9 Watch Collecting Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Collection

Whether you're new to watch collecting or a well-acquainted watch enthusiast, you may be making mistakes that could wreck your collection!
In this video I share 9 watch collecting mistakes to look out for, including advice on buying, selling, price, style, social media, and the ever-elusive search for the perfect watch. Have you made any watch collecting mistakes recently? Please share in the comments below!
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[@peteraaron8626]

My biggest watch collecting mistake was buying my first watch. Downward spiral ever since.

[@WatchUnwind]

Haha what was it ?

[@Phillies2008WSChamps]

Bulova lunar pilot started me down the space watch rabbit hole

[@111danish111]

​@@Phillies2008WSChamps Only space watch I own is a Casio 5600 series but I am happy I own it.

[@dannyfree1120]

I hear you brother

[@SirAsshat]

Truer words have never been spoken.

[@nemes15G]

I think the single biggest mistake is to buy a watch to impress other people. The value in a watch (or frankly anything material) comes not from its cost or perceived kudos but from the affinity you have with it; what it means to you.

[@killpop8255]

As Marc said (LIW) paraphrased 'wear what you(sic) want'

[@pokie6087]

@Gareth Evans. So well put and exactly the reason I stopped going on to watch forums. There is so much snobbery and prejudice in those places that can quickly kill off your enthusiasm. The last straw for me came when a flame war of personal attacks and insults erupted over the best position for the date window. I enjoy it much more now that I keep it to myself and no longer seek approval from strangers.

[@richpaul6806]

especially when 90% of people cant tell the difference between a Citizen and a Rolex unless you tell them

[@nemes15G]

@@pokie6087 Cheers fella. Unfortunately some people confuse their own opinion with fact.

[@mariog7213]

I generally agree but, as with everything, it’s more nuanced. Sometimes people dress up more than usual to feel better about themselves and that works even better if you get a few compliments. The problem with watches is that nobody really knows about them and the general public will more likely be more impressed by a big ass invicta than with a fine piece so it because moot

[@hawkeye454]

I fell into a trap of buying everything that caught my eye early on....quickly found this disappointing so I refined my taste and am quite happy now with my collection in it's refined form. Cheers good sir!

[@WatchUnwind]

How many watches do you now have in its refined form ?

[@Ossory88]

Nice way of describing your 3 Casios! Keep it going!

[@stevea2639]

I know how you feel. Its so easy to try a watch on and immediately say " I like this, i want this, I might miss out on this if I don't buy it now." Then you end up with bunch of watches that don't live up to the expectations you had when you first saw it. I like to meditate on new watch at least 1 month before I know if it is for me. I think you'll likely enjoy your collection more with your refined approach. Cheers and have fun!

[@WatchUnwind]

@@stevea2639 Steve how many watches do you have

[@Johnny-sj9sj]

Jesus H Christ! And here’s me, thinking THAT I WAS OBSESSIVE! My wife is constantly taking the piss out of me for wearing a watch on each wrist. I tell her that it’s service habit and superstition, but she still laughs. The left one is an Eco-Drive Citizen Military 200; the right one a Citizen Pro Diver’s automatic, and after five weeks of meticulous micro adjustment, it’s now losing 0.4 secs in 24 hrs. If I go on, does this make me a bad man? Perhaps I really should get out more 🧐 PS: edit: I have a total of about 11 wrist watches and five old pocket watches, and there is no chance whatsoever of my ever getting shot of any of ‘em 🤡🇬🇧

[@tonyphillips8726]

The greatest way, IMO, to scratch the watch itch is to focus on straps for what you have. My Casio MTD1079D-1AV is my favorite watch in my collection. It was a gift that I received from a loved one and is really a strap monster. With this watch, I've replaced the stock mineral crystal with a domed sapphire crystal and I change the straps to coordinate with my outfits. Appreciate what you have and you can really get into the other aspects of watches.

[@shaneclotiaux739]

I am not alone

[@klausm5460]

Hey TGV, I had a great watch encounter today. I met a gentleman today who wore a Speedmaster and I asked him about the piece. It turned out it was a 1970 model that his father had bought in Switzerland and later passed on to him. Great condition and he also mentioned the ease of polishing out scratches from the acrylic crystal. What a great hobby!

[@d2dahaka]

So glad I saw this post. I never even considered the possibility of polishing out the scratches.

[@klausm5460]

@@d2dahaka TGV talked about that ocassionally. Acrylic crystal is stronger than mineral or saphire in terms of breaking resistance, but softer and prone to scratches. But they can be polished out.

[@WatchUnwind]

Pretty amazing backstory on that encounter. Haven’t met to many real watch enthusiasts out and about

[@kengerace]

Yep. Get polywatch from Amazon or wherever and buff away. Any polishing compound really. It’s interesting to me regarding crystals. People are so into sapphire. I’ve tried it and I really like hardlex, acrylic, hesalite, etc… better. AR coatings only do so much. I get reflections at different depths in the crystal. It’s distracting and hard to read. The watch it self was to remain for decades or generations. The crystals are or were wear items. Like brake pads. They perform a function and when it’s useful life is expended it’s replaced. It’s just part of service. It’s there to provide protection for the face and internals and meant to take the knocks instead of your dial and hands.

[@JayandSarah]

@@klausm5460 or replaced for next to nothing with a new one from omega

[@younusimam-thesalamproject6340]

I realized very quickly I didnt want to get into luxury watches. I decided on the Orient Kamasu, Citizen Nighthawk, Vostok and the Casio Duro. Just love them and will use them for many years. The Kamasu has a vibrant green dial, excellent wearing dimensions, an incredibly legible set of hands and indices that recall older Seamasters.

[@tobielouw138]

VALUE FOR MONEY I agree , also what you like

[@kma6881]

Those Duro Watches are fun to buy a few and switch out all types of bands and bezel inserts on.

[@fvlok]

Completely agree. They show time got gods sake

[@Spikernaut]

Luxury watches are like the diamond market no point in buying a diamond for thousands when you get the same effect out of the cheap one.

[@vic7939]

Just ordered a green teal Kamasu. Waiting to arrive. My first mechanical watch. Just concerned about the bracelet but will give it a go.

[@RafaelCampos106]

Just started my collection this year since i found your videos... now i have a g shock 5600 and a casio duro.. i started with the beaters 😂

[@brandonlesco8738]

Hi TGV - I've had a Flightmaster for the past 3+ years and always liked it but never adored it the way so many others have. I recently took it off the bracelet and onto a green NATO. Well...I get it now. Hasn't left my wrist in weeks. So fun! A great piece. Love the thumbnail - keep up the great work.

[@lizmarkolvera8371]

TGV you really are making videos that speak for the mass of watch collectors!

[@franka9760]

I've been a watch lover for many years, but only started collecting in the past year or so. At first I was enamored of solar watches, and I bought several, by Seiko, Casio, and Citizen. I became interested in watchmaking, and came to appreciate the intricacies of mechanical watches. I watched many hours of video by watchmakers, but also the watch and learn series by Marc of LIW. I bought my first automatic from him, an ISL-19. That is now my favorite. I am retired and have a very limited budget, so cannot really add to my collection very often. But I do keep an eye on what's out there. There is a lot that I like, but I suppose my grail watch is the Seiko Spring Drive--fascinating blend of complexity, functionality, and beauty. Very glad that I found your channel. Thanks, and best wishes for 2022!

[@ethanlareau3970]

That’s my story, as well! Best wishes to you! 👍🏼

[@ricardosotosan2279]

Mistake #10: dismissing ETA movements. I started my journey collecting watches last year and my first watch is the first generation Omega Aqua Terra with it's modified 2894 ETA movement ( named the Omega 2500 movement) and the first generation ever to have the co axial escapement. That's ETA but with a lot of history. Plus the watch is accurate and sturdy as hell.

[@theurbangentry]

YESSSSSS!!! Plus so easy and affordable to have serviced. I have serviced 2 so far and both have run for years, real troopers. Love ETA, it one of the things I like about my vintage Tudors, I don't have to worry about them. Thank you Ricardo, great point. Best regards, TGV

[@ricardosotosan2279]

@@theurbangentry yessir

[@corychecketts]

Solid advice. I remember wanting the Speedy Pro when I got into watches. I bought and sold dozens of watches before buying a Speedy. The crush never left and now it’s the only mechanical watch I wear.

[@d2dahaka]

As long as you genuinely love the watch and want to keep it, it was never a mistake.

[@WatchUnwind]

Preach

[@alfonsoaguado3453]

Right but what about the one night stands?

[@Bonpu]

Let’s say: it wasn’t a mistake for •you•.

[@diydad7704]

@@alfonsoaguado3453 They are just that. A short distraction. Fun that doesn't last long. In the end you lose money.

[@nemronc]

My biggest halt to expanding my collection was my exclusive obsession with Swiss made watches. Not only the obsession but the deliberate overlooking of Japan made masterpieces like Seiko, Citizen, and orient.

[@mikepurdy3952]

I want a Red Dial Orient Kamasu, but I'm ashamed for wanting it...

