The World's Biggest Watch Collection Worth 1 Billion: Sandro Fratini's Rolex, Patek, Tissot & More

Today I have the honor and pleasure of sharing with you a special #WatchTalk with Sandro Fratini-owner of one of the world's most prestigious watch collections, and lover of beautiful timepieces. In this interview on location at his horology themed Hotel L'Orologio in Florence, Italy, I chat with Sandro about his 2000 piece watch collection valued at over 1 billion euros, and how his passion for watches began. In this video we'll take a look at a few watches from Sandro's collection, including his Rolex Oyster Perpetual, Tissot Telemeter Chronograph, and Squale 1521. We also discuss his love of Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe, the rarest watches in his collection, his preferred desert island watch, his current grail watch, how his watches have inspired his work, and more. What do you think about the watches featured in this video? Please share in the comments!
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#watchcollecting #squale #rolex #patek #audemarspiguet #tissot #grail #watchcollector #florence #italy

[@adk7962]

This man is literally the antithesis of many KZbin Watch Content Creators who is screaming about how much a watch is worth, and what they can flip it for. I’m not mad at them, but this is what I imagine a true watch collector, I mean lover, is supposed to be. Thanks for the great interview!

[@TomPlantagenet]

Yes, a true gentleman. He has watches but his watches don’t have him.

[@Sebastian85]

I 💯 percent agree.

[@HEATSEEKER00]

The message of treat everyone with respect is pretty asinine … respect is earned not just given.

[@YongJoonPaek]

agreed. i think that's why he has had a consistent following for a decade. his demeanour is genuine and not off putting.

[@adk7962]

@@TomPlantagenetDamn. Something Marcus Aurelius would probably say if he wore a watch.

[@MrGeirSteinar]

The fact that you have access to this gentleman and his collection speaks volumes to the work you’ve put in over the years. Good going 👍 Fantastic video, T.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much, 🙏🙏🙏 You are so kind. Best regards, TGV

[@robortski]

I agree!

[@stanwilson7040]

@@robortski You are lucky he doesn't know you are wearing and collecting Invicta watches or you'd have been kicked to the curb!

[@richardtwyning]

One of the best interviews I've ever seen. His passion comes across just hearing him speak, not to mention all the attention to detail in his hotel. You can tell straight away that it's not about the money. I hate to think about the cost of that Patek, but the same man treasures his first $400 Rolex. Definitely pure class. Thank you 😊👍

[@cylentone]

So refreshing to hear someone with real taste and passion eloquently tell his stories... the opposite of people like Kevin O'Leary or the KZbin Rolex "influencers". Thanks for sharing.

[@r.sakarollsafe1285]

can't compare.. especially Sandro to Kevin.. One rich man likes to spend money for the passion and love, the other love and passionate about earning money. both are rich but different nonetheless.

[@eColi8]

“coLLexXxiOoON”.

[@legmantillidie1030]

You can tell O'leary isn't much of a watch guy. Only sees the investment opportunity. Nothing overtly wrong with that but I like guys with great stories and passion.

[@Jod2286]

Absolute legend.... can afford any watch in the world and he's wearing a 1521 Squale... brilliant in so many ways. ❤

[@lorandzsogon9999]

I think it's just an advert for the brand.

[@Thisthat1234]

It’s the Jay Leno effect, when you are a pure collector you can dabble in any and all types

[@giurgindemilan]

I think he doesn't need to get a small extra for advertizing Squale, possibly he likes them like I do - super squale grey, superblue are both amazing and I'll try on a 1521 out of curiosity - plus I had a tangent tie to Maria Treleani who I remember (passed) through Squale and her passion for deep sea. Squale is no gimmick brand - I'm happy they pulled the homages out of their way @@lorandzsogon9999

[@Jorg05111980]

Yes, though I don't like the Squale under a suit, due to the heavy brushing...it looks almost alumium as a result

[@julienfroidevaux1143]

​@@Thisthat1234Including Daniel Wellington and MVMT ? 🤔

[@rightsidevintage3430]

His emotions towards watches are almost palpable. A true collector.

[@Podcastage]

It's great to hear from such a seasoned lover of watches. I loved the advice to follow your heart when collecting rather than focus on the speculative value of the watch in a few years. Really enjoyed this conversation, thanks for sharing.

