Welcome to the latest edition of our exclusive Collector’s World series. Our next collector is Sid Vasili, who has built successful FinTech companies, changing the way businesses think and operate through technological disruption.
He is a passionate collector of timepieces and we are delighted to share his passion and views on collecting.
MWM: What was the first watch you owned?
SV: My first proper watch was the Roamer Mustang Indianapolis Stainless Steel Automatic Watch, a 21st Birthday Gift from my Wife and the ‘Star’ of my collection.
MWM: Why do you collect watches?
SV: Initially, the wonder of micro engineering caught my attention; the exquisite attention to detail and engraving have always fascinated me. The dial initially catches my attention, and I am still amazed at the art and design characteristics.
MWM: What do you love about collecting watches?
You never know what’s coming around the ‘horological corner’, the nuances of movements, materials, dials, cases and bracelets. The passion of the Watchmakers and the ‘Global Collector Community’ never ceases to amaze me. I have made some great friends of Collectors across the Globe.
MWM: Is there anything you don’t like about collecting?
The overblown hype from the pretenders to the ‘Crown’ and crazy pricing is irritating, which is only to be expected in this fast-moving and fascinating world of collecting.
MWM: What is the favourite watch in your collection?
My Roamer Mustang (see above)
MWM: Which watch would you love to own?
I don’t love any particular watch; I love them all. However, the choice is now overwhelming in this overcrowded market. A Brand’s history is significant, but not the only reason to buy.
MWM: How do you decide which watch to acquire next?
It’s a difficult question to answer, and I guess put simply – when I see it!
MWM: What do you like best about the Watch business and how do you see it developing?
The commercialisation of the Brands and their historical credentials are significant; however, today’s watch buyer has an enormous and sometimes confusing amount of information to digest on their watch buying journey. I envision a simplified and accessible approach to capture the ‘Buyers’ imagination and desire to purchase. Developing an on-line ‘Train the Consumer’ strategy to help the consumer focus on what is important to them and sort the ‘wheat from the chaff’ would be the first step.
MWM: What don’t you like about the Watch business and why?
Price amplification in both and the new and pre-owned ends of the market, the Watch Manufacturers and Retailers are not regulated entities. Therefore, talking up the ‘investment’ credentials is irresponsible and has no consumer recourse. It is for the Buyer to decide what works for them, and if the timepiece happens to increase in value – good for them.
MWM: What is next on the horizon for you?
I am passionately committed to watch collecting, so I guess I will acquire more watches – with the voice of my Wife ringing in my ears, “Sid, you don’t need another Watch!”
Sid Vasili is a Friend of MrWatchMaster