May 01, 2025

How to Start a Watch Collection: A Beginner’s Guide

Written By: Vahid Moradi

A well-chosen watch does more than tell time—it captures a moment, a milestone, or a memory. If you’ve ever admired the details of luxury designer watches and wondered how to begin your own collection, you’re not alone. Starting your journey into watches can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

This guide walks you through the essentials—whether you're eyeing used luxury watches or investing in something new—for a confident and rewarding start to collecting.

Why Start a Watch Collection?

Watches go beyond function. They reflect personal style, mark milestones, and often hold lasting sentimental and financial value. Beginning a collection opens the door to exploring craftsmanship, heritage, and personal expression.

The wristwatch as we know it actually started out of practicality—British officers in the 1880s began wearing their pocket watches on their wrists during military campaigns, using leather straps to keep them secure. It wasn’t until much later that wristwatches caught on in everyday civilian life.

Whether you’re buying for yourself or gifting a future collector, a thoughtfully curated collection becomes more than an accessory—it becomes a legacy.

Timeless design and superior craftsmanship. Shop watches!

Key Factors to Consider Before You Begin

Before diving into your first purchase, take a moment to reflect on what you want out of the experience. A bit of planning now can set the stage for a collection that evolves with your taste and lifestyle.

Set a Budget That Works for You

The world of luxury watches is expansive, with models ranging from under $1,000 to well over six figures. Consider whether you're buying new or used, and factor in long-term costs like maintenance and servicing. Remember, you don’t have to start big to build a meaningful lineup.

Define Your Style and Purpose

Are you drawn to bold chronograph dials or classic minimalism? Do you want a watch that elevates your daily look, or one suited for formal occasions? Clarifying your intent helps narrow your focus. Some collectors lean into iconic silhouettes, while others chase rare or limited-edition pieces. There’s no wrong approach—it’s all about what speaks to you.

Understand Watch Categories (Dress, Sport, Casual, etc.)

Watches fall into distinct categories, each offering different aesthetics and functionalities:

Dress watches: Slim, understated pieces often worn with suits or formalwear.
Sport watches: Designed for active use; includes dive watches, pilot watches, and chronographs.
Casual watches: Everyday styles that balance function with comfort.
Luxury tool watches: A fusion of durability and high-end design, often including advanced features.

Understanding these types of watches helps you balance your collection across styles and functions.

Choose Your First Watch Wisely

Your first piece should feel like something you’ll want to wear, not just keep in a box. Look for something that fits your lifestyle and sparks your curiosity to keep learning and collecting. Brands like Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and IWC Schaffhausen offer excellent entry points to some of the best watches for men and women, combining heritage, craftsmanship, and enduring style.

Don’t chase trends—instead, find a piece that resonates. A good starting watch often becomes a sentimental favorite as your collection grows.

Where to Buy Your First Luxury Watch

Choosing the right place to buy your first luxury watch matters just as much as the watch itself. Reputable retailers, like CJ Charles Jewelers, offer a curated selection of both new and pre-owned models, backed by guarantees of authenticity.

Avoid high-risk peer-to-peer marketplaces unless you’re highly experienced. Certified pre-owned stores can be a smart way to find quality used timepieces at competitive prices.

Tips for Expanding Your Collection Over Time

As your interest in collecting deepens, so should the variety and care behind your selections. Expanding a watch collection is about building thoughtfully, maintaining value, and reflecting a broader appreciation for horology. Here’s how to evolve your collection with intention and expertise.

Diversify Brands and Movements

A well-rounded collection features a mix of heritage brands, modern innovators, and different types of watch movements. Don’t stick to one brand or style; instead, branch out into different models, dial layouts, and case materials. This gives your collection depth and showcases your horological range.

Mechanical, automatic, and quartz movements each offer unique experiences. Collectors often enjoy the artistry of mechanical movements or the precision of quartz.

Maintain Value with Proper Care and Documentation

Luxury watches hold their value best when properly maintained. Keep original boxes, certificates, and receipts. Regular servicing is essential to protect your purchase.

Storing your timepieces properly also helps preserve them. Look for cases that cushion each piece and prevent unnecessary wear. A high-quality watch box is not only practical, but it also adds to the overall presentation of your collection.

Protecting and Maintaining Your Collection

Luxury timepieces are built to last, but they still require care. Here’s how to protect your growing collection:

Service regularly: Depending on the movement, a watch may need servicing every 3–5 years.
Store safely: Use dedicated watch storage to keep your timepieces protected, and avoid exposing them to moisture, direct sunlight, and magnetic fields.
Handle with clean hands: Oils and dirt can wear down materials over time.
Rotate wear: Let your automatic pieces wind down occasionally to avoid overuse.

These simple steps help your watches maintain their function and beauty over time.

Start Your Journey with CJ Charles Jewelers

Once you’ve got the basics of how to start a luxury watch collection down, it’s time to start looking for the right timepieces to make your own. At CJ Charles Jewelers, we offer an exceptional selection of luxury timepieces from the world’s most respected brands. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand, our knowledgeable team can help you select watches that align with your goals, interests, and lifestyle.

From iconic models to rare collector’s editions, CJ Charles brings decades of horological expertise to your journey. Explore our curated collection today and start building something timeless.