Everyone’s watch collecting journey starts somewhere. For some, it’s a family heirloom. For others, it’s a vintage find or a luxury milestone piece. For me, it began with a watch bought to celebrate surviving a tough semester at university.
What I didn’t realize at the time was that this purchase would quickly pull me into the world of watch collecting. Before long, I was reading forums late into the night, watching endless YouTube videos, and learning just how deep the rabbit hole of watch collecting goes. Looking back, these are the watches that didn’t just fill a watch box, they made me fall in love with the hobby itself.
Whether you’re wondering how to get into watch collecting, or just enjoy hearing how collections come together, these are the four pieces that shaped mine.
Fossil Essentialist Black & Rose Gold (ES4510)
Like many collectors, my journey started with a Fossil. At the time, I was in my second year of university and had just made it through a particularly tough semester. I decided I wanted to mark the occasion with a watch, as it was something tangible, I could wear as a reminder that I’d earned it.
Did I overpay? Absolutely. But I wore that Fossil proudly. It felt meaningful and introduced me to the idea that a watch could be more than just a way to tell time.
And for anyone asking what is a good watch to start collecting, pieces like this are often the gateway. They may not be “investment watches,” but they’re emotionally important, and that matters a lot when it comes to building a connection to the watches we wear. As longtime enthusiasts know, watch collecting isn’t always about specs, resale value, or brand prestige. Sometimes, our favorite watches are more connected to timing and personal stories.
Orient Bambino Open Heart Yellow Gold
That being said, it didn’t take long before curiosity turned into obsession. About two and a half months later, I bought my second watch or what I’d consider my first “serious” collector’s piece: the Orient Bambino Open Heart.
For just a few hundred dollars, this watch punches far above its weight. With an in-house automatic movement, exhibition case back, and open-heart dial, it felt like a massive step up.
Even today, as my tastes have shifted toward smaller cases and silver finishes, this watch remains untouchable in my collection. It reminds me of a specific moment in my life when everything about watch collecting felt exciting and new, and that’s something no upgrade can replace.
Still today, when it comes to watch collecting for beginners, the Orient Bambino is one of the easiest recommendations to make.
Seiko SKX013
After picking up the Orient in June, I spent the entire summer immersed in watches. If there was a video, article, or forum post about watch collecting, I probably read or watched it. I wore a watch every single day. Watch collecting was officially my new hobby.
One afternoon, I was delighted to find an underpriced Seiko SKX013 on Facebook Marketplace and rushed to grab it. I fell in love, janky Jubilee bracelet and all. Classes, exams, work shifts, university parties—it was there for all of it.
The SKX line has become legendary, and for good reason. When people ask which Seiko watches are collectable, the SKX is always near the top of the list. I still love that Seiko offered this icon in a 36mm case, which fits me perfectly. These days, collectable Seiko watches including the SKX013 are still sought after and increasing in price, proving that great design and durability never go out of style.
Oris Big Crown Pointer Date
During the pandemic, like many enthusiasts, I went through a bit of a buy-and-sell phase. Some watches stayed, but most didn’t. However, one watch sat firmly at the top of my wish list: the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date.
I’ve always admired Oris, not just for their creative designs, but for their long-standing independence. And in the fall of 2021, a few months into my first job out of university, I finally pulled the trigger.
I could immediately tell the difference in quality from the budget Seiko and Hamilton watches I was accustomed to. I was mesmerized by the dial details, the polished taper of the metal bracelet, and the overall refinement. Whenever I wear this watch, it still brings me back to transition from student life to beginning my career.
Even today, the Big Crown Pointer Date is still the most expensive watch I’ve purchased. I’m waiting for a bit more life to happen or just to be a bit more sure of what my “grail watch” is. Maybe a birth-year Rolex 15200… or whatever I change my mind to next week. For now, though, I’m genuinely content with my current collection.
Why These Watches Still Matter
I’ve owned a few watches since, and I’m sure I’ll own a few more. However, these four watches mark chapters of my life at a time where things were changing quickly. Each one reminds me exactly where I was when I bought it and why I wore it. They’re the reason watch collecting became more than just buying objects and became a lifelong passion. Even if they don’t spend as much time on my wrist these days, they’ll always have a permanent spot in my watch box.
Are Watches a Good Investment?
Some people buy watches with the intention of investing or debate endlessly which collectable watches may go up in value. Unfortunately, many affordable brands don’t hold their value, and it can be hard to predict which luxury watches are good investments. However, if you scan second hand groups or manage to get the call from an AD, there are good deals to be had.
But if you’re just starting out, focus less on chasing trends or resale value. Start with watches you enjoy or that make you feel something. Wear them as you go about life, and you’ll build a connection. Those are truly the watches that turn a simple purchase into memories and a hobby you’ll love for life.
Which piece made you fall in love with the watch collecting hobby?
