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Thread: The two watch collection

  1. #1
    Master Rocket Man's Avatar
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    The two watch collection

    This has been discussed before but it's always a fun topic.

    I've just gone down to a collection of two expensive watches and it feels sort of liberating.

    My current two are both Grand Seiko: the Snowflake and the SBGK005. The Snowflake is a great daily watch - it looks equally good with jeans or a smart outfit, the case is partly brushed so not as susceptible to scratches as the zaratsu polishing that I admire but is less suited to everyday wear and it also has a date. The SBGK005 is also versatile, it looks good with jeans or smart outfits and is mostly reserved for high days and holy days. Strapping it on feels like a special treat and it makes me smile every time as I find some new aspect of the dial or case to enjoy.

    Both watches complement each other nicely, they have stunning dials that are inspired by the natural world, one light and one dark dial, manual and automatic, one on bracelet and the other on a strap.

    I found this Hodinkee article yesterday on the subject that inspired me to write this post:

    "Another product of The Two Watch Collection thought exercise is that it makes us really think about how we use a watch and the role of a collection. If we're honest with ourselves, then two watches are all one would need to consistently have a perfect watch for every occasion. Follow this to its end, and you arrive at the conclusion that versatility is paramount. So when I approach the exercise the parameters are a) it must be the best expression of whatever it is trying to achieve, and b) the collection has to meet the needs of daily life."

    https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/tu...tch-collection

    I'd be interested to hear from others who actually have a two watch collection as well as those who want to engage in this as a thought experiment.

    Looking forward to your thoughts.

  2. #2
    Master
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    Not sure two watches is a collection though? It’s just two watches. I certainly have never thought of mine as a ‘collection’.

    I just have a Rolex Polar Exp II 42mm which I wear 99.5% of the time for everything (work, pleasure, holiday, swimming, gardening, DIY, washing the car) and a Tag Aquaracer ana-digi (yellow dial) which I wear 0.5% of the time and I keep it just because I love it, even though it never gets worn in reality (feels like I wear it 1-2 days a year when I stumble across wherever I’ve hidden it last).

    Technically I have a 3rd ‘luxury watch’ but it’s on lifetime loan to my dad, so I discount that one (a Breitling).

    Really, one watch is enough, unless you’re a ‘watch hobbyist’ (ugh sorry for the use of that awful term) and then it’s about acquiring and collecting rather than usefulness.

  3. #3
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    I’ve been a two-watch guy for nearly a year, and I like it, a lot. It’s just so simple. The ‘chief’ watch is a Rolex 42 yachtsman, in white gold. That gets most of the use and I think it looks good but not ‘flash’. And the back-up is a quartz model a CWC 83 naval diver, on an olive nato strap. Don’t quite know why, but I always enjoy wearing it.
    I suppose, being ‘diver’ kind of designs, there’s a lack of imagination. But I’m happy. Wouldn’t expand. Two watches is right for me. But then, I realised I’m not a ‘collector’.
    If I were to change, I’d sell the CWC and get a Speedmaster, but no plans at the moment. I find the stability of not buying or selling very peaceful. I just enjoy reading what others do!
    Last edited by paskinner; 2nd April 2021 at 08:59.

  4. #4
    Does it have to be 2 expensive watches? I have a baby dreadnought and a Sarb035, two watches I am more than happy with

  5. #5
    Craftsman jonasy's Avatar
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    I’ve got a sub Kermit and a GS SBGM221 (cream dial gmt). I think that’s a good combo and plan to keep it to two watches as I upgrade.

  6. #6
    Master
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    I have gone down to one expensive watch Rolex 216570 which i wear more and more and a couple of cheap watches for work and sometimes holiday.

    It so nice not to worry about insurance/service costs and the fact i hardly wore them and i had close to 30k tied up in watches is just madness.

  7. #7
    Master
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    Quote Originally Posted by Montybaber View Post
    Does it have to be 2 expensive watches? I have a baby dreadnought and a Sarb035, two watches I am more than happy with
    I don't see why not. Is it possible to have more than one 'two watch' collection's? Eg..


