Collectors Gene Radio: Episode Summary

Title: Roy Davidoff - Time-Tested Passion
Host: Cameron Ross Steiner
Release Date: August 21, 2024

1. Introduction and Roy's Early Passion for Watches

Roy Davidoff kicks off the conversation by sharing a nostalgic childhood memory that ignited his lifelong passion for watch collecting.

• [00:00] Roy Davidoff: “I was a little boy in the mountains... I looked into the window and I said, I'm going to buy everything.”

This formative experience set the stage for Roy’s deep-seated enthusiasm for timepieces, a passion that seamlessly transitioned into his professional life.

2. Family Legacy in Gem Dealing

Roy delves into his family's illustrious history in the gem and jewelry industry, highlighting the foundation that influenced his career.

• [02:43] Roy Davidoff: “My father wasn’t a collector. My father, my grandfathers, and my great grandfather from my father's side all were gem dealers.”

Despite his father’s focus on high-end jewelry and gemstone dealing—serving illustrious clients like Harry Winston and Cartier—Roy's personal journey took a distinct path towards watch collecting, diverging from the wholesale legacy.

3. Transition to Watch Collecting and Business Formation

Roy explains the inception of his watch business alongside his brother, emphasizing their shared passion and strategic focus on the Omega Speedmaster.

• [01:44] Roy Davidoff: “I’ve been buying and selling watches since 1989. I've been a fan of watches since the winter of 1980-81.”

This long-term engagement with the watch industry culminated in founding Davidoff Brothers, a company that has successfully positioned itself as a premier dealer for Omega Speedmasters, selling up to 150 units annually and authoring a comprehensive book on the model.

4. The Omega Speedmaster: A Collector's Cornerstone

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the Omega Speedmaster, its historical significance, and its pivotal role in Roy’s collection philosophy.

• [06:31] Roy Davidoff: “The Omega Speedmaster... approved by NASA to be used for all astronauts, which for us was like, this is crazy.”

Roy recounts how the Speedmaster's association with NASA and its mechanical prowess made it an indispensable asset in their inventory. He contrasts this with other brands, underscoring the Speedmaster's unique standing in the 20th-century watch landscape.

5. Philosophy on Watch Condition and Market Evolution

Roy emphasizes the paramount importance of a watch's condition, a principle that guides both his business transactions and personal acquisitions.

• [10:56] Roy Davidoff: “I have one quote that I say every time someone wants to quote me. My quote is, condition, condition, condition.”

He contrasts the past leniency towards refurbished watches with today’s stringent demands for pristine condition, attributing this shift to the rise of social media and heightened consumer expectations.

6. Stories of Acquiring Rare and Special Watches

Roy shares exhilarating tales of sourcing some of the most coveted Omega Speedmasters, illustrating the depth of his expertise and the lengths he goes to secure rare pieces.

• [19:18] Roy Davidoff: “A lot of the stories involve Speedmasters... we have like one of the only two correct white Alaska dials ever to come up at auction was one of ours.”

From acquiring watches in Veracruz, Mexico, to identifying non-issued unique pieces, Roy's experiences highlight the meticulous research and network essential for dealing in rare timepieces.

7. Collecting vs. Dealing: Personal Collection Insights

Transitioning to personal collecting habits, Roy discusses his selective approach, prioritizing new acquisitions that offer both aesthetic value and practicality.

• [34:35] Roy Davidoff: “I am no longer hunting for anything. I have a dear friend who helped me acquire some legends. Now, I’m quite happy with my collection.”

This mindset ensures that his personal collection remains manageable and meaningful, focusing on watches that he genuinely cherishes and fits seamlessly with his lifestyle.

8. The Collector’s Dream Rundown

In the concluding segment, Roy reflects on his most memorable collecting moments and aspirations, adding a personal touch to the discussion.

• [35:02] Roy Davidoff: “I held a watch in my hands that belonged to Duke Ellington... It’s one of the cleanest watches I’ve ever held.”

He reminisces about iconic pieces like the Paul Newman Daytona and shares aspirations that remain unfulfilled, such as owning exquisite colored diamonds—a nod to his family's gem legacy.

9. Embracing the Collector's Gene

Closing the episode, Roy confidently affirms his inherent inclination towards collecting, embracing what he describes as the "Collector’s Gene."

• [39:56] Roy Davidoff: “100%. I was born with the collector's gene.”

This acknowledgment solidifies his identity as a passionate collector, driven by an innate desire to seek, acquire, and preserve exceptional timepieces.

Key Takeaways:

• Heritage and Passion: Roy's deep-rooted family background in gem dealing significantly shaped his approach to watch collecting.

• Omega Speedmaster Focus: The Speedmaster's historical significance and reliability make it a cornerstone of both his business and personal collection.

• Condition Matters: Emphasizing impeccable condition has become increasingly crucial in the modern watch market, influenced by digital platforms and heightened consumer standards.

• Rare Acquisitions: Roy’s stories exemplify the dedication required to source rare and special watches, highlighting the importance of expertise and networking in the industry.

• Personal Collection Philosophy: A selective and heartfelt approach ensures that Roy’s personal collection remains both practical and personally fulfilling.

• Inherent Collector’s Drive: Roy’s affirmation of possessing the "Collector’s Gene" underscores the natural inclination and passion that fuel his successful career and hobby.

Notable Quotes:

• Roy Davidoff: “I have one quote that I say every time someone wants to quote me. My quote is, condition, condition, condition.” [10:56]

• Roy Davidoff: “100%. I was born with the collector's gene.” [39:56]

• Roy Davidoff: “The hunt is more interesting. The ownership, once you own the watch, it's like, whatever.” [38:49]

This episode of Collectors Gene Radio offers an in-depth exploration of Roy Davidoff's journey in the watch collecting world, blending personal anecdotes with professional insights. It serves as an inspiring narrative for both seasoned collectors and enthusiasts eager to understand the intricate dynamics of watch collecting.