[@theurbangentry]

I'm so happy to hear that Bandrew. If anyone takes anything away from this video, I hope it's that! Thank you my friend, we gotta get you on here one of these days. Best regards, TGV

[@mrmagoo.3678]

@@theurbangentry You should do a "Episode" together.

[@jesselee3827]

Sandro Fratini definitely has a great passion for watches, and I really like that. Has a great taste too, the Squale 1521 for instance is such an underrated and beautiful watch. But at the other hand, he must have kept an eye on value, otherwise his collection wouldn't be that valuable. It's crazy; 1B €, that means 500k € per watch, are u kidding me..? 😂🎉

[@BrianSinai]

Here is a lesson. Wealth doesn't have to mean vulgarity. Collecting doesn't have to mean chasing profit. The appreciation of beautiful objects, examples of great craftsmanship is about what moves you and brings you joy. Bravo, TGV, Bravo!

[@Nudel-nc1cp]

Bravo. Great words. Sandro... what an amazing guy and place too.

[@fluelssss]

That's why I love Italians as a people they do most things with love and great passion. What a man Sandro.

[@enriqueali]

He's never sold ANY watch from his collection of roughly 2000?! A collection started more than half a century ago? Now THAT'S some true watch passion right there! Inspiring stuff 😃😃😃👍👍👍😍😍😍👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@simonbarnett9773]

This video was a simple delight TGV. Meeting a gentleman of such fine taste whose purpose in acquiring watches and interest in all things horological, is emotional and not at all financial is a rare treat. Thank you for giving us this glimpse into his world.

[@alexm2113]

What a staggering collection Sandro has. Thanks for sharing, TGV and for the insight into his collecting habits. 🥂

[@m.e.p.r]

His passion is palpable isn't it? I have to admit that going into this interview I was a bit dubious as to how one man can own and appreciate a billion dollars worth of watches. But you can tell by the way he articulates himself and by the pieces he chose to share (that mean the most to him), that he truly has a love for horology. So, I was proven completely wrong 😅 It's nice when that happens in the watch world. Lovely guy, and as always, a fantastic video ❤

[@theurbangentry]

👏👏👏👏 Absolutely awesome comment. I'm not sure which is more pure class, you open mindedness, or the act of leaving this comment. Thank you my friend, very much appreciated. O&U! Best regards, TGV

[@gavanmitchell9095]

I was going to post a comment but you said everything I was thinking, and much more elegantly than I would have.

[@m.e.p.r]

@@gavanmitchell9095 that's very kind of you to say 😌

[@michaelriera6277]

Fantastic episode! The quality and variety in content of your channel is unrivaled. Great way to end the week. Thank you!

[@WardStroud]

Billion dollar watch collection, and he’s wearing a Squale! Ohhhhhh made me love my 60 atmos even more:) this is definitely my favorite episode of yours TGV. Best of all time . What a treat. What a lovely lovely treat….

[@Dr.Gunsmith]

Absolutely agree 100%

[@TheShane209]

I could listen too you guys talk for hours, what a humble man I’m a world of people bragging and resellers it’s great too see someone who truly loves this hobby

[@Number_006]

Thanks TGV for an incredible interview. I always look forward to a new episode and this one is special. Much appreciated!

[@omoniyikaye]

TALK OF A WATCH LEGEND HIS CALMNESS AND HUMILITY IS PURE WHO SAYS RICH CAN'T BE HUMBLE. GREAT INTERVIEW HOMEBOY AS ALWAYS. THANKS FOR SHARING.

[@Theo-ul8qm]

My favorite watch video I've seen in a very long time. Sandro's passion and love for watches are obvious and so redreshing to see. The only issues I have with it is that it wasn't longer and we didn't get to see even more of his amazing collection.

[@MAKESQ]

one of the best watch discussions I have ever seen on the internet. Refreshing. His love for watches comes through, no pretense, and no need for pretense. Wearing a Squale. Great stuff.

[@thestevepbrady]

Might be my favorite episode of the year. That guy's passion is infectious!

[@piotrkaczmarczyk1792]

Great episode! Rifle and Wrangler - jeans of our youth, Tissot Janeiro - one of the most beloved chronos I ever met. And the class of interlocutor who puts on his wrist the watch which is one of the favourite models of his guest, although he is backuped by mass of extraordinary time - tellers. Thank you for this interview!