  8. #8
    Master helidoc's Avatar
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    The arrival of my DC56 has in many ways made large portions of the collect redundant. That and my 16610 could be all the watches anyone might need.




    The only problem with two, a general wearer and luxury best, is that I might want a non-sports watch on occasion (Habring), and a G shock for the beach



    3 and G would probably be the minimum I could settle on.

    Dave


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  9. #9
    Master
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    I’d go 16600 and 1803.

    I think three maketh a collection though so would add a Spork on rubber to the mix.



    I appreciate these lack variety (no Chrono / GMT etc) but I could happily wear just these.

  10. #10
    Master
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    3 and G sounds like a plan. Will mull that one over.

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  11. #11
    Grand Master MartynJC (UK)'s Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Velorum View Post
    With the exception of cars, homes and women, I am compelled to have the things I like in multiples.
    A good philosophy - else you get a slap! (But you can have more than one car and one home though?)

  12. #12
    Master
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    Quote Originally Posted by MartynJC (UK) View Post
    A good philosophy - else you get a slap! (But you can have more than one car and one home though?)
    The advantage of the ‘two watch’ philosophy is that it compels enthusiasts to focus and make choices. Otherwise you get ever increasing numbers of watches, most of which end-up being sold. Many of us have been down that route (several times).
    Just consider the amount of thought needed if you could only have a single watch.
    That sort of choice really means something....
    Last edited by paskinner; 2nd April 2021 at 13:29.

  13. #13
    Quote Originally Posted by Velorum View Post

    With the exception of cars, homes and women, I am compelled to have the things I like in multiples.

    I knew I was doing something.

    I think I could possibly happily meet a 3 watch collection, if I had to, plus a G of some kind.
    It's just a matter of time...

  14. #14
    Quote Originally Posted by paskinner View Post
    The advantage of the ‘two watch’ philosophy is that it compels enthusiasts to focus and make choices. Otherwise you get ever increasing numbers of watches, most of which end-up being sold. Many of us have been down that route (several times).
    Just consider the amount of thought needed if you could only have a single watch.
    That sort of choice really means something....
    That’s a very good point. The problem is there are so many watch models that really appeal to me, and for the most part aren’t a huge amount of money. It’s also a lot easier to add the odd £1500-£2500 watch than a £10,000 to £20,000 watch.

    But I agree it does bring focus, and the choice can be a more meaningful consideration than just a reaction/impulse buy.
    It's just a matter of time...

  15. #15
    Master
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    Quote Originally Posted by paskinner View Post
    The advantage of the ‘two watch’ philosophy is that it compels enthusiasts to focus and make choices. Otherwise you get ever increasing numbers of watches, most of which end-up being sold. Many of us have been down that route (several times).
    Just consider the amount of thought needed if you could only have a single watch.
    That sort of choice really means something....
    I'd agree to a point - depending on your lifestyle.
    I own several pairs of shoes, all for a specific task / circumstance. You could argue that watches could be the same. I think the '3 and G' thing is great and would probably cover most, if not all eventualities.

  16. #16
    Master
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    I don’t count beaters, digitalis and heirlooms so I’m on a two watch collection.


  17. #17
    If we're not counting g-shocks then here's my two watch collection.

    Sinn 556i
    Seiko tuna SBBN015

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  18. #18
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    I’m trying to keep to 2 watches myself at the moment.
    I’ve got 2 Casio’s!
    An Oceanus S100 and a Gshock GW5000
    Oh, and an A13-A Pilot watch bought from here I’m going to advertise back on here soon so I’m not counting that one🤣

  19. #19
    Journeyman
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    The Hodinkee suggests a point of enlightenment, at which you realise there are just two watches that are exactly what you want and 'need' (perhaps after a lot of buying and selling). That is a very positive view of the two watch collection and for many will represent watch nirvana.

    There is however another more negative take on a two watch collection, which is that you have simply become tired of the watch hobby, with it's endless buying and selling, 'collection' box ticking and pursuit of 'grail' pieces, or you have just reached that point in your life where you sadly no longer do the things that 'required' a specialist watch.

