Thankful for RJ here. This is the voice we needed for this video. You need to have passion. I think inexpensive watches can be an absolute pleasure but I don’t think you can decide what will give you pleasure based on a price tag, high or low. Buying a “starter” watch is a bad idea. Check reviews so you know what to expect, it’s why I make them, but choose a watch that excites you, not one you “should like.” That’s how the hobby ignites within you.
Depends what you want to figure out. For instance, if you don't wear a watch at all, and wonder if it will be something you enjoy on the wrist, and if it will be comfortable, I would even condone getting an hommage watch to just feel it out. Because it's better to figure out you don't like wearing watches for 150 bucks than for 15.000 Euro's, if you take a submariner as an example. And yes, I'm talking grey market prices, because Submariner. Similarly, I bought a starter Golf set some 15 years ago, and played with it a lot, but now I figure I return to my passion of frisbee-golf. This Golf set has served me well, but I'm also happy to walk away from golf knowing that I only blew 500 bucks on the clubs. That said, if you are certain you want a watch and will wear it, and you know what you like: Go for it. Whether buying a starter watch is a good or bad idea is highly personal.
@ yeah I’ve actually been planning on talking about the role hommage watches can play in the “test drive” concept to get a feel for a format, in a future video. It’s definitely a factor. I don’t think you’re wrong about a budget exploratory purchase but I also think whatever you do spend money on, whether a lot or a little money, it should be something you care about owning and not something someone else says is a “must buy” starter watch. It’ll never click with you if it’s not something you look forward to wearing. There are a lot of quality budget options these days, in my opinion is smart to take a little time and research them, and choose the one that calls to you. If none of them does but a 5k Tudor excites you, that might be the right choice for you. It’s so personal. Thanks for responding, btw, I really appreciate your insight. Frisbee golf has always looked fun to me. Maybe I should try it.
Spend $50 or $100. See what you like about it. Case thickness, dial color, lug width, case diameter. If you love it all, keep your money and never buy another. If you decide something doesn’t work then do some research and address the previous shortcoming with a new watch. Rinse and repeat. You will figure out what works for you and you won’t be burning money.
My first mechanical was a Seiko 5, one of the SNKLs. I learned to strap hack, size bracelets, dropping it and panicking, and getting to know my local watchmakers. I was a student at the time, and when I got a proper job I could buy the Tudor BB58 I’d been wanting for years. I’m glad I got to make some mistakes on a cheaper watch - which I still own and love, btw.
I think you have to like what you want to wear and buy then price comes into the equation. It seem like Seiko is always a good starting point: reasonably priced, has history and interesting designs. My first mechanical was one of the Seiko SRP 5 diver models. As one starts to learn more about watches then other makes and models will come into play. If one is wealthy then buy a really nice first time watch. It is kind the same idea of buying a high-end stereo system or camera and lens. There is a learning curve.
Spending X amount is subjective and difficult to say because everyone is different. You need to ask yourself, do I want more than one watch? Do I want to collect watches? What is my current lifestyle and income? Will my lifestyle and income change in the future? There are many ways to approach the world of mechanical luxury or affordable timepieces. A basic rule of thumb to buy your first piece. Save 4 months' salary, or save for an entry-level versatile luxury timepiece (Tudor, Grand Seiko, Omega) are the middle of the road and you can go anywhere from that point. For me, my collector journey, rules, and philosophy is... 1) I buy what I like. If I see that I don't or will not wear a watch. I will sell it. 2) I buy a watch every 5-7 years, sometimes less depending on what I encounter. 3) I have kept my small collection to 2-8 watches, less is more, quality over quantity. 4) All my watches are one-and-done types. All are strap monsters. All are monochromatic. 5) My watches serve a purpose and are for lifestyle functions and occasions. 6) I have bought at retail and paid no more than retail. Or I buy pre-owned 7) All my watches are versatile 8) All my watches are foundation pieces 9) I stay away from trends and hype watches. I don't jump into the latest watches. 10) I took years to get to where I am. I started collecting watches in the 90s. 11) I avoided fashion watches and avoided buying a bunch of affordable watches. 12) I set my goal and save for what 13) I try on watches in person several times before I decide to buy them. 13) I try to stay with timeless designs 14) I try to stay within a certain price point 15) I'm lucky to have what I have and be content with what I own My collection after years of trading selling and upgrading way before I knew people collected watches as they do now. IWC Pilot Mark XV... 1996 Heuer Carrera 1964 re-edition... 1998 Rolex Submariner 14060M... 2004 Patek Philippe Calatrava 5196G... 2008 (my only silver/grey dial) Panerai Luminor PAM 312... 2008 JLC Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931... 2013 Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch cal 1861... 2015 Rolex Explorer 36mm... 2021 Seiko SRP777 Turtle... 2022 It's difficult to decide what to wear because these are very close to my taste and style.
