Why did I delve into the world of watch collecting? Well, it's a tale woven with a passion for timepieces and the allure of building a captivating collection. Once upon a time, I had a modest assortment of 4 or 5 watches that adorned my wrist. However, life led me to part ways with most of them, leaving only one faithful timekeeper by my side. Little did I know, this decision would later haunt me when my last remaining watch was pilfered from my possession after a mere year.
Among those watches was not just any timepiece, but my inaugural gift watch and the first I ever purchased for myself. Their sentimental value transcended mere functionality, and their loss left a palpable void, leading me to abandon wearing watches altogether.
Yet, fate intervened a few years back when the cacophony of my workshop drowned out the subtle chimes of my phone calls and messages. Determined to bridge this auditory gap, I welcomed a smartwatch into my life. Synced seamlessly with my phone via Bluetooth, it not only alerted me to incoming notifications with gentle vibrations but also doubled as a fitness tracker, monitoring my every step and heartbeat.
However, rather than quelling my desire for watches, this foray into smart technology reignited my passion for the artistry and craftsmanship of traditional timepieces. Now, I find myself on a fervent quest to resurrect my lost treasures, especially the one stolen in days gone by.
I currently only have a few watches with a few more on my radar very soon. (and yes I do count my smart watch) My current watches are;
Make | Model | Movement | Cost NZD | Link | Note |
Fossil | Coachman Chronograph | Quartz Chronograph Movement | $320.00 | https://brentweatheralljeweller.co.nz | This watch got me back into analogue watches. I bought this watch as a EDW (every day wear) or hack watch so if I scratch it or beat it up I am not to bothered. |
Magrette | Moana Pacific Waterman GMT Titanium | Miyota 9075 automatic GMT with jumping local hour hand | $1500.00 | https://magrette.com | My second watch I bought and added to my A Kiwi micro brand watch and is one favorite watches. |
Belmotto | Trackday SBB - Matte Black | Seiko VK64 Chronograph Hybrid Meca-Quartz Movement | $841.00 | https://www.belmoto.gt | A sub brand of Magrette and also again up there as on of my favorite watches. |
Samsung | Galaxy Watch Active2 | Digital Smart | $399.00 (now 1/2 that) | https://www.noelleeming.co.nz | As I said got this for work and track steps (which now I don't really bother as much) |
Seiko | 5 Pepsi Auto | 4R36-07G0 | $350 (2nd Hand) | http:www.trademe.co.nz | The story behind this watch is that when I was in the Navy I had a Seiko watch similar to this that was stolen and this is a modern version of the watch I had. |
Casio | W-59-1V | Casio 590 Digital Module | $59.00 | https://www.showcasejewellersmosgiel.co.nz/ |
Pure nostalgic... Came out at the same time as as the more common F-91W in July 1989. |
Beaufort | Seatrekker - Green | Swiss Made STP 1-11, Automati | $1049.00 | https://www.beaufort-watches.com/products/seatrekker-green |
Another Kiwi Microbrand |
Belmotto |
Tourer - Rose Gold |
Miyota 9015 with hacking seconds | $908.00 | https://magrette.com/shop/tourer-rose-gold?in=159048171600 | A sub brand of Magrette and also again up there as on of my favorite watches. This will most likely become my main dress watch. |
Komrade Automatic | Urban Diver Mk2 | Japanese NH36A | $295.00 EoL special | https://www.komradewatches.com/product-page/urban-diver-mk2-dive-orange | A kiwi micro brand. They are rebranding to KTW - Komrade Titanium Watches. I bought the orange one to be different. |
Pulsar | 2020 Limited Edition Supercars | Seiko Movement | $120.00 2nd Hand | https://www.grahams.com.au/products/pulsar-2020-supercars-limited-edition-chronograph-pt3a67x-30260495 | Buying off a friend |
Komrade Automatic | Palancar Reef Blue | ST1901 Movement | $1350.50 | https://www.komradewatches.com/product-page/copy-of-palancar-reef | Komrade slowly rebranding to KTC Only two of these watches in each color were ever made, and I was lucky enough to snag one in dazzling blue. The Palancar Reef chronograph, with its shimmering blue dial, was crafted during the COVID lockdown. Initially, 80 pieces in this color were planned, but rebranding halted production. This serendipitous twist means I now own an exceptionally rare and unique timepiece. This is quite a large watch from lug to lug and just boarder line for my wrist. |
Draken Watches | Tugela | Seiko NH35A automatic | $728.00 | https://www.drakenwatches.com/shop/tugela/tugela-red/ | Yet another micro watch brand from New Zealand originally from South Affrica. Draken did not want to be just another homage watch company, but rather to walk a fresh new path with distinct original designs. |
Bradford Exchange | Peter Brock Commemorative Watch | Quartz | $125.00 (2nd Hand) | Back in the day, I was glued to the TV for the Bathurst 1000, the epic race around Mount Panorama, when Peter Brock was dominating the track. This watch brings back those electrifying memories. Although I don't wear it often (it needs a new battery), and is a cheap time piece it still holds a special place in my collection. | |
Total: | $7316.50 | ||||
Watches that being bought soon.