    As someone who has spent more or less his whole life being unable to pass a watch shop window without pressing his nose up to the window to look at all the shiny baubles, I just cant see me reaching that positive Hodinkee watch nirvana, but I live in hope. Sadly, the 'negative' two watch collection is where I think I am inevitably headed.

  20. #20
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    Quote Originally Posted by Shubs View Post
    The Hodinkee suggests a point of enlightenment, at which you realise there are just two watches that are exactly what you want and 'need' (perhaps after a lot of buying and selling). That is a very positive view of the two watch collection and for many will represent watch nirvana.

    There is however another more negative take on a two watch collection, which is that you have simply become tired of the watch hobby, with it's endless buying and selling, 'collection' box ticking and pursuit of 'grail' pieces, or you have just reached that point in your life where you sadly no longer do the things that 'required' a specialist watch.

    As someone who has spent more or less his whole life being unable to pass a watch shop window without pressing his nose up to the window to look at all the shiny baubles, I just cant see me reaching that positive Hodinkee watch nirvana, but I live in hope. Sadly, the 'negative' two watch collection is where I think I am inevitably headed.
    I think I am the same as you, just not feeling it any more so have cut back to the essentials and banked the rest.
    Although my recent gearbox trouble will be eating into that very shortly!

  21. #21
    Master M1011's Avatar
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    I'm effectively on a two watch collection now. Of course I have a few quartz/digital which I enjoy, but those are easy-come easy-go watches. These two were both bought to celebrate milestones and will therefore stay. I don't intend to keep to two, but it will be slow growth. I have learnt that I personally place greater value on a watch associated with an important event.


  22. #22
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Two Watch collections really work well, so much so that I now have three of them

  23. #23
    Grand Master wileeeeeey's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Dave O'Sullivan View Post
    I'd agree to a point - depending on your lifestyle.
    I own several pairs of shoes, all for a specific task / circumstance. You could argue that watches could be the same. I think the '3 and G' thing is great and would probably cover most, if not all eventualities.
    Think "3 and G" would work well but I'd also want something special to break out once in a blue moon.

  24. #24
    Master
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Two Watch collections really work well, so much so that I now have three of them
    Exactly. As Frasier Crane once said to Niles, "Ah, but if less is more, just think how much more *more* will be."

  25. #25
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    I could quite easily live with just 2 watches and I think the choice would be fairly straight forward, at least at the moment.
    Everyday smart / casual office wearer would be the King Seiko 44-9990 or the re-release for something a bit more robust.
    Casual tool watch would have to be the IWC Mk 11. I'd go newer and get a 12 but the movement has a reputation of being a bit fragile and the 11 is bullet proof.

    If I had to pick out of my current collection it would be the KS and the anOrdain model 2 I just got. It's a nice, practical size with a workhorse movement and fab dial. It just needs a few knocks before it feels right to have it as the casual do anything watch.

  26. #26
    Master Rocket Man's Avatar
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    Some interesting and thoughtful responses so far, thanks.

    I must confess that I do have another two watch collection. Cheaper, casual tool watches for weekend activities.

    Seiko quartz chronograph 7a28-702a and Casio-shock GW-5000-1JF

    So maybe I'm actually following the '3 and G' rule that some have suggested?


    Last edited by Rocket Man; 3rd April 2021 at 08:07.

  27. #27
    Master Gavbaz's Avatar
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    Struggling to decide to be fair on this one. Maybe I am not a two watch man but obviously like the idea!

    I suppose option 1 for me would be a diver and a tough chrono. I would never sell either of these, so I suppose that makes the most sense.

    So my 126610 LV and EZM1.




    If I need some quick cash then I have a second option. Tool daily with a time zone bezel and a classic.

    Speedy 145.022 and Damasko DA47.




    So, maybe I’m more of a 4 watch man. So hard to decide.

  28. #28
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    The two watch collection

    I’m currently in the two camp if we aren’t including G Shock (GW5000).

