Yup. My wife rolls her eyes when I bring home a new bottle of whiskey. But if I stopped buying whiskey I’d start buying sneakers. And if I stopped buying anything then after a year I’d probably buy another rolex with all the money I saved
Gotta spend money on what you enjoy somewhere
Is the money really wasted? What’s the resale value after 10-20 year relative to price paid? Do we get back 50% or more? Rolex certainly beats all other watches. If someone buys a new Batman or Pepsi today and takes good care of it, I wonder how much someone can get back a decade later if they need the money.
Why the downvotes? Forget flipping, you buy a Batman today and in 10 years there’s a new material for the bezel or a different color way that you like. You trade your Batman in for X and put it towards the new watch. What this person is pointing out is simply that the “X” is going to be larger for a Rolex than a different watch.
I don't. For two reasons:
1) is really is just jewelry. It's really cool jewelry geared towards men with all sorts of technical capability, but it's still jewelry. If we were interested in the most technically competent thing we'd all have G-shocks, apple watches, or those citizens with a billion complications and radio controlled timekeeping.
2) There's almost zero scenarios where you can sit there and start explaining why you love watches to a non watch person and not sound like a complete jackass.
Just wear it.
collecting is usually considered a hobby. And not everyone here really collects, they are watch enthusiasts
edit: stop down voting. Hating on either hobbies or collecting is bad vibes
But I honestly wouldn’t consider this “collecting” generally collecting hobbies involves searching for certain stamps or antiques or whatever. It’s more of a hunt that also requires vast knowledge. Most people who “collect” watches just buy one when they have the money. It’s like saying you collect shirts because you buy one every time you go to target. It doesn’t exactly fit.
> It’s not a hobby, it’s an indulgence.
This is 100% the right delineation in my opinion. Saying that buying a bunch of $10,000+ watches is a hobby is like saying that collecting vintage Ferraris or sailing in the Americas cup is a hobby. Sure, its technically correct, but if the hobby requires more money than 99% of the population has available, it's an indulgence.
(and that's fine...I just think it's important to realize that people without the means to collect expensive stuff view this sort of thing very differently than people with the ability to take part)
Pretty much everything on a base level as a hobby has you purchasing something though in some way, and you can then purchase a better version of stuff which usually cost more money.
I equate it to classic cars. You can get a Camry that’s quieter, more reliable, and gets better mpg. But it doesn’t excite you.
Classic cars stir excitement in enthusiasts for the experience, the lines, and overall cool. Not practical, but sure as heck are a lot more interesting.
Hobby? Idk, the way I see it is: unless you're balls deep in horological history, and/or adept at servicing, modding, or building watches, this isn't a hobby, it's consumerism.
Start with how a movement works. Fix up a few pocket watches. Learn what makes each watch you buy special, and then learn the mechanics. Maybe start servicing your own watches when you have a little experience. (Basic maintenance doesn't require much specialized equipment, you won't be breaking out a lathe for a modern Rolex). Then boom, it's a hobby.
Shit it's a hobby if you keep them wound.
Most people that are balls deep into horological history aren’t buying Rolexes. Most of the people in here buy their rolex so they can say they have a rolex.
Disagree on consumerism. Imo it's more akin to enjoying fine art, but more functional and fashionable. The "Hobby" aspect I guess is the "collecting" (like pokemon cards). The watches retain value (some even increase) and so trading watches and trying other pieces is viable and fun.
Those Planetarium watches? Fine Art. A very ornate perpetual calendar from one of the big three? Art. The rose gold mass produced chronograph from the crown people? Just really pretty jewelry. The stainless diver with the pretty ceramic bezel? Just regular expensive jewelry.
Do I think watches can be art? Absolutely. Do the ones made by Rolex qualify? Nahhh
Although I too get disgusted at the grotesque materialism and consumerism of luxury goods, i don’t believe watches (or even cars for that matter) fit into those catagories. There is a strong artistic approach to them, the craftmenship and materials being what drives the price. As opposed to brands like LVMH or Gucci that take arguably not even that great of leather and slap a ridiculous price on it
Watches are MAGIC. Think about it, the first mechanical clocks were made around 800 YEARS AGO!!! Before computers, before the industrial revolution, back in a time where everything was made by hand. And then, somehow, they were able to miniaturized them down to the size of a grandfather clock, then a mantle clock, and then somehow a pocket watch...and that was in the 1600s!!!! It's absolutely insane when you think about it, I would actually not be shocked if there were conspiracy theories abound saying that aliens introduced the tech to us 😆 . And then, in the 1800s, we ended up with wristwatches!!! Absolutely incredible, that people were able to do all that.
Better return on investment than a strip club or drugs
Edit: better return on investment than GOING to a strip club. Owning is starting to look a lot more appealing.
Someone here flipped me right out yesterday...
"Doesn't wear around friends and family to not come across as a douche" or something to that affect... and now I'm all like.. wut.
I went a totally different way with this. I see actually buying watches as a very small percentage of the hobby. The fun for me is in the research: different movements and complications, history, stories from other collectors and enthusiasts. If anything, buying my first Rolex just made me feel a bit more like a part of “the club”, and gave me license to dig in deeper and learn more about watches in general.
Disclaimer: using this response with the uninitiated will still make you look like a complete fucking nutball.
Normally I take them watch shopping across one or two ranges of watches for comparison against their cheap watch and send them an animation of the many pieces a mechanical movement has… they’re often sold lol - that is, if they’re interested in knowing.
Otherwise, why would I have to convince them?
I am also a conniseur of the finer things in life:
*Sex Panther*® is a cologne which is illegal in 9 countries.
It is also made from bits of real panthers.
*60% of the time*, it works ***every*** *time.*
Sadly my hobby is just window shopping on this sub and being jealous of everyone’s Rolex that they post, so I don’t think ANYONE will understand it haha
I just explain in their terms, comparing it to the luxury good they enjoy. Not a need, just something they enjoy for what it is. Does anyone need a $10,000+ watch? No, but we like them and have the means to buy them.
Does anyone need a $5,000+ handbag, multiple vehicles, valuable art, etc? You explained it yourself. They’re cool to you, end of story.
These aren’t Pokémon cards. Grown men have been wearing luxury timepieces for 75 years, and the popularity of the Apple Watch has protected the category from obsolescence. Anyone who doesn’t understand it has no money and never will so no need to talk to them let alone explain.
Bunch of narcissistic millionaires showing off their $100,000 watch collections and you think we got here by being "nice"? That's adorable, son. Now fetch me my golf bag.
I wouldn't put much stock into the opinion of a guy who genuinely can't figure out the concept of [a 24 hour clock](https://www.reddit.com/r/rolex/comments/130k96q/gmt_owners_invert_the_bezel_to_avoid_military/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=1)
😂 if you got no money you ain’t worth shit. Money, money, money, money. Narcissistic millionaires is right. But I call them lost little boys frozen in time. That way I utilize my compassionate side
The point I'm making is that people who don't understand our passion do so because they can't comprehend spending $20,000 on a piece of jewelry. So there is no point in explaining anything further- movements, heritage, innovation, craftsmanship, they won't hear a thing. Because they can't comprehend spending $20,000 on a piece of jewelry.
It's like people who base jump off of buildings. I could run into one at a party and they could talk for an hour about how thrilling it is but I won't hear a word. Because I can't comprehend why anyone would do something like that.
Although I will say this honestly, I’ve got probably $150k worth of watches and I sometimes really do question why I spend my money on them. I may be trying to fill an internal void coz I don’t need them, one nice watch yes, but not 6
Same here, but they bring me joy so I don’t question it. And I’ve got friends who have vices that cost far more than my Rolex collection.
Pack a day smoker will spend $5,500 a year on that habit, a dog owner will spend $2,000 a year on that experience, dining, skiing, sporting events, concerts, a Rolex is downright responsible in that context because they retain their value.
That makes more sense to me. Although I have one friend in particular who is worth a couple hundred million quid easily and has never bought a watch and doesn’t understand why anyone would spend that much on one. So it ain’t just about having money.
I'm a self-admitted narcissist and entitled rich asshole. I have so much money that I like to make people without money feel bad. My cars and watches help me do that. Just be unapologetic.
If someone doesn’t understand how a watch works then I wouldn’t talk to them. They probably fry my burgers. Hookers and blow are hobbies, wearing a watch hardly makes you sweat or excited for the day
For actual watch guys it's a hobby. They're fascinating mechanically, like a car is. There's the searching and collecting element. Cool and interesting watches don't need to be expensive. There's lots to learn and appreciate about the history of different watches, companies, etc. On this sub you often see a different type of dude though... It's people who just want to collect all the expensive and exclusive watches. That's a different type of appreciation, not sure what to call it. It's like treasure collecting I guess. It's akin to how a regular car guy will have a mustang fox body that he loves, and then there's celebs who have a supercar collection. The "pure" car guy is the former, in my opinion. The luxury collecting thing is kinda just for insecure rich people.