Panzera | FLIEGER 46C | Miyota 6S20 Quartz Chronograph | $1136 | https://panzerawatches.com/products/flieger-46c | An Australian micro brand |
With a wrist size ranging from 7-1/2" to 7-3/4", I find myself in a comfortable middle ground, able to adorn most watches with ease. While extreme sizes at either end of the spectrum might pose a challenge, this moderate wrist measurement offers a versatile canvas for watch selection. It simplifies the shopping process, eliminating the need to navigate through options tailored exclusively to petite or oversized wrists. This balanced range allows for a diverse array of styles and designs, ensuring both comfort and aesthetic appeal in my watch choices.
Among the watches catching my eye are the Seiko 5, Alpina Start Timer Pilot, Tissot, Hamilton, Christopher Ward, and even the Citizen Promaster, Timex, and Casio - G Shock lines.
Now, you might be wondering if I aspire to own luxury brands like Rolex or Omega. Well, luxury is a subjective concept, varying from person to person. What one may consider opulent, another might not. For me, while I appreciate the craftsmanship of renowned brands, they're not at the forefront of my desires. That said, I wouldn't dismiss the opportunity to acquire one if it presented itself within my means. They just aren't currently on my radar.
Here are some of the watches that are on my radar;
Brand | Model | Movemnt | Cost NZD | Link | Note |
Alpina | Startimer Pilot | AI-372 Caliber, Quartz | $1750.00 | https://www.christies.co.nz/ | |
Seiko | Coutura | 8T63, Quartz | $1051.56 | https://cambridgejewellers.co.nz/ | Love the dial and the carbon fibre look. |
Seiko | Solar Divers | $950.00 | https://cambridgejewellers.co.nz/ | Bit of a classic look. | |
Tissot | PRX Powermatic 80 | POWERMATIC 80.111 Automatic | $1325.00 | https://www.christies.co.nz/ | Stylish dress watch. |
Hamilton | Khaki Field Titanium | Automatic | $1290.00 | https://www.chrono24.co.nz/ | |
Citizen | Promaster MX | Eco-Drive technology | $850.00 | https://preciousmetals.co.nz/ | |
Beaufort | Aerotimer MKII | Swiss Made STP 1-11, Automatic | $899.00 | https://www.beaufort-watches.com/products/aerotimer-mint | |
Olympic |
Pinnacle Collection - Chronograph |
Ronda Swiss movement | $940.00 | https://olympicwatch.com/collections/gents-watches/products/29089 | Another kiwi brand but all Swiss made watch |
As I gaze towards expanding my collection, my sights are set on a diverse array of chronograph-style watches, each one a testament to precision engineering and timeless elegance. While some may lean towards the rugged allure of adventure, like the Magrette Pacific Waterman, others beckon with sophistication and grace.
And so, my journey into the world of watch collecting continues, fueled by nostalgia, utility, and an unquenchable thirst for horological splendor.