I think you can be passionate about affordable watch (seiko, citizen and etc) while still having that grail watch you want to own at some point. I think it makes sense to start with affordable watches that you truly enjoy so you can learn about mechanic watches and how to maintain before buying an expensive one. There's no need to rush. Just be selective and don't buy a whole bunch of cheap ones. That's how I started and eventually was able to sell most of my affordable watches. Great topic
My first was an Invicta…ten years later I decided on a Longines and ended up purchasing an Omega Aquaterra, and it has been an adventure since then. I still have them all- and the Invicta still runs.
My journey was a mix of what was mentioned…. I started out sewing my horological oats with cheaper mechanical watches, but then got the new Speedy for my military retirement milestone thinking I’d be done, yet somehow I still want to try more! I never have more than 5 in the box, so for me it’s more about the knowledge gained and the fun of the hobby once I bought the bug. But 4 years later I am stepping back and trying not to buy more and just save up for the big rocks. Great episode as always gents!
My watch journey: - Inherited a 60s seamaster in ‘20 which made me fall in love with watches. - Purchased an Orient Kamasu 2 in ‘21, wore it every day except for special occasions (in favor of a dressier seamaster) - Purchased a white dial speedy a few weeks ago. While I was considering some higher end pieces in the beginning and throughout this time, they were never really in the cards. I’m so happy I held out for what I really wanted. Now that I have what I want, I don’t look at what’s on my wrist and wish it was anything else or wish there was anything more in between this and the Orient.
For me, my first serious watch is the timeless Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 38, not super expensive, but it was what I felt comfortable of spending. Then roughly after 8 months, I decided to just went for my grail, which is the Breitling Navitimer B01 with the golden winged logo. I spent about half of my savings for it at that time, but I really wanted my grail watch to be with me on my wrist in my wedding which was just few months away. My wife complained a bit that I spend more on watches than on wedding rings😂
I recommend to not pay under 1.000$/€, which is round about the starting price for automatic Swiss watches ;) you can pay less but likely you'll want to upgrade soon.
Great presentation on an important topic. I made the "mistake" of buying several placeholders as I could not afford the Rolex and Omega's in my collection. The panel needs to speak up into the microphone to pick up their comments. Thanks!
I started off with the super cheap $15-$20 watches in Walmart not knowing or caring about the watch world. Then I wanted something more reliable and longer lasting for fashion purposes, which was my sub $300 Seiko chronograph. Now (and some $200-$700 dollar watches later) I'm waiting on my first watch , which is just over $1000 , which is the Maen ultra-thin Manhattan. I think this is the only point I ever thought about and cared about getting a luxury watch and maybe if I cared sooner I'd skip on all the seikos, and casios and have a couple "entry-level" luxury watches, but I don't think I regret it (yet).
Daydate 18038 blue vignette without papers for the 1st watch i bought by myself Is there a chance there are replaced parts? Of course, but I'm not fussy about it
For a one watch collection 2 x monthly salary (net) is what I would suggest you could save up for a watch in a year or so and keep it for the rest of your life. If you think you might go down the rabbit hole and buy more watches in the years to come (become a collector) I would say 25% of one months salary for first watch makes more sense as you figure out your taste and style.