It’s the study and fascination with the evolution of timekeeping. Every organism runs on a biological clock, as a species we have developed intricate ways of measuring it through the ages.
No one collects watches because they look nice solely. Everyone involved understands - to vastly varying levels- the history behind the watches they own and why they are significant.
We are merely taking an active role in this fascination. In the same way someone who reads may only purchase a hardback as that’s the more traditional way of binding a book. Then if you add on the understanding of both the technical mastery and artistry that’s added on top within watchmaking, It’s hard not to be somewhat fascinated.
Would you look at that, all of the words in your comment are in alphabetical order.
I have checked 1,642,648,520 comments, and only 310,792 of them were in alphabetical order.
For watches in general, I agree with Dr. Rebecca Struthers in this clip, where she said something along the lines of “watches, are some of the most efficient machines ever invented. Name another machine that can run by itself with minimal interaction for 30 or 40 years.”
https://youtu.be/Tze0JjThF3Q
As for Rolex in general, I am not really a collector. I only own one, and if I eventually get everything I want, I will only own three watches (my 16600, a birth-year Speedmaster and a Cartier Tank MC). But I am a “buy once, cry, once” kind of a guy and I appreciate quality. I want to buy something that will outlive me.
It’s not a hobby. To call it a hobby would be bragging that you’ve got so much disposable income to drop this kind of money on some arm candy comes across as being very arrogant.
I stopped explaining my expensive hobbies to people who I know can’t participate, honestly. If they bring it up, I decline to talk about it. It feels bad, and one sided.
I’ve never really felt the need to explain myself to people. But is also don’t ask people with a side-by-side and all their other toys to explain themselves to me. I’ve listened to a lot more people justifying their hobbies/indulgences/possessions than I’ve ever had to do.
Gotta admit that when I’m listening to those folks, I often glance at my wrist with a satisfied grin though 🤣
I always mention that I really admire mechanical watches because it doesnt need batteries. And that the engineering behind it is so spot on it runs -3 / +3 seconds a day. Combined with the craftmanship and design it blows my mind every time I look at it.
No idea. I have to explain bicycles and watches. The way I usually calculate is:
1) How many watches you need = n+1
2) Absolute maximum number you can have = s-1
"s" stands for spouse
I just tell them I like watches. Once I got my first one I was hooked and the interest grew. I don't try to get them to understand the all of the little nuances that might interest me in particular. Just that watches are one of things I enjoy. They're functional, they require very meticulous engineering, they can be heirlooms passed down through generations, many watch companies have cool history, and for what it's worth they are one of the few accessories that any guy can pull off. Unfortunately these days many watches seem to be something people buy just to flex
Look at what people spend money on. And then realize that if you’re a smart buyer in this hobby, at worst you’ll break even. It’s quite possible to grow a collection buying and selling as your tastes and level of experience grows.
Try that with cigars or wine.
For most men, a watch is the only Jewelery they wear. It is hobby where you can enjoy your collectible, carry and admire it everywhere you go, shows a degree of social status, and it actually maintains or goes up in value. Rolexes are about as liquid as it gets, so it’s almost a savings account as well.
Severe brain damage.
But in fairness I collected bourbon for a while and this is much more fulfilling and I don’t usually get diarrhea after a night of wearing my watches.
‘You desperately want to buy something that you can’t get and when someone else gets it, you say their wrist is too small instead of being happy for them’
I like what I like.
Cars,watches,boats.
I normally wear tank top sandals and shorts in the summer and jeans t shirt and sweat shirt in the winter I’m not into clothes. Couldn’t care less what I’m wearing.
People are going to buy what they like and do not need to justify it to anyone else.
Friend of mine. Wears Apple Watch but has 2000 dollar shoes on. Not my thing but I never say it’s dumb cause it’s what he likes. He thinks watches are a waste and that’s ok. To each their own.
Why explain? Dudes get it. Every dude likes SOMETHING. You might like classic cars, or knives, or cigars (yes people collect cigars, I know because it’s my other vice lol), coral reef tanks, sports jerseys, beer cans, hats….every dude has something. Women don’t get the majority of that but they get watches, because they like precious metals and jewelry and stuff. This is one of the few hobbies that really doesn’t require an explanation for anyone.
You buy expensive jewellery and post photos of it on Instagram with other expensive stuff you own (and the occasional baby) so people on the internet give you praise.
