Horological Meandering

I have to admit, despite the fact that I can afford to collect more watches, Covid has demoralized me significantly. It is this sense that, there now exists a precedent/ new reality where your income can be stopped by your govt. This is not meant to be a ... 

. . . and the decision was made right around the same time covid reared its ugly head, but that's just a coincidence. After accumulating for almost two decades, I'm full. So if another enters my collection, one has to leave first. Disciplined, Art

but just as fun Julian

is that I'm only buying from small independent watchmakers. Partly because that's where my interests currently reside, and partly because I want to support them.

2nd level 'buying.'

at the rioting here in Los Angeles. The violence and mayhem even spread into some beautiful shops in Beverly Hills. Within a couple of days of things quieting -down, I went to visit my favorite Rolex/ Patek Philippe AD on Rodeo Drive . I bought a watch ju... 

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that also benefited the 'watch dragon' within.

Frankly, with my type of job (it carries a rather "predictable" salary unlike the private sector, but also life tenure) I guess I've been lucky not to feel this virus on a financial level. Actually, keeping out of Italy just meant LOTS of money (unfortuna... 

In some ways, I have also been fortunate, a few things for me sell more than before... but the shock of March April will not soon be forgotten and will keep me quite 'cool' for probably a year at least...

Like almost everyone here, the speed and dollar value of acquiring has somewhat tapered down this year and mostly like, through 2021 as well. So far, I have bought something, albeit small, from the closer ADs, to show support for the sales representatives... 

Very big impact. Many of my neighbours are forced to sell their houses because they cannot pay the mortgage. Some sectors are affected more than others. And some sectors actually did better than pre-covid situations, for example, healthcare, hair stylists... 

..

Hooo-aah!

Actually I’ve been quietly reducing the collection, and I continue on that path. I went full circle, in this twenty some years, and I feel I burned out, most brands disappoint me, nothing for my taste, and the hype is not something I embrace. After gettin... 

has never been more prescient! I bought a watch to support my AD as soon as lockdown released- a blue Pelagos to match my son’s. Would have been for family vacation but alas, we’re at home for what’s left of summer! This has been a tough period as we watc...  

But to be honest, with finances changed it’s been good to re-evaluate. Being on a stricter diet no bad thing, can always look at the menu.!!! 😉

Chuckle....

Although I have not bought a disappointing watch in years... there was a period of seemingly constant disappointment... and a situation like this can take a person on the fence and push them over for good.

My finances are focused on essentials (food, bills, well being, etc.) and the only way I remain involved in the watch hobby these days are forums and enjoying what I already have. Not much horological fun going on at Casa Overwound these days.

As much as I am obsessed with watches... so much more.

I have spoken to 2 resellers that had record months during covid.

I hear that discounts are rare or have disappeared during the last several months.

because selection has dried up... prices are stabilized.... discounts just so so... unless weak brands or economy brands...

High strung emotions either negative (good for them to buy) or positive (good for them to sell.)

That being said, my enthusiasm for "the hunt" is dampened now. For me, the excitement of wearing any particular watch is so often tied to the experiences that I intend to have with it. So, whether it's going to the office (which calls for certain watches ... 

I feel exactly this way.

Very nice and honest-open post and topic, dear Mostel. Thank you for that! As for me I am very happy with what I have. I have been lucky enough to acquire 3 watches that are really important to me in the past 9 months and have also consolidated my collect... 

of not wanting to wear too fine of a watch in these times... when so many are deeply suffering and so much more suffering is likely to come... for so many! I think that is what you are suggesting... it's a weird consideration that I haven't thought much a... 

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He said, in March, at the beginning... he said, "I hope this doesn't last too long and make me start reflecting on everything. I do NOT want to start reflecting." Hahaha.

I am definitely exercising restraint in purchases of watches and any other big ticket items for the rest of this year due to Covid-19 and the down economy.

Both because of just being careful in this economic downturn, as well as keeping an eye out to help those close to me who have been impacted financially. I have bought one watch during this period, but have bought multiple straps. Much cheaper way to stil... 

collect other stuff!

