Watch Collecting as Legacy Treasures: Timepieces for Retirement Generations

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen

What does your watch mean to you? For many, a timepiece is much more than a tool—it’s a bridge between generations, a celebration of achievement, and a lasting legacy.

In this episode of Inspired Money, we go beyond the basics of watch collecting to explore why watches become treasured family heirlooms, how to build collections that stand the test of time, and what every collector (from beginner to seasoned expert) should know in today’s evolving market.

If you’re passionate about craftsmanship, storytelling, or the idea of passing something meaningful onto future generations, this episode is for you.

Meet the Expert Panelists

Paul Boutros is Deputy Chairman and Head of Watches, Americas at Phillips, where he helped build the auction house’s powerhouse watch department after joining in 2014. A lifelong watch enthusiast with a background in electrical engineering, he led the record-breaking sale of Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona for $17.8 million, solidifying his reputation as one of the foremost experts in vintage timepieces. https://www.phillips.com

Stephen Pulvirent is a writer, photographer, and creative director whose career has spanned leading roles at Hodinkee, Bloomberg, and Surface Media. Now based in Los Angeles, he is the founder of Rime & Reason, a creative agency helping global brands tell smarter, culture-driven stories, while also pursuing his passion for fine art photography. Stephen is also the cofounder of The Enthusiasts, a podcast and newsletter about the culture of watch collecting. https://stephenpulvirent.com

Tariq Malik is the founder of Momentum, the Middle East’s premier destination for vintage and collectible watches located in heart of Dubai’s financial district. Driven by his deep passion for rare Day Date models, both as curator and collector he has developed a focused expertise that has made him a leading authority in this field. A lifelong enthusiast who began dealing Swatch watches at 16, Tariq has grown into a respected global voice in the vintage watch community while playing a pivotal role in establishing Dubai as a significant hub for vintage timepieces. https://momentum-dubai.com

Dan Spitz is a third-generation Master Watchmaker and former lead guitarist of the award-winning thrash metal band Anthrax. With Swiss and American degrees in watchmaking and micro-mechanical engineering, Dan's illustrious career includes roles as the Head Master Watchmaker of Complications Specialist for Chopard, instructor, and juror for the prestigious GPHG awards. https://danspitz.com https://www.delraybeachwatchmaker.com

Key Highlights:

1. Storytelling & Legacy in Watch Collecting

Stephen Pulvirent explores why watches are more than just mechanical objects—“it’s the stories that watches carry, the stories we tell ourselves about the watches we own and the roles they play in our lives that elevates them beyond ordinary, everyday things and makes them special objects.” Collectors aren’t just building assets but capturing lifetimes of meaning that can be passed on for generations.

2. The Restoration Craft: Preserving Memories

Dan Spitz demystifies the watchmaker's role in bringing legacy timepieces back to life. He shares moving stories of clients reconnecting emotionally with watches once thought beyond repair: “Some of them cry. You can see they want to reach out and hug me, and that's why I do what I do.” Restoration isn’t just about function—it’s about reviving memories and enabling the handover of treasures between generations. 

3. Authenticity, Transparency, and Investment Smarts

Paul Boutros provides insider guidance on buying for love, not just investment. He stresses the importance of authenticity, craftsmanship, and reputation: “Buy the best quality watches at the price level that you can afford… made by great brands who have pushed the state of the art.” Whether for legacy or potential appreciation, collecting watches well is about informed passion, not quick returns. 

4. From Teenage Trader to Dubai Authority

Tariq Malik recounts how Swatch trading as a teenager evolved into a global vintage watch business. His journey underscores the importance of transparency, relationship-building, and quality when buying or selling a timepiece. “Today it’s a lot about the value, but the real richness is in the connection you have with the watch and its story.”

Call-to-Action

This week, pick one watch—whether you wear it daily or have it tucked away—and write down the story you want it to tell. Is it a symbol of achievement, a family heirloom, or an inspiration for the future? Share that story with someone you care about, or reflect on how your collection can become a living legacy.

Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money