Why watches?
Perhaps one of the most nebulous questions watch collectors ask themselves – why watches? Why are we, as a collective of (let’s admit it) crazies, fascinated by horology and the unique expressions of time? Is it the technical symphony of springs, wheels, arbors, and jewels that work in perfect junction to tell us time? Is it the aesthetic brilliance of the different complex movement architectures we’re mesmerized by? Some of us fall in love with the story behind a brand; the provenance of a watchmaker’s journey in building their respective brand. Sure, these are good a reason as any but I have one, and often neglected or ‘less-paid attention to’, dynamic I’d like to bring to light.
When I sit with prospective Havid Nagan collectors, we often begin discussing seemingly short topics that almost always turn into discussions that last hours. These conversations are some of the most enlightening, insightful, and genuine I’ve had the pleasure to be part of. Watch collecting, as tethered to the physical counterpart as the hobby might seem, is about much more than the ‘thing’ itself. After all, if life itself is a collection of cherished moments and experiences, then one would be safe to assume, or realize, any physical or material thing is secondary to what is most important – our collective experiences being shared with one another.
In the aforementioned conversations, I found a common answer, or a common belief rather, as to what watch collecting is all about. The technical and aesthetic aspect, as mentioned before, are strong components, but I am of the mindset (thankfully and assuredly not alone in my view), they are preceded by the most tangible and joyous aspect of collecting – the community. Recently, I was in a room full of collectors varying in demographic (age, financial capability, etc). At one point, a very good friend and fellow collector pulled me to the side of the room and expressed his gratitude for being part of something so special. I asked him, “What is your favorite part in all of this?” His response was the one I’d been hoping for. He swayed his hand over the entire room and said, “This. The collectors. The community is what makes this what it is.”
I pondered this for days, as I have for some time now, and thought about how Havid Nagan can cultivate the community I yearn for. How I can build the company to be an island of passionate, enthusiastic, and committed collectors. To be a place where we can share the moments we’ve had, the experiences we’ve made, and, as any watch collector would attest, the common thread that brings about lifelong relationships with individuals who share our enthusiasm for these antiquated, artistic, and formidable forms of technology. When you buy an independent brand’s creations, there must be context. It isn’t about standing at a register, adding to cart, checking out, swiping your credit card, thanking the salesperson, walking out of the store to only get back into contact with the representative when the next transaction comes about. Rather, you’re buying something much more than the watches themselves. You’re buying a creator’s vision, supporting it, and frankly, in the beginning at the very least, making it possible for them to carry out said vision. You are augmenting the journey of the brand as it develops. You are becoming a part of the family that is a small, independent brand. It’s a warm and embracing feeling being in the same room as collectors who share the same passion and enthusiasm. Considering the current state of affairs in our world, I think that’s of monumental importance.
Stay safe and spirited, friends. HN00 is almost here.
Talk soon,
AJB