Watch Collection Size: Collector's Guide

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

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Watch Commission's humorous take on the 'right' number of watches in a collection sparks a relatable discussion for many enthusiasts. His journey from casual ownership to serious collecting, culminating in a witty mathematical challenge involving perpetual calendars and leap years, invites readers to ponder their own collecting philosophies. This article synthesizes community insights on managing, categorizing, and enjoying a diverse watch collection.

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I have a lot of watches.... I have been collecting (well, initially just owning) watches since I graduated high school in the mid 1980s. At this point I have 57 watches, though admittedly some of them are old (non-collectible) Swatches as well as some novelty Chinese stuff...

So my new girlfriend (very seriously dating) asked me if I have a watch for every day of the week, and I laughed a little, and then the question was if I have one for every day of the month, and my uncomfortable giggle at that point forced me to come clean.

Then she asked me if my goal was to get one for every day of the year.... but here is the logical problem with that: for all of us who like QPs (Perpetual Calendars) we know we would face a leap year problem. What do we wear on February 29th? And repetition is fine for a Sonniere, but rather gauche when leaving the house... so I have concluded that the right number of watches to strive for 1,461. (365 x 4 +1)

Thoughts?

Not mine, just a random image from the internet to manifest my future set-up

Key Points from the Discussion

A structured collection can be categorized into Dress, Sport, Daily, and Casual watches, with two pieces per category to ensure a backup during service intervals.
The optimal number of watches is often limited by the escalating service costs, which can consume a significant portion of a collector's budget.
For some, a collection of 12 to 24 watches strikes a balance, allowing for rotation and appreciation without becoming overwhelming.
Rotating watches seasonally, such as four for spring/summer and four for autumn/winter, can refresh the wearing experience and make each watch feel new again.
A collector's motivation can shift from 'collector' to 'watch lover,' prioritizing personal enjoyment and diversity over prestige or perceived collectability, even if it results in a larger collection.
The dilemma of having too many watches often leads to 'unloved pieces' in a collection, prompting some collectors to consider reducing their numbers to ensure each watch receives adequate wear time.

The Discussion

amanico

Oct 31, 2024

I would say that 12 watches is the good number. But I have some place in my heart for 24. So, I'd say somewhere between 12 and 24. Now, if you ask me what wold be my one and only one watch, I mean if I had to just keep one, it would be easier for me to answer. Best, Nicolas

S F

Oct 31, 2024

Realistically, a more manageable number maybe around 30-50? That should give one sufficient room for a multi brand collection.

shafran

Oct 31, 2024

1 doesnt work, because if it needs service you have none. I once had 22 go into service at the same time. If I have more than 4, I dont wear any o f them enough. 1x year would make me miss some too much.

VinnieD

Oct 31, 2024

5 in the box, 1 on the wrist. 4 cover all occasions from formal to adventure, and I add a couple just for pleasure of collecting. Beyond that number I get uncomfortable (maintenance, not wearing each enough etc.)

@lberti

Oct 31, 2024

.... now let me get on the list for 1455 watches... hanks

Uncle Chico

Oct 31, 2024

They cover just about every situation or event that I expect to encounter.

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