Mark's 2019 Watch Collection

I started collecting vintage watches because these were pieces whose aesthetic design called to mind a modernist era, where form and function were balanced with each other. Listening to the movements also brought reassurance in this overwhelmingly digital world where a tiny mechanical machine, independent of external power sources, could outlast most things.

After going off the deep end with rare Rolex pieces which were promptly auctioned off, I began one more time. I think this was the moment I started looking for pieces that I knew were purely from my own taste, and pieces that I would miss on my wrist when I am not wearing them.

Gravitating towards smaller and more discreet pieces for work, I have ended up with two grail Patek Philippe pieces and two vintage Rolex.

I have also recently delved into Seiko diver limited edition re-creations.

1996 Patek Philippe Nautilus 3800/1 Sigma Dial with Diamond Markers

This mid-sized model has more charm than the current model in a larger case. I had the latter and it photographed well, but I did not take to the size. I never thought I would wear a watch with diamonds, but I thought this was tasteful.

It was quite a journey this piece made towards me, but I am glad it did, as I could not have asked for more from a diamond dial in a stainless steel case in such a condition.

I immediately took it to the Patek Service Center and requested for a 1.5-link. I think the biggest difference between the service centers of Rolex and Patek, is that the latter leaves the one feeling reassured that the watch is taken care of.

This piece is incredibly rare, but very understated.

2004 Patek Philippe World Time 5110G

I traded in a sector dial Calatrava for this, because I really wanted this complication as well as how it wore on my wrist. The Calatrava I had was a reference 5296G, and it is one of the nicest looking watches I have seen, but it wears large. This world time showed up and it was too good to pass up.

This is one of those watches that exceeds all expectations. It is a fantastic looking piece that elicits the romance of travel, which is great for distracting one from the realities of actual travel. The movement is a marvel to look at, and the dial is perfectly balanced.

I have become so fond of my two Pateks that I wear them sparingly these days, preferring to subject other watches to the wear and tear of daily life.

1971 Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694

Saw this piece and went for it due to it being a one-owner watch. The owner bought it in 1973 and wore it every day till he sold it forty-three years later. He knew his son was not interested in wearing it, so he sold it and spent the money on a holiday for the both of them.

This is an entry-level Rolex, and the 34mm case size, simple black dial, and manual wind movement all add to the charm. On its original folded link bracelet, it wears larger on the wrist.

When I wear it, I appreciate a simple classic Rolex being so balanced; they had the formula right the first time round. With the original guarantee and sales receipt, this is as honest a piece as it can get.

2017 Seiko Prospex First Diver's Re-creation Limited Edition SBDX019/SLA017

This is a re-creation of the 62MAS (6217-8000/1) from 1965, which was my first mechanical watch. It addresses the issue I had with the original, namely water resistance.

It was the most exciting new watch release in 2017 for me. The case size and dimensions are more sensible than the oversized maxi cases that a lot of contemporary divers, including Seiko ones, come in these days.

The optional steel bracelet is incomprehensible with the adjustment pins that Seiko uses, but the silicone waffle strap is soft and comfortable.

This is an easy choice for the pool and for a one-watch for travel.

2018 Seiko Prospex 1968 Diver's Re-creation Limited Edition SBEX007/SLA025

If the watch above is meant for the pool, this one is meant for the ocean, which is a rare luxury for me to swim in these days.

I'm really curious about these Baselworld releases that Seiko gets involved in. I think their reissues make so much more sense than what other watch companies are doing. The dimensions and balance are slightly adjusted, and the pieces are free from any design choices to seem vintage, like artificial patina on the lume.

There are days where a piece with larger wrist presence is appreciated. This re-creation of the 6159-7001 has the 19mm silicone waffle strap that keeps everything from being top-heavy, and I see why they left out the steel bracelet this time. The back of this piece is just as amazing as the front because of the monoblock.

There is a probable chance these two Seiko pieces will be the remaining watches when I'm done with having a watch collection. There is also a possibility Seiko will get my money every time they release limited edition re-creations at Baselworld.

2019 Seiko Prospex 1970 Diver's Re-creation Limited Edition SBDX031/SLA033

The final Seiko for me: this completes the Seiko diver trilogy. While the other two re-creations brings up thoughts of the ocean, this piece elicits destinations with the tropical jungle and rivers. I want to bring it to Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar.