Watch Collecting: Acquiring New Timepieces

christianch · 2023-01-16T21:34:28Z

Explore the collector's dilemma of selling watches for new acquisitions. WatchProSite members share insights on letting go, managing collections, and the Rolex Cellini Moonphase.

christianch

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

56 replies7886 views1 photos

Christianch's contemplation of acquiring a Rolex Cellini Moonphase sparks a universal collector's dilemma: the art of letting go. His post delves into the mental and financial aspects of trading existing pieces for a new acquisition, inviting the WatchProSite community to share their strategies for managing watch collections and the emotional ties that come with them. This discussion offers valuable perspectives on navigating the often-complex decisions behind evolving one's horological journey.

Hello!

Currently, I am considering buying a Rolex Cellini Moonphase that I liked since its release at Baselworld in 2017. In general terms I don't have an issue to fund the purchase but the option to turn one or more watches that I didn't wear a lot into a credit toward a new one is tempting (not just financially, but mentally perahps💭🤔 ) . I don't really like to sell watches but, already last year, I tried this system of exchange through a reputable AD.

How do you let go the watches that you liked but, may be given the limited wrist-time, not loved ?🧐

is it perhaps the kick to buy the next thing, a new watch, that is very tempting ? 🥸

Furthermore, how do you react to the possible loss or a watch that you bought recently (say within 1 year or so) and now can only be sold back by taking a hit ?😏

Thanks for your input 👏

Christian

Key Points from the Discussion

Maintaining a fixed collection size can simplify the decision-making process for new acquisitions, as something must always go out if something new comes in.
The decision to sell a watch should not be rushed; a thoughtful period of 2-3 months can prevent regrets, especially for watches that are not highly liquid.
Identifying watches to let go can be a lengthy process, often a 'mind vs. heart' struggle, but the gratification of a successful rotation can outweigh the initial difficulty.
It's crucial to avoid buying watches one isn't 'crazy about' in the first place, as these are often the pieces collectors later regret or struggle to part with.
Living with a watch for a period is the ultimate test of its 'keeper' status, as initial impressions don't always reveal long-term satisfaction or subtle flaws.
Trading multiple 'decent' but not 'special' pieces for a single, highly desired watch can significantly increase overall collection satisfaction.

The Discussion

Aquaracer1

Jan 16, 2023

😉 Typically if it’s not getting worn, it goes to a new home. A few months ago I found myself with way too many watches. More recently I did a 3 for 1 swap, and it’s feels… Very liberating!

amanico

Jan 16, 2023

Most of the time, I try to sell my watches to friends. It is much less painful to know that they are in a good home.

damianp

Jan 16, 2023

Actually, once I had decided to sell one, it was never really difficult to let go. But I never made a decision fast, I’ve always thought about selling a certain watch for 2-3 months before making a decision. As I‘m not a collector of fast selling watches from Rolex, Patek and others, it was more difficult for me to find a buyer than to let go, heh. Also, because I‘ve thought very carefully about which watches to sell, i can say that I‘ve never had regrets selling a watch, I‘ve only had regrets n

Clueless_Collector

Jan 16, 2023

However, the disaster and disappointment will soon be overcome by the joy of your incoming one. Having said that, I try not to trade and tell myself if I cannot afford it with ease, don’t buy another watch. Good luck 🍀

patrick_y

Jan 16, 2023

The first thing is to not get yourself into the problem in the first place! Meaning don't buy mediocre products that you aren't crazy about! Remember, if you don't think about it day and night for two weeks, then you're not crazy about it. Gee... I think about that sports car day and night all the time... Hmm... Are you REALLY CERTAIN you want this Rolex? You sure something similar from Vacheron Constantin or another brand (that's actually similarly priced) isn't what you'd prefer?

christianch

Jan 16, 2023

I think this is pretty much my reasoning..like if I don't wear some watches or don't particularly love them I hope I won't miss them

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Horological Meandering forum with 56 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum