Cover Photo: Christian Wiediger / Unsplash
Photo: Christian Wiediger / Unsplash
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Together with Vintage Grail and our passionate guests, Tatler discovers just why the local pool of watch collectors only seems to be growing
In this episode of Tatler Talks, our host Stephanie Zubiri welcomed Vintage Grail co-founder Paolo Martel and watch collectors, Atty Archie Gonzalez, Drew Arellano, and Nicole Syjuco to discuss what each sparked their passion for collecting quality timepieces and how the hobby is a noble investment.
See also: What Should You Know About Collecting Vintage Watches? Paolo Martel of Vintage Grail Shares Advice
Atty Archie relayed that he first got into the hobby of collecting because of the history and craftsmanship behind each timepiece. He added, “[Watches are] a portable asset. If you get the right pieces, you might even grow your money.”
For Drew, on the other hand, watches have always held a precious sentimentality, having witnessed his father and older brother as avid enthusiasts, too. He said, “The language was already available to me. So of course, me being the younger brother [I would be] like ‘what are you guys talking about?’. It was always the main lingo in the household when we were having dinner.”
See also: Vintage Watches Are Having A Big Moment In Asia, According To Christie's
Nicole shared that it was her affinity for fashion that had first drawn her to the passion. “I guess the first thing that enticed me was the beauty and appeal of the watch. Just seeing something so beautifully made, with such high quality. You won’t see imperfections in watches from luxury brands. Through time, I slowly realized I’m buying them for investment as well. Especially recently with the pandemic, I’ve seen watches that I’ve bought double in price even!”
Above Photo: Tatler Philippines / Facebook
Photo: Tatler Philippines / Facebook
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“Today, people have accepted watches to be an investment class of its own,” said Paolo. “Being home during the pandemic has allowed collectors and even people wanting to start collections to do a lot of research. There’s so much information on the internet and social media. And I guess [Vintage Grail] has acted as a bridge between what they want and us being able to deliver exactly what they’re looking for.”
To prove how astronomically the value of certain models and brands can appreciate, Paolo mentioned three widely treasured pieces, including the discontinued Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711—once priced at PHP5,000,000 this time last year, it now had a market value of around PHP12,500,000 to PHP13,000,000. He shared, “[Cases like this have] allowed a lot of our clients to buy watches, keep it and enjoy it for a year or two, and eventually sell it and realize that gain, allowing them to upgrade to a timepiece that they thought they could never buy.”
See also: Watches & Wonders 2022: The Patek Philippe 5326G Pairs an Annual Calendar with a Travel Time
Above Photo: Tatler Philippines / Facebook
Photo: Tatler Philippines / Facebook
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This unprecedented growth might just convince the casual watch fan to get into the proper practice of collecting, and so our guests were quick to reiterate the importance of doing your due diligence, devoting time to research, and buying from a trusted seller.
“The watch industry now is pretty crazy,” Drew exclaimed after recounting his experience checking for deals on online buy-and-sell platforms. “You got resellers left and right, probably newbie resellers, but there’s nothing like getting your watches from Vintage Grail because you don’t have to check the authenticity and everything.”
Atty Archie also said, “I’ve always done my homework when I buy something. I’ve never been that adventurous in purchasing so I would message Paolo or his staff at Vintage Grail if I need anything and it will be delivered to my doorstep in less than a month’s time.”
See also: Vintage Grail: Your Resource For Exquisite Timepieces
Hearing from each guest at this Tatler Talks episode makes it clear that, while the investment value is enticing on its own, an ardent appreciation for each timepiece is what fuels the intricate love affair, that is, watch collecting.
“I always advise our clients you have to buy what you like. The investment factor can come second. That can be basically addressed through research but there is always something for someone’s taste,” shared Paolo. “That’s the wonderful thing with watches. You can wear them. You can enjoy them. As Atty Archie said, you can move them easily. You will never lose money if you select the right timepiece.”
Rewatch the entire Tatler Talks here:
To learn more about Vintage Grail and how you can cop your favourite watches, you can email them at info@vintagegrail.com or call +63.917.159.1211. You can also find them at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City.
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