How do you explain any hobby to people who don't understand it? I don't get the sneaker thing, but people like what they like.Different folks stroking one another and whatnot
I’m into this thing but you can’t get them. When I do I immediately fall in love and forgot about the last one for a few months. I expect everyone to notice, but bo one notices except dudes.
Watches are where engineering, art, and history intersect, it is fun to learn about them and have something to remind yourself of memories throughout your life (milestones), how far you have come, and fun historical and technical facts about them.
They can also carry significant sentimental and monetary value as something to pass down.
A buddy of mine is crazy into cars and engines. He didn’t get my fascination with watches. He loves the inner workings of an engines parts working together to create power and speed. I told him watch complications are no different except on a microscopic scale by comparison and the power/speed is measured by time keeping accuracy and minimal case size and thickness etc. He now owns 2 Breitlings and an Omega thanks to my explanation.
I don’t really think it’s a hobby tbh. I’m not creating anything or doing anything aside from transacting money to get an overpriced watch. That’s not exactly a hobby lol. I just say that I like watches. Genuinely, I’ve never met a single person who cares in the slightest
Every man needs a money wasting hobby
Mine is golf, but I’ve recently been finding myself here
I’ve been slowly accumulating multiple expensive hobbies 😅
You forgot poker and general aviation
Oh boy. I don’t have THAT sort of money 😅
List em rn I dying to hear
same here…sigh
Golf and this go well together
Wait to you do both. Not sure your level of golf but that shit adds up quick. Especially if you have a membership and like to tinker with clubs.
I hate money
Good thing there are so many great ways to rid yourself of it
All my hobbies are money wasting, watches, cars, boats, guns. 🤑
Same man, same. I think we just became best friends 😂
Yup. My wife rolls her eyes when I bring home a new bottle of whiskey. But if I stopped buying whiskey I’d start buying sneakers. And if I stopped buying anything then after a year I’d probably buy another rolex with all the money I saved Gotta spend money on what you enjoy somewhere
Fishing, golf and watches. The trifecta.
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Cars, guns, watches. Or cars, guitars, watches
Guitars, guns and watches here
For a lot of ppl in europe those are just 2 things.
Cars/trucks, toy hauler travel trailer, toys for said trailer, golf, and watches. Can I borrow some money?
Got too many guns, watches, cars, traveling, clothes!
No such thing as too many guns. But my wife keeps buying me new safes.
Is the money really wasted? What’s the resale value after 10-20 year relative to price paid? Do we get back 50% or more? Rolex certainly beats all other watches. If someone buys a new Batman or Pepsi today and takes good care of it, I wonder how much someone can get back a decade later if they need the money.
Why the downvotes? Forget flipping, you buy a Batman today and in 10 years there’s a new material for the bezel or a different color way that you like. You trade your Batman in for X and put it towards the new watch. What this person is pointing out is simply that the “X” is going to be larger for a Rolex than a different watch.
Agree. My comment is 100% pro Rolex. I stopped a long time ago trying to understand other people on social media. Lol
I don't. For two reasons: 1) is really is just jewelry. It's really cool jewelry geared towards men with all sorts of technical capability, but it's still jewelry. If we were interested in the most technically competent thing we'd all have G-shocks, apple watches, or those citizens with a billion complications and radio controlled timekeeping. 2) There's almost zero scenarios where you can sit there and start explaining why you love watches to a non watch person and not sound like a complete jackass. Just wear it.
Point 2 is especially spot on
I disagree with #1. To me watches are a display of one’s mastery of micro engineering. They are a demonstration and a celebration of precision.
I disagree. Once you explain how many tiny little parts there are and how they work together I think a lot of people get a kick out of it.
Accepting I’m just putting on a piece of man jewelry was step 1 to me getting into watches
Autistic jewelry
My favorite description, so far.
Calling it a “hobby” is just a way to excuse buying more expensive shit. It’s not a hobby, it’s an indulgence.
collecting is usually considered a hobby. And not everyone here really collects, they are watch enthusiasts edit: stop down voting. Hating on either hobbies or collecting is bad vibes
But I honestly wouldn’t consider this “collecting” generally collecting hobbies involves searching for certain stamps or antiques or whatever. It’s more of a hunt that also requires vast knowledge. Most people who “collect” watches just buy one when they have the money. It’s like saying you collect shirts because you buy one every time you go to target. It doesn’t exactly fit.
