Collecting luxury items like watches, designer handbags, and exquisite high jewelry is a refined and fulfilling endeavor that combines artistry, craftsmanship, and lasting value. Whether your motivation stems from investment opportunities, personal preference, or a passion for outstanding design, curating a collection necessitates thoughtful research, strategy, and commitment. As we accompany you at every step, here are a few tips to help you begin.
- Set your goals by choosing the purpose of your collection.
- Set up your preferences: era, designer, style, limited-edition, vintage, contemporary… Iconic brands like Audemars Piguet in watches, Louis Vuitton's Speedy bag, and Cartier’s high jewelry are definitely to be kept in mind.
- Knowledge is key. Educate yourself by understanding the market, seeking expertise, learning trends, discovering the season’s releases, and everything in between. Books, social media, and the internet are great resources.
- Love your pieces. No matter how delicate the process can get, it should always be enjoyable and your next item should steal your heart first.
- Beware of counterfeits, especially when buying from online marketplaces or third-party sellers. It’s preferable to find reputable boutiques, authorized dealers, or established auction houses.
- Don’t skip steps. Always request authentication certificates, provenance records, or appraisals to ensure the legitimacy of your acquisitions before proceeding with the purchase.
- Build a relationship with trusted sellers. Over time, you’ll gain access to better opportunities. You might even get notified about exclusive pieces before anyone else.
- Make sure to enjoy the process. As you grow your collection, consider each acquisition a milestone, and take pride in curating a collection that reflects your passion and style.
- The investment goes beyond finding THE piece. Proper storage, insurance, and budgeting are also to be taken into consideration in this journey.
Starting a collectibles collection isn’t about accumulating items. Someone who’s getting into this commitment should always appreciate art, craftsmanship, creativity, and the timeless stories behind these exceptional creations.
Article Written by Gabrielle El Kosseifi
