Watch Enthusiast vs. Collector: Defining Your Passion

xxcesar · 2022-08-24T18:07:35Z

Explore the WatchProSite community's debate: Are you a watch enthusiast or a collector? xxcesar's journey sparks a deep dive into horological passion.

xxcesar

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

60 replies12205 views1 photos

In a thought-provoking post, xxcesar challenges the WatchProSite community to define the nuanced line between a 'watch enthusiast' and a 'watch collector.' xxcesar's personal journey, marked by an evolving appreciation for subtle horological distinctions, serves as a compelling starting point for this introspective discussion. This article explores the community's diverse perspectives on what truly constitutes collecting versus enthusiastic appreciation.

For the longest time, I ecplictly considered myself a watch enthusiast, not a collector. But as of late, this has at least partially changed, will be interesting to see, where I‘ll end up.

So, what is the difference?

An enthusiast is a normal person, who justifies the next watch by the crucial use case not yet covered by the ones already there. The bigger the difference, the clearer the case.
You can already see, where this gets tricky.

„Finally I have a black waterproof automatic tool watch with a black rubber strap.“
Or
„I still need an under the radar gold three hand dress watch with black dial.“

If you have been there, you know, what I mean …

A collector is an insane person, who justifies the next watch by the expert knowledge needed to distinguish from the ones already there. The smaller the difference, the more attractive to pull the trigger.

You can already see, where this gets tricky.

„Yes, it is basically the same watch, but for that model year the box has a different font.“
Or
„If you would open the caseback, you could see, that the finshing of the movement has changed.“

As long, as I did not own multiple versions of the same model, I considered myself safely on the enthusiast side. But with the differences getting smaller and smaller, it was only a question of time, when the line is crossed. By now, as you can see on the picture, no more chance to argue enthusiast state….

And yes, the open slot is for an incoming, already arranged for…

Anyone else who went through the metamorphosis?

Cheers,

C.

Key Points from the Discussion

A collector often acquires multiple iterations of a specific model, focusing on variations in dial, case material, or even subtle movement finishing, as exemplified by collections of Omega Seamasters, Speedmasters, or JLC Duometre Chronos.
Some enthusiasts, like Moka-Tiger (Ron), rationalize purchases based on filling gaps in their collection (e.g., needing a pilot watch) and may develop a 'brand enthusiast' approach, acquiring multiple distinct styles from a favored brand.
The distinction between enthusiast and collector can also be tied to brand focus; some believe true collectors prioritize 'status brands' and value appreciation, while enthusiasts might appreciate a broader range, including brands like Louis Erard or Longines.
The journey can reverse, with some individuals transitioning from a collector mindset to an enthusiast, reducing their collection size to a few personally significant pieces and focusing on experiences over acquisition.
While some prefer to consolidate to the 'better' iteration of a watch, others embrace 'vertical' collecting, owning different reference numbers within the same model family, such as a Rolex Explorer 1016 and an 114270.
Deep dives into specific references, like the Rolex Explorer II (16570, 216570, 226570), can blur the lines, as enthusiasts start noticing minor differences that previously only collectors would appreciate.

The Discussion

TeutonicCarFan

Aug 24, 2022

I am in enthusiast mode still, but that always may evolve!

AuHavrePro

Aug 24, 2022

and no, I was always firmly 'planted' on the enthusiast side of things, not just as it relates to watches, but any product in general.... My chain of thought is precisely how you hypothetically delineate in your post, and I'll never have more than 7-8 high-end watches (I would classify that as costing $1K or more), that are as substantially different from one-another as possible! Thanks for the thought experiment, I am afraid that as far as you are concerned (and evidently self-aware), you've de

Aug 24, 2022

I can’t afford to be a collector. But friend and family know me as a collector. I look in the mirror and no answer comes back. An existential question which I cannot figure out, or will try to anymore.

andrea~

Aug 24, 2022

To me it has never been about the hoarding, but about gaining a deeper knowledge of horology, mainly within my favorite brands. Right now I'm pretty focused on my two biggest mechanical love affairs: Omega and JLC. I strive to always learn more about them and slowly add more watches. Within those bounds I'm an aspiring collector, but I'm just an enthusiast when learning about almost every other brand (maybe with the exception of Nomos, which is another love of mine). I can't imagine myself ever

VinnieD

Aug 24, 2022

Going from collector to enthusiast. I keep a very small collection of 4 watches, 3 of which have been gifted to me, and 2 of which I have selected. I only have one watch that I bought myself, and I will likely sell it soon. Trimming down my footprint if you want and trying to liberate some mental bandwidth. I know I will be 99% happy with the remaining 3 watches, which all represent significant people and stages in my life (more or less one per decade as it happens). Maybe I will remain a collec

LiftAngle51

Aug 24, 2022

I confirm you are an enthusiast. Simple by the way you show here IWC’s. This brand is famous by movements and collectors are focussing on status brands. The more their watches increase in value, the more they collect. I have my thoughts they can not enjoy Louis Erard. The good news, here at WPS are all watch enthusiasts. I think the collectors are not interested in communities on the net. I am a brand enthusiast. I have not a particular watch hobby, i am fan of some watch brands and their models

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