Collecting watches can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but there are a few mistakes that you want to avoid if you want to make the most of your collection.

In this article, The Watch Exchange London takes a look at some of the most common mistakes made by watch collectors and offers some tips on how to avoid them.

1- Not Doing Your Research

One of the most common mistakes made by watch collectors is not doing their research before making a purchase. It's important to know as much as you can about a watch before you buy it, including its history, value, and any potential problems that it may have. There are a number of resources available online and in print that can help you learn more about watches, and it's worth taking the time to consult them before making a purchase

2- Failing to Inspect a Watch Carefully

Another mistake that watches collectors make is failing to inspect a watch carefully before buying it. This is especially true if you're buying a used watch, as you want to be sure that it's in good condition and doesn't have any hidden damage. Take the time to examine the watch closely, paying attention to things like the condition of the case, strap, and dial. If you're not sure what to look for, it's a good idea to take the watch to a qualified watchmaker or jeweller who can give you an expert opinion

3- Not Keeping Good Records

If you're serious about collecting watches, it's important to keep good records of your purchases. This includes keeping track of when and where you bought each watch, as well as its make, model, and serial number. This information can be extremely helpful if you ever need to sell or insure your collection

4- Buying Fakes

Sadly, there are a lot of fake watches on the market and watch collectors need to be careful to avoid them. If you're not an expert on watches, it can be difficult to spot a fake, so it's important to do your research and only buy from reputable dealers. Be wary of anyone selling a watch at an unusually low price, as this is often a sign that the watch is not authentic

5- Not Insuring Your Collection

Another mistake that watches collectors make is failing to ensure their collections. Given the high value of many watches, it's important to have them insured in case they're lost, stolen, or damaged. You can often get insurance for your collection through your homeowners or renters insurance policy, or you may need to purchase a separate policy specifically for your watches

Collecting watches can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it’s important to avoid making some common mistakes. By learning what not to do when collecting watches, you can ensure that your collection is both enjoyable and valuable. We hope that this article has helped educate you on the dos and don’ts of watch collecting and we wish you the best of luck in building your very own collection!