I had a little back and forth with someone on the comments section on a different UA-cam video. The guy was saying that nobody should buy a Rolex as their first watch, suggesting you should start with something less expensive, to see if you’re into watches first. I told him I absolutely disagree, and said people can get into the hobby with totally different financial situations. If you could comfortably get a Rolex as your first watch, then why the hell not? Heck if you can get a Patek as your first watch, why not?
I bought a Seiko 5 SNK357 about 6 months ago for around $250 AUD (I think). I have been obsessed with mechanical watches ever since. After months of obsessing about it, I'm about to buy the Seiko Navigator Timer reissue (SPB411) for $2100 AUD which is a significant amount for me at this stage in life.
Around 300 to 750 euro is the sweetspot in my opinion. Not too expensive, but also not badly finished. Watches in the sub 250 euro category always dissapoint a bit.
Im a Seiko snob, but i have a Certina that is a little more expensive. If i would go to get another watch, it would be a Quartz Grand Seiko or a Oris Aquis👌🏼
First warch i ever bought for myself was a g shock mudman (the original) in what they were calling at the time OD Green with a negative display. Paid maybe $75 for it at the time? I'd have to look at my eBay history. Anyway, i still wear it to this day and still love it. So much so that I've bought replacement oem straps for it and replacement gaskets, to keep it going. I dont wear digital watches as much as i used to but it goes to show, you don't gotta spend a lot to get a lot, you just have a love the watch you're buying. If thats a $75 watch, great, if thats a $700 hamilton, great. Doesn't matter.
A quartz can still be a first expensive watch you buy for yourself and gets you into other mechanical watches. I started with the Seiko Turtle and then went the Casio route 😅 Writing out quartz like that should stop.
IMHO, for your first mechanical watch, above all take your time. Don’t rely on Insta for inspiration; do your own research, research, research. Never get into debt to buy a watch. Never, ever. If you can’t afford it save up it until you can. Have a separate watch purchase money pot, but not at the expense of spending priorities like food, warmth, mortgage, taxes. If you can try watches on. Lots of them. Comfort can be a huge factor as well as design, brand, history, or whatever is important to you. Ask yourself if you would wear your first watch every day. That is the critical question. If yes 👍, if no 👎 On a philosophical point, I disagree with RJ when he says “don’t compromise”. Everything is life is a compromise. Nobody *needs* any watch these days. Whatever you buy it must above all be fun and enjoyable, not worrying and stressful.
I don't own any luxury watches - my first mechanical was an Invicta 1953, my second was a Timex MK1 Mechanical, and my third was a Seiko Land Tortoise. I'm still happy with my choices, but I'd advise someone else to go with a Seiko, Citizen, Orient, or Timex for their first mechanical watch...if they buy what speaks to them without going to the poor house, it will always be a special watch. While I still like my Invicta, it's a little embarrassing to own one.
Place holders are very horrible; Collectibles are ay every price point, new collectors have to be taught this lesson. To me, a very attractive G Shock that I love which is subjective is collectible to me, a vintage seiko5 speed timer can be a collectible, vintage Omega, entry level Longines like a legend deiver or Big Eye can also be a collectible, my seiko SNK809 is a collectible to me.
Like RJ said find one you love, but more importantly get it with a special meaning, a graduation, an anniversary of something, birthday, to commemorate an occasion, then your first watch will become a forever keepsake/heirloom❤ I have a video of my first watches on my channel (shameless plug)
I agree tha a purchase should be emotional but it does not have to start and 5000-50000 dollars or euros. I am also over this nonsense of buying a watch during a mile stone, that to me is not emotional, it is objective. I do ot need an excuse or milestone to buy s really well crafted watch, the watch is the thing to me.
Thankful for RJ here. This is the voice we needed for this video. You need to have passion. I think inexpensive watches can be an absolute pleasure but I don’t think you can decide what will give you pleasure based on a price tag, high or low. Buying a “starter” watch is a bad idea. Check reviews so you know what to expect, it’s why I make them, but choose a watch that excites you, not one you “should like.” That’s how the hobby ignites within you.
Depends what you want to figure out. For instance, if you don't wear a watch at all, and wonder if it will be something you enjoy on the wrist, and if it will be comfortable, I would even condone getting an hommage watch to just feel it out. Because it's better to figure out you don't like wearing watches for 150 bucks than for 15.000 Euro's, if you take a submariner as an example. And yes, I'm talking grey market prices, because Submariner.
Similarly, I bought a starter Golf set some 15 years ago, and played with it a lot, but now I figure I return to my passion of frisbee-golf. This Golf set has served me well, but I'm also happy to walk away from golf knowing that I only blew 500 bucks on the clubs.
That said, if you are certain you want a watch and will wear it, and you know what you like: Go for it.
Whether buying a starter watch is a good or bad idea is highly personal.
@ yeah I’ve actually been planning on talking about the role hommage watches can play in the “test drive” concept to get a feel for a format, in a future video. It’s definitely a factor. I don’t think you’re wrong about a budget exploratory purchase but I also think whatever you do spend money on, whether a lot or a little money, it should be something you care about owning and not something someone else says is a “must buy” starter watch. It’ll never click with you if it’s not something you look forward to wearing. There are a lot of quality budget options these days, in my opinion is smart to take a little time and research them, and choose the one that calls to you. If none of them does but a 5k Tudor excites you, that might be the right choice for you. It’s so personal. Thanks for responding, btw, I really appreciate your insight. Frisbee golf has always looked fun to me. Maybe I should try it.
Spend $50 or $100. See what you like about it. Case thickness, dial color, lug width, case diameter. If you love it all, keep your money and never buy another. If you decide something doesn’t work then do some research and address the previous shortcoming with a new watch. Rinse and repeat. You will figure out what works for you and you won’t be burning money.
I think the price is secondary to a certain degree! It should be a watch you'll love wearing. And feel comfortable wearing.
My first mechanical was a Seiko 5, one of the SNKLs. I learned to strap hack, size bracelets, dropping it and panicking, and getting to know my local watchmakers. I was a student at the time, and when I got a proper job I could buy the Tudor BB58 I’d been wanting for years. I’m glad I got to make some mistakes on a cheaper watch - which I still own and love, btw.
I think you have to like what you want to wear and buy then price comes into the equation. It seem like Seiko is always a good starting point: reasonably priced, has history and interesting designs. My first mechanical was one of the Seiko SRP 5 diver models. As one starts to learn more about watches then other makes and models will come into play. If one is wealthy then buy a really nice first time watch. It is kind the same idea of buying a high-end stereo system or camera and lens. There is a learning curve.
Spending X amount is subjective and difficult to say because everyone is different. You need to ask yourself, do I want more than one watch? Do I want to collect watches? What is my current lifestyle and income? Will my lifestyle and income change in the future? There are many ways to approach the world of mechanical luxury or affordable timepieces. A basic rule of thumb to buy your first piece. Save 4 months' salary, or save for an entry-level versatile luxury timepiece (Tudor, Grand Seiko, Omega) are the middle of the road and you can go anywhere from that point. For me, my collector journey, rules, and philosophy is...
1) I buy what I like. If I see that I don't or will not wear a watch. I will sell it.
2) I buy a watch every 5-7 years, sometimes less depending on what I encounter.
3) I have kept my small collection to 2-8 watches, less is more, quality over quantity.
4) All my watches are one-and-done types. All are strap monsters. All are monochromatic.
5) My watches serve a purpose and are for lifestyle functions and occasions.
6) I have bought at retail and paid no more than retail. Or I buy pre-owned
7) All my watches are versatile
8) All my watches are foundation pieces
9) I stay away from trends and hype watches. I don't jump into the latest watches.
10) I took years to get to where I am. I started collecting watches in the 90s.
11) I avoided fashion watches and avoided buying a bunch of affordable watches.
12) I set my goal and save for what
13) I try on watches in person several times before I decide to buy them.
13) I try to stay with timeless designs
14) I try to stay within a certain price point
15) I'm lucky to have what I have and be content with what I own
My collection after years of trading selling and upgrading way before I knew people collected watches as they do now.
IWC Pilot Mark XV... 1996
Heuer Carrera 1964 re-edition... 1998
Rolex Submariner 14060M... 2004
Patek Philippe Calatrava 5196G... 2008 (my only silver/grey dial)
Panerai Luminor PAM 312... 2008
JLC Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931... 2013
Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch cal 1861... 2015
Rolex Explorer 36mm... 2021
Seiko SRP777 Turtle... 2022
It's difficult to decide what to wear because these are very close to my taste and style.
I think you can be passionate about affordable watch (seiko, citizen and etc) while still having that grail watch you want to own at some point. I think it makes sense to start with affordable watches that you truly enjoy so you can learn about mechanic watches and how to maintain before buying an expensive one. There's no need to rush. Just be selective and don't buy a whole bunch of cheap ones. That's how I started and eventually was able to sell most of my affordable watches. Great topic
had to laugh at the 5K - 25K example. Like... 5K salary and you get a 25K watch... mortgage, car, family and food all be damned :)
taxes…)
My first was an Invicta…ten years later I decided on a Longines and ended up purchasing an Omega Aquaterra, and it has been an adventure since then. I still have them all- and the Invicta still runs.
My journey was a mix of what was mentioned…. I started out sewing my horological oats with cheaper mechanical watches, but then got the new Speedy for my military retirement milestone thinking I’d be done, yet somehow I still want to try more! I never have more than 5 in the box, so for me it’s more about the knowledge gained and the fun of the hobby once I bought the bug. But 4 years later I am stepping back and trying not to buy more and just save up for the big rocks. Great episode as always gents!
My watch journey:
- Inherited a 60s seamaster in ‘20 which made me fall in love with watches.
- Purchased an Orient Kamasu 2 in ‘21, wore it every day except for special occasions (in favor of a dressier seamaster)
- Purchased a white dial speedy a few weeks ago.
While I was considering some higher end pieces in the beginning and throughout this time, they were never really in the cards. I’m so happy I held out for what I really wanted. Now that I have what I want, I don’t look at what’s on my wrist and wish it was anything else or wish there was anything more in between this and the Orient.
For me, my first serious watch is the timeless Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 38, not super expensive, but it was what I felt comfortable of spending. Then roughly after 8 months, I decided to just went for my grail, which is the Breitling Navitimer B01 with the golden winged logo. I spent about half of my savings for it at that time, but I really wanted my grail watch to be with me on my wrist in my wedding which was just few months away. My wife complained a bit that I spend more on watches than on wedding rings😂
Love hearing Fartello dialog.
I recommend to not pay under 1.000$/€, which is round about the starting price for automatic Swiss watches ;) you can pay less but likely you'll want to upgrade soon.
Great presentation on an important topic. I made the "mistake" of buying several placeholders as I could not afford the Rolex and Omega's in my collection. The panel needs to speak up into the microphone to pick up their comments. Thanks!
I started off with the super cheap $15-$20 watches in Walmart not knowing or caring about the watch world. Then I wanted something more reliable and longer lasting for fashion purposes, which was my sub $300 Seiko chronograph. Now (and some $200-$700 dollar watches later) I'm waiting on my first watch , which is just over $1000 , which is the Maen ultra-thin Manhattan. I think this is the only point I ever thought about and cared about getting a luxury watch and maybe if I cared sooner I'd skip on all the seikos, and casios and have a couple "entry-level" luxury watches, but I don't think I regret it (yet).
Daydate 18038 blue vignette without papers for the 1st watch i bought by myself
Is there a chance there are replaced parts? Of course, but I'm not fussy about it
For a one watch collection 2 x monthly salary (net) is what I would suggest you could save up for a watch in a year or so and keep it for the rest of your life. If you think you might go down the rabbit hole and buy more watches in the years to come (become a collector) I would say 25% of one months salary for first watch makes more sense as you figure out your taste and style.
The best answer.... Save and spend enough to by a Speedmaster Professional.
I had a little back and forth with someone on the comments section on a different UA-cam video. The guy was saying that nobody should buy a Rolex as their first watch, suggesting you should start with something less expensive, to see if you’re into watches first. I told him I absolutely disagree, and said people can get into the hobby with totally different financial situations. If you could comfortably get a Rolex as your first watch, then why the hell not? Heck if you can get a Patek as your first watch, why not?
I bought a Seiko 5 SNK357 about 6 months ago for around $250 AUD (I think). I have been obsessed with mechanical watches ever since. After months of obsessing about it, I'm about to buy the Seiko Navigator Timer reissue (SPB411) for $2100 AUD which is a significant amount for me at this stage in life.
Around 300 to 750 euro is the sweetspot in my opinion. Not too expensive, but also not badly finished. Watches in the sub 250 euro category always dissapoint a bit.
Im a Seiko snob, but i have a Certina that is a little more expensive. If i would go to get another watch, it would be a Quartz Grand Seiko or a Oris Aquis👌🏼
First warch i ever bought for myself was a g shock mudman (the original) in what they were calling at the time OD Green with a negative display. Paid maybe $75 for it at the time? I'd have to look at my eBay history. Anyway, i still wear it to this day and still love it. So much so that I've bought replacement oem straps for it and replacement gaskets, to keep it going. I dont wear digital watches as much as i used to but it goes to show, you don't gotta spend a lot to get a lot, you just have a love the watch you're buying. If thats a $75 watch, great, if thats a $700 hamilton, great. Doesn't matter.
Your first watch should be given to you , makes it more special and sets off your collection as an emotional piece
The limit is that is has to cost less than your wedding ring.
A quartz can still be a first expensive watch you buy for yourself and gets you into other mechanical watches.
I started with the Seiko Turtle and then went the Casio route 😅
Writing out quartz like that should stop.
IMHO, for your first mechanical watch, above all take your time. Don’t rely on Insta for inspiration; do your own research, research, research. Never get into debt to buy a watch. Never, ever. If you can’t afford it save up it until you can. Have a separate watch purchase money pot, but not at the expense of spending priorities like food, warmth, mortgage, taxes.
If you can try watches on. Lots of them. Comfort can be a huge factor as well as design, brand, history, or whatever is important to you. Ask yourself if you would wear your first watch every day. That is the critical question. If yes 👍, if no 👎
On a philosophical point, I disagree with RJ when he says “don’t compromise”. Everything is life is a compromise. Nobody *needs* any watch these days. Whatever you buy it must above all be fun and enjoyable, not worrying and stressful.
I think (as the discussion showed) it's really hard to separate the "how much?" from the "why?"
My best advise will be take your time( to dig out ) a bit, before buy the watch that you want .
I don't own any luxury watches - my first mechanical was an Invicta 1953, my second was a Timex MK1 Mechanical, and my third was a Seiko Land Tortoise. I'm still happy with my choices, but I'd advise someone else to go with a Seiko, Citizen, Orient, or Timex for their first mechanical watch...if they buy what speaks to them without going to the poor house, it will always be a special watch. While I still like my Invicta, it's a little embarrassing to own one.
First was a Hamilton Khaki Field mechanical, which I'd never sell - would only gift, maybe to my dad.
When buying anything I try to go by the mantra buy the best you can afford
Place holders are very horrible; Collectibles are ay every price point, new collectors have to be taught this lesson. To me, a very attractive G Shock that I love which is subjective is collectible to me, a vintage seiko5 speed timer can be a collectible, vintage Omega, entry level Longines like a legend deiver or Big Eye can also be a collectible, my seiko SNK809 is a collectible to me.
Like RJ said find one you love, but more importantly get it with a special meaning, a graduation, an anniversary of something, birthday, to commemorate an occasion, then your first watch will become a forever keepsake/heirloom❤ I have a video of my first watches on my channel (shameless plug)
I agree tha a purchase should be emotional but it does not have to start and 5000-50000 dollars or euros. I am also over this nonsense of buying a watch during a mile stone, that to me is not emotional, it is objective. I do ot need an excuse or milestone to buy s really well crafted watch, the watch is the thing to me.
$5000-$10000, anything less you need to work harder, stop thinking about luxury watches.
Hahahahahah 😂
You're fun.
My first was a BB58 for under £3000. I feel attacked 😂
@@John-wf5ifbb58 is an incredible first piece