Why I Sold All My Watches - Reasons and Regrets
Howto & Style
Introduction
Introduction
Hello and welcome to The 1916 Company! I'm Tim Mosso, and this is "Watches Tonight." This evening, I delve into a rather personal topic: why I sold each of the watches I've owned. Additionally, we will engage in live chats and I will share your wrist shots. Before we dive into these topics, let’s take a moment to check out my Instagram at @tim_mosso, where I post one-minute reviews of some of the finest watches crossing my desk.
An Introduction to My Watch Collection Journey
A few years back, I made the decision to sell most of my watches, my cherished collection. Although I have discussed this in the past, I have never delved deeply into the reasons behind each sale. Tonight, I will provide a detailed look into why I sold each watch, which mirrors my journey as a Jaeger-LeCoultre (JLC) collector.
First, let's dispel a common misconception: I am still an avid watch collector, though my focus has evolved. Today, my interests primarily include micro-mechanics, watchmaking, and vintage American pocket watches. However, years ago, I firmly believed my time in the watch industry was drawing to a close, prompting my decision to sell and prepare financially for future endeavors.
From JLC Enthusiast to Seller
At the peak of my JLC collection, I owned nine references that encapsulated significant aspects of the brand's heritage. When I chose to sell these watches, it was not a decision taken lightly. Each sale had its own rationale, so let’s explore the reasons in detail:
The Grand Memovox
What It Was:
The Grand Memovox was a 250-piece limited edition in platinum, equipped with an in-house JLC perpetual calendar and alarm. It was one of the heaviest watches I ever owned, contributing to its immense wrist presence.
Why I Bought It:
The combination of perpetual calendar and alarm, the sheer weight, the phenomenal finishing, and the excellent deal I managed to secure all played a big role.
Why I Sold It:
The Grand Memovox's mechanical flexibility was its downfall. The timepiece repeatedly stalled overnight, despite a recent factory service. The cost of servicing such complications, alongside my aversion to polished cases, pushed me to sell it.
The Duometre Chronograph
What It Was:
A 200-piece limited edition in white gold, the DuoMetre chronograph boasted twin mainspring barrels and one escapement. It was the antithesis of traditional chronographs, offering a much more refined experience.
Why I Bought It:
The innovative and intricate design, along with the hefty discount I was able to negotiate, was irresistible. This watch was an outright Grail for me, offering a unique appeal with its German silver movement and superb accuracy.
Why I Sold It:
Purely financial reasons. Given its high value, I felt compelled to include it in my plan to build a substantial financial safety net for my next career move.
The Reverso Platinum Number Two Tourbillon
What It Was:
This limited edition tourbillon in platinum showcased the epitome of JLC craftsmanship. It combined a solid white gold movement with a platinum case, brega numerals, and a torban you could hide.
Why I Bought It:
It was my ultimate Grail watch, loaded with charm, craftsmanship, and innovation. It was also fantastically affordable due to the depreciation from its 2003 list price.
Why I Sold It:
The cost of future service, lack of a full set, and evidence of polishing all caused me concern. Despite being a masterpiece, I felt these factors justified its sale.
The Master Compressor Extreme World Alarm
What It Was:
A 2009, 50-piece limited edition combining JLC’s technical prowess with durability and multifunctionality. It included a world timer and alarm, all housed within a shock-resistant titanium and steel case.
Why I Bought It:
I was captivated by its features and the incredible discount I managed to procure. Its ability to maintain anonymity despite being a luxury piece further appealed to me.
Why I Sold It:
Quite simply, it was too large for my wrist. Despite its impressive features, I could not reconcile its size with my comfort.
The Reverso Night and Day
What It Was:
A delicately designed dual-time watch with day and night indicators, showcasing JLC’s innovative spirit.
Why I Bought It:
The perfect combination of white gold, dual-time functionality, and exquisite craftsmanship.
Why I Sold It:
Concerns over the vulnerability of precious metals to scratches and dents, combined with evidence of polishing and the practical redundancy of owning multiple time zones while not traveling enough.
Conclusion
Reflecting on my journey, I carry a blend of contentment and regret. My desire to commit fully to an anticipated future outside the watch industry led me to sell my collection prematurely. However, each watch I owned was a unique marvel, and the experiences they brought me hold a place of pride in my heart.
Keywords
- Watch collection
- Jaeger-LeCoultre (JLC)
- Duometre Chronograph
- Reverso Platinum Number Two Tourbillon
- Master Compressor Extreme World Alarm
- Financial decisions
- Mechanical flaws
- Watch servicing
FAQ
Q: Why did you decide to sell your entire collection?
- A: I believed my time in the watch industry was nearing its end, and I thought I would need the financial resources for my next career move.
Q: Which watch do you regret selling the most?
- A: The DuoMetre Chronograph holds the most regret for me, as it encapsulated everything I loved about horology.
Q: How did you decide which watches were worth selling?
- A: Each watch had specific reasons, ranging from financial necessity, mechanical issues, to personal preferences around aesthetics and features.
Q: Did you keep any of your JLC watches?
- A: Yes, I kept my Vintage lug Jaeger-LeCoultre memovox e876, which I share with a close friend who I consider to be family.
Q: What watch would you recommend for under $ 3,000?
- A: I would recommend a pre-owned Oris Aquis Date Caliber 400, which offers excellent value and performance for its price range.
Q: Do you see yourself collecting watches again?
- A: Yes, I still consider myself a collector and continue to appreciate and invest in unique pieces, even if not as prolifically as before.
Q: Have you ever encountered a watch you sold on someone else's wrist?
- A: Not yet, but I would love to reconnect with the collectors who own some of my past watches.
This comprehensive article explores the reasons and emotions behind the sale of my cherished watch collection. It also answers frequent questions, providing an insightful look into the considerations that influence a passionate collector's journey.