Watch collecting has earned a reputation for being complex, unapproachable, and intimidating. Understandably so, as technical specifications, jargon, and impossible-to-pronounce brands often make newcomers hesitate altogether. Well, this isn’t the case anymore. Ali Nael is the founder of FutureGrail, a luxury watch auction house – his perspective is that collecting must be accessible and democratized.
But for the ones with the intent to begin, encouragement lies at the helm. As a staunch purveyor of inclusivity, Ali believes watch collecting should be a fun experience and not a daunting task.
Years of handling significant wristwatches and historic pocket watches have given him authority, a celebrated expert in his field. Yet he does not treat collecting as a closed circle. Ali reminds aspiring collectors that every seasoned name in horology once stood unfamiliar with terminology and the overall inner workings of the industry. A person doesn’t need to memorize reference numbers or master movement architecture on day one. Familiarity naturally develops, and the precursor? Passion: true, undying, perennial, unadulterated passion.
Ali believes collecting is personal, devoid of anything performative or ostentatious. Sometimes that is easier said than done, as showing off a timepiece amongst friends and family is part of the experience, but never the end game. The prestige, luxury, distinction elevate tenfold when one owns that highly sought-after watch. There is a thrill and exhilaration. But with it should come an understanding of why that timepiece matters, how it was made, and what it represents beyond the decadent surface.
Watch collecting starts from somewhere. Study, learn, and research, as there are many free resource materials readily available. Also, collectors should not succumb to the pressures of impulse, virality, or status. Dig deep, be introspective, and reflective. If all signs lead to getting started, take the plunge. Ali Nael and his team of experts are willing, able, and eager to help. Ali and FutureGrail’s combined expertise is extremely valuable in such a potentially life-changing decision, as one embarks on an exciting watch collecting odyssey.
Source: Khaleej Times