Unlocking the Mystery of Duplicate Vintage Watch Collecting: Exploring the Allure and Fascination
Discover the Curious Obsession with Multiples – A Collector’s Tale
Just last week I was asked: the watch you are wearing, is that the one you put up for sale? I always have to smile, sometimes because I’m a little embarrassed – or because I feel caught. A bit of both. But it’s okay, I can calm you down. So feel free to ask further. I always try hard to explain: no, that’s not the one that’s for sale. But yes, this is the same model, even the same vintage leather bracelet.
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It was the holy grail among Seikos, the 6138-8010. It is called the holy grail because it is very rare. And, um, yeah, so… It’s like, I still have three of them. Silence, also for me, I’m a bit embarrassed too. On the other hand, I collected them excessively and still do – not the 6138-8010, but other vintage Seiko chronographs and Seiko diving watches. But, now comes the big but, I also want to let other collectors participate and that’s the only reason I’m selling most of the duplicates now. Well, some.
Curious phenomenon: the acquisition of duplicate timepieces
But how do you end up collecting more than one of the same model? What drives collectors to amass not just one, but two, three, or even four of the same watch? A philosophical journey, as I realized when I started thinking about it. And I found out that there are more reasons out there, not just one. And I’m trying to take you on the journey with me.
The Pursuit of Perfection
Some collectors are drawn to certain models or designs, sometimes brands. That is understandable. And for some, the search for the perfect vintage watch is a journey that leads through different watch streets. That is, by acquiring duplicates, they attempt to explore different variations and iterations, each with their own unique characteristics. It’s not about just owning a watch, but uncovering the nuances and intricacies. At least this quickly creates the situation of owning several watches of the same model. Optimization as a keyword, the search for the perfect watch of a specific model. And some people get stuck with several, different bracelets on them, and then they are different watches. But that was never it for me. For me, watches weren’t about optimization, although my girlfriend might say otherwise.
The Allure of Rarity
Most of the time it’s the rarity of certain models that sets collectors’ hearts aflutter. Take, for instance, the Seiko 6105-8110, affectionately known as the “Captain Willard” after its appearance in the movie “Apocalypse Now.” This iconic dive watch, produced in limited quantities during the 1970s, has become a holy grail for collectors seeking to own a piece of cinematic history. Acquiring duplicates of rare Seiko timepieces like the 6105-8110 is more than just a whim; it’s a strategic move to secure multiple pieces of a coveted treasure. Consider the case of a collector who stumbles upon two well-preserved examples of the Captain Willard. By acquiring both, they not only increase their chances of owning a pristine specimen but also position themselves as a sought-after source for fellow enthusiasts. In the world of vintage Seiko watches, rarity often equals value. But for me, rarity is not the main reason why I collect several watches of the same model.
The production date significance
For watch collectors, owning a timepiece from their birth year and month holds a special allure, transcending mere horological significance. It symbolizes a connection to one’s own personal history and journey through time. Such watches become cherished artifacts, marking significant milestones and memories. Whether it’s the thrill of discovering a timepiece from a bygone era or the nostalgic resonance of wearing a piece of history, the appeal is undeniable. Each tick of the watch serves as a reminder of the wearer’s own timeless journey, encapsulating the essence of their existence in a single, precious timepiece. Honestly, I tried it several times. This may work for some, but somehow not for me.
Side note: The Collector’s Dilemma
Despite the allure of owning duplicates, collectors must grapple with practical considerations. How many duplicates are too many? Can they justify the expense and space required to accommodate multiple versions of the same watch? It’s a delicate balance between passion and pragmatism, with each collector charting their own course. The Tapestry of Time In the end, the fascination with duplicate vintage watches is a testament to the multifaceted nature of collecting. It’s not just about amassing objects; it’s about weaving a rich tapestry of history, nostalgia, and personal connection. Whether one has two or twenty of the same watch, each duplicate adds depth and richness to the collector’s journey through time I believe.
Maybe other time-zones?
Are there several holy grails?
The Sentimental Connection
We all know that vintage watches go far beyond just measuring time. They embody personal narratives and emotional connections. And so for collectors, duplicates are not just objects, but gateways to valuable moments. I know each of my duplicates exactly. I know exactly when and where I bought them. How I felt at the moment, what was going on in my life, whether I felt good, what was going on in my head, what was bothering me. For me, each duplicate is also an embodiment of that place, that moment and serves as a tangible connection to these treasured memories and emotions. A journey back in time, a nostalgic reverie perhaps.
I recently got rid of a duplicate watch. It was difficult for me on the one hand, but I knew she had a good new home. Then seeing it on someone else’s wrist, even if it was just a photo, felt strange. As if I had also given away a part of the story. But that’s okay.
So for me it’s now about preserving the most valuable stories. And if it means owning one or two of the same model, then so be it!
