Last year I got a Seiko 5 GMT close to its launch. Same day it arrived I had previously arranged to visit the AD (in Scotland) to buy Jaeger LeCoultre. Obviously I had it on, but realised I might regret it as I walked through the AD door. I took it off to try on a Master Control Calendar. The salesman immediately spotted it - "is that the new Seiko GMT?" - Yes. "wow - not seen one yet - can we have a look?" It spent the next 10 mins being passed round the shop (they don't sell Seiko). Lots of "Mmm, nice", "how can they do this for the price" and so on. They were genuinely interested and complimentary. I left with my Seiko, a new JLC and a big smile.
I'm wearing the same Seiko GMT to track the time at home, in Italy, while I'm working in Australia. I'm a waiter in a fine dining restaurant here. People walk in the restaurant with Rolex, Omega, VC, Patek, Panerai... just your average customers. Never received so many compliments about a watch, it's a great conversation starter. Worth noting that I'm wearing the orange version, so it's super flashy...
I had the very same experience with my 35mm Tissot PRX at a Grand Seiko boutique - the staff were genuinely impressed with the level of fit and finish, the overall style but especially the proportions - good design is good design and when it’s well executed the name on the dial nor the price make any difference
Almost the same thing happened to me when visiting an Omega store wearing my Tissot PRX Powermatic. Good brands and their salesman are probably well trained to understand quality vs. brand vs. pricing point to admire a good product and, in turn, earn the trust of a customer.
My best friend had been chasing an oyster perpetual a year and a half, and when he got it, I was genuinely happy for him to the point that I think I was even more excited that he finally got it. Mind you, knowing that I couldn’t afford a Rolex for myself
I started noticing watches a year ago and would spark up a conversation every time I saw a watch I liked on someones wrist. Whether it was a speedmaster, citizen, tag, vintage omega, Daytona or even Casio's. I often found that no matter the price point, the person was wearing their watch with pride and could tell me exactly when, where, how and why they bought it/ received it. These conversations filled with no bias has sparked my interest and then stumbling across this channel sparked it even more. I am so, so, sooo excited to receive my first watch (Orient Mako 3) in a couple of days. Love the content Teddy.
Nouveaux riches -- who, almost by definition, are significantly more visible than wealthy people -- give a distorted impression of what 'the rich' are like.
I agree with all of these 100%- except for a little bit on the window shopping- I think that’s a bit harsh. Sometimes it is nice to go in and look and handle a watch that maybe you can’t afford right now- but it’s just fun to dream- I think for some of us the shopping experience- which sometimes may drag out for years- is as fun as the actual purchase and is often used as motivation to work towards something you just really want. I think good sales people can make this discernment and still be very helpful to people they know aren’t quite customers yet.
Same here, but I usually go in with the h”ey im here just to look around and test somethings in the watch”, I usually kinda say this verbatim when i enter an AD/jewelry/ watchshop, so if the seller sees a better sales op they can give it i him rather than help the nerd scenario 😂. It happened to me last year in a jeweler in Spain, I said hey i just wanna check some models, not gonna buy anything, and they gave me a guy who just closed a sale, which really took off the pressure from both, he made his sale, and I got a good service at the store win-win
Yeah I feel like the AD can usually get the vibe you’re putting out when you’re just dream shopping. They get that you’re not ready to buy yet but they still want to plant the seeds if and when you’re ready. When you signal that vibe then if another customer arrives they know to prioritize them while you wrap up or continue to window shop. Probably the kind of person Teddy is describing is a different breed then us dream shoppers
I get the feeling Teddy is describing the person that goes all the way on a sale right up until it's time to start doing paperwork and backs out. Then does this several times. The whole time they put a false signal out that they're really going to buy something.
Agreed, sometimes it takes a few views and a few tries on the wrist before you can pull the trigger. The first time you see a watch you love it, a few months later perhaps, you don’t feel the same excitement.
I think if you make it clear to the sales staff, there's no harm. But you'd be surprised, there are genuinely people who go through the whole act of making it look like they're there to purchase that day, and then just leave. Intentionally. I think it's totally fine if you had all the intent to purchase a watch, but then the watch just didn't meet your expectations, but I don't think that's what Teddy's getting at here.
He who says he can, and he who says he can't, are both usually right. Pull your pants up fuck face. Find Christ, begin to become who you could be. We need you.
Hey Teddy! I recently began selling luxury watches at Dillard’s (of all places) in Florida and watching your videos has made me one of the top sellers in my district! You are truly a master of this subject matter. 💪🏽
Thanks for great video! Another type of enthusiast, is the person who buys a watch, is disappointed and flips it without giving it a chance to “grow” on you. I’ve had lots of pieces I immediately found to be not quite satisfied with but grew to really appreciate after living with them a while.
Teddy is describong these types with the utmost precision. So eloquently phrased, so meticulously framed. Teddy is probably the best reviewer / dealer out there. The combination of fairness and scrutiny is rare, Teddy can pull it off, without hurting anybody's feelings. Chapeau..!
About the window shopper: there's probably a subset of people that are into watches, have 1-2 pieces that are $500-1000 and aspire to something in the $5k+ range but cannot afford it. That is/was me in NYC recently. While there I wanted to go look at and try on nice watches because I wouldn't really have the opportunity again for a long time. I walked into the GS boutique with my SPB213 and was completely upfront with the sales person and made sure that I wasn't getting in the way of the 1-2 other people in the store who seemed like they would actually buy something. It was a really great experience and he seemed happy to put watches in my hands.
This is what is great about you tube as a medium- it’s a true media democracy - no personality is just forced upon you, if a creator is a jerk or an idiot, then they just aren’t successful- and the people who are successful are almost always nice, pleasant, enjoyable, and talented people like Teddy.
If only it were true for all, there's like one watch youtuber that's like a rolex snob that is straight up a jerk and will put out false info on purpose
ahha, you mean internet celebrities in general are successful because they are good people, very talented, and great role models. right. :) no, people are idiots, there are tons of people with millions of followers that are morons... i do appreciate the sentiment i like Teddy's videos for the most part too, i just think your statement is kinda wrong.
Great video. I have a small collection of watches. They range in price from $69 to $2,000 and I never think about them on a dollar value scale or by brand reputation. I wear each of them because I like the way they look and what the watch means to me. I have a hard time wrapping my mind around anything else.
It'd crazy how watch collecting has changed my mindset on money. I recently had to pay $1000 dollars to replace axles and bearings for my car, which is quite a lot of money. But then the next day I'm looking at watches that are over $1000 and I'm saying to myself, "Wow that's not too expensive. I can afford that." But in reality I cant afford to spend so much on something not necessary like a busted car that I need to fix so I can work to live. It's just so weird. I've never had this with other hobbies, so I'm constantly having to catch myself and not make spur of the moment purchases.
Goes the same for guns lol. Dropped $1200 on a numbers matching soviet manufacturer sks and told myself I got a great deal. Had to get dental work done, same price. Told myself I don't think I'll ever financial recover from this. Now keep in mind I collect both guns AND watches lmao. My finances are so out of whack 😫
@IntrovertSwag Cheby is talking about modifications. Even cheap mods that dont do much for performance are easily $500+ depending on the car. Its easy to spend 3k on car mods
I really appreciate the care and thoughtfulness that went into this video. There are great reminders here for most of us. I certainly recognize the need to occasionally check myself. Here’s a little mantra I’ve taken away from Teddy’s message; “There’s room for everyone. If you truly love watches, you should be able to find the beauty in any timepiece. (Even if it’s not for you) Don’t be a jerk.”
While I can certainly understand the frustration on the "window shopper" category from a sales perspective I do feel that people have the right to look and consider something without feeling obligated to buying (especially with relatively luxury purchases like cars or watches). Maybe they found a better deal somewhere else, maybe their financial situation changed. Personally I work mainly B2B but I've experienced much the same situation and there are several times where we spend days putting together an offer, contacting subsuppliers to get their prices etc. and then never hearing back, it's just part of the game. When it comes to higher end watches it might also be a potential future customer so if a store gives a bad impression denying the college kid to try on something fairly pricey like a Glashutte Original or Omega they might lose a customer down the line.
Completely agree, I'm the kind of person that takes forever to finally purchase anything as I enjoy "the hunt", last month while in Vegas with some friends, we were window shopping. I was wearing my square gschock and honestly I wasn't looking to buy anything on that trip but after I got scuffed at and treated very poorly in one place and then greatly at another, somehow I ended up "impulse buying" a GS that I've been drooling over and researching for years. I guess i just needed to be treated with decency, I know it will take me years of research for my next watch but now I know a great place to buy it when I finally decide to pull the trigger.
@@skrem23 And how does he know if they have the intention to or not? If they move on to a different store and buy something there instead without saying anything to him it will be the exact same experience as if they didn't buy anything at all. The amount of people with zero intention of ever buying a watch that takes up considerable time of a salesperson I'd set at pretty low, many might decide that the purchase just isn't for them and that group would be much higher in my estimation.
Completely agree! Why I have to deny myself the pleasure to put on my wrist a luxury piece that I can't afford (for now) and appreciate the feeling just for the sake of it?
Yes exactly. So often the sales person very quickly seem to give up or even show they are now bored because you’re not buying within 10 minutes. Same can happen with expensive shoes. Pushy sales tactics are fine in a bazar, but not in a high end boutique.
Hey Teddy. As a longtime silent viewer I just want to say thank you for your great videos. Watchcollecting and the watch-hobby in generell without your videos are kind of unthinkable. Keep up the cool channel. 👍🏼
I cant stress enough how much I hate putting a scratch on a watch. I'm the same with most things and do all I can to keep my stuff looking like new. Having said that I do wear them all.
I really hate getting a scratch on a watch too! I’m trying not to obsess over it so much. It’s strange - if I buy a used watch that already has a few scratches here and there, I’m a lot less careful and obsessive about it. But It’s like that first scratch on a nice pristine watch just takes away its watch virginity or something LOL!😅
THAT is why I own an Omega Speedmaster (2006), I wear it all the time and it is Steel and still has not yet scratched although it has banged into a few things- built like a TANK...
It is only natural, but if it happens you are getting used to it eventually, and maybe from time to time it crawls in the back of your mind to bother you. At least that's how I feel
I struggle with this too, but I love most of my watches and want to wear them regularly. Just part of the ownership experience. I also drive myself crazy trying to keep my car nice.
It’s like Teddy reads our minds! This is a perfect summary of watch collectors i’ve seen around. I love wearing my watchest but been guilty from being scared of scratching them and when a scratch does happen, having sleepless night to get over it
What an excellent episode, Teddy. Right on in so many ways … and so badly needing to be said. Our hobby, like all things in life it seems nowadays, suffers badly from “it’s all about me” syndrome, and I greatly appreciate your calling it out. I love your always-candor. Big kudos and thanks!
I enjoy wearing all my watches.. I do admit to being careful about getting scratches but it will never stop me from wearing them.. it nice to see them on wrist 😊
I love the enjoy the watches you can afford attitude. That is why I follow your channel Teddy…..you show a great range for every watch person/collector 👍🏻
what you said about gshock to high end luxury watch hit me in the feels. the first real non-burger king watch i ever got was a shock from my parents after finishing my first year of high school. wore that thing almost every day even sometimes in college! i started getting into watches seriously around 2021 and saw the omega seamaster in black and it spoke to me. january of this year i was able to afford it due to starting a new job...it's all about the journey!
I went bargain hunting for my first mechanical watch with a $1000 budget, and luckily I managed to get 2 new watches (due to store sales prices). I shared this to the watch group I recently joined and luckily no snob there which was encouraging especially to new enthusiast like me. Thank you Teddy for all of your inputs. Love the work you and your team put out for us!
Great video Teddy. The tunnel vision one - or putting your personal tastes on everyone - is one I’ve seen a lot. I’ve also been victim to the seeking fulfillment one. Great to see these all played out, and honestly very helpful.
You nailed it Teddy. One thing I’ve noticed myself doing as of late is comparing watches to one’s that are slightly more expensive. It’s a slippery slope and find myself saying “well if I just put a few more thousand bucks, then I can just buy this instead”. I often have to reel myself back and get to the fundamentals.
Hi Teddy, apologies havent gotten through the video yet but just wanted to thank you for putting out some of the best watch content on the platform, I bought my grail a few days ago, the Longines conquest 39mm in the blue dial considering and saving up after watching your review on it a few months ago. Cheers and keep doing what you do
I am a sneaker collector and every one of these types is in the sneaker game. Deadstock shoes and collections are never worn, just to turn to dust in 20 years. Kids are going to debt for hype sneaker releases just to profit $70 in 3 years. Then you have the guys who wear high-resell-priced shoes and become snobs as they will never wear any shoe worth under 1k. Resellers in the sneaker game are worse than in the watch game. $20 profit is enough for them to buy a 1k bot with 1k worth of proxies just to get 2 pairs. The watch game is like the shoe game.
Every time I think this whole watch thing has gone a bit crazy I remind myself of the sneaker “scene”, and suddenly everything seems kind of sane in comparison.
As a window shopper, I feel that test driving a watch or car is important to know if it will be worth the investment. It's like saying that going to see a few properties that you might be interested in buying is a waste of time for a seller or an agent. I think that is just the type of encounter a seller of these products should be accustomed to. These are expensive items and it is in the best interest of the seller to cater to potential buyers if they wish to earn a commission.
Wow, this video was filled with wisdom that can apply to many collectors. I am a lowercase watch collector who owns only one high-end watch (an Omega Seamaster) but I am a serious knife collector with many budget, mid-range and high-end blades. Everything you discussed here applies to that world as well. You've earned my subscription. Well done!
Teddy. Thank you for posting this! It simply needed to be said, and I’m glad you said it. Great summary of a bit of dark side associated with a great hobby.
I got into collecting because i inherited a Longines from my grandfather. I really enjoy the mechanical aspect of them and the relationship you develop with them as you wear them. I've never been around other watch enthusiasts or anything but i have noticed a lot of toxicity on the Internet.
Great video again Teddy! Over the course of my journey with watches I know I have been a few of these characters and have certainly met all of them. Snobs at either end of the price range are exhausting - but I also realise that it's a great litmus test of someone's character 😅 I met a watch snob and can think "ok, next!"
Reddit is full of people hating on Rolex especially. Post after post about how brand X is better than Rolex. This is not what collecting is about if you like brand X, that's great! You don't need to hate on Rolex to make your point. Let other people collect what they like, and you do the same. Many collectors have Rolexes, and many don't...and THAT'S OK! RELAX!
There used to be a meme around about watch ppl attitude toward Rolex, love as a noob, then hate as you learn, then eventually at least respect for what Rolex is.
Rolex is kinda responsible for the hate it gets. People don't beat down on AP or GS or VC or Omega even remotely as much as Rolex and there's probably a reason why.
A more encompassing observation would be that some people are more concerned about other people's collections instead of searching for pieces that speak to them.
