Automatic vs. Quartz Watches: Dan Henry Article

Rosneathian introduces a compelling article by renowned collector Dan Henry, challenging conventional wisdom in watch collecting. Henry advocates for prioritizing personal enjoyment and design over perceived investment value or movement type, whether automatic or quartz. This perspective offers a refreshing counter-narrative to the often-speculative nature of the luxury watch market.

Excerpt:

"The problem for many collectors is they look for watches that are valuable, when they should be buying watches that they enjoy wearing. I have never looked for valuable watches, but for watches with designs I like."

"As a collector, I am not hooked on movements; for me it doesn't matter if the watch is equipped with the trendy Valjoux 72 or a Venus 178. I don't believe the movement influences the rarity or price of the watch; for $1,000 today you can buy an unbranded watch equipped with the Valjoux 72 identical to the movement in a vintage Rolex Daytona that easily exceeds $300,000."

[...]

"Many collectors claim that quartz watches do not increase in value, or devalue more, compared to mechanical watches; this is not true. Many mechanical watches that cost thousands of dollars are worth almost nothing today; see the embarrassment among those who bought a Bulgari or Hublot – today those watches are not worth 20% of their retail price. You can find mechanical watches among other brands that are worth a fraction of their retail value. No one should buy a watch – quartz or mechanical – assuming the value will increase."

[...]

"My advice is you don't treat your watch collection as an investment, but instead as a hobby. Collect what makes your eyes sparkle and your heart happy – whether the movement is quartz or mechanical."

A man after my own heart.

Full article here: danhenrywatches.com D