I would never consider selling my WHOLE collection for ONE watch, however much grail it is to me, a Voutilainen, a Dufour, or some super-duper complication.
The interesting thing in this world of horology is that there are way too many offerings and varieties. Each manufacture/watchmaker have their unique attraction and it is hard for me to say, ok, this one and only one watch will satisfy all my curiosity in horology. I would not give up the beauty of Lange's finishing, nor FP Journe's romantic style, nor De Bethune 3D moonphase for anything else, and I appreciate the fact that I'm already a very lucky guy to have these 3 at this point of my life.
As a lot of us have mentioned, THE grail evolve and changes over time depending on ones financial situation, knowledge, new offerings etc etc so for me, I would rather pick up watches that I'm absolutely crazy about at that point in time, without having to sell my current "portfolio" which contains watches that I dearly love still.
As an example, a few of the brands are must hold for me, and I would definitely want to own at least one of their pieces in my portfolio. I wouldn't even consider ANYTHING to replace these brands in my collection.
- Lange - Their finish is simply the most attractive, in my opinion. Truly, State-of-the-art Tradition. Undeniably my favourite brand.
- Patek - arguable THE most prestigious manufacture in the history of watchmaking.
- FP Journe - One of the most talented Independents, his watches are like pieces of poetry.
- De Bethune - The 3D moonphase, their avantgarde style makes them one of the most distinguished Independents