18 Months of Watch Collecting: Luis6's Journey
Collection

18 Months of Watch Collecting: Luis6's Journey

By Luis6 · Feb 22, 2014 · 30 replies
Luis6
WPS member · Horological Meandering forum
30 replies8869 views9 photos
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Luis6 shares his rapid journey into watch collecting, detailing the watches acquired within his first 18 months. His post provides a fascinating look at how a novice collector's tastes evolve, from initial purchases to grail pieces, offering valuable insights for those just starting their own horological adventures. This article highlights the diverse range of watches that can captivate a new enthusiast.

I used to be a guy who saw watch merely as a tool of telling time, and never understood why someone would collect watches. On a Sunday afternoon 18 months ago, I decided to figure out this watch obsession thing. I began to browse through several major watch forums, both domestically and internationally. One day, just when I thought that I'd finally figure out why people would caught the watch bug, I simultaneously found that the watch bug had bitten me!

I only buy watches that I really love, so would never consider selling any of them. I also like to give each watch enough wrist time, so I do rotate quite often. Most of my watches are purchased brand new from local ADs in Taiwan, since I don't have enough knowledge and courage to buy second-handed or from the grey market.

Below are a few photos of my current collection, in the order of acquisition time. Thank you for your time and attention.

Dec. 2012 - ROLEX GMT Master II 116713LN.ROLEX GMT Master II 116713LN

Jan. 2013 - SEIKO SKA369 Kinetic Diver.?What's a diver doing on a golf course??SEIKO SKA369 Kinetic Diver

Feb. 2013 - ROLEX Daytona 116520.ROLEX Daytona 116520

Mar. 2013 - ORIENT Constellation GMT FDJ02003W0. This one was bought from a Singaporean Dealer, as none of the local watch shops in Taiwan had this model.ORIENT Constellation GMT FDJ02003W0

Apr. 2013 - PANERAI PAM111PANERAI PAM111

May 2013 - SEIKO Presage SRP385J1 100th Anniversary of SEIKO watchmakingSEIKO Presage SRP385J1 100th Anniversary of SEIKO watchmaking

Aug. 2013 - MONTBLANC Star World-time GMT. This IS the watch that brought me to PuristsPro!MONTBLANC Star World-time GMT


Dec. 2013 - ROLEX Datejust 16233. This is a birthday gift that my dad's best friend gave him some 24 years ago, with my dad's birthday stamped on the warranty paper. Dad said a simple quartz is more convenient for him now, so I took over this good old trusty.ROLEX Datejust 16233, an good old trusty from my Dad.

Feb. 2014 - AUDEMARS PIGUET Royal Oak Dual Time Power Reserve 26120STAUDEMARS PIGUET Royal Oak Dual Time Power Reserve 26120ST


This message has been edited by Luis6 on 2014-02-23 00:12:32

About the Panerai PAM00111 - Luminor Marina Ref. PAM111

The Panerai Luminor PAM111 is a notable example within the Luminor collection, recognized for its direct lineage to the brand's established aesthetic. This reference, produced for a significant period, represents a core offering that appeals to collectors seeking the characteristic Luminor case design combined with a visible movement. It is often considered a foundational piece for those exploring the brand's modern catalog, emphasizing legibility and robust construction.

The PAM111 features a 44mm polished steel case, maintaining the substantial wrist presence associated with the Luminor series. It is equipped with a manual-wind mechanical movement, visible through a sapphire display back. The watch utilizes a sapphire crystal on the front, protecting a black dial with luminous hour markers and hands. The power reserve for this caliber is approximately 56 hours.

This reference holds a specific appeal for collectors who appreciate the blend of traditional Panerai design elements with contemporary manufacturing. Its transparent case back allows for appreciation of the decorated movement, a feature not present on all Luminor models. The PAM111 was a popular reference, contributing to its consistent presence in the secondary market and its role in defining the modern Panerai identity.

Specifications

Caliber
OP XI
Case
Polished steel
Diameter
44mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
300m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AM
amanico
Feb 23, 2014

Definitely, you caught the bug, and I am pretty sure your collection will evolve in some dramatic proportions. ;) It is always interesting to read one's journey into watches! Thanks for this post, Luis. Best, Nicolas

JR
jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)
Feb 23, 2014

Impressive collection dear Luis. I am glad you got all you like and avoided newbie errors like those I made before. That's very good for you. Of course I recognize your Montblanc Star Worldtime and how you joined PPro. If you recall, you resurfaced a thread started by MTF some time back. Because of your post, I fell in love with the Montblanc worldtime too and got mine. :) Good to have you as a fellow community member here. Your posts and sharings in a short few months have always been encouragi

W7
W72
Feb 23, 2014

world of watch collecting. I noticed that the bug had bitten you hard. The acquisition rate is almost monthly and has somewhat moderated. But then, the intensity of the bite is increasing. Great start to a collection. I like your move into the Montblanc and the AP. I also like the Rolex that your father handed over to you. This is gonna be the most valuable watch in your collection now and later. Enjoy the journey. You are a year or two into it , there will be lots of watches to come - this I am

BI
Bill
Feb 23, 2014

I think you caught a good bug. Everything seem to make sense. Nothing to delicate and nothing too wild. All solid watches any collector would consider but all look like you considered every move. Ok maybe the emotions got one once or twice but they were good ones. I think you have found a passion you will enjoy and share for a long time. Men don't have too many ways to spoil ourselves and watches it a great way to enjoy our good fortunes. Bill

SP
Spellbound
Feb 23, 2014

It is good to see how the collection evolves. I see a preference for tools / sports watches. Perhaps a dress watch next? A Richard Lange would not look out of place. And don't be afraid of vintage. There is a certain magic that comes with a nice vintage acquisition, plus they don't make them like they used to. And there are plenty of knowledgeable people here to help guide the vintage novice like myself. I do love your Presage ! Dean

LU
Luis6
Feb 23, 2014

but whether it will evolve in some dramatic proportion or not will largely depend upon my wife's will. I might earn much more than she does, but she is the financial minister of the household. I need her permission before making a purchase.

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