I know we will come out if this, but until I see more progress I am laying low unless it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Many had predicted the watch market would cool with the pandemic but exactly the opposite happened. I believe it is due to the large amount of money which was not spent on travel, meals, entertainment and work attire being spent on watches, cars, home imp... 

I know a guy who sells high end BBQ's. His sales are UP 200% !! Why? Wealthy people stuck at home with nothing to do.

I guess it depends of several factors, like financial and emocional wellness, actual state of your collection, new offerings of the market, brand novelties, etc etc. Also, many of us turn very cautious with the unnecessary acquisitions while in uncertain ...  

Once it gets to my hands. Sharing is part of the joy. Best. René

Classic style utterly! And yes of course it is true that this hobby offers a needed distraction, therefore it is therapeutic, and good for one's mental, even physical health---hey wait! I need another watch!

If this makes us healthier, then it’s good! Regards. René

My initial reaction when the pandemic arrived, was that I was done with buying watches, but at that moment it felt like we where at the end of the world. Then, as my bank closed completely, I got all my watches out of the vault and had them with me during... 

I agree with you about the consolidation of your collection. Up the quality and lower the quantity. Well said! René

nonetheless... all the things in life that 'just work' and just go right' that we often overlook.... I feel refreshed in some ways by this situation... because like death or any great loss, it is clarifying. In some ways, I was in need of a splash of cold... 

Made me realize life is short and went on and bought as much as in my to do list as i can. Best to enjoy now.

... during this pandemic, i surpassed my 2018 crazy haul in terms of money spent. And seems i still dont wanna stop. Have two more in my radar. But if you say good philosophy and way to go, then i should move forward undaunted.

Don't forget to please share your acquisitions with the site when the happy time arrives. Best, Robert

First month of lockdown (March) i ordered an IWC Minute Repeater from a Warsaw seller. Planned on getting an MR next year and was already browsing around but had to advance the plan due to covid. In April, i got a Gerald Genta Fantasy Retro Mickey Mouse f... 

Sure, I get it!

And because of that, I am trying to sit tight for now. I expect to add a piece before the end of the year. And I won't be surprised to see some great resale offerings pop up on a more frequent basis. I am far from a financial / markets expert, and hope I ... 

feel same way. It's no fun to articulate... but yes.

Sadly prices at auction are still strong!!!

to wear a watch these days and I’ve practically lived in my gym-jams for the last six months. I got out of the watch game a while back, keeping only a small exit-portfolio. This has turned out to be surprisingly enjoyable, to spend time with a piece witho... 

we almost can not help but to consider the non-material aspect of life at this time, and therefore... well, as you said.

It is a period where I rely on my hobby to keep me sane.... Anything that seeds HOPE is good for every year

I view watches as complex, elegant instruments, that I enjoy very much. However this pandemic and follow on recession in the United States has affected me directly. I cannot in good conscious collect any luxury items to include watches, when my priorities... 

Have people's mindsets changed? It seems that the majority of posters have continued making purchases or are only slowing down their hobby slightly. For me, and I'm guessing that I barely belong on this forum, I've only purchased two 'high-end' watches in... 

It's more than just watches here. As to actually purchasing a watch, that's still in the cards. Of course, the value play consideration does come in more often compared to before in light of my situation. To a non-enthusiast's eyes, considering a watch pu... 

Really appreciate your insight. Best, Robert

Best, M

The members here, on average, my assumption, are high earners, however this site a record of passion... and that means that many 'buyers' may spend far beyond their means because they are 'in love'. See my reply to Descartes......

Unfortunately I haven’t really been able to wear or enjoy it being mostly home bound during COVID. Also, I resolved several years ago to buy my watches experientially, meaning in connection with a special experience or event such as finding something by f... 

I share this perspective. It brings to mind a watch that no one would consider a 'maybe' keeper these days... but in 2008, I had just gotten my Rolex LV. I was not sure if I liked or even loved it, even though green is my fave color and I had seen it on a...