On The House: Building a Dream Watch Collection with $50K
- Michael Fossner
- Jul 31
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 8
by Michael Fossner
The watch market is a living, breathing beast—always shifting, always evolving. For collectors and dealers, staying sharp means diving deep into inventory updates, trade rumors, and online sleuthing that feels like a treasure hunt. Recently, I sat down with Matthew Bain, the mastermind behind Matthew Bain, Inc., and he threw me a curveball: “If I gave you $50,000 to spend in my online shop, what’s your dream collection?”
As all good industry vets do. First, I haggled. I tried sweet-talking my budget up for a rare Tornek Rayville U.S. Navy TR-900, or a Patek Philippe 3970 before its grail status sends prices further along to the moon. No dice—Matt held firm at $50K. So, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work, building a fantasy collection that hits every angle: future classics, vintage charm, sporty cool, and a fun complication. Here’s what I picked, why I love them, and how I stayed (mostly) within budget.
Price: $29,500
Matt’s shop is a goldmine for vintage, but his team has a knack for spotting future grails too. Enter the A. Lange & Söhne Grande Lange 1 in rose gold with a rare black-and-gray dial. This first-generation beauty is a masterclass in craftsmanship—clean lines, intentional design, and a presence that’s both bold and dignified. I’ve worn it, and trust me, it steals the show without shouting. With Lange’s reputation for precision, this piece is destined for “unobtanium” status. It’s my big-ticket pick, anchoring my collection with a modern icon.
Price: $8,500
Photos don’t do justice to this Vacheron Constantin Ref. 4870 yellow gold dress watch. Its two-tone dial glows in person, a golden-era gem that checks all my boxes: vintage pedigree, gold elegance, and Holy Trinity prestige. I nearly went for a Patek Philippe Ref. 570, but this V&C punches above its weight at a better price. Call me crazy, but I’d take this understated masterpiece over flashier options any day. It’s the kind of watch that whispers class at a black-tie event.
Price: $7,900
Skipping Matt’s sports watch section is like going to Peter Luger’s and only ordering a salad—unforgivable. His vintage Heuers caught my eye, especially a colorful Solunar that tempted me with its bold vibe. But my heart settled on the 1960s Heuer Autavia Ref. 2446C Mark I. With its faded bezel and rugged charm, this chronograph oozes classic cool. It’s the daily wearer I’d sport with jeans and a leather jacket, turning heads without trying too hard.
Price: $2,900
With only $4,100 left, I was caught short while dreaming big—an ultra-rare Angelus 5-minute repeater was calling, but it broke my budget. Instead, I found a perfect compromise: the LeCoultre Memovox Alarm, Ref. 2404, from the 1960s. Its Art Deco numerals and minty stainless steel case stole my heart. I considered a larger Jaeger-LeCoultre E858, but this one’s sleek lines sealed the deal. It’s the quirky, soulful piece that makes my collection sing (or ring).
Victory Lap
Budget Remaining: $1,200
With $48,800 spent, I’m left with $1,200.
I’m pretty happy with that and am hoping Matt and Morgan treat me to a fine Miami meal to celebrate my fantasy collection... That $1,200 should cover a feast worthy of these great watches!
What’s Your $50K Dream Collection?
Matt’s inventory is a playground for collectors, from grail-worthy icons to hidden gems. My picks balance passion and strategy, but now it’s your turn. If you had $50,000 to spend at Matthew Bain, Inc., what would you choose?
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