Debunking Misconceptions About Timepiece Collecting
- Tom Goedhart
- Nov 8, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 16, 2024
Thanks to the power of the internet and social media, the watch industry has entered a new era. Now, you can sit back and listen to amateurs, professionals, dealers, collectors, and even TikTok influencers (watchtok) from around the world passionately sharing insights and tips about watches - anytime, anywhere.
But with all this information flooding in, confusion and inaccuracies are bound to follow. So, let’s set the record straight and debunk some of these "nagging" watch myths this crisp winter day.
Luxury Watches Are Always a Solid Investment
Unfortunately, that's not always the case. Like a new car, most luxury watches lose value as soon as they leave the store. Sure, some models from brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe can skyrocket in value over time, but predicting which ones will is tricky business. So, buy your watch because you love it, not because you expect it to make you rich. If it becomes a hot commodity and skyrockets in price - well, lucky you! 🎉
Following Trends is the Key to Success
Much like fashion, watch trends can be fleeting. That bright green, oversized watch might seem like a good idea when you see your favorite celebrity wearing one, but after a few months, it may feel more like a burden on your wrist. It's fine to draw inspiration from others, but be selective about the trends you adopt.
So this would be considered wearing a watch that's too big, right? It's too large compared to the size of the wrist.
"Swiss Made" Means Everything’s Produced in Switzerland
"Swiss Made" is often seen as a mark of unparalleled quality, but it’s not quite as simple as it sounds. For a watch to be labeled "Swiss Made," at least 60% of the production costs and 50% of key production steps need to take place in Switzerland. That means the other 40% or more of the watch components could be sourced from other countries. So, while your "Swiss" watch might be made in Switzerland, some crucial parts might come from elsewhere.
Luxury Watches Are Entirely Handmade
Not exactly. While the craftsmanship in luxury watches is undeniably high, most parts - cases, gears, screws, and dials - are produced using CNC cutting technology. This automated process can churn out hundreds or even thousands of components with incredible precision. However, the finishing touches on mechanical movements still require skilled hands, which is where the “handmade” aspect comes in. So, while it’s not entirely handmade, the process is still highly labor-intensive.
Mechanical Watches Perform Better When Not Worn Regularly
You might think that not wearing your mechanical watch regularly will help it last longer and run more accurately, but the opposite is actually true. Watches are made to run. If they sit idle for too long, internal parts can get stuck or cause the lubricant to break down. Air conditions and humidity can also lead to oxidation over time. Wearing your watch regularly ensures everything runs smoothly, so don’t leave it collecting dust in the drawer!
It's Fine to Wear a Water-Resistant Watch in the Shower
Sure, your water-resistant watch can handle some moisture, but wearing it in the shower isn’t the best idea. Manufacturers test water resistance in controlled conditions, but the combination of heat, water pressure, and soap in a shower can exceed the limits of your watch’s resistance. The pressure could go beyond the 30-meter depth rating, and the soap or shampoo could damage the rubber gaskets. Keep your watch safe by avoiding the shower.
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