5 Good & Bad Ways Watch Collecting Has Changed

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In this video, I'll share five ways watch collecting has changed in the years that I have been a part of the hobby. We'll work in pairs with each pair having both a good and bad change. What are some ways you've noticed watch collecting changing over the years?
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0:00 - Intro & Organization
0:58 - BAD - Hype Culture
2:21 - GOOD - Information
4:04 - BAD - Availability
5:06 - GOOD - Variety
6:54 - BAD - Top Heavy
8:58 - GOOD - Movements
11:23 - BAD - Prices Are Up
13:14 - GOOD - Return To Form
15:07 - BAD - Commercialization
17:18 - GOOD - Communication

[@adamslager9997]

Can we all take a minute to appreciate the amazing quality of Teddy’s B-roll of all different kinds of watches? That’s what I call an eye for detail and makes half the video 👌 Well done Teddy!

[@NOXStellans]

'Was assuming they are using manufacturer-supplied press video here? - At car-related blogs, there is usually a good sprinkling of photos and videos from the manufacturer's press releases (There is often a link on the manufacturer's website of media for bloggers and reporters to get free stuff to use.)

[@raven_of_zoso455]

What I do appreciate a lot is the large variety he includes, anything from Bulova to F.P. Journe. I think that's a sign that Teddy isn't just in for the money, that's genuine passion for the products in all price ranges.

[@adamslager9997]

@@raven_of_zoso455 Absolutely. Well said.

[@yellowtuesday]

So much work!

[@wadekerner9383]

Yes we can! I agree.

[@drzaius844]

I have entered the I hate Rolex phase of my journey.

[@satl3161]

Welcome brother

[@JackoWillMakeLives-loveu]

Traded my Rolex for a Zenith and haven’t looked back.

[@thegorn]

I support this

[@jbzwalker]

I understand the brand recognition, but from a pure watchmaking perspective, it’s very hard to definitively say that Rolex is creating pieces that are objectively superior to brands like Oris, Longines, Grand Seiko and Breitling at 3 to 5 times the price markup. Plenty of brands have more legacy, better accuracy, better materials, better build and better customer service.

[@italianstallion3130]

So I’m on the list for a GMT II. And I often wonder if, when years from now, they call me to say I can have it- I just cuss them out with pleasure or if I go get it. I really struggle over this and the I comfort myself with the reality that they probably will never actually call.

[@Podcastage]

These are the most interesting videos you make, where you aren’t just talking about a specific watch, but rather discussing the market/hobby as a whole. The availability of information for the consumer from all the great watch content creators is amazing because it allows us (the consumers) to make more informed purchasing decisions. As far as things becoming too corporate/polished/professional, yes it can be a bit dry sometimes, but there are still plenty of people who make videos just because they love the hobby. And there is room for all of us to make the content we want. Thanks for all you do Teddy.

[@davidelliott948]

My biggest gripe: focus on watches as investments. Ugh! Almost all watches depreciate in value.

[@stevehy1]

I find the value discussion and investment potential grotesque and litlle to do with why most collect, beauty and quality.

[@davidelliott948]

@@stevehy1 100% agree!

[@66racer]

It's funny too because a non-watch person when telling them how I got into watches this year told me "oh and they are good investments too". I politely corrected them

[@jpdemer5]

"Market share" is usually calculated based on dollar value, so it's no surprise that Rolex dominates when that's your measure. I'd be interested to see it calculated based on unit sales (actual number of watches) - we'd have a very different picture of the industry, and a better handle on what's popular, when a single Patek doesn't equal a thousand Timex.

[@Spongefov]

exactly - i don’t want to know what’s successful, I want to know what’s popular

[@scott7841]

You make a very good point!

[@jeffwhite9028]

He does it both ways, in another vid. Key SuperCorp idea, though: 1. artificially inflate unit price, 2. ship less, 3. make mo' muny, 4. rinse & repeat.

