In Bezel’s exclusive interview, we sit down with the esteemed collector to discuss his introduction to the world of watches, commemorating success by purchasing a Rolex, plus the most prized watches in his personal collection.
@wisewatch is a longtime collector, an enigmatic online personality of very few words, and a pioneer of Instagram's now fervent watch-collecting culture. With a nothing if not enviable collection that speaks to his elevated tastes and understanding of horological history, we decided a discussion of all things watches was certainly in order.
In Bezel’s exclusive interview, we sit down with the esteemed collector to discuss his introduction to the world of watches, commemorating success by purchasing a Rolex, plus the most prized watches in his personal collection.
Bezel: How did you get into watches?
WW: I was introduced to the world of watches by my older brother. When I was around six or seven, he got a Swatch watch while on vacation in Miami, and I was nothing if not jealous. I yearned to get one for the longest time–this was back in 1984.
Bezel: What was your first watch and what’s the story behind it?
WW: That would be the Swatch watch I got at Miami’s Aventura Mall, which my parents bought for me after expressing an interest in my brother’s. I loved that little thing so much and wore it exclusively for many years. In fact, I still own the watch. It’s without a battery at the moment and is now admittedly a little too small for my tastes, but it’s pretty neat that I still have it.
My first real watch was a Rolex Datejust, circa 1972. After launching my first business and beginning to make good money for myself, I decided I needed a Rolex. At the time, I knew nothing about all the different models, reference numbers, or the prices they commanded, so I found a watch that fit my budget and more or less blindly pulled the trigger. It turned out to be a solid, authentic example, though if it were to have been counterfeit, I’d have never known.
Bezel: Why a Rolex? What was it about the brand that spoke to you?
WW: I was attracted to Rolex because of its aspirational nature. After having made what I considered at the time to be a lot of money, I wanted something to commemorate my accomplishments. Outside of sports, watches were the only thing I was really passionate about, and buying a Rolex made me feel as if I’d made it.
Bezel: What’s your favorite watch in your collection and why?
WW: My current favorite watch is my Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016 with a tropical dial. It’s also the latest addition to my collection.
This example has a really special dial that transitions from a dark chocolate tone to more of a caramel color as you move from its left to right side. It still has its original, mirror-like, glossy finish, and it’s just a super charming watch with a great deal of soul.
Bezel: Can you share a few must-have watches listed on Bezel right now?
WW:
1. Omega Speedmaster 105.003 “Ed White”
I’ve had this on my hit list ever since I borrowed one from a friend over a decade ago. They come up from time to time, and I seem to always either miss them or move on to something else.
2. Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref. 3940J
This is another piece I’ve had on my list for quite some time. Prices on these have gone up quite a bit since I first became interested in the reference, and it doesn’t seem like they’ll be coming down any time soon. Between its classic proportions, pure Patek DNA, and an impressive degree of complication, it’s a pretty incredible watch.
3, Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 3970EP
Though it’s likely unattainable for me, I’m a little obsessed with this reference. I can’t get enough of the sleekness of its black dial, which almost affords a sporty quality to its aesthetic despite being more of a dress piece.
Bezel: Do you consider future acquisitions for extended periods before making a move?
WW: I always have a running list that I try to curate. It’ll change from time to time, albeit not that much.
Bezel: Why do you continue to enjoy collecting watches?
WW: I continue to enjoy collecting watches because there’s so much out there that I still haven’t tried, seen, played with, etc. I’m always interested in handling pieces I’ve previously only read about or seen photos of because until you handle a watch in the metal, it’s tough to know whether you’d really like to own one for yourself.
Since I gravitate towards older watches, each example is unique, which helps keep the hunt continually interesting.
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- Isaac Wingold
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