[@sergiorodriguez956]

Change the bracelet if you get one

[@Lamattack]

Love this video! My first luxury watch will most likely be a quartz piece by Grand Seiko that I adore. But there have been times where I've doubted whether or not I want it because it is quartz. But then I sometimes ask myself, "Who is talking, me or the watch enthusiasts I see online?". I can't wait till I buy this piece and forget the rest. Cheers!

[@mikemitch1041]

After many hours looking though the internet I purchased my 1st vintage watch 1965 Omega Seamaster for my birth year I took delivery today and love it even put it on a genuine omega nato looks great

[@maximilliannapoleon9498]

Great video, TGV! Your intro is so amazing, I always enjoy just watching that at the start of the video!

[@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR]

Great show T! Yeah the settling for something less when you know deep down if your disciplined in your spending you can get the watch or whatever you’ve got your heart set on! I feel like I give you pain every time I post a pic of the Squale and Sinn!!!!! Sorry my friend!

[@cmnderbob]

Thank you TGV, Another awesome installment.

[@jeffcline7689]

Always good to hear from the Urban Gentry. I see him as one of the charter members of the watch channels which have proliferated to a whole new industry.

[@Ishabu7]

Thank you TGV for all your wonderful suggestions! This helps a lot! Stay healthy and well! Nicholas

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Nicolas, Always appreciated, stay safe and well too, onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@soulofjimi]

The end for pretty deep there! That’s one thing I’ll always appreciate about TGV… The willingness to go beyond the shallow end and dive right on into the deep end and unclog that drain!

[@spivechild]

Wise words TGV. Thanks for sharing, it's important to hear.

[@izaazkhalili]

Wise words indeed. Very true at the same time.BUT whether a person who just love watches can practice it is something else altogether!

[@kenlivingston3111]

Great video with great advice,thanks again 👍👍

[@_Mailman]

Kudos to you. This video shows you are a genuine watch lover and not a snob at all. Love your outlook. Wish more tubers thought the the same

[@pas0003]

Love your videos as always!!

[@chippletown4862]

I've been watching your videos for years now and they just get better and better!

[@oscarosullivan4513]

I am excited have nearly got all my parts for my Vostok amphibia mod project

[@robertdumitrescu8104]

Best intro and song too... can't get better than this!!!

[@MrPiou2]

Great content, congrats. Really enjoyed it. 😊

[@rydoggsc2]

Some great points here. My first video of yours that I have seen and an easy sub. Cheers!

[@Spartan117KC]

All great points and I continue to enjoy the content TGV puts out. The quotes during the segments are always a nice touch on these more 'philosophical' videos.

[@MarcelitoRecords]

Absolutely love your inspiring journey my friend

[@neilziesing7761]

This hobby has connected me with so many new and interesting people. For that alone, I am eternally grateful.

[@richardpetrie3163]

Thanks for your words of wisdom TGV hope you have a great weekend 👍👍👍👍👍

[@MagnumBTS]

I am speechless. I absolutely love your content. Your channel is the only channel that i do not skip through the videos. Dude!! Great advices as well. Thank you.

[@kennethroll3683]

As usual another excellent video. I found many of your points spot on. With there being so much Social Media watch content available today it is refreshing to take a step back and your points are very helpful in doing that.

[@markusbe.musicfromtheunder2497]

Fabulous video. Wonderful channel and I love that you're an intelligent man with such great style, soul and substance. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@bazs7669]

Wonderful and enlightening video, thank you Sir

[@robspadre5519]

I really enjoyed this episode - so much food for thought. Philosophically significant well beyond watch collecting. Thank you, TGV.

[@jc944t]

A great refresh of why I truly got into this hobby. Thanks, I needed that!

[@micnolmadtube]

Probably the most honest tips for newbies you will find. Great content as always :)

[@bettysimmons8006]

Love your channel! Your voice and choice of music…so relaxing.

[@tommogun3]

Great vid as always !

[@JuniorExecutive1987]

Unrelated, but I’d love to see a dress watch review and travel log at Longwood Gardens. I’m sure Hugo would also appreciate an Orchid appetizer before sitting down to a lovely goat dinner.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

I second this! Always after more dress watch reviews!

[@ebshaw5974]

Well said sir. Lots to take in and digest. Keep up the great work

[@baxteryong9981]

It's been awhile TGV. You're the guy who got me into this hobby in 2017. A great video about watch collecting! Mentioned all the ups and downs, the pros and cons. Keep it up TGV

[@JFK93]

Wise words. Great content. Your videos have changed my perception of value in watches and in general. In a positive way I must add!

