The Breitling Watch Source Forums

As many of you know, I am a high school student (just turned 16 a couple weeks ago). I've been on this forum for....2 years now? I'm not sure. This entire time, though, I've been talking about getting a watch. First it was a breitling, then it was longines, then it was this, then that.... The truth is, I love watches but I would want a quality watch. Thanks to this forum, I've learned so much about the ins and outs of watches. Unfortunately, this forum also made me want the best of the best! I view watches not only on the outside but also what's on the inside. I am obsessed with owning a watch with an in-house movement, I really don't want a watch without one. Unfortunately, it costs more to get an in-house movement.

I just wanted your opinions on this:

I am 16 and I want to start my collection with a 10k watch. When I get it, I'll probably be 18 or 19, so thinking relatively long term for my age. I found this internship that pays around 1.5k a year for 200 hours of work (I'm only in high school, so that's freaking awesome!). What I mean by 10k watch is retail price, so I could probably get it down to 8k maybe more if I'm lucky and my dad helps me haggle. I cut a deal with my parents that they would pay 1/5 of the price of the watch assuming I could earn the rest, 4/5. This is definitely something I would want to work towards, so I could set my head into it and get the needed $$. Assuming everything were to work out, 2-3 years later, I have the money to purchase the watch. Do you guys think it'd be absurd for me, at around age 18-19 (maybe graduation gift? IDK) to purchase my FIRST watch that retails around 10k? I am so in love with watches but I really want one that I wouldn;t ever regret paying the money for. Yes, I could probably get a longines watch or something like baume & mercier for loads cheaper, but I feel like I wouldn;t be happy with the purchase. I don't want a watch for the sake of having a watch, I want a watch because I appreciate the build quality and appearance, and that comes at a hefty price. I am, undoubtedly, going to start a watch collection whether it's when I am 18 or 50. It's something I have a passion for, but is it the wrong time to start now?

I was looking into the GP small seconds WWTC, just if you were wondering. It's a watch that has everything I look for.

Thanks,
crasian1030

Simply put, yes, I think its absurd. There are a lot of things that you should be doing with that money before buying a $10,000 watch. Nice car, college, nice clothes for job interviews/job etc. Realistically, that watch wont do anything to help you build toward your future, which will undoubtedly include a lot more watches. I think you should get something cheaper to hold you over for a few years, at which time you will may be able to afford the watch that you really want (which may be completely different when that time comes). Think of it as motivation to do something with yourself. Besides, being 18 and having $5000 in the bank and a $2000 watch aint too shabby.

Then again, its your money and I would never fault you for spending it however you like.

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-RJ

If you are really dedicated to having that first watch at 10K, why I am not sure, then by all means save up for it. Sure it's going to take you a few years, but that's not a big deal. Many people at that age save for cars and school etc, so if you have the funds available to get a watch, why not.

At your income and age, I would consider second hand. Something quality and not necessarily in-house per say, but what about say Breitling who does a ton of in-house finishing on ebauches? Why not just a solid watch to start with, something quality that you can enjoy, many options exist in the 2-3k price range used and save the big 10K in house for later when the money is right. You could be doing a LOT more constructive things with that money then a 10K watch at that point in life.

But that is just me, you do as you want!

Darn, I wish I never asked this question But yeah, my friends definitely say "GET A CAR FIRST!" but I honestly don't need one now. My sister's gone through college without one, and she did just fine! Clothes, understandable, cause nice business attire does get expensive. College, I have a separate fund for that, which I am lucky enough to have loads of savings bonds in. But yeah, I guess having 5k in the bank is always nice... And honestly, if the only thing I could get was a 2k watch, well I think I'd rather save up and I guess get a nice one for college graduation? First job celebration? Idk, something more significant than a measly high school graduation.

hmmm....absurd means different things to different people. from what you have said in your post you seem to have np working and earning the money, so technically NO ONE can tell you how to spend it, since you earned it you can do whatever you desire. Now logically working at that rate to make the money for your first watch and using all of your hard earned money towards it seems a little drastic IMO. but if you really want to do it and it will make you happy then why not? i just hope that there is not something else that you will see 3 weeks later and will regret blowing your wad (no pun intended) on your time piece.

is it at all possible that you could settle for a piece that is a bit cheaper. i mean to be honest your going to have multiple pieces in your life so why push it now?

Dude! It's great you have a passion for watches, but "only a 2K watch????" It's your money and you can spend it as you might, but maybe first acquire some perspective.

If you do go all the way with a 10K watch, you may find yourself in college with no wheels, no extra dough, and consequently - little or no chicks.

Yeah, perspective.

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SHARKMAN

Haha go figure.... everyone's said "DONT DO IT!"

What I meant by "only 2k" is that at my age, that seems really achievable, since I don;t have to pay for anything like housing, food, etc. I feel like I'd need to work towards something, and 2k doesn't seem all that difficult. I want the first watch to mean something, not something just given to me without any work towards it, so to speak.



good point

Well.. On the one hand, many 'kids' (no dissing intended) your age do spent thousands on their hobby/interests, be it latest gaming gear, bikes, skates, guitars, or... Watches.