Why are you thanking him? He pushes watches to make money. He makes videos with Mr Wonderful, showing watches most people will never afford. He seems like a nice guy, but actions speak louder than words.
Some Great Points! One thing I've found is sometimes watches that I didn't wear because they were in 'Mint' condition (and thus got traded away) were later replaced with ones I will keep forever once they got 'broke in' properly with those first few scratches I couldn't be bothered to put on them. Happy how it worked out, but had I worn the originals as I should have, it would have corrected itself - probably for less co$t. Also, some watches that don't look that impressive when new, take on a very different appeal once they are lived in a bit. That may lead to servicing and maintenance later, but once you've been served faithfully, you will not mind faithfully returning that investment into such great long term keepers.
Great presentation Teddy! Great validating points! I’ve been guilty of some of these things, but have changed my habits to being courteous and respectful to others feelings and their time. Loved this!
In fairness, it's not limited to watch collecting, those are universal sins that come with the act of collecting itself : pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony and sloth.
This is a good one. Don’t be that person. Funny you mentioned the Seiko 5 GMT. I got a Black Bay Pro, then later that year I snatched the orange Seiko GMT. I enjoy them both. People need to lighten up and just enjoy.
Great comments mate. It’s the watch snobs that get me. Once had a convo with a watch collector aboard a cruise ship. Told him I was after 3 Tag Heuer watches, Monaco, Monza and Silverstone models. Well I listened to him rubbish-the brand for the next 10 minutes. According to this muppet, it was Rolex, AP, JLC etc or nothing. Told him his was a drop kick and left.
I think the window shopper tab comes from personal experience more than a logical pov. If a person goes and tests drive every car at a dealership and decides to get nothing, that person reserves that right. It’s the sales persons job to provide info on the item regardless of a sale or not. Most sales people who don’t work on hourly wages get a thousand no’s before the actual sale. Even then it’s not wasting anybody’s time to be more knowledgeable in a item that one day you’ll be able to afford.
I have 6 watches in my collection that here to stay, for the other 6,it's a permanent rotation, I like the process of looking for and buying watches su much! So I buy them, wear them and resell them within a year, with usually a small loss that I see as a kind of rent to be paid. So not a flipper per se, but a "rotationer". Thanks for the video Teddy
Im still new to watch-interest, kinda late to the game but enjoying the learning process. I appreciate Teddy's outlook and perspective on life in general- its refreshing.
The Unrealistic Expectations Collector and the Critic are tied for the most annoying. They’re followed closely by the Snobby Elitist, the Reverse Snob, and the Scalper.
Overall a well thought out commentary and I agree with most - however would temper the “window shopper” category. When I was younger I would often visit high end boutiques to look at watches I knew I couldn’t afford. I didn’t give false pretences to the sales people - “just looking” - but did ask lots of questions. This was a valuable learning experience and pleasurable in its own right. Now I own some of the pieces that I dreamt of years ago. This hobby is a process. It’s ok to visit a Patek or Journe dealer to ogle and marvel - maybe own one 10-20 years later. But agree - don’t misrepresent your intentions.
"A great watch is not gonna make out for a garbage human being." -- T. Baldasarre 🤗👊🏼👏🏼...worth quoting. I am a mature, self-owning prep who collects watches. But I can bet that what I have saved for retirement is twice, if not triple what my snobby elitist acquaintances have. They've got attitude and an extremely expensive watch or two. That's about it.
Hallo Teddy, I absolutely like your honesty. It is so important that we first are nice individuals, no matter what we do. And you bring that out perfectly, well done. It doesn't matter if someone likes to collect watches for minimum money or expensive watches. The main thing is that the person is happy with himself and others. Thank you, and as always, love from Switzerland 🇨🇭
Another great episode as expected Teddy. I know that the Grey Market vs AD and boutique shopping has been covered by other channels but hoping that you can as well. I am definitely in the minority as one who travels internationally a lot and could be gone for several months in a row - it is for this reason that I buy exclusively from my AD knowing that wherever I am in the world, I can get my Omega serviced. Buying from the grey market scares me for this reason, even though significantly cheaper in most cases - Am I wrong about my trepidation?
Fun topic and great video! I can see a bit of "Afraid To Wear" in myself, though I have recognized it and gotten better. I used to save the most expensive watch in my collection for special occasions. Then I woke up and understood I had this great watch just sitting in my watch box. Now it is one of my most worn watches. It even has a small scratch and I am totally fine with it!
This is amazing! In all honesty, you just identified qualities of toxic people to avoid in general. This video is not just applicable in watch collecting.
I have a lot of watches, among them some that are quite expensive for most people. One of my favourites though is the Orient Bambino open heart in stainless steel bracelet and Roman numerals, which was a gift from my girlfriend for my nameday and started my watch collection hobby. I still wear it a lot as a daily after all this time. Price doesn’t matter, all that matters is the story behind the watch and the memories you make with it. Furthermore, I also love my Junghans Meister Fein Automatic Signatur that I bought together with my father from Munich airport a few months ago, it will forever remind me of this trip and of course it’s all thanks to your Max Bill video which introduce me to this amazing brand. Watches are indeed things that remind us people and life stories. Amazing video as always!
I've learnt to enjoy watch collecting without necessarily wanting to get into the luxury category. I'm happy enjoying my Bambino, G Shock and microbrands which have a lot of variety. I see that money as being a potential investment later on.
Great video. I have some pretty high end watches but I love some of the cheapest watches out there. It’s really in the eye of the beholder. I just bought two reissue Timex’s, a green face Marlin automatic and a blue face ‘78 Quartz. For two days I was going to the wind every time I heard a truck like a kid looking to see Santa. Get what you like and you’ll be excited. This is why I hate those videos where someone comments about “what your watch says about you”. I may wear a Batman Rolex GMT one day and my new Marlin the next.
I want to start off by saying thank you for your contributions to the watch community. I have really enjoyed learning from you and discovering new brands and pieces along the way and I feel we are all better off because of your contributions. I think we all fight elements of these types of collector everyday. Watches are beautiful pieces of art but they are luxury goods and are inherently ostentatious to some degree. How much we let that define our relationship with them is where the rubber meets the road but we all face that fact. As someone with retail business ownership experience I find some of your latter comments to be extremely off putting and misguided. People that are not ready to purchase today but are asking you questions are clients down the line or buyers elsewhere. I always try to be respectful of a salespersons time but these are often big purchases regardless of ones net worth and to expect a purchase on day one is in bad taste. Possibly they took their money elsewhere. If you can't deal with this I would consider going online only. If any of your salespeople overly complain of this, you have the wrong folks. You never know who has purchasing intent and ability. I wish you all the best and look forward to watching your future videos.
I get this one a lot personally. The one that thinks everybody wants a Rolex. It's not that I have anything against high end watches as I love Omega, IWC, Jaeger Lecoultre. I just don't see the hype with Rolex other than knowing non watch enthusiasts will know what it is.
My first realization as a new collector was never say I don't like something. It's just I don't like it right now. When I started, I thought only diver watches are cool and everything else is boring or not my style. Gold watches especially seemed tacky and gross. Now, I'm trying to decide which organ I can live without so I can buy a 2 tone day/date. Side note, what's the trade value of a gallbladder? No box, but my birth certificate counts as papers right?
Excellent video Teddy! I know I've caught myself being overly critical at times when it comes to watches. Speaking on the Rolex puzzle piece watch, please consider doing a video on creative chances that you'd like to see watch companies take. Here are some Rolex ones that come to mind for me: 1. Titanium Rolex Explorer 1 & 2 2. Rolex Datejust with GMT hand 3. More colours for Submariner (Brown & Red) 4. A complicated dress watch from Rolex (leather strap, exhibition caseback, 40mm or less)
Teddy, I have been binge watching your videod and I used to be obsessed with car tuning and that's an expensive habit spending thousands on car parts and now it's become watches ever since I was gifted a pawned Panerai Luminor Marina. I was told car enthiusiasts tend to gravitate toward watches as well. I bought an Orient Bambino and it was nice but then I saw a Hamilton Khaki King and I said I would wait to save and JUST last night at 3am after watching your video I just couldn't help myself and bought it for $475. = )
I almost laughed out loud at the window shopping category. You can’t buy a Rolex if you walk into the store without an “existing account” with the AD which effectively encourages flipping. Window shop all you want.
This was not my experience. I bought one recently with no purchase history. My brother got 2 in the last 2 years from different ADs. Again with no purchase history. The wait was annoying, but the ADs delivered .
Teddy, I'm a new collector who found your channel a couple weeks ago and have been watching a bunch of your videos. I just bought a relatively modest Baltic and love it. Your knowledge is impressive and your attitude in this video is commendable, particularly regarding snobbery. You are a good influence and it's appreciated.
Im so glad I'm not on the list 😂 I'm the "Buy what i like and can afford" type of collector. My last watch was Beam Me Up by Mr Jones, I'm waiting on the Casio with Tiffany™ dial and hope to buy a Tudor Royal on my 40th birthday.
I love the royal Also the white and blue 1926 is gorgeous Might buy a few of these kinds of watches over the next few years if I save up But my next “real” purchase will probably be a skydweller when I’ve paid off the house in 7 years because I’ve accepted I’ll probably never be able to afford the day date, nautilus, Royal Oak, any tourbillion or perpetual calendar either But if I could the IWC da Vinci perpetual calendar would be it or the rose gold nautilus perpetual calendar We can all dream I suppose
Been watching a lot of your videos as of late and I agree there is no one watch that does it. I have a small collection that started with a Citizen (bought on a cruise) and have since added Bulova, Fossil, Rudiger, etc. The brands are nothing major, but the watches all tell time and there was something in each of them that sparked that purchase. The Fossil is a automatic skeleton and Bulova has a beautiful deep blue face and is square in shape. It something little in each one and none of them broke the bank. The latest purchase that is on it's way is a Xeric Tryptic. I love the wandering hour and will never drop the serious coin to get one any other way from other brands that make them. I appreciate the way you approach collecting with a humble attitude and find the beauty at many different price points.
Teddy you have a good head on your shoulders and very humble. Your logic and views of watches has aided me in my watch purchases since I discovered your Videos. Thanks again and keep up the great work and passion.
I recently realized I would probably be considered a “window shopper”. I’ve been to ADs several times and I’m sure I’ve made some sales associates mad but I really was trying to make a decision on what I want. I decided the perfect watch for me is a Pelagos 39 and since then I’ve stopped. I guess the difference for me is that I fully intend to buy the watch but can’t currently. I’d consider myself a future customer
You’re totally fine IMO. I think Teddy was just talking about the type of person who continuously tries on stuff they never intend to buy and could never afford just to get selfies and wrist shots for their instagram.
I have about 40 watches, ranging from £5.00 which I wear at work,( I do a lot of manual lifting), to Rolex and Tudor. I love them all and go to great lengths to give them all wrist time.
Amen Brother! Watches will not fulfill you and they should not help fill the void of your self worth. They are supposed to be fun! I love your perspective on this wonderful hobby of ours! So refreshing! Kudos!
When I started on my watch collecting journey, I wouldn’t even entertain the thought of owning a watch that wasn’t a Swiss made mechanical. Thank goodness I’ve gotten past that hang up, and I can now appreciate different types of watches. 😅
Same here. I even own a $10 Lego watch because I think it's cool looking. I also have a Rolex Sub-Date. I want anything cool. I was in a surf shop one time to buy some sunscreen. I saw behind the counter they had Nixon surf watches that told you when it high or low tide. I thought that was really cool. A watch that tells you the tides is unique. I walked out with a new watch and some sunscreen.
Enjoyed this! Looking at the many positive subcultures within the culture might be fun, too. As a “get in on the ground floor” and oftentimes “the more unique the better” guy, I enjoy meeting all of the various characters within this weird little world we exist in.
Last year I got a Seiko 5 GMT close to its launch. Same day it arrived I had previously arranged to visit the AD (in Scotland) to buy Jaeger LeCoultre. Obviously I had it on, but realised I might regret it as I walked through the AD door. I took it off to try on a Master Control Calendar. The salesman immediately spotted it - "is that the new Seiko GMT?" - Yes. "wow - not seen one yet - can we have a look?" It spent the next 10 mins being passed round the shop (they don't sell Seiko). Lots of "Mmm, nice", "how can they do this for the price" and so on. They were genuinely interested and complimentary. I left with my Seiko, a new JLC and a big smile.
Seems the AD has earned a public mention, yes? Who was it?
I'm wearing the same Seiko GMT to track the time at home, in Italy, while I'm working in Australia. I'm a waiter in a fine dining restaurant here. People walk in the restaurant with Rolex, Omega, VC, Patek, Panerai... just your average customers. Never received so many compliments about a watch, it's a great conversation starter. Worth noting that I'm wearing the orange version, so it's super flashy...
I had the very same experience with my 35mm Tissot PRX at a Grand Seiko boutique - the staff were genuinely impressed with the level of fit and finish, the overall style but especially the proportions - good design is good design and when it’s well executed the name on the dial nor the price make any difference
It’s just better to go through life trying to find an appreciation for/in all things that are done well then to be snob/jerk
Almost the same thing happened to me when visiting an Omega store wearing my Tissot PRX Powermatic. Good brands and their salesman are probably well trained to understand quality vs. brand vs. pricing point to admire a good product and, in turn, earn the trust of a customer.
"You can actually be happy for other people even if they have something you can't have". Good stuff.
What if people aspired to be / have / do more ... rather than to making everyone else as miserable / impoverished as they are?
One of my favorite sayings is "Comparison is a thief of joy."
@@mariopena2141 preach
Instead of envy I see it as a source of motivation, work harder, find ways to build wealth and you can afford such nice peace's.
My best friend had been chasing an oyster perpetual a year and a half, and when he got it, I was genuinely happy for him to the point that I think I was even more excited that he finally got it. Mind you, knowing that I couldn’t afford a Rolex for myself
I started noticing watches a year ago and would spark up a conversation every time I saw a watch I liked on someones wrist. Whether it was a speedmaster, citizen, tag, vintage omega, Daytona or even Casio's. I often found that no matter the price point, the person was wearing their watch with pride and could tell me exactly when, where, how and why they bought it/ received it. These conversations filled with no bias has sparked my interest and then stumbling across this channel sparked it even more. I am so, so, sooo excited to receive my first watch (Orient Mako 3) in a couple of days. Love the content Teddy.
My guy. You handle so many luxury products and rich people yet you’re very humble and down to earth. Please don’t change. You’re a classy guy
Nouveaux riches -- who, almost by definition, are significantly more visible than wealthy people -- give a distorted impression of what 'the rich' are like.
I agree with all of these 100%- except for a little bit on the window shopping- I think that’s a bit harsh. Sometimes it is nice to go in and look and handle a watch that maybe you can’t afford right now- but it’s just fun to dream- I think for some of us the shopping experience- which sometimes may drag out for years- is as fun as the actual purchase and is often used as motivation to work towards something you just really want. I think good sales people can make this discernment and still be very helpful to people they know aren’t quite customers yet.
Same here, but I usually go in with the h”ey im here just to look around and test somethings in the watch”, I usually kinda say this verbatim when i enter an AD/jewelry/ watchshop, so if the seller sees a better sales op they can give it i him rather than help the nerd scenario 😂. It happened to me last year in a jeweler in Spain, I said hey i just wanna check some models, not gonna buy anything, and they gave me a guy who just closed a sale, which really took off the pressure from both, he made his sale, and I got a good service at the store win-win
Yeah I feel like the AD can usually get the vibe you’re putting out when you’re just dream shopping. They get that you’re not ready to buy yet but they still want to plant the seeds if and when you’re ready. When you signal that vibe then if another customer arrives they know to prioritize them while you wrap up or continue to window shop. Probably the kind of person Teddy is describing is a different breed then us dream shoppers
I get the feeling Teddy is describing the person that goes all the way on a sale right up until it's time to start doing paperwork and backs out. Then does this several times. The whole time they put a false signal out that they're really going to buy something.
Agreed, sometimes it takes a few views and a few tries on the wrist before you can pull the trigger. The first time you see a watch you love it, a few months later perhaps, you don’t feel the same excitement.
I think if you make it clear to the sales staff, there's no harm. But you'd be surprised, there are genuinely people who go through the whole act of making it look like they're there to purchase that day, and then just leave. Intentionally. I think it's totally fine if you had all the intent to purchase a watch, but then the watch just didn't meet your expectations, but I don't think that's what Teddy's getting at here.
Im a true watch enthusiast
I watch videos on watches I'll never afford
ROFL
You're not a true watch enthusiast. I AM a watch enthusiast.
I watch videos on watches I'll never afford, enthusiastically.
So you never saw a Casio UA-cam video?
I mean, that’s a true enthusiast In my opinion…you appreciate the watches regardless of the materialistic aspect
He who says he can, and he who says he can't, are both usually right. Pull your pants up fuck face. Find Christ, begin to become who you could be. We need you.
If people would apply these same principles to life, the world would be a much better place. As always, thank you, Teddy.
Hey Teddy! I recently began selling luxury watches at Dillard’s (of all places) in Florida and watching your videos has made me one of the top sellers in my district! You are truly a master of this subject matter. 💪🏽
Tampa?
@@nedflanders3769 yes sir!
#9… the guy who makes house guests look at his entire watch collection if they express the slightest interest in watches. Oh wait - I am that guy 😂
Id be stoked to see other ppls collection especially their strap-ons....
Yep. My poor roommate knows all about my watches. And knows I'm gonna pause a movie if I want to look at a characters watch. Haha.
lol was feeling a bit attacked in the first half
I have done this with all my friends, my flat mate and my boss who came home once 😂
Wait, this is bad? 😅
“Garbage human being.” Haha. I love the real honest talk.
Great Midwest term. Can we consider Ohio Midwest?
Better than my normal words. Much cleaner. I’ll need to start using it.
Thanks for speaking out!! A lot of us think those things but don't have the platform to share like you do. Very cool of you !
Thanks for great video! Another type of enthusiast, is the person who buys a watch, is disappointed and flips it without giving it a chance to “grow” on you. I’ve had lots of pieces I immediately found to be not quite satisfied with but grew to really appreciate after living with them a while.
Teddy is describong these types with the utmost precision. So eloquently phrased, so meticulously framed. Teddy is probably the best reviewer / dealer out there. The combination of fairness and scrutiny is rare, Teddy can pull it off, without hurting anybody's feelings. Chapeau..!
u😅😅
About the window shopper: there's probably a subset of people that are into watches, have 1-2 pieces that are $500-1000 and aspire to something in the $5k+ range but cannot afford it.
That is/was me in NYC recently. While there I wanted to go look at and try on nice watches because I wouldn't really have the opportunity again for a long time. I walked into the GS boutique with my SPB213 and was completely upfront with the sales person and made sure that I wasn't getting in the way of the 1-2 other people in the store who seemed like they would actually buy something. It was a really great experience and he seemed happy to put watches in my hands.
This is what is great about you tube as a medium- it’s a true media democracy - no personality is just forced upon you, if a creator is a jerk or an idiot, then they just aren’t successful- and the people who are successful are almost always nice, pleasant, enjoyable, and talented people like Teddy.
If only it were true for all, there's like one watch youtuber that's like a rolex snob that is straight up a jerk and will put out false info on purpose
@@tydshiin5783 sure but does he have 800k subscribers?
False, if your agenda doesn't agree with liberalism then you are silenced by youtube. Get that "media democracy" delusion out of here. 😂
@italianstallion3130 The person I think this guy is referring to actually has more. He has over 1 million last time I checked
ahha, you mean internet celebrities in general are successful because they are good people, very talented, and great role models. right. :) no, people are idiots, there are tons of people with millions of followers that are morons... i do appreciate the sentiment i like Teddy's videos for the most part too, i just think your statement is kinda wrong.
Great video. I have a small collection of watches. They range in price from $69 to $2,000 and I never think about them on a dollar value scale or by brand reputation. I wear each of them because I like the way they look and what the watch means to me. I have a hard time wrapping my mind around anything else.
It'd crazy how watch collecting has changed my mindset on money. I recently had to pay $1000 dollars to replace axles and bearings for my car, which is quite a lot of money. But then the next day I'm looking at watches that are over $1000 and I'm saying to myself, "Wow that's not too expensive. I can afford that." But in reality I cant afford to spend so much on something not necessary like a busted car that I need to fix so I can work to live. It's just so weird. I've never had this with other hobbies, so I'm constantly having to catch myself and not make spur of the moment purchases.
No shit, try being an actual car guy and see how the scales tip.
Goes the same for guns lol.
Dropped $1200 on a numbers matching soviet manufacturer sks and told myself I got a great deal.
Had to get dental work done, same price. Told myself I don't think I'll ever financial recover from this.
Now keep in mind I collect both guns AND watches lmao. My finances are so out of whack 😫
@@daniellehotsky1776 I actually do photography, so that's why I'm surprised that I've not had this mindset for buying new lens or gear.
@@X11CHASE What do you mean by actual car guy? I know practically nothing about cars so I don't understand
@IntrovertSwag Cheby is talking about modifications. Even cheap mods that dont do much for performance are easily $500+ depending on the car. Its easy to spend 3k on car mods
I really appreciate the care and thoughtfulness that went into this video. There are great reminders here for most of us. I certainly recognize the need to occasionally check myself. Here’s a little mantra I’ve taken away from Teddy’s message; “There’s room for everyone. If you truly love watches, you should be able to find the beauty in any timepiece. (Even if it’s not for you) Don’t be a jerk.”
While I can certainly understand the frustration on the "window shopper" category from a sales perspective I do feel that people have the right to look and consider something without feeling obligated to buying (especially with relatively luxury purchases like cars or watches). Maybe they found a better deal somewhere else, maybe their financial situation changed.
Personally I work mainly B2B but I've experienced much the same situation and there are several times where we spend days putting together an offer, contacting subsuppliers to get their prices etc. and then never hearing back, it's just part of the game.
When it comes to higher end watches it might also be a potential future customer so if a store gives a bad impression denying the college kid to try on something fairly pricey like a Glashutte Original or Omega they might lose a customer down the line.
Completely agree, I'm the kind of person that takes forever to finally purchase anything as I enjoy "the hunt", last month while in Vegas with some friends, we were window shopping. I was wearing my square gschock and honestly I wasn't looking to buy anything on that trip but after I got scuffed at and treated very poorly in one place and then greatly at another, somehow I ended up "impulse buying" a GS that I've been drooling over and researching for years. I guess i just needed to be treated with decency, I know it will take me years of research for my next watch but now I know a great place to buy it when I finally decide to pull the trigger.
@@skrem23 And how does he know if they have the intention to or not? If they move on to a different store and buy something there instead without saying anything to him it will be the exact same experience as if they didn't buy anything at all.
The amount of people with zero intention of ever buying a watch that takes up considerable time of a salesperson I'd set at pretty low, many might decide that the purchase just isn't for them and that group would be much higher in my estimation.
Like me getting screwed by Nordstrom in 94..ive never gone back
Completely agree! Why I have to deny myself the pleasure to put on my wrist a luxury piece that I can't afford (for now) and appreciate the feeling just for the sake of it?
Yes exactly. So often the sales person very quickly seem to give up or even show they are now bored because you’re not buying within 10 minutes. Same can happen with expensive shoes. Pushy sales tactics are fine in a bazar, but not in a high end boutique.
Hey Teddy. As a longtime silent viewer I just want to say thank you for your great videos. Watchcollecting and the watch-hobby in generell without your videos are kind of unthinkable. Keep up the cool channel. 👍🏼
Thank you, Marco! Enjoy your Saturday.
I cant stress enough how much I hate putting a scratch on a watch. I'm the same with most things and do all I can to keep my stuff looking like new. Having said that I do wear them all.
I really hate getting a scratch on a watch too! I’m trying not to obsess over it so much. It’s strange - if I buy a used watch that already has a few scratches here and there, I’m a lot less careful and obsessive about it. But It’s like that first scratch on a nice pristine watch just takes away its watch virginity or something LOL!😅
Same. This is also why i prefer brushed and satin finishes.
THAT is why I own an Omega Speedmaster (2006), I wear it all the time and it is Steel and still has not yet scratched although it has banged into a few things- built like a TANK...
It is only natural, but if it happens you are getting used to it eventually, and maybe from time to time it crawls in the back of your mind to bother you. At least that's how I feel
I struggle with this too, but I love most of my watches and want to wear them regularly. Just part of the ownership experience. I also drive myself crazy trying to keep my car nice.
It’s like Teddy reads our minds! This is a perfect summary of watch collectors i’ve seen around. I love wearing my watchest but been guilty from being scared of scratching them and when a scratch does happen, having sleepless night to get over it
What an excellent episode, Teddy. Right on in so many ways … and so badly needing to be said. Our hobby, like all things in life it seems nowadays, suffers badly from “it’s all about me” syndrome, and I greatly appreciate your calling it out. I love your always-candor. Big kudos and thanks!
Ive noticed that Teddy has slowed his speech ever so slightly, which makes his excellent and informative videos more enjoyable.
The kind that doesn't smash the Like button. Don't be that guy.
Spoke directly to me. So I dropped a like on the video. And then the comment. Thanks for changing the way I see myself😊
Well done! 👍
What if i softly poke it?
I pressed that like button because of your comment lol
As soon as I see it 👍🏻
I enjoy wearing all my watches.. I do admit to being careful about getting scratches but it will never stop me from wearing them.. it nice to see them on wrist 😊
I love the enjoy the watches you can afford attitude. That is why I follow your channel Teddy…..you show a great range for every watch person/collector 👍🏻
Just one word: "ColleXXionn"
🤣
Haha. I read that in his voice
Kevin is a treasure ... I can never quite tell if he's in on the joke.
je ne sais quoi
😂😂😂😂
what you said about gshock to high end luxury watch hit me in the feels. the first real non-burger king watch i ever got was a shock from my parents after finishing my first year of high school. wore that thing almost every day even sometimes in college! i started getting into watches seriously around 2021 and saw the omega seamaster in black and it spoke to me. january of this year i was able to afford it due to starting a new job...it's all about the journey!
I went bargain hunting for my first mechanical watch with a $1000 budget, and luckily I managed to get 2 new watches (due to store sales prices). I shared this to the watch group I recently joined and luckily no snob there which was encouraging especially to new enthusiast like me. Thank you Teddy for all of your inputs. Love the work you and your team put out for us!
Great video Teddy. The tunnel vision one - or putting your personal tastes on everyone - is one I’ve seen a lot. I’ve also been victim to the seeking fulfillment one. Great to see these all played out, and honestly very helpful.
Nico Leonard vibes
You nailed it Teddy. One thing I’ve noticed myself doing as of late is comparing watches to one’s that are slightly more expensive. It’s a slippery slope and find myself saying “well if I just put a few more thousand bucks, then I can just buy this instead”. I often have to reel myself back and get to the fundamentals.
LoL I’ve caught myself saying about a really nice watch “wow 9 grand is a good price for that!” Then I balk at my $175 electric bill! WTF?
Hi Teddy, apologies havent gotten through the video yet but just wanted to thank you for putting out some of the best watch content on the platform, I bought my grail a few days ago, the Longines conquest 39mm in the blue dial considering and saving up after watching your review on it a few months ago. Cheers and keep doing what you do
Congrats!
Congrats my friend! Enjoy the new watch and thank you for the support!
Good for you! I also bought a Longines Record a few days ago. And I agree with Teddys respect and admiration for the brand
I just want to point out, it’s perfectly acceptable to hate on Richard Mille
First thought that came to mind when Teddy described the eight categories!
Hublot
I am a sneaker collector and every one of these types is in the sneaker game. Deadstock shoes and collections are never worn, just to turn to dust in 20 years. Kids are going to debt for hype sneaker releases just to profit $70 in 3 years. Then you have the guys who wear high-resell-priced shoes and become snobs as they will never wear any shoe worth under 1k. Resellers in the sneaker game are worse than in the watch game. $20 profit is enough for them to buy a 1k bot with 1k worth of proxies just to get 2 pairs. The watch game is like the shoe game.
Every time I think this whole watch thing has gone a bit crazy I remind myself of the sneaker “scene”, and suddenly everything seems kind of sane in comparison.
Sneaker heads are broke boys
I would never wear a rep watch. But oh I'd wear a rep sneaker everyday.
As a window shopper, I feel that test driving a watch or car is important to know if it will be worth the investment. It's like saying that going to see a few properties that you might be interested in buying is a waste of time for a seller or an agent. I think that is just the type of encounter a seller of these products should be accustomed to. These are expensive items and it is in the best interest of the seller to cater to potential buyers if they wish to earn a commission.
Wow, this video was filled with wisdom that can apply to many collectors. I am a lowercase watch collector who owns only one high-end watch (an Omega Seamaster) but I am a serious knife collector with many budget, mid-range and high-end blades. Everything you discussed here applies to that world as well. You've earned my subscription. Well done!
As always, spot-on comments and fantastic photography!! Excellent perspective!
Teddy. Thank you for posting this! It simply needed to be said, and I’m glad you said it. Great summary of a bit of dark side associated with a great hobby.
What are the watches at 13:10 and 13:01? Resin? Any help appreciated
I got into collecting because i inherited a Longines from my grandfather. I really enjoy the mechanical aspect of them and the relationship you develop with them as you wear them. I've never been around other watch enthusiasts or anything but i have noticed a lot of toxicity on the Internet.
Some superb points made here, Teddy. I think you nailed this. Plus I love how you tell it. Bravo. Agree 💯🎯
Very educational Teddy!
Haha fun video and actually with deeper meaning than it seems. Its all about having fun and experience.
Great video again Teddy! Over the course of my journey with watches I know I have been a few of these characters and have certainly met all of them. Snobs at either end of the price range are exhausting - but I also realise that it's a great litmus test of someone's character 😅 I met a watch snob and can think "ok, next!"
Reddit is full of people hating on Rolex especially. Post after post about how brand X is better than Rolex. This is not what collecting is about if you like brand X, that's great! You don't need to hate on Rolex to make your point. Let other people collect what they like, and you do the same. Many collectors have Rolexes, and many don't...and THAT'S OK! RELAX!
There used to be a meme around about watch ppl attitude toward Rolex, love as a noob, then hate as you learn, then eventually at least respect for what Rolex is.
Yes! Most collectors respect the brands with history. The only brands I don't like are ones who knock off other brands.
Hi Gilbert, your comments could apply equally to Tudor or Citizen. You're absolutely right, buy and wear what you like. 🙂
Rolex is kinda responsible for the hate it gets. People don't beat down on AP or GS or VC or Omega even remotely as much as Rolex and there's probably a reason why.
A more encompassing observation would be that some people are more concerned about other people's collections instead of searching for pieces that speak to them.
I just started my watch collection after a random citizen axiom buy. I needed to hear all of this and I'm glad I found your channel!
# 9. Don't be a MVMT watch collector
🤣🤣🤣🤣
One thing, that this video applies not only to watches, but anything in life which requires money! Great video Teddy
Love it. Thanks for all you do, Teddy.
Thank you, Jon!
Why are you thanking him? He pushes watches to make money. He makes videos with Mr Wonderful, showing watches most people will never afford. He seems like a nice guy, but actions speak louder than words.
Some Great Points! One thing I've found is sometimes watches that I didn't wear because they were in 'Mint' condition (and thus got traded away) were later replaced with ones I will keep forever once they got 'broke in' properly with those first few scratches I couldn't be bothered to put on them. Happy how it worked out, but had I worn the originals as I should have, it would have corrected itself - probably for less co$t. Also, some watches that don't look that impressive when new, take on a very different appeal once they are lived in a bit. That may lead to servicing and maintenance later, but once you've been served faithfully, you will not mind faithfully returning that investment into such great long term keepers.
The rolex guy, has every rolex and thinks that all the other brands are shit
Great presentation Teddy! Great validating points! I’ve been guilty of some of these things, but have changed my habits to being courteous and respectful to others feelings and their time. Loved this!
In fairness, it's not limited to watch collecting, those are universal sins that come with the act of collecting itself : pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony and sloth.
This is a good one. Don’t be that person.
Funny you mentioned the Seiko 5 GMT. I got a Black Bay Pro, then later that year I snatched the orange Seiko GMT. I enjoy them both. People need to lighten up and just enjoy.
Excellent video!
You're spot on with the categories.
One of your best videos Teddy!
"Comparison is the thief of joy" Theodore Roosevelt
Excellent piece, Teddy. "You can actually be happy for other people that they're getting something they want." Perfect.
It was very enlightening and triggered a degree of introspection. Thank you.
And this is why I like and follow you Teddy. You are setting the tone writ-large and it is perfect. Thanks for being you.
Great comments mate. It’s the watch snobs that get me. Once had a convo with a watch collector aboard a cruise ship. Told him I was after 3 Tag Heuer watches, Monaco, Monza and Silverstone models. Well I listened to him rubbish-the brand for the next 10 minutes. According to this muppet, it was Rolex, AP, JLC etc or nothing. Told him his was a drop kick and left.
I love my Tag! I was eyeballing the Monaco with the purple dial.. what a stunning piece is that!?
Not sure why everyone hates on TH. They are my favourite watch brand and I have 4 Heuers. I could talk about them for days
I think the window shopper tab comes from personal experience more than a logical pov. If a person goes and tests drive every car at a dealership and decides to get nothing, that person reserves that right. It’s the sales persons job to provide info on the item regardless of a sale or not. Most sales people who don’t work on hourly wages get a thousand no’s before the actual sale. Even then it’s not wasting anybody’s time to be more knowledgeable in a item that one day you’ll be able to afford.
Good that you didn't mention homage collectors, because that's me
HaHa! Count me in the group. I have too many to count!
I have 6 watches in my collection that here to stay, for the other 6,it's a permanent rotation, I like the process of looking for and buying watches su much! So I buy them, wear them and resell them within a year, with usually a small loss that I see as a kind of rent to be paid.
So not a flipper per se, but a "rotationer".
Thanks for the video Teddy
This should be watched by anyone getting into the watch game. Great content thank you!
Im still new to watch-interest, kinda late to the game but enjoying the learning process. I appreciate Teddy's outlook and perspective on life in general- its refreshing.
The Unrealistic Expectations Collector and the Critic are tied for the most annoying. They’re followed closely by the Snobby Elitist, the Reverse Snob, and the Scalper.
so... you just described Teddy?!
Overall a well thought out commentary and I agree with most - however would temper the “window shopper” category. When I was younger I would often visit high end boutiques to look at watches I knew I couldn’t afford. I didn’t give false pretences to the sales people - “just looking” - but did ask lots of questions. This was a valuable learning experience and pleasurable in its own right. Now I own some of the pieces that I dreamt of years ago. This hobby is a process. It’s ok to visit a Patek or Journe dealer to ogle and marvel - maybe own one 10-20 years later. But agree - don’t misrepresent your intentions.
"A great watch is not gonna make out for a garbage human being." -- T. Baldasarre 🤗👊🏼👏🏼...worth quoting.
I am a mature, self-owning prep who collects watches. But I can bet that what I have saved for retirement is twice, if not triple what my snobby elitist acquaintances have. They've got attitude and an extremely expensive watch or two. That's about it.
But isn't that being a reverse snob?
Hallo Teddy, I absolutely like your honesty. It is so important that we first are nice individuals, no matter what we do. And you bring that out perfectly, well done. It doesn't matter if someone likes to collect watches for minimum money or expensive watches. The main thing is that the person is happy with himself and others. Thank you, and as always, love from Switzerland 🇨🇭
Another great episode as expected Teddy. I know that the Grey Market vs AD and boutique shopping has been covered by other channels but hoping that you can as well. I am definitely in the minority as one who travels internationally a lot and could be gone for several months in a row - it is for this reason that I buy exclusively from my AD knowing that wherever I am in the world, I can get my Omega serviced. Buying from the grey market scares me for this reason, even though significantly cheaper in most cases - Am I wrong about my trepidation?
Fun topic and great video! I can see a bit of "Afraid To Wear" in myself, though I have recognized it and gotten better. I used to save the most expensive watch in my collection for special occasions. Then I woke up and understood I had this great watch just sitting in my watch box. Now it is one of my most worn watches. It even has a small scratch and I am totally fine with it!
Well said, Teddy
This is amazing! In all honesty, you just identified qualities of toxic people to avoid in general. This video is not just applicable in watch collecting.
4th category is absolutely about GS and Omega lovers...
I have a lot of watches, among them some that are quite expensive for most people. One of my favourites though is the Orient Bambino open heart in stainless steel bracelet and Roman numerals, which was a gift from my girlfriend for my nameday and started my watch collection hobby. I still wear it a lot as a daily after all this time. Price doesn’t matter, all that matters is the story behind the watch and the memories you make with it. Furthermore, I also love my Junghans Meister Fein Automatic Signatur that I bought together with my father from Munich airport a few months ago, it will forever remind me of this trip and of course it’s all thanks to your Max Bill video which introduce me to this amazing brand. Watches are indeed things that remind us people and life stories. Amazing video as always!
"BOO HOO".....perfect
Right on! You have the making of a great therapist! Being in retail, you’ve met your share of character flaws.
I've learnt to enjoy watch collecting without necessarily wanting to get into the luxury category. I'm happy enjoying my Bambino, G Shock and microbrands which have a lot of variety. I see that money as being a potential investment later on.
Great video. I have some pretty high end watches but I love some of the cheapest watches out there. It’s really in the eye of the beholder. I just bought two reissue Timex’s, a green face Marlin automatic and a blue face ‘78 Quartz. For two days I was going to the wind every time I heard a truck like a kid looking to see Santa. Get what you like and you’ll be excited. This is why I hate those videos where someone comments about “what your watch says about you”. I may wear a Batman Rolex GMT one day and my new Marlin the next.
Your best video till date. Brilliant
I want to start off by saying thank you for your contributions to the watch community. I have really enjoyed learning from you and discovering new brands and pieces along the way and I feel we are all better off because of your contributions. I think we all fight elements of these types of collector everyday. Watches are beautiful pieces of art but they are luxury goods and are inherently ostentatious to some degree. How much we let that define our relationship with them is where the rubber meets the road but we all face that fact.
As someone with retail business ownership experience I find some of your latter comments to be extremely off putting and misguided. People that are not ready to purchase today but are asking you questions are clients down the line or buyers elsewhere. I always try to be respectful of a salespersons time but these are often big purchases regardless of ones net worth and to expect a purchase on day one is in bad taste. Possibly they took their money elsewhere. If you can't deal with this I would consider going online only. If any of your salespeople overly complain of this, you have the wrong folks. You never know who has purchasing intent and ability. I wish you all the best and look forward to watching your future videos.
I get this one a lot personally. The one that thinks everybody wants a Rolex.
It's not that I have anything against high end watches as I love Omega, IWC, Jaeger Lecoultre.
I just don't see the hype with Rolex other than knowing non watch enthusiasts will know what it is.
Great video! Let people enjoy what they want to. Really appreciate this take on the arena.
My first realization as a new collector was never say I don't like something. It's just I don't like it right now. When I started, I thought only diver watches are cool and everything else is boring or not my style. Gold watches especially seemed tacky and gross. Now, I'm trying to decide which organ I can live without so I can buy a 2 tone day/date.
Side note, what's the trade value of a gallbladder? No box, but my birth certificate counts as papers right?
LOL!!😅😅
Well, in certain countries organs sell for $70k+… But only a small percent likely goes to the original owners of said organs if any at all.
@@tywad8697 I'm good with 30% of that.
Maybe you can do a direct exchange and get a tourbillon installed in your abdomen 😄
You're literally making the same jokes that Teddy talked about in this video. The "put yourself in financial stress" for a watch category.
Excellent video Teddy! I know I've caught myself being overly critical at times when it comes to watches.
Speaking on the Rolex puzzle piece watch, please consider doing a video on creative chances that you'd like to see watch companies take. Here are some Rolex ones that come to mind for me:
1. Titanium Rolex Explorer 1 & 2
2. Rolex Datejust with GMT hand
3. More colours for Submariner (Brown & Red)
4. A complicated dress watch from Rolex (leather strap, exhibition caseback, 40mm or less)
So that's pretty much every watch enthusiast attacked by Teddy 😂
I think I've blocked pretty much all of these types on various forums haha.
Teddy, I have been binge watching your videod and I used to be obsessed with car tuning and that's an expensive habit spending thousands on car parts and now it's become watches ever since I was gifted a pawned Panerai Luminor Marina. I was told car enthiusiasts tend to gravitate toward watches as well. I bought an Orient Bambino and it was nice but then I saw a Hamilton Khaki King and I said I would wait to save and JUST last night at 3am after watching your video I just couldn't help myself and bought it for $475. = )
Did you get the cream-colored dial? That's a nice looking watch.
I almost laughed out loud at the window shopping category. You can’t buy a Rolex if you walk into the store without an “existing account” with the AD which effectively encourages flipping.
Window shop all you want.
This was not my experience. I bought one recently with no purchase history. My brother got 2 in the last 2 years from different ADs. Again with no purchase history. The wait was annoying, but the ADs delivered .
@@cecaju9516 what is the name of the AD? Just collecting it for research
@@leeweisiang9038 Maison Birks in Montreal, Canada.
Teddy, I'm a new collector who found your channel a couple weeks ago and have been watching a bunch of your videos. I just bought a relatively modest Baltic and love it. Your knowledge is impressive and your attitude in this video is commendable, particularly regarding snobbery. You are a good influence and it's appreciated.
Im so glad I'm not on the list 😂
I'm the "Buy what i like and can afford" type of collector. My last watch was Beam Me Up by Mr Jones, I'm waiting on the Casio with Tiffany™ dial and hope to buy a Tudor Royal on my 40th birthday.
I love the royal
Also the white and blue 1926 is gorgeous
Might buy a few of these kinds of watches over the next few years if I save up
But my next “real” purchase will probably be a skydweller when I’ve paid off the house in 7 years because I’ve accepted I’ll probably never be able to afford the day date, nautilus, Royal Oak, any tourbillion or perpetual calendar either
But if I could the IWC da Vinci perpetual calendar would be it or the rose gold nautilus perpetual calendar
We can all dream I suppose
Been watching a lot of your videos as of late and I agree there is no one watch that does it. I have a small collection that started with a Citizen (bought on a cruise) and have since added Bulova, Fossil, Rudiger, etc. The brands are nothing major, but the watches all tell time and there was something in each of them that sparked that purchase. The Fossil is a automatic skeleton and Bulova has a beautiful deep blue face and is square in shape. It something little in each one and none of them broke the bank. The latest purchase that is on it's way is a Xeric Tryptic. I love the wandering hour and will never drop the serious coin to get one any other way from other brands that make them. I appreciate the way you approach collecting with a humble attitude and find the beauty at many different price points.
#9: Kevin O’Leary
Nico Leonard is everything here
Teddy you have a good head on your shoulders and very humble. Your logic and views of watches has aided me in my watch purchases since I discovered your Videos. Thanks again and keep up the great work and passion.
I recently realized I would probably be considered a “window shopper”. I’ve been to ADs several times and I’m sure I’ve made some sales associates mad but I really was trying to make a decision on what I want. I decided the perfect watch for me is a Pelagos 39 and since then I’ve stopped. I guess the difference for me is that I fully intend to buy the watch but can’t currently. I’d consider myself a future customer
You’re totally fine IMO. I think Teddy was just talking about the type of person who continuously tries on stuff they never intend to buy and could never afford just to get selfies and wrist shots for their instagram.
I have about 40 watches, ranging from £5.00 which I wear at work,( I do a lot of manual lifting), to Rolex and Tudor. I love them all and go to great lengths to give them all wrist time.
Well Said Teddy!!
Amen Brother! Watches will not fulfill you and they should not help fill the void of your self worth. They are supposed to be fun! I love your perspective on this wonderful hobby of ours! So refreshing! Kudos!
When I started on my watch collecting journey, I wouldn’t even entertain the thought of owning a watch that wasn’t a Swiss made mechanical. Thank goodness I’ve gotten past that hang up, and I can now appreciate different types of watches. 😅
Same here. I even own a $10 Lego watch because I think it's cool looking. I also have a Rolex Sub-Date. I want anything cool.
I was in a surf shop one time to buy some sunscreen. I saw behind the counter they had Nixon surf watches that told you when it high or low tide. I thought that was really cool. A watch that tells you the tides is unique. I walked out with a new watch and some sunscreen.
Enjoyed this! Looking at the many positive subcultures within the culture might be fun, too. As a “get in on the ground floor” and oftentimes “the more unique the better” guy, I enjoy meeting all of the various characters within this weird little world we exist in.