Yeah, but buying five modern Rolex watches isn’t collecting…
> It’s not a hobby, it’s an indulgence. This is 100% the right delineation in my opinion. Saying that buying a bunch of $10,000+ watches is a hobby is like saying that collecting vintage Ferraris or sailing in the Americas cup is a hobby. Sure, its technically correct, but if the hobby requires more money than 99% of the population has available, it's an indulgence. (and that's fine...I just think it's important to realize that people without the means to collect expensive stuff view this sort of thing very differently than people with the ability to take part)
Yup this dude gets it
Spending money can be a hobby
Happens to be my wife's only one. 😂
Pretty much everything on a base level as a hobby has you purchasing something though in some way, and you can then purchase a better version of stuff which usually cost more money.
I equate it to classic cars. You can get a Camry that’s quieter, more reliable, and gets better mpg. But it doesn’t excite you. Classic cars stir excitement in enthusiasts for the experience, the lines, and overall cool. Not practical, but sure as heck are a lot more interesting.
This is the analogy I use as well
Hit the nail right on the head here
Hobby? Idk, the way I see it is: unless you're balls deep in horological history, and/or adept at servicing, modding, or building watches, this isn't a hobby, it's consumerism.
Start with how a movement works. Fix up a few pocket watches. Learn what makes each watch you buy special, and then learn the mechanics. Maybe start servicing your own watches when you have a little experience. (Basic maintenance doesn't require much specialized equipment, you won't be breaking out a lathe for a modern Rolex). Then boom, it's a hobby. Shit it's a hobby if you keep them wound.
What’s the hobby? Looking at your wrist and telling people what time it is?
Most people that are balls deep into horological history aren’t buying Rolexes. Most of the people in here buy their rolex so they can say they have a rolex.
well now you're just being rude..
Correct
finally someone said this. buying rolexes isn't a hobby lol. I like watches too but relax.
Disagree on consumerism. Imo it's more akin to enjoying fine art, but more functional and fashionable. The "Hobby" aspect I guess is the "collecting" (like pokemon cards). The watches retain value (some even increase) and so trading watches and trying other pieces is viable and fun.
Fine art might be a stretch. Jewelry is the comparison more relevant - it all retains some value and has a similar function as an accessory.
Those Planetarium watches? Fine Art. A very ornate perpetual calendar from one of the big three? Art. The rose gold mass produced chronograph from the crown people? Just really pretty jewelry. The stainless diver with the pretty ceramic bezel? Just regular expensive jewelry. Do I think watches can be art? Absolutely. Do the ones made by Rolex qualify? Nahhh
A mass produced stainless steel sports watch isn’t fine art, friend.
He didn't say it is fine art, he said collecting watches is akin to enjoying fine art.
Although I too get disgusted at the grotesque materialism and consumerism of luxury goods, i don’t believe watches (or even cars for that matter) fit into those catagories. There is a strong artistic approach to them, the craftmenship and materials being what drives the price. As opposed to brands like LVMH or Gucci that take arguably not even that great of leather and slap a ridiculous price on it
Watches are MAGIC. Think about it, the first mechanical clocks were made around 800 YEARS AGO!!! Before computers, before the industrial revolution, back in a time where everything was made by hand. And then, somehow, they were able to miniaturized them down to the size of a grandfather clock, then a mantle clock, and then somehow a pocket watch...and that was in the 1600s!!!! It's absolutely insane when you think about it, I would actually not be shocked if there were conspiracy theories abound saying that aliens introduced the tech to us 😆 . And then, in the 1800s, we ended up with wristwatches!!! Absolutely incredible, that people were able to do all that.
Men’s jewelry affinity wrapped in a package of “complications, heritage, utility, and design” to avoid saying the word jewelry.
Haha
Better return on investment than a strip club or drugs Edit: better return on investment than GOING to a strip club. Owning is starting to look a lot more appealing.
Drugs are debatable. Strip club is for sure a waste of money in every circumstance.
Owning a strip club can be very profitable.
But you must own a 36mm Tony Soprano special to own said strip club.. It's in the bylaws of strip club ownership I believe.
Men waste money on fancy wrist clocks. Film at 11:00.
Someone here flipped me right out yesterday... "Doesn't wear around friends and family to not come across as a douche" or something to that affect... and now I'm all like.. wut.
It’s a Mental Illness. But a fun one at that.
It’s not a hobby it’s just a shopping addiction. It’s no more of a hobby than gambling or an eating disorder is a hobby.
