches
Humidity and temperature management: dampness can damage internal parts.
Regular inspection: Luxury watches must undergo an overhaul (precise inspection) every three to five years.
Precautions when collecting watches
Perfume Risk – The more famous brands, the more counterfeits there are. Make sure you use an official seller or a trusted second-hand platform.
Trendy – Being popular in the short term doesn’t necessarily increase its value.
Lack of liquidity – it may take some time to cash in your watch.
Administrative costs – Additional costs may be incurred, such as overhaul and storage costs.
Recommended tips for introducing a watch collector
Start with reasonable brands such as Omega and Tag Heuer.
If you look at limited edition models or special editions, there is a possibility of increasing their value.
Build up your watch-related knowledge by referring to the online watch community, YouTube channels, and more.
Remember that collection is not just a possession, but a process of enjoying history and culture.
The Latest Trends Watch Collector Should Know (2025)
Recell Market Revitalization: Popular models such as Rolex and Omega also have higher used prices than new ones, so you can seek value preservation or profit margins.
Caution: Fake and illegal modification: The risk of counterfeiting is rapidly increasing in the used/overseas direct purchase market. Expert verification procedures and community utilization are required.
Introductory community/review: Information collection and actual user sharing are activated in various cafes, clubs, and review forums.
The philosophy of “the more you wear it, the more valuable it is”: watches sometimes accumulate in value as investments and daily companions.
Conclusion Collecting ｜ watches is a hobby that grows with time
Collecting watches is not just a luxury, but an investment hobby that grows in meaning and value over time. Rather than buying expensive watches in a hurry, it is better for beginners to gain experience by taking steps slowly with beginner brand → intermediate brand → high-end brand.

The watch market is expected to become more active in the future. Based on your love and knowledge of watches, you will one day be able to complete your own special watch collection.