Economically speaking...

Feb 14, 2010,10:51 AM
 

I can tell you, that many collectors who have acquired pieces out of passion and started some time ago have done very well with their watch portfolios.

Nevertheless, a positive cashflow on my balance sheet is necessary for me to continue to operate my lifestyle and for me to feed myself. This is true for all people, rich or poor, big or small. If you aren't profitable, you don't stay alive or in business.

I do expect wristwatch prices to drop from their frenzied highs to historical norms. I expect a return to normalcy in the market of wristwatches. However, worldwide wealth is growing; the Chinese are becoming incredibly affluent, and unfortunately the Chinese have quite an appetite for horological complications. Thus, despite the economic downturn in the West, I expect the East to pick up some of the wristwatches available for sale.

We live in an interesting time; but there should always be a fundamental rule regarding any collecting or hobby; think of the money invested as money that cannot be easily realized as money again. Don't expect good resale value, don't expect strong appreciation, don't buy art hoping that it will increase in value. Collecting should be based on pure desire. And when you do that, you will never lose. And if you do happen to see an increase in value on the pieces that you own; consider that as good fortune smiling upon you.


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Passion and Pricing

 
 By: nothing but time : February 14th, 2010-08:05
I am a passionate Patek collector, but I am a pragmatic soul. I recognize as the manufacturer does that watches are ultimately "novelties" .. so described on the invitations I receive to events where new models are unveiled. These novelties are not cheap.... 

I'm not a fortune teller

 
 By: Bruno.M1 : February 14th, 2010-10:09
so I can't answer your question. But if you ask me, I think you're a bit too pessimistic. I agree the economy isn't in a good shape but I don't think we'll have a bearmarket till 2017. I'm more optimistic and I really think the worst is behind us. Will we... 

Economically speaking...

 
 By: patrick_y : February 14th, 2010-10:51
I can tell you, that many collectors who have acquired pieces out of passion and started some time ago have done very well with their watch portfolios. Nevertheless, a positive cashflow on my balance sheet is necessary for me to continue to operate my lif... 

Sorry but in the end this discussion can IMO lead nowhere!

 
 By: Dje : February 14th, 2010-13:46
Hi, Sorry but I have to close that thread as it is definitely about value and not about passion for watches! Furthermore you can make all the assumptions you want about the market but in the end you can't say, see, or forecast what will come tomorrow! Exp...