[@SamrayGTR]

I've definitely learned to slow down in this hobby lately. I love building my collection and aim to build it for the full sake of keeping and never to resell. I am more particular for sizes now since I have 6.5" wrists but I do have the exception for Seiko Turtles and G-shocks.

[@brianmsahin]

I get that but in the opposite direction, I've gotten watches too small for my 8" wrist. However, on the upside my wife is the beneficiary as they suited her 5.25" wrist. You actually have a pretty good average size that could handle quite a lot of watches and many watches I like don't suit. But I'm not complaining, there are a lot of 42mm and 44mm available so I'm not being left out! I wish I had about a 7.25" wrist though, I think that's perfect for nearly every watch!!

[@andromedagodit2492]

Totally love this vid. Well said. 😊👍

[@colbygill533]

I have my vintage thin o matic Hamilton on the way and a new urban gentry video. Life is good.

[@CarlosSantos-2909]

Very well thought through, and enjoyable video.

[@happycarlos83]

I just started watch collecting and your videos have helped me immensely!

[@LAG8170]

I legitimately love fortis amazing work!!

[@mariuso.7355]

Great video! Many Thanks 🙏 🙂

[@DominicGreenwood]

Love your outlook, passion and well crafted videos

[@theurbangentry]

🙏🙏🙏 Thank you Dominic, you are an absolute gent. Best regards, TGV

[@slipperycrazy3010]

So many life lessons TGV, amazing video as always!

[@thunderlipz]

Stellar work as always👍🏼

[@VictorCrv]

Love your way of thinking!

[@SecondHandProductions]

I needed to see this video. I've owned a few watches over the years and lately have been going down the rabbit hole of "I see shiny thing I want" then getting influenced by KZbin on what is good and what is bad. I have been able to adjust to the "give it time and see if you still want it" mentality and that is the best advice you can give.

[@azgoth1255]

Really, really good video! Once again, bravo Tristiano!

[@TGameMaster1993]

This has to be the best into of KZbin videos in the entire history. I get goosebumps every time. Please don't change it!

[@jimmyscott3056]

Really thought provoking and interesting show. I can relate to much of this. Thanks for the insight.

[@petershallis2294]

Excellent points there, very useful. I’m often tempted by the fruits of another but have forced myself to be patient and cautious…relax and relish the obsession for a while to see if it really is genuine.

[@timmanion7459]

I've collected for a pretty long time. Half a century or more . I've purchased everything from high-end luxury to a $150 Timex, and everything in between . I just love them all and see a myriad of things in them . The movements, case shapes , dial and hands , and just the flow of a certain peice never ceases to bring me joy and calm my soul . It's a great journey to be on .

[@MagnumBTS]

Would love to see your collection to be featured on here!

[@timmanion7459]

@@MagnumBTS I just clicked on your name to reply and see you have your own show going . I didn't get the feeling that it was a watch info. channel . I've never publicly shown off my collection for a myriad of reasons , but am a bit intrigued by your channel . Are you located in the UAE ?

[@MagnumBTS]

@@timmanion7459 I meant to be featured on The Urban’s channel, my bad for being inaccurate. Yes i am based in UAE-Dubai!

[@timmanion7459]

@@MagnumBTS I occasionally watch his channel but have never really seen him feature other people's collections. I just finished watching a few of your videos. Pretty cool stuff . I haven't been to the UAE in 15 yrs or more but always had an interesting time every time I was there . Watching your video from your trip to the States, I saw you wearing a batman. I have that same Rolex GMT . Great watch . Thanx for your communication. I think I'll have to check in to your channel once in a while to see what's up over there . Have a good one bro .

[@MarkMuddimer]

Fantastic video and your experiences are well reflected upon to help others in their quest. I've had seller remorse a few times but I've always bought with my heart. Thanks.

[@LeShark75]

Great Video TGV, and very sound advise.

[@neilc365]

I love your videos and your watch collecting philosophy, TGV!

[@BenStirlen]

Oh my 90’s!!! Great video:)

[@clydewakefield7349]

Whenever I see one of these videos I feel like you've been watching my watch collecting journey because I've made EVERY SINGLE ONE of these mistakes lol. Great video and great advice for anyone joining this crazy cult of ours 😀

[@Reese1105]

And doing these mistakes all over again proves in my view that this hobby ADDS to your life, as opposed to compensate for emptiness (as TGV alluded to).

[@chumpey]

Top advice! For life and watch collecting 🙌🏼👊🏻👍🏻

[@edwardtodd2833]

I really enjoyed your outlook. Thanks 😊

[@craigwthomson]

Well done TGV. I found it quite amusing having my own mistakes reflected back to me in this way!

