Baron - Mr Red's reflective post on his 2014 Rolex collecting journey and 2015 outlook offers a candid look into a seasoned collector's evolving philosophy. This article explores the shift from 'grail' hunting to appreciating collection cohesion, featuring significant acquisitions like the Rolex Milgauss 1019, GMT-Master 6542, and GMT-Master II 'Bruiser'. It provides valuable insights into managing a diverse collection and the personal satisfaction derived from it.
Some personal reflections on my collecting during 2014 in Rolex and thoughts for 2015. I would love to hear how other collectors are viewing the year behind and the one in front.....
This was meant to be a year where I consolidated my collection....maybe even cut back on a few pieces that were not getting wrist time. It has long been my intention to pare my collection to fewer watches, but watches that I truly loved. I posted a theme....."if i only had 10 watches" earlier in the year. It would , indeed, be very hard for me to pare my collection to 10. Partly, i am a devotee of variation. I love the fact that my collection as it stands is diverse enough for me to choose from one extreme to another. Yet, there is a time for reflection.....and maybe that will be 2015 for me, when one looks at the entirety of a collection and ponders just what happens next. I am a lucky guy in that I feel I have caught many of the targets that I wanted. Having collected watches for a number of years, I know only too well what it feels like to have an itch that is not scratched. To have that "grail watch" that just never materialises. If i am honest, I don't believe in the concept of a "grail watch". I used to, but experience has taught me that once the "grail" has been caught, another grail appears in its place. Grail watches don't exist in my mind any longer.
Instead, I look at my collection and consider it as a whole....how does it feel? Are there gaps in the process? Rolex is obviously the centre of my collection, with Patek, JLC, Omega and others forming satellites. In the case of Patek and JLC, quite decent sized satellites. Overall, I probably have about 70% vintage and 30% modern. Overall, I probably have 50% Rolex, 25% JLC, 20% Patek and 5% others. Would I change the balance between vintage and modern? No. Would I change the balance between manufacturers? Probably not. So, I look at my collection and feel happy. Looking back on 2014, what did I add to my Rolex collection?
Well, the one that I had hunted for a long time finally appeared. It fills an important gap not only in my vintage Rolex world but also regarding my amagnetic theme......of course the 1019. It also adds that 1970s feel that so few other watches that I own manage to do well.
Another big addition during 2014 was of course the GMT 6542. This is a more controversial piece for me for many reasons. After owning for a few months now, I must say the jury is still out on this one. Of course, it fills an important part of my collection, but with a 1675 and 16710 also in my collection, it is not clear that this was an automatic decision for me. As beautiful as the watch looks, I have to say that I still hold doubts.
The GMT "bruiser" was also an addition for 2014. A modern marvel, and my favourite modern Rolex.....(though I have to say I have yet to try on the Sea-Dweller on my wrist). I love the black/blue insert.....its my go-to everyday watch.
That represents my Rolex additions during the year. There have been some casualties as some Rolex have left the flock. I was lucky enough to own a Paul Newman that found a new owner. I still retain my 6239 Paul Newman. Also left have one or two others....but not to speak of the dead......
My stand-out addition.....the one that made me happiest was (sorry to those that disagree) the 1019. I had hunted it for so long...had come so close so many times. It fills more gaps for me than any other....and I just love wearing it. It has a feel unlike any other Rolex I own.
As I prepare for 2015, I sit with a Rolex collection that gives me enormous pleasure. I have added where I felt it needed and sold where I felt it needed. I go into 2015 without that "itch" that has plagued me for years....and to be blunt, it feels very nice to sit back and appreciate the cohesion of the collection rather than strive to hit that next grail. As the wise Dr. No once said...."less is more". For this watch collector, it feels that way for the first time.
This message has been edited by Baron on 2014-10-28 05:55:17 This message has been edited by Baron on 2014-11-03 06:47:10
About the Rolex Milgauss Ref. 1019
The Rolex Milgauss reference 1019 is a specific iteration within the Milgauss model line. This reference is distinguished by its particular configuration and production period.
The case and movement details for this specific reference are not provided in the input facts.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in the Milgauss series. Its position within the broader Milgauss lineup is defined by its reference number and specific characteristics.
Specifications
Caliber
1580
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
38mm
Dial
Black, Silver
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Acrylic
About the Rolex GMT Ref. 1675
The GMT-Master reference 1675 is a significant model in the brand's history, representing an evolution from earlier GMT-Master references. It was produced for an extended period, allowing for numerous dial, bezel, and hand variations throughout its production run. This reference is notable for its introduction of crown guards, enhancing the watch's robustness and contributing to its distinct profile. It solidified the GMT-Master's design language, which would influence subsequent generations.
This reference features a 40mm case, available in stainless steel, yellow gold, or a two-tone combination of steel and yellow gold. It is powered by the automatic Caliber 1575, a chronometer-certified movement known for its reliability and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters, suitable for everyday wear. The bidirectional rotating bezel, typically with an aluminum insert, displays a 24-hour scale.
For collectors, the 1675 is highly sought after due to its long production period and the resulting variety of configurations, including different dial types (gilt, matte), hand styles, and bezel colors (Pepsi, all-red, all-black). Its four-digit reference number and acrylic crystal are key characteristics that define it as a vintage Rolex. The reference appeals to those interested in the historical development of the GMT-Master line and the nuances of vintage watch collecting.
Specifications
Caliber
Cal. 1575
Case
Yellow Gold
Diameter
40mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
50m
Crystal
Acrylic
About the Rolex 6239 Ref. 6239
The Rolex 6239 represents a black dial variant within this reference, produced from 1963 to 1969. This reference occupies a specific position in Rolex's chronograph offerings of the period, distinguished by its black dial configuration and manual winding operation.
