image credits @www.acollectedman.com
The journey of a lifetime begins with a single first step. In this article, we’ll look at five watches that are perfect for that special journey. Legendary watchmakers understand beginnings. They have crafted special timepieces perfect for gift-giving, graduation, special occasions, and more.
WHY A SPECIAL WATCH?
You are telling the world that marking time is important to you. Are you a young couple starting a new life together? Graduating with a hard-won degree or celebrating a big promotion? It’s pride, passion, and the beginning of a lifetime of owning and wearing an iconic watch on your unique journey.
THE IDEA OF COLLECTING FINE WATCHES
Consider WatchNerd.com as your personal gateway to the greatest brands. We identify the entry-level models, usually the lowest priced models, to help you get started. Simply put, if you are looking to gain some momentum as a collector, start off with an entry level model and build up your collection of watches in the brands you respect as you go.
BUILDING A COLLECTION REQUIRES A STRATEGY
The experts at WatchNerd.com present their short list of entry-level watches. We help you answer the question, “Which watch should I buy? We suggest you start small. Over time, you will start to see your collection grow. Collecting watches is very personal. There are no right answers and your portfolio of timepieces should excite you when you sit and treasure each one. Start with an everyday watch. Wear your first watch daily for the sheer enjoyment of it. Notice how wearing makes you feel. Take note when someone compliments your taste.
TAKE TIME TO LEARN THE BRANDS AND THEIR STORIES
Watch collectors, whether they admit it or not, are members in a very special club. They are passionate about horology and take time to learn about the world’s best watchmakers. In today’s hustle-bustle electronic world, watchmaking throws you back into the world of creative design, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that staggers the mind. Trace the origins of your favorite brands back to their beginnings. Each of these companies survived for decades and overcame obstacles, setbacks, and continued to stubbornly never compromise.
MAKING YOUR FIRST MOVE
Choosing your first watch is much simpler if you take a few moments and think through your needs. Identify how you will wear the watch and what you’ll be doing when you wear it. Are you going to wear your watch with jeans and boots? Need a sleek looking timepiece for the office? Have you recently passed the bar and you need a work watch that impresses? Are you the out of doors type? Answers to these questions will help you narrow the field a bit. Find a watch you like, one that grabs you, one you can’t stop looking at.
OMEGA SEAMASTER DIVER 300 M CO-AXIAL
The Diver 300 will have you looking good wherever life takes you. It feels great in your hand and looks even better on your wrist. There are three features that combine to give you a refined and polished look. The bracelet design is timeless and the deep blue dial and bezel are exactly right when you are on the go. The face is clean, well organized and easy to read. Wear your Diver 300 to the beach or to the office. This can’t miss watch looks great, attracts the right amount of second looks, and says you are on your way. The Seamaster is a true classic you’ll be proud to wear for a long time.
IWC PILOT’S WATCH MARK XVIII
IWC presents a Pilot’s watch like no other. The Mark XVIII is an aviation-inspired, precision timepiece with an innovative and functional design. The genius of the design lies in its mastery of the bare essentials. The dial is clean and easy to read. In place of the 12, there is a white triangle and two dots. There is a date where the 3 would be. It is self-winding and offers you a 42-hour power reserve. It is water resistant to 6 bar. The watch features a black face, brilliant white hands, and calfskin strap. Its simplicity gives it a serious and purposeful look. You tell the world you mean business. Wear this one anywhere, anytime!
ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL 39
Rolex has done it again! The Oyster Perpetual 39 is a simple watch done well. If you are looking for a watch that is at home with a polo shirt or business suit, this is it. It boasts clean, elegant lines, with the right amount of warmth. You have your choice of a subtle warm white dial or a semi-glossy black dial. It’s simplest of the Rolex line, but it makes the same statement as watches in their other collections. The simple and elegant design says steady as she goes. The P39 will be a trusted friend and won’t let you down.
AUDEMAR PIGUET ROYAL OAK SELFWINDING 15450ST
The AP Royal Oak is a true classic. I’ve met more than one wearer who swears this is the best watch in the world. Like all true icons, once you know what you are looking at, you want more. The octagonal bezel shape is unique and is the hallmark of the Royal Oak. It is self-winding and comes in a 38mm case. Take a closer look at the dial. The raised block pattern on the face is a key feature of the Royal Oak. Over the years, countless color options make each one its own masterpiece. Consider the Royal Oak your first AND second watch.
PATEK PHILLIPPE AQUANAUT 5167
It is the rounded octagon case that makes you look twice. The understated, young, energetic look gets its inspiration from the Nautilus. The Aquanaut makes a statement. To better express your individuality, there are endless variations of on the 5167. Stainless steel, colored dials, a variety of colorful straps says you have arrived. Be sure to find out more about the fascinating brand history of Patek Phillipe. Their story is as amazing as their watches.
CONCLUSION
Finding your first watch from a legendary maker is a wise investment in time. You are choosing a companion to mark time with. It is a long journey forward, having a special watch on your wrist makes every moment special. Choose according to your lifestyle and the intensity of your activity. Will it be kayaking or 9 to 5? The world of fine watches is calling you to explore. Discover a wide range of colors and shapes, astounding technology, and stunning craftsmanship. There is a special watch waiting for you to enjoy.