[@xhack1990x]

What a brilliant and useful video!

[@craighighmore4302]

Great video & absolutely spot on the money!

[@Grannn]

Hey Tristano, Great video! I think nr. 5 can easily be applied to life as a stand alone lesson. Much appreciated!

[@estebanortegatippins7849]

Love the submariner so bought Loreo sub, yes I know , but I love it every day. By the way amazing amount of extra clips in video to be enjoyed every minute.

[@brendankavanagh1105]

God tier video!! Much better then some of the dealer's videos with a cash counter in the background.

[@simonhodgetts6530]

Thank you so much for this - I’ve been saving for my grail watch for a couple of years, and I was wavering recently and thinking of just buying a different watch with what I have saved to date. But you’re right - nothing else will scratch the itch - so, I’ll keep saving until I reach my goal! Great advice!

[@FuquaRomeo]

Simon, what is your current grail watch? I don't have a grail goal at the moment, but the Marathon GSAR has me obsessed. I love how rugged yet minimal and surgical it is.

[@sweetd5953]

Thanks TGV for your nuanced perspective! My mistake was taking too long to realize my Dad's 1950's 33mm Tissot fits me like a dream. After of course I realized modern equivalents hardly exist. I count it a blessing in disguise.

[@michaelriera6277]

Great content as usual

[@s76motiongfx68]

great as always!

[@johnnybluezz]

The fortis fragment evokes so many emotions. Thanks again for your dedication to each video.

[@twotubefamily9323]

Really delving deep in the philosophy of "gentry" - fab - fun and quite essential

[@pilotjpbiv7600]

I have wrestled with many of these issues, and have seen it play out in my watch journey. Good video. Thanks for pointing out these catches.

[@marcuslieberman3577]

I really enjoy your (talks) videos. Your sense of history, and sound advise. Time is most precious commodity.

[@belsarerc]

Words of wisdom Sir!! Wonderful video!

[@TheMaynavia]

I recently discovered your channel and love how you encourage being true to your tastes and remain respectful to others. Your advice expands to many things even outside of watch collecting where people are unable to enjoy whatever they own or are doing based on others’ unsolicited opinions and judgments. The way I see it, if you feel so strongly about what watches I need, then I will be happy to accept your money to buy what you want me to wear. But if you’re not ponying up any money, then your opinion simply doesn’t count. Unsurprisingly, I don’t see any watch snobs offering their own money for others to “do it right” 😆.

[@MR1DFL1985]

KZbin legend for sure. Much respect!

[@tamasleb6259]

You have by far the best intro on any youtube channel!!

[@MAP1915]

Great VID I agree with all of it. Thank you TGV.

[@Etienne938]

This video has one of your best intros. The music is awesome 👌

[@nkonig1]

...discovering your channel! Bought so many watches in the beginning of my journey thanks to your channel.

[@mikev3245]

Hi TGV! My one great watch collecting mistake happened in the mid 1980's when visiting a favorite jeweler in downtown Chicago during my lunch time when I came across an ultra thin Vacheron dress watch in 18K white gold with the most wonderful ivory/parchment dial. Priced at $1200, I walked away from it as I had recently purchased an Omega Constellation and was a bit tapped out. I have regretted it ever since. That ultra thin case was amazing! Well 35 years later and after many dozens of watches I recently came into a mint condition ultra thin dress watch from Glycine in 14K yellow gold. I never even knew Glycine even made such as thing. The company historian documented the watch for me and advised it was made in 1956. It looks like something that could have been on Don Draper's wrist. The thing that makes this even more incredible is that it was a thrift store find for only $5 and fortunately, this time I was able to afford it!!

[@Newbie49]

Definitely one of your finest, Sir. You brought all that experience to bear and then delivered it with a soft touch. Very helpful. What was the watch on the right at 8:17, that was a nice one. Thanks.

[@michealhoulihan513]

I real enjoy this episode . My number one rule,only buy what YOU like and enjoy. Show was great ,Thanks

[@robknox8627]

Keeping it real.... lovely video mate.

[@jonirwin7316]

Wow! You nailed it all. Merci.

[@D_Rm]

Very pleasant and honest video!

[@fakenewsisthenews3542]

Great video. Just got my first luxury Swiss timepiece after consolidating much of my high quality microbrands and entry level Swiss. I liked them all, that's why I bought them. But I never wore most of them for various reasons, they just sat in the safe, and would take them out and admire them. So, I sold about 7 pieces and got a Breitling Airwolf Raven which is super super cool.