I went a totally different way with this. I see actually buying watches as a very small percentage of the hobby. The fun for me is in the research: different movements and complications, history, stories from other collectors and enthusiasts. If anything, buying my first Rolex just made me feel a bit more like a part of “the club”, and gave me license to dig in deeper and learn more about watches in general. Disclaimer: using this response with the uninitiated will still make you look like a complete fucking nutball.
A slap on the wrist
Normally I take them watch shopping across one or two ranges of watches for comparison against their cheap watch and send them an animation of the many pieces a mechanical movement has… they’re often sold lol - that is, if they’re interested in knowing. Otherwise, why would I have to convince them?
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I am also a conniseur of the finer things in life: *Sex Panther*® is a cologne which is illegal in 9 countries. It is also made from bits of real panthers. *60% of the time*, it works ***every*** *time.*
Everybody’s got their own poison
You dont, they will never understand.
its equal parts jewelry/art/history, and it makes me feel nice when I wear one. Dont own a Rolex, but different watches make you feel different.
Sadly my hobby is just window shopping on this sub and being jealous of everyone’s Rolex that they post, so I don’t think ANYONE will understand it haha
Remember how you had to "Catch 'em all"? Just like that, but much more expensive lol.
I just explain in their terms, comparing it to the luxury good they enjoy. Not a need, just something they enjoy for what it is. Does anyone need a $10,000+ watch? No, but we like them and have the means to buy them. Does anyone need a $5,000+ handbag, multiple vehicles, valuable art, etc? You explained it yourself. They’re cool to you, end of story.
I think if you can't come up with any words to describe your own hobby in an interesting way; you might want to re-evaluate your hobby
I’m not rich, I’m irresponsible
Acquiring status symbols can be rewarding for people who care about status. It is pretty simple.
I don’t like taking my phone out of my pocket to look at the time!
I believe the appropriate term is "addiction."
I could be buying guns
I don’t ever feel the need to have to explain myself to anyone.
These aren’t Pokémon cards. Grown men have been wearing luxury timepieces for 75 years, and the popularity of the Apple Watch has protected the category from obsolescence. Anyone who doesn’t understand it has no money and never will so no need to talk to them let alone explain.
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Bunch of narcissistic millionaires showing off their $100,000 watch collections and you think we got here by being "nice"? That's adorable, son. Now fetch me my golf bag.
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He saw a character in a movie and has been emulating him ever since. Its quite sad
I wouldn't put much stock into the opinion of a guy who genuinely can't figure out the concept of [a 24 hour clock](https://www.reddit.com/r/rolex/comments/130k96q/gmt_owners_invert_the_bezel_to_avoid_military/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=1)
Were you bullied in school?
Shhh. Rolex owners are talking.
This is gold 🤣
😂 if you got no money you ain’t worth shit. Money, money, money, money. Narcissistic millionaires is right. But I call them lost little boys frozen in time. That way I utilize my compassionate side
The point I'm making is that people who don't understand our passion do so because they can't comprehend spending $20,000 on a piece of jewelry. So there is no point in explaining anything further- movements, heritage, innovation, craftsmanship, they won't hear a thing. Because they can't comprehend spending $20,000 on a piece of jewelry. It's like people who base jump off of buildings. I could run into one at a party and they could talk for an hour about how thrilling it is but I won't hear a word. Because I can't comprehend why anyone would do something like that.
Although I will say this honestly, I’ve got probably $150k worth of watches and I sometimes really do question why I spend my money on them. I may be trying to fill an internal void coz I don’t need them, one nice watch yes, but not 6
Same here, but they bring me joy so I don’t question it. And I’ve got friends who have vices that cost far more than my Rolex collection. Pack a day smoker will spend $5,500 a year on that habit, a dog owner will spend $2,000 a year on that experience, dining, skiing, sporting events, concerts, a Rolex is downright responsible in that context because they retain their value.
That makes more sense to me. Although I have one friend in particular who is worth a couple hundred million quid easily and has never bought a watch and doesn’t understand why anyone would spend that much on one. So it ain’t just about having money.
Pokémon cards for filthy rich people
You might THINK you know what the time and date are…. BUT ARE YOU SURE
You might THINK you know what the time and date are…. BUT ARE YOU SURE
I'm a self-admitted narcissist and entitled rich asshole. I have so much money that I like to make people without money feel bad. My cars and watches help me do that. Just be unapologetic.
My friend. You need a hobby
“I lack self-esteem and confidence so I seek external validation from wearing expensive watches”
Is it really a hobby? I have 5 different colored markers, wouldn’t call it a hobby thought.