[@subeijekalo5884]

The man literally transferred his passion for watches through camera, amazing interview and yes please more of this if possible 😊

[@chrisbradshaw7708]

TGV, what a wonderful conversation! The fact that this well renowned gentleman is wearing a Squale shows that we ALL can have something in common in this great hobby, no matter what staus in life we are. His passion and the gleam in his eyes when speaking about his watches is a joy to see and quite contageous. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@Javi_C]

Wow! What a treat hearing from a true collector! Thanks, Sandro & TGV for sharing!

[@bobbydazzler1780]

What a wonderful passionate guest and man that hotel is a must visit for all watch lovers. Great episode Sir!

[@IInkHeart]

I don't know how I just came to see this video but man was it an inspiring one. This man even with all his wealth, looks at watches with so much passion and love and is unlike so many collectors out there. Truly a great interview and thankful for this content!

[@nec4608]

Tristano we do like this kind of content and more we do like this kind of gentlemen , very nice to have the opportunity of “ meet” through you these people with pure class.Please keep this content in your wonderful channel is a pleasure as also observe along the time you keep your way of thinking as always you said get this watches that moves your heart . Thanks again!!!

[@Hipnosis65]

Magnificent! What a nice man. I love his passion for watches and his philosophy for collecting. A man with endless resources where price isn't an issue... love is.

[@TradinTigerJohn]

What a compliment to you TGV that you have such a natural rapport with the man who's arguably the world's premiere watch collector and horological aficionado. This is the true essence of watch collecting; an attraction to and an appreciation of the passions that led to the creation of these remarkable timepieces in the first place. The beauty and technology behind those timepieces (and that amazing hotel) are simply happy consequences of someone with taste and passion "following their bliss" as a zen master would say. This is the high watermark of true watch collecting and seeing this presentation gives me better insight into why I enjoy my very modest but still esthetically and technologically splendid watch collection so much. Incidentally, I got the strong impression that Sandro enjoyed being interviewed by such an understanding and empathic host as you enjoyed interviewing him. Congratulations on a world-class presentation on true watch collecting.

[@Pentonavalsolutions]

Dear TGV: huge interview!!!! I could spend a whole week hearing this Nice Italian speaking about watches with each word comming straight from his heart.

[@shirtpocketvids5395]

TGV - this was amazing. I'm assuming this interview or setting was probably stressful on some level or intimidating, but you absolutely rose to the occasion and delivered a great interview. This is what it's all a about. Cheers man! Been following you for years and still love your content - top notch stuff

[@SpaceG95]

"Buy what you love" a message that I have taken to heart.

[@madam9736]

Amazing interview with a true watch lover. Just would have loved to have seen more of that collection.

[@riccib1424]

Amazing video. Wish it was longer, could listen on and on. And also see more of his watches. Thanks so much for sharing with us. Incredible! Those mirrors!!!! 🔥🔥🔥

[@bosvarkutube]

Fantastic ! Thank you. How refreshing to watch a true collector instead of people who carry on about how cool or wonderful they are or how much their watches cost. So classy.

[@christopher-ace-azevedo5509]

This guy is Awesome! Watch lover, not collector! Perfect advice, buy where your heart leads you, very down to earth.

[@plainclotheshorse224]

I really like the sentiment of not being a collector but being a lover of watches. That is it. Totally got it for me. All the best.

[@LAM_AUT_ECU]

"A watch is something you love". My motto! Sandro is a Legend.

[@andrewwatling1620]

Wonderful.. A heartwarming 18 minutes watching both Sandro and yourself. The world is a better place for people like that. Along with your visit to Jaeger le-Coultre an absolute joy.

[@migy5031]

The horologically-inspired hotel blew my mind! Incredible passion from a true gentleman.

[@timrodriguez1]

The love for watches exudes from this video. Thank you for sharing!

[@CBCB78]

I could “watch” this man talk about watches all day. This video made me smile ear to ear

[@jc944t]

Wow, such a nice and humble gentlemen. That Tissot is amazing and speaks to his true passion for watches.

[@jazzman5598]

Such a gentleman. Another home run TGV. Thanks

[@markgwaldman3273]

Beautiful video. Sandro’s smile and enthusiasm are infectious. His hotel amazing. What a great concept for a video. Kudos. Love all the Italian as well.

[@albertorbinati5511]

Sandro reminds me of my Italian grandfather. Such a gentleman. Thank you for this video!

[@notasdelaimagen8587]

I usually find your videos too short, but this one is the shortest of them all. A man who measures life by love is a man one should respect. A very rare man these days, indeed.

[@gregleingang9409]

Absolutely wonderful. Not a collector but a lover of the watch. Pure class.

[@NWolfefan]

Lucky to have visited (not stayed in) his hotel in Firenze in 2018. The front lobby staff was generous to allow me inside to take some pics. Fantastic interview, Tristano.

[@TehTuqez]

Fantastic video TGV! Thank you for all of these years. Truely a pleasure!

[@0dyss3us51]

This was faaantastic! Bravo friend! Please do more interviews with him, and more people it was so interesting!

[@Daniells1982]

Amazing video. What a lovely guy. He has took his passion to the next level with the detail in the hotel. So unique, I've never seen anything like it. A true lover of watches.

[@gary2632]

This was both entertaining and dare I say inspiring. The perfect antidote to “hype”. A reminder why you, myself and many many others love this hobby. Thank you for this, it will stay with me for some time, of that I have no doubt. Thank you very much for sharing this amazing content. 🙏

[@ronintheamazon1492]

Una delle interviste migliore che abbia mai visto per quanto riguarda gli orologi. Sandra ci ha mostrato le ragioni per cui dovremmo cominciare questo percorso a prendere gli orologi, e' che la cosa piu importante e' di seguire il proprio cuore e NON il valore residuo. Un abbraccio da Miami

[@russellc7322]

I don’t collect watches, I love them! Simply Perfect 👌 Great episode TGV !

[@clm.menezes]

This was amazing! Congrats for the Interview and the opportunity to speak to such a great gentleman, and to visit this awsome Hotel.

[@DaveMGmovies]

Fantastic interview TGV. His passion for watches over the value is really evident.

[@johnbonanni1731]

As a watch collector of over 200 watches and counting this was a great video to watch. Thank You TGV!

[@Voivod74]

the hotel, every detail, the attention to it. the passion,...........even a squale on the wrist. wowwwwwww one of the BEST videos filmed ever here on the channel!!

[@elculaso6332]

Amazing job TGV for bringing this interview experience to us, the true “watch lovers” Mr. Sandro is one of a kind, classy, and humble human being. Grazie

[@nowthatsfunky7676]

Wow where did you find this guy he is just amazing. Probably the best watch guy interview on youtube. Please more content like this TPG. Wish he would share more of his collection. Part2?🤷🏼‍♂️

[@watchrolling]

One of your best videos ever. Thank you for sharing Sandro's insight and passion!

[@05Rudey]

My first Swiss watch was a Tissot and then a year later a Longines, both from the late 60's. They are still prized watches in my collection.

[@paulgraham1465]

Ah, great interview. He is not one of these pretentious billionaires, who doesn't really appreciate what he has. A true connosseur, with a very evident passion and genuine love of timepieces. I even understood some of the Italian - getting better! Ciao!

[@Ni7rogenius]

What a great guy and great conversation. Thank you for such good content, TGV!

[@philfreeman477]

This is a great and sincere honor to watch this man and true passion he has

[@77cjam]

What an amazing Gent. Love the horological themed hotel, and quite frankly stunning watches, especially the Tissot. I do love vintage watches but my vintage collection is just 2 watches, My birth year Seiko, and my early 70s Ricoh. Not brave enough to get anymore! As always educational and entertaining sir

[@KarmaFlight]

He is the archetype. I could listen to him forever! Bravo

[@notyourdaddy8300]

Absolutely fantastic. I wish we could have seen more of his watches.

[@idahowatchenthusiasts]

This is the purest most beautiful content. True enthusiasm, true collectors with mountains of passion and knowledge. Thank you!

[@Lamattack]

This is absolutely insane! Thank you for sharing this with us. Keep up the great work!

[@watchwizard9207]

THis has been one of the MOST AMAZING posts/interviews I have ever seen by anyone...! BRAVO, please keep it coming...

