I am a big believer in stealth wealth, I have no issue with successful people, I respect self-made people, a positive mental attitude and finally their work ethic.

High net worth individuals who are self-made generally don’t all drive Rolls Royce automobiles, they mostly don’t have servants waiting on them nor are they dithering fools as some make them out to be. They do enjoy quality possessions; sure, you can’t take them with you but I see no issue with enjoying your wealth in this life. Life is about experiences, so I am not into big houses, latest model cars, I drive a 20 year old vehicle and I am happy doing so.

My interest in watch collecting is partly born from my belief in stealth wealth, the mechanics of mechanical movements and associated engineering, and the style of a luxury timepiece. As a diver, I also have a range of dive computers collected over the years. I love nothing more than getting around on weekends unshaved, dressing casually but sporting a pretty decent timepiece on my wrist. Even better, the average person has no idea what I am wearing this weekend, or during the week for that matter.

Only people with an interest in horology notice, then we can discuss timepieces when they comment; then we can discuss heritage, engineering and style. I find it interesting chatting to watch people as we all have differing tastes, budgets and access to vintage watches. I will certainly not bring up the discussion if they don’t remark; they generally notice because they have an interest themselves in this hobby. Because if we both have an interest in this activity, the discussion is robust and stimulating.

You only have to wander around any restaurant precinct, shopping complex or entertainment area to see that designer clothes and accessories are so popular with not only the young set but an older and arguably more refined clientele too. They tend to be a little more reserved in showing off money, they are not out to flaunt it, the old adage of fake it until you make doesn’t apply to them, they purchase quality for the sake of quality.