[@RichardKoppinger]

A huge change is the awareness and extent of watch collecting as a hobby. Four years ago, I had no idea people had watch collections. The first time I saw a watch box, I laughed at the sight of the dividers and the little pillows for each wristwatch. Now... let's just say I have more than one watch box. Thanks for another great video.

[@porscheguy5848]

Please do a video on your favorite watch from each of the major brands. Would love to hear your take as why it’s you favorite and a few runner ups

[@eduardodiaz215]

One way in which watch collecting has changed is you being here. You undoubtedly have helped reshaping this world for the better in my opinion. Thank you!

[@paom.4843]

Before diving into the rabbit hole of watches, i only know 5 brand: swatch, casio, seiko, timex and rolex. For me and those around me, we had this idea that rolex is the only "good" watch. This is why im thankful for the availability of information nowadays. Learning that you have many good options in different price ranges is the best thing ever. You dont have to spend an arm and a leg to get a good watch. More power to you teddy. Thanks for the information that you provide us. 😀

[@gripeace]

I can feel Teddy’s genuine affection to the watch industry.

[@garyh.2487]

Another negative is that, on KZbin and web sites, the gorgeous closeup shots of watches recorded at perfect angles and light make the watch look one foot in size, clearly showing all tiny details, which makes the watch look better than actually seeing it in person. I've been disappointed in watches I've bought online when it didn't look as good seeing it with my naked eye, and also It's hard to see the tiny details and thus harder to appreciate. I actually have to watch KZbin videos about the watch I bought to find the fine details I missed holding the watch in my hand.

[@GussyFlight]

Agree. I live in Manhattan and enjoy taking a monthly stroll down 47th street btwn 5th & 6th and peering in the display cases and majority of time, am disappointed with the actual product. Still enjoy all the watch content and hype surrounding on YT.

[@WatchMeEDC]

This was a great video 👏🏻 Excellent, balanced points. But the BEST part was the incredible videography of the background watches shown throughout. Such a cool variety and beautifully filmed.

[@NeoWahNah]

💯 Ignore the hype, and the ridiculous price increases, and there has never been a better time to be in this hobby! So many options from so many great brands!

[@stonec2166]

Excellent video. Cartier Santos medium size in blue dial as well as green, now that is something people had been asking for as well and delivered finally.

[@DanielLagunaIHS]

One brand that really got better in recent times is Bulova. They got back on track releasing new versions of historical classics (Accutron II, Lunar Pilot, etc.) after decades of being in the "fashion watch" market. They even created a new in-house ultra high frequency quartz movement that provides the outstanding smooth second hand and astonishing high accuracy.

[@extreme989]

Fantastic video as always Teddy. One thing that I would like to share is that despite how high the production value is for this channel, I have never felt that it has been over commercialized or even slightly lost its soul. Thank you for all that you do

[@aledasilva5315]

Watches dont joust tell time they are a form of art and show someones character and taste better than anyother accesorie

[@kingsnurglegurglesonthevik4517]

Spelling and the use of grammar does it even better.

[@KevisaVivose]

​@@kingsnurglegurglesonthevik4517English probably isn't his first language. At least he's trying and the message was conveyed. Gotta cut people some slack at times :)

[@darthgiggity7948]

​@@kingsnurglegurglesonthevik4517Grammar and logic has become overlooked concepts nowadays. A lot of things are to blame for it, one of which is social media.

[@davidkaplan5517]

Nothing says art like a mass produced hunk of metal from Malaysia.. Seiko is not art lol. Lange yes.

[@darthgiggity7948]

@@davidkaplan5517 "sEiKo iS nOt An aRt. LAnGe YeS." A true watch enthusiast does not disparage a watchmaker that has well-earned its heritage and significant contribution in the world of horology; a real art enthusiast sees art in everything. You are a work of art, albeit an ugly one that must be purged. You reek of snobbery. Don't worry your tears and hurt feelings after reading this should clear away after a while

[@TheIronDuke9]

I can't believe you said "spring into action" when discussing watch movements lol. Love that

[@christianbeaucher5023]

Thanks Teddy for such a wide overview of the hobby. Very informative.

