Watch collecting and the search for the white whale
In the world of watch collecting, time does not stand still. That’s the joy of it: you never know what might be the prize of tomorrow, says Andy Blackmore In the 1996 Christmas special of Only Fools and Horses, lovable Cockney Derek Trotter was still dreaming of getting rich. “This time next year, Rodney, we’ll [...]
The world of watch collecting is a dynamic one, with no fixed end in sight. Andy Blackmore reflects on the unpredictable nature of the hobby, comparing it to the whimsical dreams of Derek Trotter from Only Fools and Horses. In 1996, Trotter was envisioning himself as a millionaire, perhaps by stumbling upon an 18th-century Harrison marine chronometer in his attic, which ended up being worth over £6 million. Blackmore reminds us that when it comes to collectible timepieces, anything can be the white whale of tomorrow.
The value and desirability of watches can shift over time. What was once considered tacky or eccentric might eventually become a design icon, while cutting-edge pieces may quickly become obsolete. The story of Sigourney Weaver's purchase of a Seiko reference 7A28-7000 in 1983 is a perfect example. Inexpensive at the time, this utilitarian-looking watch ended up on the wrist of an iconic sci-fi heroine in Aliens, and today, examples are fetching prices upwards of £2,000.
Watch collecting is not just about the monetary value of a timepiece; it is also about the stories and connections that each watch carries. Whether it's a vintage Longines 6B/159 with a history of more than 130 years, or a Winegarden timepiece that once belonged to a City insider, these watches have lived lives before they find their way into collectors' hands.
Blackmore recalls the fascination of the 22nd-century watch collector gazing at his wristwatch and imagining the tales it could tell about the previous owner, connecting them across time.
For many collectors, the allure of watch collecting goes beyond the potential financial payoff. It is the fascination with holding a piece of someone's personal history that draws them in. Blackmore himself reminisces about his early days in London, yearning for the luxury watches displayed in renown stores like Winegartens, despite his humble means. He wonders if, in the future, a 22nd-century collector will gaze upon his timepiece and see a reflection of his own life story.
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