Inside Philly’s Watch-Collecting Scene—and How You Can Be Part of It

If timing is everything, then what we use to measure it reveals who we are. A watch does more than mark time—it tracks progress, connects us to the past, and reminds us to keep going.

Unlike trends that fade, a great watch holds its meaning. It’s wearable history, crafted to last. Maybe that’s why collecting feels so relevant today. The National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors counts nearly 10,000 members, but other reports estimate millions of collectors around the world.

Here in Philadelphia, the community is especially strong. From seasoned enthusiasts trading rare pieces to newcomers exploring their first purchase, The 1916 Company sits at the center of it all—a Philly-founded jeweler connecting, collecting, and celebrating the culture of time.

Philly Roots

The story of The 1916 Company begins here in Philadelphia, where Govberg Jewelers first opened its doors in 1916 (see what they did there). What started as a family business built on trust, craftsmanship, and service has grown into a global destination for watch collectors. Over the decades, that legacy evolved into ventures like WatchBox, a global leader in pre-owned watches, born from Govberg’s strategy for buying, selling, and trading pre-owned timepieces. After WatchBox expanded to have both a physical presence and community throughout the United States, Asia, Switzerland, and the Middle East, the brand merged with Govberg, Hyde Park, and Radcliffe Jewelers—culminating in the 2023 rebranding as The 1916 Company, a modern brand that honors its roots while shaping the future of collecting.

That spirit runs deep in the region’s growing watch community. Across the greater Philadelphia area, watch collectors’ groups bring together people of all ages and interest levels. And while social media may help fuel the passion, real magic happens in person, where people gather to admire the details, trade advice, and appreciate the artistry that makes every timepiece unique.

Behind the Glass

If you’ve ever wondered what watch collecting looks like up close, The 1916 Company Watch Fair offers the perfect introduction. This year’s event (November 14–15) at their Ardmore showroom invites guests to explore timepieces from leading brands including Breitling, De Bethune, Grand Seiko, H. Moser & Cie., IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Tudor, Zenith, and more. Plus, The 1916 Company brings together an extensive pre-owned collection throughout the event. Unique, rare, and intricate pieces are available to experience firsthand at the event.

It’s an immersive experience designed for the well-versed as well as those just beginning their journey, complete with opportunities to meet brand representatives and The 1916 Company’s in-house experts, handle watches firsthand, and discover rare pre-owned pieces.

The event also celebrates one of the most dynamic parts of collecting: evolution. Throughout the weekend, guests can sell or trade pieces from their personal collections, with specialists on site to offer valuations and guide the process—because part of collecting is knowing when to make room for something new.

Connect with Experts (Globally)

Behind every great collection is great guidance. Inside The 1916 Company, knowledgeable advisors help clients find the perfect piece for their lifestyle, budget, and taste.

At Watch Fair, you’ll have the chance to connect with experts like Tim Mosso, a leading voice in the world of horology known for his comprehensive collection of online video reviews. Insights from The 1916 Company’s Editorial Director Jack Forster, whose 20 years of experience studying and writing about watches make him a key voice in the industry for publications like Revolution Magazine, CNN, and Vanity Fair, and author of “Cartier Time Art: Mechanics of Passion,” will also be part of the event, offering expert perspective on the evolution of watch collecting and what defines true craftsmanship today. Rounding out the team is Mike Manjos, The 1916 Company’s Chief of Sales, specializing in Rolex Certified Pre-Owned watches and a leading authority on the global watch market–he can answer questions about current trends, value, and the future of collecting.

Whether you’re curious about your first automatic watch or searching for a rare reference number, attending the Watch Fair connects you to a worldwide network of expertise, education, and community.

Secure Your Spot

For collectors, enthusiasts, and the simply curious, The 1916 Company Watch Fair is more than an event—it’s an invitation to be part of a culture defined by craftsmanship, connection, and curiosity. To register, visit The1916Company.com or email RSVP@the1916company.com.

If you can’t make it to Watch Fair, the experience doesn’t end there. The 1916 Company welcomes visitors year-round to explore the world of fine watches both online and in person. The Ardmore store is the first to feature The 1916 Company name on its building, while the Center City showroom at 1529 Walnut Street remains a favorite destination for Philadelphia’s watch lovers. Inside is an extensive collection of pieces from Rolex, Patek Philippe, Breitling, Grand Seiko, H. Moser & Cie., and Tudor, along with a robust pre-owned selection that includes the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned collection.

For more information about The 1916 Company, visit The1916Company.com.

This is a paid partnership between The 1916 Company and Philadelphia Magazine