[@Number_006]

Thanks Teddy - I really appreciate your content, among the best of the best!

Prices going up is purely artificial. The industry is now so efficient and full of perfected means of production that the actual value of watches is lower. They're charging prices for the brand, we're basically paying rent.

[@DrBob0910]

Thank you for another outstanding educational video!!

[@patrickhartmann1540]

Very insightful observation about the high polish. Then again, the quality of content raises the entertainment and information quality. Similar to all change in tech. Albums vs digital stream for example. Something gained, something lost. 🙏

[@AlanF0011]

Personally, I don't like the move to smaller size watches, my eyesight isn't 20/20 anymore, I really squint at a 40mm watch to see the time, and don't get me started on ridiculously tiny date windows ...

[@bearasma]

What a great analytical piece this is excellent content thank you

[@FatherSonWatchTalk]

Thanks for the great content and conversation as usual! One thing I also see as a new collector is a use of coarse language in other KZbin Watch channels that discuss watch collecting and in reviewing. I am trying to get my younger kids (10 and 7) into the history and hobby of watches, but the language of other channels make it harder. Thanks for being a informative and interesting channel for adult collectors and young collectors!

[@rachelades518]

Hallo Teddy, it is interesting to listen and realize how times have changed. And one good point is that because of internet etc.. the brands understand that they have to listen more to the buyers. It makes buying more of a personal experience. Thanks and as always love from Switzerland 🇨🇭

[@GinkgoJoe]

Great show; stellar filming as usual! 👏

[@jtfragrance]

A very solid video Teddy, truly appreciate what you covered in this video❤

[@HzzzBiz-ft6qb]

Great video. Teddy really nailed it with this list of pros and cons.

[@goose3246]

I have a soft spot for rock bottom depreciated big brand Quartz Swiss watches, getting a Tag or Longines for Seiko money feels amazing to me.

[@Piface2099]

Tag is so good man. I get the LVMH, the celebrity tie-ins, etc. irk snobs but damn they just put out so many quality designs

[@goose3246]

@@Piface2099 facts !

[@7eSens17]

Great explaining video of the horological industry! Does someone know the bulova ref at 16'?

[@KirbyYoung]

Interesting points. How can you enjoy a watch if you keep on thinking about flipping it soon after buying it. Excellent video Teddy!

[@earthenjadis8199]

Go onto any online forum and you'll regularly see groups of old men complaining about watch KZbinrs being "paid shills", sell-outs and ego-trippers. It wasn't like in the good ol' days when watch journalism had integrity (whatever that means).🤔

[@BruceCross]

Information on watches is still pretty spotty, especially on manufacturer websites.

[@Sandro-rb6xt]

You're preaching man! Great stuff!

[@readmedottext]

That Nivada Grenchen you showed is gorgeous. I hope the waiting list mentality continues to show some people that there are countless better choices out there for companies that put forth the effort and don't treat their customer's with disdain.

[@kyleweber9760]

Another awesome video, thanks Teddy......

[@paraicdevlin7485]

Another great video Teddy. Keep it up!

[@kevinburke6938]

This is an exceptionally well done video Teddy!

[@shawnsapp1000]

Awesome video Teddy everything you said was spot on imo.

[@mellow-jello]

Recalled in the early 80s, in Chinatown, two fish mongers talk about their retirement plans. Both had S/S Rolexes, one an OP, and the other, a Submariner. Both admiring their watches. Those days are gone.

[@caslav78]

Excellent observations Teddy!

[@dconserv]

This was really well done

[@andyvankerkhove6902]

thanks to You Tubers like Teddy I can call myself a watch collector now.... he showed me all the great watches available for everybody like Casio, Seiko, Tissot, Orient, Citizen... and many more affordable brands... from Spain

[@meshaalismail]

I love video's like this. Good job Teddy

[@Chrissepisje]

I love the fact that you actually said newspaper. I miss independent journalism that is unfettered by commercial interests. Also my compliments on the footage under your story. The breadth of that selection was superb. You certainly put your money where your mouth is regarding the wider array of brands. That pink Excelsior Park was gorgeous. :) While I agreed with most of the points, the availability question only is a thing for very particular brands and niches of the market. Most of the stuff I find myself being interested in can be found a hoc. In fact, mostly at a discount. And given the fact that I could have made a Rolex Submariner appear on my doorstep by courier within four days, at any point in the last five years, I would say that some of the perceived scarcity has been, well, faked or manufactured.

