Sham1's post, "Help! I am not sure what bug I have caught," captures the exhilarating yet financially perilous journey of a collector rapidly expanding their watch collection. The author shares a personal account of acquiring a Patek Philippe Ref. 3820R, highlighting its unique charm and the internal debate over watch size and aesthetic preferences. This piece offers a relatable glimpse into the passion and dilemmas faced by watch enthusiasts.
as it is only February and I have bought three watches with a fourth on its way. For some of you, that may be nothing spectacular but when one started the year with only two watches and suddenly one has five, seven weeks later, it is quite a shock to the system. Nope I have not struck the lottery and neither has a relative rewarded me with a generous Chinese New Year Ang Pow (red packet). I think it is this perpetual jet lag I am suffering from (8 months and counting) that keeps me awake at night stalking Alkiro among others and discovering some hidden gems in the used watch market.
Last night for example, I spotted this lovely 3820R with its original box and certificate of origin that had just underwent a ยฃ1,600 plus service at Patek UK. After a little negotiation as I will not be in the UK until May, the reputable dealer agreed to hold the watch for me as long as I paid the full price. After viewing the watch in May, I would be allowed a 14 day return in case I was not happy with it, but just look at this watch - what is there not to like?? Ok, admittedly it is not exactly the same watch but 'mine' has a lovely brand new dark brown leather strap and the fact that it has just returned from a full service a few weeks ago is most reassuring. The 3820R has the ultra thin manual winding 177 movement and is barely 5mm high. The raised Breguet numerals and the Breguet hands is so typically me and in line with all the other Pateks in my collection. I can't seem to get enough of this dial with its vintage patina. Clean yet elegant and classy. Ok, here is the one drawback that makes this watch less popular in today's market - it measures 32mm. What??? I hear you scream. But seriously, for those with small wrists like myself, this watch is a dream come true. Notice those beautiful lugs. The watch could easily have been made in the 40s or 50s but the truth is this watch was still in production at the beginning of this century and I believe 'mine' was made in 2001. For the sake of my bank account, I really need to recover from my jet lag soon!!
Teardrop lugs at their best
Tantalising raised Breguet numerals
Who needs complications when a watch is this elegant?!