    I have a Rolex Datejust and Omega Aqua Terra Skyfall, even though they are similar I think they are diffent enough for my needs. The Datejust is on the more dressy side and the Skyfall is on the more casual side, I would be happy for these to be my only two.

    I’’m looking for a more affordable but haven’t found the one yet as they have either been returned or sold. So maybe I will end up at three plus a G Shock.


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    Last edited by Mad14; 3rd April 2021 at 10:51.

  29. #29
    Master
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    Here’s mine:





    Tutima 1941 flieger chronograph and IWC Pilot Mark XVIII, Tribute to Mark XI.

    Also have a Garmin Instinct Solar.

  30. #30
    Master markl's Avatar
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    I think a two watch collection is a bit of a stretch for me but I like the idea of '3 and a G'!

    I can already pick 2 of the 3 but would struggle to pick the third - perhaps that says something - the rest of the collection I like but I can't pick out a keeper! (Maybe time to sell, replace with a grail and stop all this buying and selling madness!)

    And I don't currently have a G !

    Mark

  31. #31

    The two watch collection

    16710 & 16600 boring & predictable but these two cover all bases.


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    Last edited by Billyloves2boogie; 5th April 2021 at 10:36.

  32. #32
    Grand Master MartynJC (UK)'s Avatar
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    After some thought - out of my set - these two.

    5146J e GW-M5610-1ER



    Goodness me! Could this be the beginning of the end?

    Martyn
    Last edited by MartynJC (UK); 5th April 2021 at 11:10.

  33. #33
    Apprentice
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    Quote Originally Posted by Dave O'Sullivan View Post
    I'd agree to a point - depending on your lifestyle.
    I own several pairs of shoes, all for a specific task / circumstance. You could argue that watches could be the same. I think the '3 and G' thing is great and would probably cover most, if not all eventualities.
    Like the analogy to shoes and I think it’s a good way of looking at things. I think “3 and g” probably does cover the bases. I have a version of “4 and a g” - one special occasion watch, one office/everyday formal watch, two casual watches (one kept on a brown rally and the other a black rally strap) and a cheap digi/analogue lorus on a rubber which I use around the house and for exercise.

    With strap changes I could easily consolidate to 3 and a g, but I actually think I’ll go one more and get another weekend casual on a bracelet. Then I think I’d be happy and would probably only look to upgrade/swap rather than add. Although harder to get rid of watches I had as a gift, so maybe a core wearers collection plus some sentimental gifts.

    Two watch - yes it makes you think hard, but I like variety!

  34. #34
    So hard to choose but probably these two





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  35. #35
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    Have settled with these two and can’t see myself changing unless Sinn release a 36mm 556...

    I do have a quartz beater and v. occasionally scratch the acquisition itch with a much cheaper watch but those don’t tend to last long.


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  36. #36
    Quote Originally Posted by Montello View Post
    I don’t count beaters, digitalis and heirlooms so I’m on a two watch collection.

    That’s pretty much what I’m going with, I’ve got the 114270.. going to try and pick up a BB58 blue once the shops are open as my work/daily.. I also have a citizen Ray Mears for outdoor/hiking which at £200 odd makes a great 3rd/beater

  37. #37
    Craftsman Mcb2007's Avatar
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    Not sure if I could ever get down to only two , but these would cover most bases


    This would be instead of the G ,could never flip this one .


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  38. #38
    Master
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    Quote Originally Posted by rapid View Post
    That’s pretty much what I’m going with, I’ve got the 114270.. going to try and pick up a BB58 blue once the shops are open as my work/daily.. I also have a citizen Ray Mears for outdoor/hiking which at £200 odd makes a great 3rd/beater
    The 58 gets most wear of the two, the blue version wasn’t released when I bought mine but I think I’d still go black but I’d be interested to see one in real life rather than just on line.

    The 58 really is a great watch for the money and the size is just right for my more normal proportions.

  39. #39
    Master earlofsodbury's Avatar
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    Going by recent wear patterns, these two -



    And yes, that is mad.

  40. #40
    Quote Originally Posted by Mr TPG View Post


    Have settled with these two and can’t see myself changing unless Sinn release a 36mm 556...

