Introduction to My Watch Collection
I’ve been passionate about watches for 4-5 years, and my collection has grown to 15 unique timepieces. In this post, I’ll share my favorite watches, their stories, and some lessons I’ve learned as a watch enthusiast. From dress watches to divers, field watches, chronographs, and digitals, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, join me on this journey through my 2024 watch collection!
Dress Watches: Elegance and Sentimentality
Dress watches dominate my collection, blending style and personal meaning. Here’s a look at my favorites:
Titus Interlude: A Cherished Gift
My Titus Interlude, a graduation gift from my parents, was one of my first watches. Founded in 1887, Titus was originally Swiss but is now a Hong Kong brand. While it’s perceived as high-quality in Southeast Asia, some enthusiasts now view it as a fashion watch post-acquisition. After 8 years, mine stopped working (not due to the battery) and the logo has peeled off after a few drops. I’m still diagnosing the issue, but its sentimental value keeps it in my collection.
Seiko SNXS79: A Fan Favorite with a Cracked Crystal
The Seiko SNXS79, is a fan favorite that kickstarted my YouTube channel. Featuring the 7S26 movement, this Seiko 5 was my go-to watch, even worn at my wedding. Unfortunately, I dropped it face-down, cracking the Hardlex crystal. See how I got it fixed here
Tissot T-Classic Couturier Lady: Retirement Gift
A gift from my mom, this watch was a retirement gift from her company, inscribed with “Jasamu Dikenang” (Your contribution is appreciated in Bahasa Melayu) on its caseback. At that time, this watch adds a feminine touch to my collection which consists mostly 37mm and above. Working in a corporate setting, I find myself wearing this pretty often.
Tissot Classic Dream Lady: Feminine Elegance
Another gift from my mom, this time with an inscription of “LONG SERVICE AWARDS” on its caseback. A memento from my mom’s 25+ years of working in the same company reminds me of a traditional value of hard work and persistence. Measuring 28mm, it’s my smallest watch, perfect for evening gowns. The Roman numeral indices add a delicate touch.
Casio LTP-V007: The Affordable Cartier Tank Alternative
At just $20, the Casio LTP-V007 (aka Casio Tank) is the cheapest watch in my collection. Despite its petite size, it’s a fantastic budget alternative to the Cartier Tank. Its affordability and quality make it a great choice for those on a tight budget seeking elegance. See my review here
Vario Versa: A Reversible Gem
Sent by Vario, a Singapore-based company, this watch is a unique alternative to the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. Its reversible design feels like owning two watches in one. As a YouTuber, receiving this for review was a pleasant surprise, and its distinct style adds variety to my collection.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 35mm: My Current Favorite
The Tissot PRX Powermatic (35mm, mother-of-pearl dial) is my most frequently worn watch (so far!). A thoughtful gift from my husband, its dynamic dial outshines the ice blue version. While the other colors’ version felt underwhelming in person, this one’s dynamic, vibrant dial makes it a standout. Full review on this here
Dive Watches: Durability and Nostalgia
Dive watches are built for adventure, and mine carry deep personal meaning (especially this one:).
Seiko SKX013: A Sentimental Classic
The Seiko SKX013, a 38mm dive watch, was my first “proper” watch, purchased during a challenging career transition. Being an ISO certified and divers watch that can take a beating, it reminds me to be strong during one of my most challenging periods of my life. Its compact size suits my wrist better than the SKX007/009, and its rarity adds to its value. Despite seldom wearing it now, its sentimental significance ensures it stays in my collection.
Timex M79: An Impulsive Purchase
The Timex M79, with its diver’s bezel, was an impulsive buy during a discount. While I liked it initially, its 50m water resistance and high original price make it less appealing now. It’s one watch I could part with easily which is surprising because I am usually very attached to my watches. So I guess this says a lot.
Field Watches: Learning from Impulse Buys
As a beginner watch enthusiast, I was eager to complete my collection by checking off categories like dress and dive watches. Field watches, known for their rugged practicality, were next on my list. However, as my taste has evolved, my enthusiasm for field watches has shifted.
Seiko SNK803: A Beige Version of the Popular SNK809
The Seiko SNK803, a beige field watch, was bought early in my watch hobby to check off the field watch category after dress and dive watches. I was excited at first, but it no longer excites me. It’s not buyer’s remorse, just a sign my taste has changed—a lesson for new collectors to avoid rushing purchases.
Namoki ‘Midnight Sakura Tide’: A DIY Triumph
This unique watch, the Namoki Midnight Sakura Tide (which I named myself) was sent by Namoki as a DIY watchmaking kit. I assembled it myself, choosing extra parts to make it one-of-a-kind, and named it for its distinct design. The process was challenging, especially the second hand, but so rewarding. Check out my video for the full story! I wear it occasionally and love its uniqueness.
Chronographs: A Timeless Obsession
If I had unlimited funds, I’d focus on dress watches and chronographs—my two favorite styles.
Seiko Chronograph: A Fixer-Upper
This Seiko chronograph was my husband’s, sent to me to polish out scratches. I’ve used a polishing cloth, but it needs polywatch for better results. I rarely wear it since it’s not fully mine, but it’s a nice piece.
Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H: A Wedding Splurge
The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H, a mechanical watch, is my husband’s wedding watch. I insisted he not wear his Garmin for our wedding, so we hunted for couple’s watches and fell in love with this one despite its price. It’s one of our best purchases, even if it looks big on my wrist.
Digital Watches: Lightweight and Fun
Digital watches offer a refreshing change from analog designs.
Casio W-217H: A Thoughtful Gift
The Casio W-217H, a gift from a friend, was my first Casio. Its lightweight black resin strap is perfect for casual days, and I often forget I’m wearing it. As a gift, it holds a special place in my collection.
Casio G-Shock “Casioak” (Female Version)
I never thought I’d own a G-Shock, but the Casioak GMA S2100 (a smaller GA-2100 series) in white won me over. Its metallic indices and pastel appeal target the female market, and I prefer it over the black version, which feels too smartwatch-like. I’m still in the honeymoon phase with this one!
Lessons Learned as a Watch Enthusiast
Reflecting on my collection, I’ve learned valuable lessons:
- Tastes Evolve: Early in my watch journey, I rushed to “check off” categories, leading to some purchases I no longer love.
- Sentimental Value Matters: Watches like the Titus Interlude and Seiko SKX013 hold a special place due to their stories.
- Budget-Friendly Options Shine: Affordable watches like the Casio LTP-V007 prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for quality.
Conclusion: My Watch Journey Continues
Have a favorite watch or a collection of your own? Share in the comments below!
