All over the world, people love to collect different things, and the reasons behind those choices are often deeply personal. Sometimes it’s nostalgia, like keeping footy cards from childhood or tracking down the exact model of car you once worked on with your dad. In other cases, collecting is about influence, shaped by family or friends, while for some it’s purely investment-driven, with the focus on financial gain.

Second-hand watches fit into all of these categories, carrying centuries of history as prized possessions admired for their craftsmanship, style, and symbolism. For many collectors, the journey begins with a single piece—often discovered by chance, gifted by a loved one, or purchased as a first milestone. While the sheer variety can seem overwhelming at first, with a little guidance, you can start shaping a collection that feels both personal and rewarding.

Work Within Your Budget

Whilst collecting watches offers flexibility, allowing you to spend modestly or invest in something more extravagant, setting up a budget early keeps you on track and avoids overspending. After all, affordable vintage pieces can be just as captivating as high-end models, and as your knowledge grows, you may choose to expand your budget and pursue rarer finds.

Pick Your Favourite Watch Brand or Maker

Many collectors are drawn to particular brands, whether it’s the classic style of Omega, the innovation of Seiko, or the prestige of Rolex, and focusing on a brand you love makes the process far more enjoyable. As your interest grows, you naturally learn about its history, models, and unique characteristics, adding greater depth to your collection.

Collect Different Movements

Watches are not only about appearance—the mechanics inside play an equally important role. Exploring different movements, from manual and quartz to automatic, solar, or even the intricate tourbillon, expands your appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each timepiece. Every type of movement carries its own charm and story, bringing variety and richness to your collection.

Pick Designs You Like

Style plays a significant role in collecting, as some enthusiasts are drawn to bold colours while others favour understated elegance. You may find yourself attracted to a particular face size, an unusual case shape, or distinctive design features that set a piece apart. Choosing designs that genuinely appeal to you ensures your collection reflects your personality rather than simply following market trends.

Special Features and Editions

Watchmakers frequently introduce limited editions, special collaborations, or models with distinctive features such as water-pressure valves or uncommon dial colours. These releases are often highly sought after and can make a collection truly stand out. Focusing on such details may uncover pieces that carry both sentimental significance and long-term investment potential.

Pick an Investment Piece

Although not every watch will rise in value, certain brands and models have long been recognised for their ability to appreciate over time. Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe are classic examples, and choosing one of these coveted names allows collectors to balance passion with financial return. An investment piece often becomes the centrepiece of a collection, valued for both its prestige and potential growth.

Starting Your Watch Collecting Journey

Collecting watches is about more than telling time—it’s about history, design, and personal meaning. The best collections grow from passion, not pressure, so choose pieces that inspire you, stay within budget, and enjoy the journey as your collection comes to reflect both watchmaking and your own story.