Tips for Building a Well-Rounded Watch Collection

Wondering how to start collecting watches? You have come to the right place. Whether you are a true newbie looking to purchase your first luxury watch or you are the proud owner of a few elite pieces, you are probably wondering how to take your collection to the next level. What makes a good watch collection? Should you focus on one brand or seek to expand your horizons? How do you know which watches are worth your investment?

Today, we are going to answer all of these questions and then some. But first off, why should you take our word for it? The answer is simple: Our team at Avi & Co. has decades of experience in the luxury watch and jewelry industry. As a secondary market watch reseller, we have a breadth of knowledge about all kinds of different brands, ranging from entry-level pieces to limited edition collections. We specialize in pieces from elite creators like Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Rolex, and Richard Mille. Plus, we also have our own dazzling Avi & Co. watch lines that have skyrocketed to the forefront of the horological world.

We are dedicated to helping you find the perfect watch for you. The right piece to kickstart your collection is not only one with a strong investment value. It is one that makes your heart leap, seamlessly melds with your personal style, and boosts your confidence tenfold. In short, you will know it when you see it.

Now, it is time to get down to the nitty gritty of watch collecting. Where will you start, how will you build a well-rounded collection, and how will you find timepieces that are just right?

Using the term “entry-level” or “starter watch” might seem a little bit blasé when we are talking about timepieces that cost more than $10,000. But when you consider that the higher echelons of elite watches often come with six-figure price tags, it starts to make a little more sense.

The first watch you buy sets the tone for your collection. While it might be tempting to buy the first piece you can afford, we recommend holding out for a true luxury brand. We are talking about the big four of watch collecting: Rolex, Richard Mille, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet. Why is it important to choose a well-known watchmaker?

Protecting your investment is part of the motivation here. When you opt for a globally renowned brand like the four we have listed, you have peace of mind that your watch will more than likely hold (or even increase) its value. These watches have limited supply and seemingly endless demand. If you want to, you will almost certainly be able to resell your watch or trade it in for an upgrade in the future.

Most importantly, you want to choose a watch that you love. Watch collecting is about passion. It is about commitment, dedication, and patience. You are probably going to conduct extensive research, try on numerous different timepieces, and chat with other enthusiasts before taking the plunge. And that is completely okay! When you are ready to buy a watch, the perfect timepiece will present itself, and you will feel 100% confident in your decision.

When we talk about collecting watches, we often use the word “build,” as in building a collection. That is because collecting watches is a labor of love. It takes work, and it takes time. It is not necessarily easy, but it is worth every bit of effort and every cent you will spend. Only the truly dedicated among us manage to amass aspirational watch collections.

Now, there are a few different ways to go about collecting watches. Some people choose one brand, or even one model to focus on. For instance, someone might collect exclusively Rolex Submariner watches or have an entire watch box dedicated to Audemars Piguet timepieces. Others might purchase across different brands but choose a broader theme: watches initially made for military use, watches with brightly colored dials, watches set with diamonds, vintage watches manufactured between 1940 and 1980, etc.

Of course, how you choose to collect watches is up to you. But if you want our two cents, we would argue that the ideal way to collect timepieces is in slightly broader strokes. We would advocate for building a well-rounded watch collection that incorporates pieces from different brands, different time periods, and with different aesthetics. This way, you will have the perfect watch for any event and any day in your life. We think versatility is key and makes for a watch collection you will actually wear, not just look at.

If you subscribe to our theory of well-rounded, versatile watch collecting, here are a few of the categories you might want to include in your budding collection.

When you hear the term dress watches, think of pieces that could be paired with a suit and tie or a blazer and heels. These timepieces are meant to be professional and functional to the max. They are certainly stylish, but many tend toward understated and compact, the perfect complement for your workwear looks. These watches are also perfect for upscale events like fundraisers, weddings, or other ceremonies.

Our pick? The Patek Philippe Calatrava, a classic watch from a hallowed watchmaker. Initially launched in 1932, the Calatrava is a timeless accessory that is versatile and elegant no matter how you style it.

You do not have to literally be playing soccer or sailing on your yacht in order to strap on a sports watch. These timepieces are simply meant to be more durable and rugged. They often showcase larger dials and other comfortable, functional elements like rubber straps, large numerals, and chronograph dials. They are great for casual wear, but many can also be dressed up, taking you from day to night with ease.

We love the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore line for this very purpose. These watches echo the iconic octagonal shape of the original Royal Oak line, but were made to appeal to a younger and more adventurous audience. A Royal Oak Offshore checks countless boxes for any savvy watch collector.

Often set with diamonds or other precious gems, jewelry watches never go out of style. These timepieces are meant to turn heads, and they exude luxury and class from every angle. You cannot go wrong with a gem-set timepiece, whether you opt for a diamond bezel, a diamond dial, or a watch that truly goes all out. These timepieces are ideal for formal events, but they can easily dress up an everyday look as well.

The perfect example? Our very own Iced Collection here at Avi & Co. These prestigious watches up the ante on luxury and are completely iced out, with natural diamonds covering the bracelet, bezel, and dial of each piece. With both 18K white gold and 18K rose gold cases as well as multiple sizes available, you can find the perfect Iced Collection piece for your personal aesthetic.

Theoretically, you can wear any watch on any day. That said, there is no denying that there are some timepieces that feel better reserved for a special occasion. An everyday watch is one that feels like an extension of your personal style. It fits right in with your wardrobe and go-to look. It is comfortable, reliable, and functional, giving you everything you need on a daily basis. This is the watch that you gravitate toward whenever you open your watch box and are not quite sure what to wear.

Everyone’s favorite day-to-day watch is different, but we are partial to the timeless elegance and clean silhouette of a Rolex Oyster Perpetual. These watches are iconic and gorgeous without being over-the-top. Plus, you can add a bit of personality when you choose the dial color, with options ranging from aqua to pink to black to yellow.

The ultimate achievement in collecting watches is getting your hands on a limited-edition timepiece. You will have an heirloom watch that not just anyone can purchase, and you will be one of the lucky few who gets to show off this memorable creation. A great brand for limited-edition shopping? Richard Mille, the tech-savvy, high-performance creator who has been making waves in the watch world since 2001. There are countless exquisite RMs, but we are currently loving the RM 035 “Baby Nadal”:

Are you ready to kickstart your watch collecting journey in style? At Avi & Co., we are here to help. You can shop our full inventory online or visit one of our three boutique locations (you can find us in Miami, Manhattan, and Aspen) for a personalized shopping experience. Schedule your appointment today.