Ever wonder why we, as watch enthusiasts, get so obsessed with these tiny machines on our wrists? Why do we spend hours scrolling forums, watching reviews, or debating the merits of one dial color over another? Watch collecting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a deeply personal, sometimes irrational, but always fascinating journey.
How it Started?
For most of us, it starts with “The One.” Maybe it was your dad’s old Seiko, a Rolex you saw in a movie, or that Casio you rocked in school. Something clicked, and suddenly, watches weren’t just timekeepers—they were stories, memories, and personality statements all wrapped around your wrist.
And from that first watch? Well, it’s a slippery slope. Before you know it, you’re justifying why you need a dress watch, a diver, a chronograph, and…oh, look, that new release is limited edition?
The Fun is in the Hunt
Here’s the truth: watch collecting is often more about the chase than the catch. The thrill of researching, tracking down a rare model, and finally getting it—there’s nothing quite like it.
Science backs this up, too. Dopamine (the brain’s reward chemical) spikes when we’re anticipating something exciting. That’s why the moment we hit “Buy Now” or seal the deal on a long-sought-after piece, we feel that rush of excitement.
And then, when the package finally arrives? Pure bliss. At least, until the cycle starts again, and we find ourselves back on the hunt for the next perfect addition.
Why Do We Keep Buying More?
Most of us have the watch that was supposed to be our “last one.” Yet, somehow, there’s always another. Psychologists call this the hedonic treadmill—we adapt to new acquisitions quickly, and soon, the rush fades. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Every collector has said, “Okay, this is the last one,” only to break that promise in record time.
But it’s not just about the thrill of the chase. Every new watch represents something—an evolution in taste, a fascination with a different complication, or simply the excitement of variety. One day, we’re convinced that all we need is a classic dive watch; the next, we’re obsessing over chronographs, GMTs, or vintage dress pieces.
The more we learn, the more our preferences shift, leading us down new rabbit holes. And let’s be honest—half the fun of collecting isn’t just owning the watches, but discovering what’s next.
More Than Just a Timepiece
At its core, collecting is about connection. Each watch tells a story—where we bought it, the milestone it marked, the adventures we had with it. That first promotion, a special gift, a grail finally acquired after months (or years) of hunting—every glance at the dial brings those moments rushing back. A scratch on the bezel isn’t just wear and tear; it’s a memory etched in metal, a reminder of the life lived while wearing it.
Even letting go of a watch carries its own nostalgia. A piece that once meant everything to you might find new life on another collector’s wrist, continuing its journey. Some watches stay with us forever, while others come and go, shaping our tastes along the way. But whether kept or flipped, each watch is more than just an object—it’s a time capsule, holding stories, emotions, and moments we never want to forget.
Image by @trij_jejuja
Passion or Obsession?
At what point does a passion turn into an obsession? Is it when you recognize a stranger’s watch before their face? When you set alarms for new releases in different time zones? Or when you start convincing yourself that owning five nearly identical divers is totally justified? The line is blurry, but maybe that’s what makes collecting so exciting. Passion fuels hobbies, while obsession keeps us up at 2 AM scrolling vintage listings.
But is that really a bad thing? Every great collector—whether it’s watches, cars, or art—shares this same drive. We’re drawn to things that bring us joy, spark curiosity, and connect us to history, craftsmanship, and even each other. So, if loving watches a little too much is an obsession, maybe it’s one worth embracing.
So, what got you into watches? Let’s hear your story—leave a comment and let us know!