[@Xanduur]

I wanted a Rolex Explorer. It was the true GADA for me….even more so than the Grand Seiko. I went to buy a new, 36mm Explorer and was practically laughed out of the store. So, I decided on Grand Seiko and haven’t looked back. Heck, I even flew to Tokyo to buy the watch and take a long overdue trip back to Japan. Yea airline miles! The negativity of the Watch world pushed me out of collecting entirely. Social Media has single-handedly ruined so many things I used to be interested in. Social Medial is truly a blight on society.

[@jeffreytimbang6756]

One of the big positives I think is the existence of reputable watch review channels such as yours, Teddy. Your videos Definitely helped a lot of People with their purchase decisions and ultimately made them happy. Cheers.

[@chiguy750]

On the other hand, Teddy is a watch dealer. He can’t piss off the brands too much. I’d have more respect for his reviews and others like Federico, Nico etcetera if they weren’t dealers.

[@jeffreytimbang6756]

@@chiguy750 he's a watch dealer for a reason. He sells watch so he can fund producing this vids. If you watch most of his vids, he clearly states that he does not get sponsorships for his watch reviews so he could say whatever he wants in the brand.

[@scowlistic]

Damn Teddy, this video goes hard. Some of your best work. 🍻

[@phatalphd5402]

Can you do a video on your favorite micro brands?

[@aponcapone]

What do you think of Spinnaker? Its my favorite micro brand that does beautiful stuff.

[@ddsfard]

Swiss brands under 1000, in addition to Tissot, might also include Rado and West End. Great video as always.

[@tschoy9388]

Hello Teddy, the last point is very important. The Brands are listen to the consumers. So , it is a Win-Win situation.

[@iamAbuHamza]

Teddy? what is your thought on Cartier tank basculante 2405? and where to buy this in trustful way ?

[@ICHIWARRIOR]

Hi Teddy, what is your opinion on the Bell & Ross BR05?

[@jeffwhite9028]

Intelligent, balanced analysis. This fellow stood out to me when he said, G-SHOCKs have value, ...all while selling fairly high end, well made watches. And then I find he understands the craftsmanship of mechanical movements (on the mid to high end). He's worth a listen. very. I bought a watch from him, too - great service, delivery, quality. His price, ...he may ask you to pay list price, ...he will make you glad you did, though - the service, quality, and delivery all are top drawer.

[@gregnatividad8345]

Just want all watch brands to post an accurate spec sheet (including thickness) better lume, regardless of category.

[@tolypolonty5766]

Review Christopher ward c63 sealander mulberry pls

[@bobmclennan1727]

The consumer-brand communication point is truly a boon to watch enthusiasts, and thank you for clarifying that it's not 400 KZbin comments that tell brands what to focus on. It's wallets, and ten million cries for sub-40mm options from big brands wouldn't have made a dent at those companies if consumers hadn't also started spending a TON of cash on 38mm designs from microbrands over the past four years,

[@stanislas4990]

Very interesting video. The most annoying thing : if you want to buy a specific model, and you don't know when it will be available. May be you are on a waiting list, maybe the AD will be kind, and may be he will never call you (or it will take many months or years). Many people see watches as an investment, but 90% or 95% of watches don't keep their value. Buy them if you love them, but don't buy them to earn some money if you are selling them at some point.

