A Watch Lover's Life: SM: "I fell in love at first sight with the store manager wearing a Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse."

Generally, the more a collector is absorbed in their field, the more they tend to collect items from a particular brand or a particular era. For example, it is not uncommon to see collectors who have a collection based on a theme, such as Seiko manual-winding models from the 1960s or Rolex sports models. However, SM, a young businessman who runs an advertising agency, has tastes that are different from most others. He has no bias towards any particular brand, and boasts a wide-ranging collection that ranges from antiques to current models. Each and every watch in his collection gives us a glimpse into S's unique collecting philosophy.

"We collect watches that best represent the best of each era and brand."

　SM's collection is diverse. From exquisite antique Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin to current Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet watches, there are both old and new watches with different looks and functions. At first glance, it may seem disjointed, but Mr. S says that it is a collection that has been put together under a certain philosophy.

"Antique watches have a charm that cannot be fully described in a few words, such as the unique texture they acquire over time and the level of craftsmanship that is impossible to achieve today. On the other hand, I think that current models have their own unique merits. I collect watches that fully demonstrate the merits of each era and brand."

　Mr. S's career is just as varied as the watches lined up on the shelves. He worked in the music industry for a period in his twenties, and is a genuine hobbyist who has a deep knowledge of anime and manga. In addition to watches, he also collects fountain pens. Mr. S grew up in a wealthy family, with his grandfather being a successful businessman and his parents also running businesses. Perhaps because many of his classmates were the sons of company presidents, Mr. S started his own business at the tender age of 16.

"I started a business acting as an import agent for brand-name goods, and by riding the trend, I was able to make a profit. When I was 18, I used the proceeds to buy a Franck Muller Casablanca watch. It wasn't so much that I was interested in watches, but rather that I wanted to stand out in front of others."

　However, during a casual visit to Dazzling, a watch shop in Harajuku, Mr. S opened the door to the world of antique watches.

"I fell in love at first sight with the store manager, who was wearing a Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse. We ended up talking for about three hours. He told me about the meticulous craftsmanship that was evident in the watch, and how I could own a historical masterpiece worth the price of an entire house. When I left the store, I couldn't get antique watches out of my head."

　Without this encounter, the watch would have gone to Casablanca. It's interesting that Mr. S, who had been familiar with computers since childhood and did most of his work on digital devices in his twenties, suddenly became interested in mechanical watches, especially antique watches. At the age of 29, he finally purchased a Patek Philippe Calatrava 2526 "Tropical." His first antique watch also had a positive effect on Mr. S's business.

"I started my current advertising agency at the age of 29, and when I spoke to older people, I realized that antique watches could be a conversation starter that transcended generations. There aren't many businessmen of my generation who wear antique watches on a daily basis. Even now, it's not uncommon for people to say to me, 'That's a nice watch.'"

　Thus, the Calatrava 2526 became Mr. S's go-to watch for crucial moments. He also likes the antique chronograph he purchased at the Vacheron Constantin Ginza boutique in 2018.

"I also own an Overseas Dual Time, but surprisingly, it's antique chronographs that are popular with women. They often say they're cute. Some people wear flashy watches just to stand out, but I think antique watches are actually more eye-catching."

　This is a discovery that only Mr. S, who regularly wears antique watches, could make. Mr. S, who also has a deep interest in fashion, skillfully chooses between antique and current models depending on the outfit and the occasion.

"The style of suits was perfected by the mid-20th century. In that case, I think antique watches from that time, especially those with a diameter of 35mm or less, would be a good fit. On the other hand, watches around 40mm, which are common today, are easy to coordinate with casual fashion for off-duty wear. Also, current models have excellent functionality, such as water resistance, which means they can be used in ways that are difficult for antique watches to wear."

　Because there is no watch that perfectly meets one's needs, it makes sense to buy both antique and current models. For Mr. S, the Vacheron Constantin Ginza boutique, where both are on display, is one of his favorite watch shops.

"The manufacturer itself maintains the antique watches before selling them, so you can be absolutely sure of their quality. Another great thing about them is that they offer current models that make use of the designs of classic watches, which is something that other brands don't have."

　Where does Vacheron Constantin, which so fascinates him, and Swiss craftsmanship come from? To find out, Mr. S is planning his first trip to Switzerland this spring. He plans to spend about eight days visiting famous sites associated with watches, including the Vacheron Constantin boutique in Geneva. What kind of watch will Mr. S choose to accompany him on his trip to Switzerland?

"I'm actually undecided, but I thought it would be a good idea to bring antique Patek Philippe and Vacheron back to their 'hometowns'."

　Mr. S was already excited before his departure. He was sure to discover a new charm in watches in his dream country of Switzerland.