    I do have a quartz beater and v. occasionally scratch the acquisition itch with a much cheaper watch but those don’t tend to last long.


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    Love it, great duo. I don’t think I could let my club go and the 556i is just extremely versatile

  41. #41
    Craftsman
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    Quote Originally Posted by Mr TPG View Post


    Have settled with these two and can’t see myself changing unless Sinn release a 36mm 556...

    I do have a quartz beater and v. occasionally scratch the acquisition itch with a much cheaper watch but those don’t tend to last long.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    From a fellow Bristol-based 556-haver, what's the reference on that Nomos?

  42. #42
    Quote Originally Posted by Jari37 View Post
    From a fellow Bristol-based 556-haver, what's the reference on that Nomos?
    It’s the 701 / 703. 36mm and great all rounder,

  43. #43
    Grand Master snowman's Avatar
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    If I had to choose just two, it'd be these :





    Which is handy, as I already own them

    It does rather raise the question why I keep acquiring other watches, though!

    M
    Breitling Cosmonaute 809 - What's not to like?

  44. #44
    Master sweets's Avatar
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    I am not totally convinced 2 watches qualifies as a collection.
    Nothing wrong with having just 2 watches, I wish I could, but if I managed to rationalise it down to 2 (EZM1 and my '76 Tudor Snowflake) I don't think I would call it a collection any more.
    Imagine the conversation.

    What do you do in your spare time?
    I collect watches
    Fascinating, how many do you have in your collection?
    2
    Huh?

    Dave

  45. #45
    Grand Master snowman's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by sweets View Post
    I am not totally convinced 2 watches qualifies as a collection.
    Nothing wrong with having just 2 watches, I wish I could, but if I managed to rationalise it down to 2 (EZM1 and my '76 Tudor Snowflake) I don't think I would call it a collection any more.
    Imagine the conversation.

    What do you do in your spare time?
    I collect watches
    Fascinating, how many do you have in your collection?
    2
    Huh?

    Dave
    Good point - I had two watches for decades (A Seiko Quartz chrono and my Jaquet Droz dress watch) and never once considered myself a collector.

    Anything under 20 is just 'some watches'

    M
    Breitling Cosmonaute 809 - What's not to like?

  46. #46
    Craftsman
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    Quote Originally Posted by snowman View Post
    If I had to choose just two, it'd be these :





    Which is handy, as I already own them

    It does rather raise the question why I keep acquiring other watches, though!

    M
    They are nice - but what's the story behind the Breitling (every day use maybe?). Looks like it's been run over by a bus or is that just reflections?

  47. #47
    Grand Master snowman's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Eddiex View Post
    They are nice - but what's the story behind the Breitling (every day use maybe?). Looks like it's been run over by a bus or is that just reflections?
    Just reflections.



    M
    Breitling Cosmonaute 809 - What's not to like?

  48. #48
    Grand Master
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    I can get down to 3, but 2 is uncomfortable and I hate it, that's a pair not a collection.

    If it had to be two, then Barakuda and "knackered dial" 16610. I think.
    Although if the 16610 didn't have the dial that appeals to me and was standard, the GS would take its place without batting much of an eye.




    GS would be 3rd.
    It would be in the top two for the dial and case shape over the 16610, but drops off the top over the ratchet clasp which doesn't make sense to me as its not a dive watch so why do I need it to extend?




    Ive overthought this for half an hour and its the best I can do. 2 isnt for me.
    The Barakuda is my favourite with the GS and Rolex tied in 2nd.

  49. #49
    Journeyman dade.c's Avatar
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    Two watches is perfect, one for special occasions, one as a regular daily watch. This is it for me:

    Black Bay 58


    Such a versatile, elegant and understated watch. Definitely one that will remain in my possession for a very very long time.

    Speedmaster



    Good on bracelet, leather and strap. Amazing! Wife’s present so this not going anywhere.


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  50. #50


    Rethink on my very predictable Rolex pairing with the 69’ Speedmaster & the JLC tribute to deep sea alarm. Worn rarely but always feel special when I do, would struggle to part with these two.


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