Luxury Watch Collection: Avoiding Common Mistakes
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Luxury Watch Collection: Avoiding Common Mistakes

By Fastwong · Jul 17, 2023 · 37 replies
Fastwong
WPS member · Independents forum
37 replies6474 views1 photos
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Fastwong's recent experience with nearly parting ways with his De Bethune DB28 offers a compelling look into the emotional complexities of watch collecting. His candid reflection on the 'one in, one out' policy and the concept of a 'grail' watch resonates deeply within the community, prompting collectors to re-evaluate their own acquisition philosophies and the true value of their cherished timepieces. This thread explores the unique allure of independent watchmaking and the often-overlooked sentimental bonds collectors form with their watches.





I don't know how many fake lists my name never actually went on but out of the blue this week it actually happened, for the first time ever, I actually got a call about a watch I had expressed interest in over a year ago and after doing my best to show I wasn't a flipper an allocation was mine if I wanted it. I hadn't exactly forgotten about it but I would have bet money that the watch would get discontinued before my name ever bubbled up... but it did and suddenly because of my one in one out policy, a tough choice had to be made, a sports watch had to go. The DB28 made the most sense, it had appreciated a bit since I bought it and was an easy call to my dealer. Before I knew it it was in a fedex box on it's way to the other side of the country.... and then I started freaking out.

What had I done!? I hadn't been wearing the DB28 much lately choosing something subtler for the office but I loved the it! I had taken a leap of faith on the DB28 buying it when it seemed like DB might go under and worried I might not get one before the brand was gone. Even my wife was surprised, she said the DB was her favorite. I started remembering all the reasons I had bought the DB28 in the first place and realizing none of that had changed. I couldn't sleep all night. In the morning as early as I thought could pass for not being annoying, I sent a text and asked them to send the DB28 back. Ten thousand apologies later and the watch was back home before the weekend. Not sure what I'll do about the allocation now, the one in one out rule might have to go, but either way super happy the DB28 won't get sacrificed in the decision.

The grail watch discussion and this week's events inspired another, opposite question - If my "grail" watch was offered, what watches would I sacrifice in exchange? Not sure.

Are there watches you have now that you would not trade for your "grail"? And if the answer is yes, or a real strong 99% probably smile, does that mean you already have your end game watch(es)? And what are they? Curious to hear what watches folks would never sell.....

About the De Bethune DB28 Ref. DB28

De Bethune DB28 Reference DB28

The DB28 represents De Bethune's approach to contemporary haute horlogerie, featuring the brand's distinctive floating lug design within a 42.6mm case format. This reference showcases the manufacture's technical capabilities through its extended power reserve specification and proprietary movement caliber.

The 42.6mm titanium case houses the manual-winding caliber DB2115, delivering a 120-hour power reserve. The silver dial is protected by sapphire crystal, while the characteristic floating lugs define the case architecture. Water resistance extends to 30 meters, and the watch is completed with a leather strap.

This reference appeals to collectors focused on independent Swiss manufacture capabilities and contemporary case design. The DB28 represents De Bethune's technical approach to manual-winding movements, particularly notable for collectors interested in extended power reserve complications. Production commenced in 2010, positioning this reference within the brand's modern catalog offerings.

Specifications

Caliber
DB2115
Case
Titanium
Diameter
42.6 mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
SH
shafran
Jul 17, 2023

Don't blame you for keeping it. I love debethune

PA
patrick_y
Jul 17, 2023

I definitely won't sell my first watch that I bought for myself. Got huge offers. But declined them all.

AR
ArmisT
Jul 17, 2023

That DB28 is a special piece, but you did the right thing by reviewing your reasons for having it and keeping it. Your experience does prompt a very important question for those of us that have determined that new additions require corresponding outgoings. It just becomes that much more challenging when it comes down to rarer/unique pieces like the DB.

SP
Spencer Karrington
Jul 17, 2023

Altho, a debethune is one of my grails so you already have a grail watch for me lol πŸ˜‚ But still, there really isn't a replacement for a debethune, like you could find an alternative to a rolex, or even a Patek Philipe but there is nothing that can really replace a debethune. They are a one of a kind and one of, if not my faviorite, brand of all time!! Congrats on getting it back!!

JL
jleno
Jul 17, 2023

I've only made 2 acquisitions, a Grossmann Tefnut and Parmigiani Kalpa. I've never had any intention to sell or trade, and It would take an unreasonably good offer to make me consider parting with either. Buying carefully and keeping for life is my policy

HO
hora12reborn
Jul 17, 2023

The DB28 is such a special piece, comparable to nothing else out there. Wear it in good health.

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