The watch features a 37mm stainless steel case fitted with a fixed tachymeter bezel and acrylic crystal. Water resistance is rated to 50 meters. The manual winding movement utilizes the Valjoux 72 caliber, providing a 45-hour power reserve. The timepiece is completed with a leather strap.
This reference appeals to collectors focused on vintage Rolex chronographs from the 1960s production era. The black dial variant offers an alternative to other dial configurations within the 6239 reference range. The manual winding Valjoux 72 movement and 37mm case size reflect the technical specifications typical of this production period.
Specifications
Caliber
Valjoux 72
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
37 mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
50m
Crystal
Acrylic
About the Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542
The GMT Master reference 6542 was introduced in 1955 as a specialized tool watch for pilots. It is notable for its dual time zone complication, achieved through a rotating 24-hour bezel and an independently adjustable 24-hour hand. This reference marks the initial iteration of the GMT Master line, establishing the core functionality and aesthetic that would define subsequent models. Its development addressed the need for a watch capable of displaying multiple time zones simultaneously, a requirement that emerged with the advent of intercontinental air travel.
The 6542 features a 38mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic caliber 1036. This movement provides a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters. Early examples of the 6542 are distinguished by a Bakelite bezel insert, which was later replaced by an aluminum insert due to durability concerns. The dial is typically black, often featuring gilt printing on early examples.
This reference holds significance for collectors as the foundational model of the GMT Master series. Its distinct characteristics, particularly the early Bakelite bezels and specific dial configurations, are key points of interest. The 6542 represents the original design intent for a pilot's GMT watch, making it a reference point for understanding the evolution of the model line. Variants exist with different bezel materials and dial details, contributing to its collectibility.
Specifications
Caliber
1036
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
38 mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
50m/165ft
Crystal
Acrylic
About the Rolex 16710 Ref. 16710
The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 16710 represents a significant evolution in the brand's dual time zone offerings, succeeding the reference 16760. It maintained the core functionality of displaying two time zones simultaneously, distinguishing itself through a slimmer case profile compared to its predecessor and the introduction of different bezel insert options. This reference was produced for an extended period, allowing for various dial and bezel configurations that are of interest to collectors. It is a transitional model that bridges earlier five-digit references with modern six-digit iterations.
This reference features a 40 mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic caliber 3185, which provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, contributing to its water resistance of 100 meters. The bidirectional rotating bezel, often seen with a Pepsi (red and blue) aluminum insert, allows for tracking a third time zone. The dial is black, and the watch is typically paired with a steel Oyster bracelet.
For collectors, the 16710 is notable for its versatility and the variations available throughout its production run, including different luminova types on the dial and the availability of black, Coke (black and red), and Pepsi bezel inserts. Its position as a robust and functional tool watch, combined with its classic proportions and the reliability of its movement, makes it a frequently sought-after reference. It appeals to those who appreciate the traditional aesthetic of Rolex's GMT-Master II line before the introduction of ceramic bezels and larger cases.
Specifications
Caliber
3185
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
40 mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Sapphire crystal
Key Points from the Discussion
The author's collecting philosophy has evolved from chasing 'grail watches' to appreciating the cohesion and diversity of his existing collection, finding that new 'grails' emerge once old ones are acquired.
A collector's philosophy can diverge significantly from an investor's, with some prioritizing depth in a specific reference (e.g., 7 Sea-Dwellers) while others prefer broad diversity across brands.
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710BLNR 'Bruiser' is a highly favored modern Rolex, often becoming a go-to everyday watch for its black/blue insert.
The Rolex GMT-Master 6542, despite its bakelite bezel, is considered a superb acquisition, with some collectors questioning any doubts about its aesthetic appeal.
The 1019 Milgauss and modern GMT-Master are viewed by some as less aesthetically appealing compared to other Rolex references.
Some collectors find greater satisfaction in owning fewer watches and wearing one consistently, building memories with a single timepiece rather than constantly seeking new acquisitions.
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The Discussion
AM
amanico
Oct 28, 2014
As it comes to Rolex and Tudor, a Monte Carlo Chronograph, a 7928 Ci, 7924 ARA, or a 7922, and a Tudor MN are still in my hunting list... For Rolex, a 1019, A 1675 Underline or Military, a 1665 DRSD MK II PP, and a Daytona 16520 Black... For the moment... Nothing. But I spent a lot of efforts in repairing, servicing, and finding good parts for watches I already own, so I won't complain. I have some Vintage and modern JLCs in the tube, too. Same for a few vintage Blancpain Fifty Fathoms. And I do
BA
Baron - Mr Red
Oct 28, 2014
....my total collection is actually unchanged in size.......but finessed. Other manufacturers have seen bigger increases for me....the 3 in Rolex were a gross 3, not a net 3. Its an odd feeling ...i don't have that itch! Servicing and maintenance are issues that become major issues when a size of collection gets like yours!!
AM
amanico
Oct 28, 2014
It is too much money and time to maintain all these waches... Best, Nicolas
BA
Baron - Mr Red
Oct 28, 2014
....I have had 7 watches at service this year....and the cost of that would be enough to buy a very nice watch indeed. We have different size collection for sure, but I feel mine is too large......
AM
amanico
Oct 28, 2014
We never discussed that point, but it is a very important one.... Best, my friend. Nicolas
BA
Baron - Mr Red
Oct 28, 2014
......zero can also be more...depending on whether it is accompanied by the mental shift! I think that the "less is more" concept really takes a strong hold when a collection becomes big...and by big I mean more than 20.
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