[@andrewboyd4129]

One of the biggest changes in watch manufacturer is case and bracelet materials compared to say 20 years ago

[@user-lc6qk1qr6u]

Really good vid solid points 👍👍👍

[@Lebon996]

My humble opinion of the watch industry is very positive. Most reputable brands have mechanical movements these days that will literally last decades with just a service. Lasting through thick and thin on your wrist with bangs, scuffs, water etc. Build quality has certainly come upwards. Most car brands, televisions, computers, phones etc are made to fail after time and be chucked away or scraped.

[@AMaruri]

Great video, Teddy! What watch is being shown between 6:24 to 6:33? beautiful!

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

BREW

[@case6189]

Glad I genuinely love the classic field watches especially Hamilton it’s one of the only brands I can afford to love

[@fitetransport-eydj6203]

Another awesome video!

[@AliasHSW]

The first brand that listened and partnered with its patrons in the internet era is Panerai. As any true OG Paneristi would know the story of Alan “Hammer” Bloore, and the community motto of “it’s more than just a watch”

[@2manysigns]

Good talk Dad . I think the relative tinkering you've mentioned is not only good for customers as said but as well the engineering . Potentially one day a zero point drive system that allows for the wearer to even levitate with antigravity .

[@JackoWillMakeLives-loveu]

I’m personally glad that watches reached an equilibrium around 39-42mm. 36mm way too small for 7.5”+ wrists

[@rasmusblomberg7373]

nah! 36mm watches, from datejusts to women’s dress watches look perfect on my over 8inch wrists imo. even if it’s on the smaller end those watches can look stunning (although i do draw my line at 36,, 33 or 34 is definitely a tad too small for me)

[@TMike293]

Not everyone has big wrist. 35mm - 38mm is perfect for my wrist. While I know I'm on the smaller size, I'm glass the trend is slowly reversing to the smaller sizes again as sometimes in the last decade, these sizes were impossible to find and people were posting pictures of what would be dress watches that wore their wrists

[@AKT0B0S]

Well said

[@brandonsullivan9544]

Yes, love to see Teddy join team moustache.

[@FragranceGuru]

Watches that youtube made me buy : Seagull 1963 Vostok Amphibia Casio Duro RS Chrono Nismo Hommage watches of Cartier Tank & Constantin Chaykin Joker Seikomod Nautilus Tiffany

[@ahha6304]

True Amfibia that I bought, but it was 80 bucks so it's fine. Duro my sister has it, dad bought it to her years ago. The rest not in my radar.

[@jakealexander6046]

@FragranceGuru, the Chaykin Joker is an interesting choice since it is more of an art piece for me. How have you used it?

[@FragranceGuru]

@jakealexander6046 i don't have the Og. Got a homage from Ali express and it's a fun watch.

[@Mr_Paw_revised]

I like how watchmaking entered next level of technical advancement. Materials such as titanium, carbon fiber, ceramics are much more common. Movement innovations resulting in bigger power reserves, antimagnetic properties and better durability are resulting in better watches. We have watches that are using GPS satellites, are connecting to smartphones, show depth or altitude. We have new movement types such as Seiko Spring Drive, solar or high frequency quartz. Watchmaking evolved greatly and it is the main aspect that pulls me into this hobby. There is more great watches than it ever was throughout the history. I think there is around 20 watches I want at the moment. I’m talking about watches I can afford. Unfortunately not all of them at once 😅.

[@corybrown9933]

Well done

[@avlism]

To your point on the availability aspect at 4:04 - people love to knock the replica market but I feel that manufactured scarcity is what's really driving that industry. I'd love to buy a Rolex but I'm not going to waste my time and money building a relationship with an AD just so I can have the privilege of getting a little close to obtaining an authentic piece. I don't care what Rolex or anyone else says, this is their fault because they are riding the demand train and I hope this blows up in their face.

[@supermat1937]

I love this seiko SKX Pepsi but I can't seem find this exact reference new can anyone help me?