[@steelsteez6118]

Amazing content TGV. Was a historic location to visit and the production quality is on another level! Was an absolute pleasure watching this.

[@KevinArcher100]

One of the best videos that I've ever viewed about timepieces! Thank you!

[@batchwatches]

What a fascinating video and insight into the mindset of such an extraordinary collector 🙌

[@bryanbeckett869]

I loved this! He said he loves the rectangle watches, I recently bought a Seiko Dolce 5931-5260 NSAG Tungsten Carbide. It was a well priced 1980 Seiko dress watch, that I’ve never seen referenced online. The only scratches are on the case back, the rest is flawless. 43 years old and still ticking perfectly.

[@harrier1417]

I am a 'watch enthusiast'. I am also a collector - though not of watches. I appreciate the knowledge, history, the passion - the thrill of the chase. Thank you TGV. You are eminently 'watchable'. Bravissimo!

[@TA-mu4jt]

Smiled all the way through the interview with Sandro😊What a lovely man with a genuine love for watches and is sincere view on how we we should purchase a watch. Geez, he’s wearing a freakin’ Squale! You know he does not buy watches to flex! Awesome interview!!!

[@DeadlyMuffinCat]

This was honestly such a delight! such a genuine enthusiast, Sandro seems like such a class act!

[@toddmurphy523]

I never knew of Watch themed hotels......WOW!!! And the hotel was pure class. His Tissot was spectacular....!!!

[@jamesrm8524]

A fantastic video. You can see the enjoyment that you both had talking to a fellow enthusiast. That hotel is incredible. I hope to pay it a visit someday.

[@ryanthorne5432]

I’m a better person for having watched this. Thank you, TGV, for sharing your time with Sandro with us.

[@pete1208]

What a lovely man, so warm and welcoming and the chat between you was really natural and engaging. Thanks for another banger video TGV

[@DenisHauser]

Wow what an incredible watches collection, thanks for the video.

[@TheRealDrJoey]

This was an impressive, top-class addition to your oeuvre. Extremely ingratiating gentleman, and it's like two brothers from another mother watching this interview. Nice work, and a genuine coup for your channel. Well done.

[@travelman158]

Wow… this was an amazing enjoyable interview to watch. I would like to see more like this. There are many wonderful watch lovers out there that have an amazing story to share. Keep seeking them out!

[@DustandPiers]

As a huge denim enthusiast, this episode was incredibly fun to watch! Thanks for taking us along for this, what an opportunity. Sandro's remark about not selling a watch coming from a love of watches has me rethinking my approach!

[@67NewEngland]

- Great interview, great choice of questions. I was eagerly awaiting everyone of his answers. He is so inspiring no matter your price range.

[@1114gabby]

This man embodies the true meaning of " watch collector". How amazing would it be to view his collection?! A fascinating video with a very interesting man. Interesting that he was wearing a Squale!

[@shirishpanwalkar]

One of the best episodes of Urban Gentry. Thank you so much!

[@fabiansuarez523]

You are an watch enthusiast but algo a great interviewer, this is one of the best videos I have seen. Increíble persona and hotel. Florence a paradise

[@anonymeguy9172]

I don't understand Italian but I do understand when he speaks in this language because his passion transcend the language barrier. Amazing video.

[@billhayward1585]

What a lovely man (Sandro Fratini) ""follow your Heart"" This is one of my favorite eps of your show.

[@riveravictor]

Finally! An English interview with Sandro Fratini

[@HerwoodJpV]

Your video left a smile on my face. It's great and refreshing to be watching great watch enthusiasts talk about their passion around watches and horology rather than be focusing on the investment side of the industry and how to make money with watches.

[@devilsfan5967]

You’ve made many good and informative episodes, however, this spoke to my heart and passion for watches…..thank you, today is a great day!!! 🙏

[@marcgoulding5230]

Really appreciate hearing Sandro's angle and approach - love over dollar-value (or Euro-value).

[@HoroHigh369]

I think I am going to plan a trip to Italy and stay in all his hotels! Wow... spectacular video. Thanks for sharing. Pure class indeed. 😍😍😍

[@markbellecabiling4468]

how refreshing is this conversation with a true watch lover, what a great video