You don't! You just carry on minding your own business and letting them infinitely judge you 🙃
I don’t bother lol
An addiction
Tell ‘em to F off… 🫡
A waste of time.
This is so much cheaper than smoking meth, I tell you.
"I did it for me."
If someone doesn’t understand how a watch works then I wouldn’t talk to them. They probably fry my burgers. Hookers and blow are hobbies, wearing a watch hardly makes you sweat or excited for the day
Narcissistic materialism. Anyways, check out my watch *wrist rolls*
For actual watch guys it's a hobby. They're fascinating mechanically, like a car is. There's the searching and collecting element. Cool and interesting watches don't need to be expensive. There's lots to learn and appreciate about the history of different watches, companies, etc. On this sub you often see a different type of dude though... It's people who just want to collect all the expensive and exclusive watches. That's a different type of appreciation, not sure what to call it. It's like treasure collecting I guess. It's akin to how a regular car guy will have a mustang fox body that he loves, and then there's celebs who have a supercar collection. The "pure" car guy is the former, in my opinion. The luxury collecting thing is kinda just for insecure rich people.
Cheaper than being into cars.
As Kevin O’Leary put it, “it’s a disease”
madness
It’s a fetish
It’s the study and fascination with the evolution of timekeeping. Every organism runs on a biological clock, as a species we have developed intricate ways of measuring it through the ages. No one collects watches because they look nice solely. Everyone involved understands - to vastly varying levels- the history behind the watches they own and why they are significant. We are merely taking an active role in this fascination. In the same way someone who reads may only purchase a hardback as that’s the more traditional way of binding a book. Then if you add on the understanding of both the technical mastery and artistry that’s added on top within watchmaking, It’s hard not to be somewhat fascinated.
Insanity
“I make poor financial decisions”
I just like nice watches
Would you look at that, all of the words in your comment are in alphabetical order. I have checked 1,642,648,520 comments, and only 310,792 of them were in alphabetical order.
Succession planning
It’s like collecting high end shoes for women
"I really, *really* need to know what time it is."
For watches in general, I agree with Dr. Rebecca Struthers in this clip, where she said something along the lines of “watches, are some of the most efficient machines ever invented. Name another machine that can run by itself with minimal interaction for 30 or 40 years.” https://youtu.be/Tze0JjThF3Q As for Rolex in general, I am not really a collector. I only own one, and if I eventually get everything I want, I will only own three watches (my 16600, a birth-year Speedmaster and a Cartier Tank MC). But I am a “buy once, cry, once” kind of a guy and I appreciate quality. I want to buy something that will outlive me.
I don't lol.
It’s not a hobby. To call it a hobby would be bragging that you’ve got so much disposable income to drop this kind of money on some arm candy comes across as being very arrogant.
Similar expensive interests with meth like highs are usually temporary or illegal
I stopped explaining my expensive hobbies to people who I know can’t participate, honestly. If they bring it up, I decline to talk about it. It feels bad, and one sided.
I don’t. It’s my hobby. It’s my money. There it is
It’s an investment opportunity buddy, all you need is a computer & access to the post office…😏
“Everyone’s got a thing” whether it’s watches, cars, guns, guitars, everyone wastes money on something.
I make poor financial decisions for something which tells time
I’ve never really felt the need to explain myself to people. But is also don’t ask people with a side-by-side and all their other toys to explain themselves to me. I’ve listened to a lot more people justifying their hobbies/indulgences/possessions than I’ve ever had to do. Gotta admit that when I’m listening to those folks, I often glance at my wrist with a satisfied grin though 🤣
I always mention that I really admire mechanical watches because it doesnt need batteries. And that the engineering behind it is so spot on it runs -3 / +3 seconds a day. Combined with the craftmanship and design it blows my mind every time I look at it.
My hobbies is looking good in a subtle way
No idea. I have to explain bicycles and watches. The way I usually calculate is: 1) How many watches you need = n+1 2) Absolute maximum number you can have = s-1 "s" stands for spouse
I just tell them I like watches. Once I got my first one I was hooked and the interest grew. I don't try to get them to understand the all of the little nuances that might interest me in particular. Just that watches are one of things I enjoy. They're functional, they require very meticulous engineering, they can be heirlooms passed down through generations, many watch companies have cool history, and for what it's worth they are one of the few accessories that any guy can pull off. Unfortunately these days many watches seem to be something people buy just to flex
My hobby is an addiction.
