The joy of searching, researching, and purchasing a new timepiece is such an enjoyable experience that no wonder so many people don’t stop at just one watch; they start a collection.

Collecting watches has become a popular hobby, especially with more and more vintage watch options available. But what makes a good collection, and is it a good way to invest your hard-earned cash? Watchdreamer talked to a number of watch collectors who gave us their tips for starting a watch collection. From where to start, the importance of taking your time, and the advantages of joining a watch club.

TIP 1: DON’T LISTEN

Many people will try and tell you what you should buy, but don’t listen, buy what you really want.

TIP 2: THE INVESTMENT GAME

Don’t get sucked into the investment game, buy what you truly like and want to wear.

TIP 3: START SMALL

Start small and affordable and work up to what you like before investing real money.

TIP 4: DO YOUR RESEARCH

Do your research. Learn everything you can before you buy, it is the best way to avoid being cheated.

TIP 5: MORE EXPENSIVE DOESN’T MEAN MORE JOY

A more expensive watch doesn’t necessarily bring more joy than a more affordable one.

TIP 6: BEFORE YOU BUY

Try before you buy.

TIP 7: WATCH SNOBS

Don’t become a watch snob who looks down on other people with less expensive watches.

TIP 8: WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF YOUR WATCH?

Consider the purpose of the watch. Do you need something for formal occasions, something with good water resistance etc.

TIP 9: LOCAL WATCH CLUBS

Look into joining a local watch club or forum to meet like-minded people and gain more information about the watches you are interested in.

TIP 10: DON’T RUSH

Don’t rush, take your time. It is easy to get excited when you find a watch that you really like, but sleep on it, and think things over. It will still be there tomorrow.

TIP 11: TAKE YOUR TIME

You could be emotionally charged when you find a watch you have been wanting to buy for a long time. Don’t offer your money just yet. Ask questions. Ask them to hold the watch for you; it will give you time to investigate the timepiece further.

TIP 12: EXPLORE VINTAGE AND NEW

Explore both vintage and new timepieces. There are pros and cons to buying vintage, but if you are smart about it, you can get some really great deals.

TIP 13: THINK OF SERVICING

Remember to factor in the price of servicing a timepiece into your budget. Watches are like cars, servicing doesn’t come cheap and the more complicated the watch, the more expensive service is going to be.

TIP 14: STAY WITHIN YOUR MEANS

Keep your collecting within your means.

TIP 15: DON’T BECOME A HOARDER

Don’t become a hoarder. If you have 75+ watches at the low to mid-range, consider selling them and purchasing more valuable timepieces. You will appreciate them more.