On the other hand, even though you work hard for it, many people you meet won't know that, and they're impression will either be (1) it's fake, or (2) you're a spoilt rich kid. It's one thing to say you buy only to please yourself, and another to have to defend your watch against negative perceptions, constantly.

At the end, I say there is absolutely nothing wrong with working for what you want. Especially at 16, more power to you! BUT, do keep your perspectives wide open... By the time you earned the $10K (and hit 18), you might have a different goal (or grail) -- and it would be awesome to have YOUR hard-earned money to make YOUR decision at that time.

In any case, just by posting & asking for advise, I think you show maturity and level-headedness, and I wish you all the best!

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a few Pams...

I agree with you 100%.

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-RJ

I agree with the general feelings of everyone who has responded. I really think that you should consider holding off on that 10K watch. Sure, its a beautiful piece, but after all is said and done, its still just a watch! You will hopefully have a long life ahead of you where you may be able to afford whatever you like. In the meantime though, you are young, save your money, you will most likely need it for something more important than an in house movement! In my opinion, if in fact you "need" a quality timepiece, either lower your standards or go pre owned and save some money. Remember YOU asked for advice... sorry if its practical!

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sco
Breitling Chrono Superocean
Omega Aqua Terra 8500
Rolex Submariner Date Ceramic

Bro...you need to put things in perspective. You're a teenager, with little to no expenses, and very little responsibilies aside from doing well in school....you'll never have a care free time like this again.. I say you should be looking for a 20k watch!!!! Forget the 10k childs-play toys!!!! If you can't afford it then just charge it....that's what credit cards are for. Live above your means...it'll make you feel great. Buy a g-shock and save up for when you get your first post-graduate job.

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"I don't own any watches, I just lease them"

The fact that at your age you still hang around here afte almost two years says something, and I know that in previous threads you have said that you aren't a 'typical' example of people your age. I don't see any harm (in fact I think that it's a very good idea) in getting a job and saving your money, that can only help you out down the road.

I'm not sure that I would commit myself to buying a watch after saving for x months / years, at your age your tastes are evolving and your priorities will change, so I would encourage you to keep an open mind as to how that money eventually gets spent. If you still feel the same way when you have enough saved then great, if you want to spend it differently at that point then there's no harm done.

First of all, as long as it's your money spend it wisely.

It's important you set goals in life that are obtainable for yourself. When I was your age, I had a million things going through my mind. I definitely wasn't trying to choose between a Rolex Daytona or dependable car to get to and from work/school. There were so many things I wanted to do, but I knew it would take hard work to be able to do them. I wasn't a kid born with a silver spoon in his mouth. I set realistic goals, and did my best to achieve them. Some I have achieved, some I'm still working on. As life goes on, you will acquire new goals. As you get older, you will figure out which are important and essential to life and which were just impulsive thoughts. I would suggest starting with the basics. Before we can run, we must first learn to crawl and walk. Finish school (higher education/trade school). Get your career headed in the right direction (job) and learn to manage money. Spend a decade building a life for yourself before you start worrying about material things.

Now, if you just can't function without a nice timepiece on your wrist, be practical. Buy a modest timepiece and learn to take care of it before going big. There's nothing wrong with rewarding yourself once in a while as long as it doesn't compromise the essentials. I'm a firm believer if you work hard for something you will appreciate it much more and take better care of it!

I hope you find the right decision.

~Brian

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Breitling Super Avenger
Fortis Flieger Chronograph
Rolex Submariner Date

Definitely think the money could be spent in a more efficient means. Personally just having graduated college you will need some sort of disposable money. Whether you spend the money at bars, clothes, women is your business but you WILL need money. If I did not start my own company when I was 19 there would be no way I could have made it throughout college without a significant amount of money. Just something to take into consideration, like yourself I loved watches since I was little but held off on a purchase until I graduated college and haven't regretted it one bit.

As someone mentioned previously, business attire can get EXPENSIVE, suits and dress clothes are not cheap.

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Breitling Navitimer 1461 jours silver dial with dark glazed cognac alligator strap

I am not going to "preach" and tell you that you shouldnt own a quality time peice, but your idea seems to be for the wrong reasons. If you work hard and are able to save up you pennies, there is no reason for you to buy and own a nice watch. But having said that, I can find no reason other than to try and impress others (which is NOT a valid reason) to be a 18 year old with a $10,000 watch. Expecially with no car, home (of their own) and substantial income. A $2000 watch is nothing to sneeze at. I own a few watches, as seen in the signature line, but I wear a Steelfish on OR2, everyday. This watch is one of my lowest MSRP watches and I love it. You can buy one hell of a nice watch under $3000.

I think, in the grand scheme of things, you should rethink the reasoning behind why you want a $10,000. A watch of that (or higher) price range, is a testimate of success. At age 18, the only thing you will have succeeded in doing is, most likely, graduating high school and hopefully being accepted into college or the military.

I didnt get my first (and second... on the same day) luxury watch until several years ago, at the age of 38 or so. Earlier, I just dreamed and new that there are more important things to spend my money on, until I was better off finacially.

just a little advice from a 41 year old...

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Breitling Steelfish(black)
Breitling Steelfish(silver)
Panerai PAM 312
Bell & Ross BR03-92 Phantom
Steinhart BreitlingSource LE #5/15