Can a Serious Watch Collector Still Enjoy Cheaper Watches?
Absolutely.
Watch collecting is often seen as a pursuit for those with deep pockets, endless patience, and perhaps a penchant for debating the finer details of movement complications over single-malt whisky. But let’s be honest—most of us didn’t start our collections with a Patek Philippe or a vintage Rolex Daytona. For many, the first watch that sparked our passion wasn’t even expensive. It was affordable, accessible, and most importantly, meaningful.
Take my 1988 TAG Heuer Formula 1, for example. It’s not the flashiest watch in my collection, nor the most expensive, but it’s the one that takes me back. It’s the watch I always wanted—coveted, even—and finally got my hands on. And that’s what makes it special.
A Story Behind Every Watch: TAG Heuer Formula 1
Serious collectors sometimes get caught up in chasing grails, tracking down limited editions, or obsessing over heritage pieces. But the heart of collecting isn’t always found in price tags or prestige. It’s in the stories.
My TAG Heuer Formula 1 reminds me of a time when TAG was pushing boundaries, both in design and accessibility. It was bright, bold, and completely different from the classic steel dive watches dominating the scene. The Formula 1 was a watch for someone who wanted to stand out—someone who loved motorsport, speed, and a bit of flair.
Watches like these connect us to memories, aspirations, and even moments of triumph. Maybe it was a graduation gift, the first “real” watch you bought with your own money, or simply the one you admired through a jeweller’s window as a kid. A serious collector doesn’t lose sight of that. In fact, it’s what keeps us grounded.
Affordable Doesn’t Mean Forgettable: Seiko 'Captain Willard'
A lot of collectors will argue that cheaper watches can’t hold the same value—emotionally or financially—as high-end timepieces. I disagree. Brands like Seiko, Swatch, and yes, TAG Heuer, have all proven that quality and affordability aren’t mutually exclusive.
The Seiko “Captain Willard” reissue SPB153J , for instance, just has to be a staple in any collector’s lineup. It’s tough, reliable, and dripping with character. Casio’s G-Shock? Practically indestructible. We love that too!
And let’s not forget the charm of vintage pieces. An older TAG Heuer Formula 1 is a time capsule for anyone growing up in the 1980s and 90s watching F1. It tells the story of late ‘80s design, quartz innovation, and TAG’s bold step into colourful sports watches. It’s a reminder that collecting is as much about personal connection as it is about mechanics and prestige.
Blending High and Low
Can a serious collector wear a $10,000 Omega Speedmaster one day and a $200 Swatch the next? Absolutely. In fact, it’s that versatility that makes collecting fun. Watches aren’t just investments; they hold emotional value.
Mixing high-end pieces with more affordable models doesn’t make you less of a collector. If anything, it shows that you appreciate watches for what they represent—not just what they cost. After all, wearing a luxury timepiece to a backyard barbecue might feel a bit out of place, but strapping on a well-loved Swatch Moonswatch? Perfect.
The Emotional Factor
Let’s face it—collecting watches isn’t always rational. Sometimes it’s about nostalgia, sentiment, or simply loving the way something looks on your wrist. My TAG Heuer Formula 1 may not turn heads at watch meetups, but it always makes me smile.
That’s what matters most in collecting. Whether it’s an entry-level TAG, a re-issue Seiko, or a high-end Vacheron Constantin, every watch has its place if it means something to you.
Final Thoughts
So, can a serious watch collector still collect cheaper watches? Without a doubt. In fact, I’d argue that a collection without a few affordable gems feels incomplete. Watches are meant to be worn, enjoyed, and shared—not just locked away in safes or admired through glass cases.
My TAG Heuer Formula 1 might not be the most valuable piece I own, but it’s priceless to me. And in the end, isn’t that what collecting is all about? What are your thoughts? Share them in the comments section.