I’ve been in this hobby for years, made plenty of mistakes along the way, and seen countless others make the same ones. Here’s what I’ve learned about what NOT to do when buying a luxury watch.

1. Buying the Alternative Instead of Waiting

Look, I get it. That Tudor looks amazing, and it’s available right now while the Rolex you really want seems out of reach. But here’s the thing – I’ve never met anyone who bought the “almost” watch and felt truly satisfied. Save longer, wait for the right opportunity, and get what you actually want. Your future self will thank you.

2. Not Buying the Watch on the Bracelet

I learned this one the hard way. Saved a grand by getting my Omega on leather, then spent the next two years trying to hunt down the original bracelet. Ended up paying way more than if I’d just gotten it on bracelet in the first place. Plus, original bracelets often help with resale value if you ever decide to move on.

3. Not Considering Pre-Owned Options

Some of my best purchases have been pre-owned watches. But you’ve got to be smart about it. Buy from reputable sellers, get the full set when possible, and most importantly – buy the seller. I’ve passed on better prices from sketchy dealers and never regretted it. A good pre-owned watch from a trusted source beats a questionable “deal” every time.

4. Having Unrealistic Views on Value

Let’s be real – most watches are terrible investments. That’s not why we buy them. Sure, some models from certain brands might appreciate, but banking on that is a fool’s game. Buy watches because you love them, not because you think they’ll fund your retirement.

5. Buying Impulsively

Man, those boutique lights make everything look good. I’ve nearly pulled the trigger on watches I’d barely researched just because they looked amazing in the case. Give yourself a cooling-off period. Research. Join forums. Talk to other owners. If you still want it after a month, then you know it’s not just impulse.

6. Creating an Economic Burden

A watch should bring joy, not anxiety. If you’re checking your bank account every day or skipping dinners out to make payments, you’ve gone too far. I’ve been there – it sucks. Set aside watch funds monthly, save up, and buy when you’re ready. The wait makes it sweeter anyway.

7. Buying Icons Just Because They’re Icons

The Speedmaster’s moon landing connection is cool, but if you’re not into chronographs, you probably won’t wear it much. Buy what speaks to you, not what others say you should own. Some of the most interesting collections I’ve seen started with unexpected choices.

8. Falling for Hype

Remember when everyone was losing their minds over that blue dial steel sports watch? Yeah, hype fades. Quality and craftsmanship don’t. Focus on what you love, not what’s hot on Instagram this week.

9. Not Considering Wear Time

Be honest about your lifestyle. That gold dress watch is gorgeous, but if you work from home in a t-shirt, when will you wear it? My most-worn watches are the ones that fit naturally into my daily life. Everything else just sits in the box.

10. Ignoring Service Costs

That chronograph might seem like a deal until you need it serviced. I’ve seen people shocked by four-figure service bills. Research service intervals and costs before buying. Sometimes the cheaper watch actually costs more in the long run.

11. Not Understanding Movement Types

Each type has its place. Automatics are great but need regular wear. Manual winds need daily attention. And honestly, high-end quartz watches deserve more respect than they get. Know what works for your lifestyle before committing.

12. Buying Without Trying

Specs on paper don’t tell the whole story. A 42mm watch can wear smaller than a 40mm depending on the design. If you can’t try it on first, at least find someone with a similar wrist size wearing it. Watch meet-ups are great for this.

Bottom line? Take your time. Do your homework. Buy what you love, not what others tell you to love. And remember – this hobby should be fun. If it’s causing stress, you’re doing it wrong.

What mistakes have you made or avoided in your watch-buying journey? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your stories.

Just because we’re talking luxury doesn’t mean we can’t be smart about it. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll build a collection you truly love wearing.