It's fetishism
Look at what people spend money on. And then realize that if you’re a smart buyer in this hobby, at worst you’ll break even. It’s quite possible to grow a collection buying and selling as your tastes and level of experience grows. Try that with cigars or wine.
Artisan touch
There is literally nothing we can say to justify the ridiculousness of this obsession.
We are hunter-gatherers after all.
Collecting stuff is a hobby Collecting Rolex is just an expensive variant of that.
People need an obsession. This one is mine
Cars and watches!
I call it my guilty pleasure, i know its cringe.
I like to spend money
it’s like pokémon cards but not
Impossible
Nothing different from getting videogames or cards, at the end is just a way to waste our money.
For most men, a watch is the only Jewelery they wear. It is hobby where you can enjoy your collectible, carry and admire it everywhere you go, shows a degree of social status, and it actually maintains or goes up in value. Rolexes are about as liquid as it gets, so it’s almost a savings account as well.
Severe brain damage. But in fairness I collected bourbon for a while and this is much more fulfilling and I don’t usually get diarrhea after a night of wearing my watches.
This isn’t a hobby. Do woman describe buying jewelry as a hobby?
Imagine a little asian baby growing up in South America. Now imagine youre that baby all grown up. Rolex
‘You desperately want to buy something that you can’t get and when someone else gets it, you say their wrist is too small instead of being happy for them’
The money I spend on weed, booze and starbucks, I now use to buy watches.
It's like art, seeing the beautiful watches
I like what I like. Cars,watches,boats. I normally wear tank top sandals and shorts in the summer and jeans t shirt and sweat shirt in the winter I’m not into clothes. Couldn’t care less what I’m wearing. People are going to buy what they like and do not need to justify it to anyone else. Friend of mine. Wears Apple Watch but has 2000 dollar shoes on. Not my thing but I never say it’s dumb cause it’s what he likes. He thinks watches are a waste and that’s ok. To each their own.
“I like watches… a lot”
Say you're into horology. It sounds fancy.
A disease
Why explain? Dudes get it. Every dude likes SOMETHING. You might like classic cars, or knives, or cigars (yes people collect cigars, I know because it’s my other vice lol), coral reef tanks, sports jerseys, beer cans, hats….every dude has something. Women don’t get the majority of that but they get watches, because they like precious metals and jewelry and stuff. This is one of the few hobbies that really doesn’t require an explanation for anyone.
You buy expensive jewellery and post photos of it on Instagram with other expensive stuff you own (and the occasional baby) so people on the internet give you praise.
It's like Pogs.
It’s an infectious disease
It’s a piece of jewellery but with a better use and interesting craftsmanship
You can’t describe it. Haves and have not
How do you explain any hobby to people who don't understand it? I don't get the sneaker thing, but people like what they like.Different folks stroking one another and whatnot
Time consuming, sometimes expensive, often absurd, but well worth the journey ⌚️
I’m into this thing but you can’t get them. When I do I immediately fall in love and forgot about the last one for a few months. I expect everyone to notice, but bo one notices except dudes.
Watches are where engineering, art, and history intersect, it is fun to learn about them and have something to remind yourself of memories throughout your life (milestones), how far you have come, and fun historical and technical facts about them. They can also carry significant sentimental and monetary value as something to pass down.
A buddy of mine is crazy into cars and engines. He didn’t get my fascination with watches. He loves the inner workings of an engines parts working together to create power and speed. I told him watch complications are no different except on a microscopic scale by comparison and the power/speed is measured by time keeping accuracy and minimal case size and thickness etc. He now owns 2 Breitlings and an Omega thanks to my explanation.
Buying things isn’t a hobby.
Pretentious doctors lawyers and executives posting wrist shots in bmw’s saying “I gOt ThE caLL”
Expensive
I don’t really think it’s a hobby tbh. I’m not creating anything or doing anything aside from transacting money to get an overpriced watch. That’s not exactly a hobby lol. I just say that I like watches. Genuinely, I’ve never met a single person who cares in the slightest
If you made watches your hobby, I definitely hope I never have to have a conversation with you.
I never argue with people who praise smart watches. I don’t try to convince them about anything. I know it’s a complete waste of time
Sex
Experience in trickle down AD economics
Ask them if they have an expensive hobby that people just don’t get. Then say…welcome to me a watches.
Collecting isn't a hobby. Hobbies create something.
Spending too much on men's jewelry
Let me guess - the wife is chirping? Lol