Patek Philippe

I’m facing a bit of a dilemma. I want to refresh my collection and add something new, but there are a few watches I don’t use that I also can’t seem to part with. Two are German, and one is Swiss. None of them are particularly rare or limited edition, so replacing them wouldn’t be impossible—just costly.

This trade involves giving up three watches for one I’ve been lusting after since it was released. The thought of it makes me anxious—will I regret it? Part of me thinks it’s time to move on; after all, life isn’t forever. The other part of me hesitates because these watches have been a good part of my journey.

What do you think about trading? I estimate I’ll lose about 15% of the value in the process, but I’d be getting a nearly new watch (just one year old) under warranty, and at a fair price thanks to a market dip.

I know I’m overthinking this—it’s part of the game. So, what’s your take? Should I go for it or not? If you’ve had similar experiences, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

If you are considering trading a piece in, it's time to move on from it. Strive for a collection where trading any piece is not even an idea that you can entertain. 

Those particular watches don’t quite fit under the terms I want to go as collector so makes even more sense

this guilloche dial is mesmerizing.

May I ask what three models you are considering to trade? No worries if you’d like to keep it confidential. For my first Patek world time I traded in three not very collectible Swiss watches and cash. I got the Patek brand new. I think the AD at the time was being kind as I was young and perhaps he saw more business with me in the future. I would say it was a fair deal at the very least. I never regretted the trade once afterwards. Best of luck 

And yes sometimes one has to sell more than one watch. I always ask myself a question - if I love a watch, it will not be sold even if I lust after another. But if I only like a watch, it will not remain in my collection for long irrespective of whether there is another watch to buy. The 5230P is a lovely watch, arguably Patek's best world timer in years excluding the enamel dial ones. The fact that it was only produced for two years makes them relatively rare but they do feel a bit heavy as it is in platinum. Always ensure that your collection comprises watches you love and that gel well with your wrist. That would be my advice.

Those are watches I like but not love!

Plus soon I might need to service them and will be expensive for something I don’t use

as you've said, life isn't forever.

And the ones you don't wear, you can always but again (you won't)

A Gronfeld an FPJ and a Laurent F

you do not wear often, IMO you should trade them for something you lust for.

Even if you do find yourself missing a watch that's been sold and need to have it back, it can be an opportunity to "upgrade" to a different dial color, case material, or other variation.