[@johannesstenberg]

SKX009

[@TaiwanLYC]

so during the past few years, I had definitely explored many other brands outside Rolex and actually bought many watches outside Rolex including few more omegas and zeniths. I don't care how much percentage Rolex is taking up in the industry. they can't play this game forever. as Teddy mentioned in the video the situation where normal people are unable to obtain what they want because of all these flippers and investors (which simply isn't a good thing for watch enthusiasts) is turning people away and Rolex will one day lose its customers. I have spent MORE money in other brands, than what I spent on a Rolex submariner back in 2017. and hey, Rolex could have earned all these money from me that I spent somewhere else. yeah I’m not the VVVIP and I won't call myself rich, but I’m trying to express logics here.

[@robertrocha597]

I agree on people collecting the same watches. It sucks that youtube watch reviewers are on their 100th tudor, rolex etc video. There are so many other brands that are doing some awesome things than the bigger brands.

[@hanumarn7882]

I think Omega went down the wrong rabbit hole with the co-axial movement. It’s preventing Omega’s ability to make smaller, thinner, more wearable automatic chronographs and divers. 😢 The only sub 40mm automatic men’s watches I can find are the Aqua Terra and the Globemaster! 😔

[@Tammacazi10]

I love and hate Rolex. They make some of the best looking watches in my opinion but, they are so good at marketing that they have become so popular to the point where there are becoming almost unattainable due to the crazy prices. They keep getting pushed further and further down the road for me unfortunately.

[@statlerwaldorf7130]

Bravo Teddy

[@TrippyCustodian]

A necessary eel?

[@MG-sg2ci]

What is the watch at 6:26?

[@Lebon996]

Hi, I'm not sure but I think that it might be... A Brew watch. I think that they come from the USA.

[@cesarobernal81]

What is the watch at 6:28? Thank you

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

That is the Brew Metric, a fantastic micro brand watch

[@iv8976]

Start a podcast teddy

[@MrFelix002]

Rolex submariner in blue and gold love that watch

[@Majestic1-88]

I have some ideas for watch design that have never been thought of… anyone want to team up on it?

[@peteclassic347]

what is the watch at 6:32 named? Best regards, from austria

[@adamslager9997]

It’s called the Brew Watch Co I believe… Teddy has done a more in depth video of it before, just can’t remember which one

[@thegorn]

That's a Brew Metric.

[@peteclassic347]

@@adamslager9997 thanks guys appreciate it

[@megasoid]

Very good segment, I expect nothing less from this great channel. Yes, the watch industry has changed for good and bad as you say. My biggest complaint is that in spite of how many channels are out there, the majority focus on the same old brands. It's mind boggling to think of how many companies are out there doing good work yet no online influencer talks about them. If I see another black faced diver (insert high end name brand here) I'm going to scream. Sure we can do our own homework and I do, but it would be great to cast the net wider.

[@sajjadzahir145]

About luminox

[@rohanrohilla1080]

It is Royal Oak, Rolex, and Nautilus. That's it. So much so that to me personally it has created an aversion to these and the people that hype these. Sad but true.

[@iv8976]

Kind of miss when you used to film in your house

[@vntgmike]

Can you and Jeffrey McMahon go watch shopping. That would be a fun conversation to watch?.?.

[@argent48]

Maybe this is a "good" negative but I find the overwhelming selection of watches a little too much. When you can only afford 1 occasionally it's really hard to pick only one that knocks it out of the park without feeling some sort of buyers remorse.

[@ameZn86]

EARLYYY SQUADDD and btw teddy, a coolab of u and nico loenard will break yt watch enthusiasts frfr

[@Kafubie]

Theodore, you resemble a funko pop.

[@jorge31415927]

I despise the Rolex buying experience and the grey market now ..

[@nicholascorby3109]

Teddy, is it possible to change the domed glass on the Hamilton Khaki to an anti-reflective Sapphire Crystal or similar. I find its a deal breaker for me. I like the flat anti-reflective for a clear view. Nicholas

[@DocMulholland]

The fact that I've seen 18-month old videos about my potential grail-watches where their retail-price is mentioned, and meanwhile it has gone up 2000€ just like that is .... worrying, disheartening and somewhat repelling...

[@DocMulholland]

Happened so with the Moonwatch Professional and the Zenith Chronomaster Sport