Watch Collection: Selling vs. Buying in 2020
Collection

Watch Collection: Selling vs. Buying in 2020

By damianp · Jan 3, 2021 · 34 replies
damianp
WPS member · Horological Meandering forum
34 replies6433 views1 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

In a collecting journey often characterized by acquisition, damianp shares a refreshing perspective on the art of curation. His 2020 recap details a pivotal shift: selling more watches than he bought, a move that brought unexpected satisfaction. This introspective look into collection management offers valuable insights for any enthusiast grappling with the balance between accumulation and refinement.

Since I‘ve seen a lot of members doing an horological recap of the year 2020, I now did my own. I‘ve always been bad at selling watches I didn‘t wear anymore. Most of the time, I ended up trading them in for another watch, which didn’t help in reducing the size of my collection. So I‘m really happy that in 2020, for the first time in 8 years, I‘ve sold more pieces than I bought. 5 pieces had to go (JLC Memovox blue boutique, Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, JLC deep sea chrono, Omega Speedmaster, Nomos Ahoi), while 3 came in (Bulgari Octo Finissimo, Patek 5172g, Sinn U1) . And I have to say, it feels good. The time in lockdown helped me to concentrate on not just thinking about selling, but also doing it. As Covid continues, my target is to also sell more than I buy in 2021. I‘ve already identified the first two watches to sell, but since I‘ve also already got one piece on order for mid-2021 delivery, it will be a tough task smile It also helped me, that the used market is flooded with always the same watches. If that changes, my task becomes even more difficult.
Picture shows my first sell of this year in april, the Omega Speedmaster.




About the Patek Philippe Chronograph Ref. 5172

The Patek Philippe Chronograph reference 5172 represents a contemporary interpretation of the classic manually wound chronograph within the brand's collection. It succeeded the reference 5170, introducing updated case proportions and dial aesthetics while retaining the traditional two-register chronograph layout. This reference is distinguished by its round pushers and a slightly larger case diameter, offering a modern presence on the wrist while honoring Patek Philippe's heritage in complicated watchmaking. It is a key offering for collectors seeking a pure chronograph function without additional complications.

The 5172 is typically presented in a precious metal case, housing the in-house caliber CH 29-535 PS. This manual-wind movement is visible through a sapphire crystal case back, showcasing its traditional architecture and finishing. The movement provides a substantial power reserve, ensuring reliable timekeeping and chronograph operation. The front crystal is also sapphire, protecting a dial designed for legibility with applied numerals and a pulsometer scale.

This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate Patek Philippe's commitment to traditional haute horlogerie and the art of the manually wound chronograph. Its design cues, such as the syringe hands and applied Breguet numerals, evoke vintage chronographs while being executed with contemporary precision. The 5172 stands as a testament to Patek Philippe's enduring capability in producing high-quality, in-house chronograph movements, positioning it as a significant piece for enthusiasts of complicated timepieces.

Specifications

Caliber
CH 29-535 PS
Case
18k white gold
Diameter
41mm
Dial
Blue
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
ZS
ZSHSZ
Jan 3, 2021

I did the same, I liquidated nine and I have two left, one or max two to add. And same as you, I’m totally happy, no regrets!

MR
mrds
Jan 3, 2021

Been thinking for 2 years now I should sell some pieces. Managed to sell precisely zero. Part of it is me still loving even the pieces I don‘t wear, another part is I have no idea how I should sell. WPS Market? C24? An AD? I‘m really lost here... Any advice you can share? Best, Daniel

DA
damianp
Jan 3, 2021

Once I got to that point, it was just a task like any other to sell the watches. It's easier said than done, as I have to get to that point for every single watch on its own :-D Sounds stupid, but in the end selling them made me so happy, that I forgot about the money I subjectively lost. What also helps is to think about how much money a lot of people burn on cars. The worst depreciation I suffered on a watch is still way smaller, than the depreciation of my daily driver.

WA
Watchonthewrist
Jan 3, 2021

I wish i was that wise 😉 . A lot of new incomings last year and 0 left 😬. I just like them all to much . Do you think i have a problem 🤦🏻‍♂️

IN
InDebtButOnTime
Jan 3, 2021

20 should be plenty, yet a lofty goal from where I am currently.

MR
mrds
Jan 3, 2021

Thanks a lot. I guess I‘ll go on that journey this year.

Advertisement

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Horological Meandering forum with 34 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →