How to Start a Watch Collection: The Everyday, Old, Bold, Gold, Grail Guide
Fortunately, there’s a straightforward and enjoyable way to assist us on our journey: Every Day, Old, Bold, Gold, and Grail.
These five categories will help us explore various types of watches and create a well-rounded collection that reflects our style and story.
Let’s break them down:
Every Day: Your Reliable Daily Driver
You wear this watch to work, on errands, or while traveling. It’s comfortable, durable, and versatile. Think of it as your “go-to” timepiece.
What to look for:
- Strong water resistance
- Easy-to-read dial
- Minimal but stylish design
- Durable strap or bracelet
Popular picks:
- Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36
- Omega Aqua Terra
- Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
Old: A Watch with History (aka Vintage)
These watches have stories to tell. Whether they are from the 1960s or recently discontinued, vintage timepieces provide a link to the past.
Why it matters:
- They carry heritage and character.
- Patina, scratches, or faded dials make each piece unique.
- Some even appreciate over time.
Popular picks:
- Omega Speedmaster (Pre-Moon)
- Cartier Tank Must from the ‘80s
- Seiko 6139 “Pogue”
Bold: A Statement Piece
This is your “look at me” watch. It may be bold, colorful, futuristic, or creatively extravagant. While you don’t wear it every day, when you do, it captures attention.
Traits of a bold watch:
- Unique case design
- Vibrant colors or materials
- Oversized or intricate dials
Popular picks:
- Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore
- Richard Mille RM 67-01
- G-Shock GA2100 “CasiOak”
Gold: Classic Luxury
The gold watch is a statement piece. It doesn’t need to be entirely gold (two-tone works as well), but it should exude some shine and sophistication. It’s perfect for weddings, celebrations, or those days when you feel like a boss.
Watch types:
- Solid gold or gold-plated
- Two-tone steel and gold
- Champagne dials, Roman numerals, leather straps
Popular picks:
- Rolex Day-Date “President” in yellow gold
- Cartier Santos in two-tone
- Vacheron Constantin Patrimony in rose gold
Grail: The Dream Watch
This is your “one day I’ll own it” watch. It’s personal, aspirational, and often expensive. It could be rare, iconic, or simply the watch that inspired your love for horology.
Tips for choosing your grail:
- Don’t rush it, let your taste evolve.
- It doesn’t have to be the most expensive; it just has to mean something to you.
Examples:
- Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711
- A. Lange & Söhne Datograph
- F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu
