Quirky, unique, or traditional - what makes a collector's item for watch fans

Since their invention, mechanical wristwatches have been among the most sought-after accessories of all. No wonder, because with their sophisticated technology they are considered true masterpieces. As befits real works of art, watches today are collected almost obsessively by many people. After all, there are genuinely interesting models, for example with impressive functions or simply with an unusual design. Naturally, many collector's watches also embody a piece of the art of watchmaking.
Collector's watches and their special features

As varied as the models are, so too are the preferences of watch fans. Many collect watches with a story, such as the Dollar Watch by Ingersoll or the Omega Speedmaster, which has been in production since 1957. These models often have in common that they are made by traditional brands and contain a little piece of history. The Dollar Watch, for example, was one of the first watches ever manufactured in a factory and sold worldwide. At the end of the 19th century, it was sold in the millions for exactly one dollar, which at the time was equivalent to a day's wage.

But it is not only watches with historical significance that become collector's items. Certain collections are also very popular. The watch brand Festina, for example, releases the Chrono Bike collection every year to match the Tour de France. Tour chronographs are also often collected, and their annual release is eagerly awaited.
Technical masterpieces such as the chronographs and pilot watches that bear the Glashütte certificate are also among the most sought-after collector's items. These watches impress with their mechanics and their unique accuracy. In general, the pieces from Glashütte are considered among the most precise timepieces in the world.

Tips for watch collectors

Many online shops have, of course, specialized in unique collector's items as well. Interesting pilot watches and collector's watches are available, for example, from http://www.fliegeruhren-buse.de/. Here you can also have old pieces repaired and restored.
Anyone who collects a lot of watches will certainly have a few automatic watches among them. In that case, it is advisable not to store the models in a regular watch box, but in a special watch winder. This mimics the normal movement of the arm and winds the watches, even if they are not worn for a long period of time.
When looking for antique pieces at a flea market, it is advisable to carry a magnifying glass, a case knife, and a universal case opener with you in order to check the watches' functionality on the spot. After all, every watch lover has certainly gained some experience over the years of collecting and does not want to rely solely on the seller's claims. This is how you protect yourself from making a bad purchase.

Back to blog

Leave a comment