A Gathering of Watch Enthusiasts at Rolliefest
Collectors of rare and vintage timepieces recently gathered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for an exclusive event known as Rolliefest. This invitation-only gathering, which cost attendees $1,600 per ticket, brought together some of the most passionate horology enthusiasts from around the world. The event, now in its third iteration, has become a highlight for those who appreciate the artistry and history behind luxury watches.
On the first day of the event, September 26, emotions were high among attendees. Fred Savage, an actor, director, and watch enthusiast, expressed his admiration for the community during a conversation with a reporter. “This is a room of my favorite people,” he said, highlighting the unique camaraderie that defines the event.
The venue was no small affair. Over 200 watch aficionados filled the museum’s entrance hall, showcasing their prized possessions. These individuals represented the crème de la crème of global horology, dressed elegantly and eager to share their collections with fellow enthusiasts.
Henry Flores, founder of the Classic Watch Club, shared his excitement about a new bezel he had acquired for the event. He displayed a pale pink and blue bezel on his vintage Rolex GMT-Master, which allowed him to track a second time zone. Such details are what make these events so captivating for collectors.
Among the attendees were notable figures such as Morgan King, a well-dressed collector from Los Angeles; Mike Nouveau, a TikTok influencer known for his Cartier pieces; and Eric Wind, a respected dealer whose expertise helped identify a potential issue with a vintage watch owned by a reporter. Wind quickly diagnosed a minor problem, saving the owner from significant depreciation.
The Vision Behind Rolliefest
Rolliefest is the brainchild of Geoff Hess, a veteran in the watch industry and currently the global head of watches for Sotheby’s. The event was created as a space where watch lovers could showcase their collections without the influence of commercial interests or sales pressure. This approach fosters a more relaxed and genuine atmosphere compared to other watch fairs like Watches and Wonders in Geneva.
The guest list was carefully curated, ensuring that only those deeply knowledgeable about horology could attend. Attendees came from all over the world, bringing with them some of the most unique and well-preserved timepieces. Tickets were priced at $1,600 per person, making it an exclusive but highly anticipated event.
Over the two days of the event, attendees engaged in activities that were both surprising and heartwarming. Spontaneous gift-giving, heartfelt stories about family heirlooms, and discussions about the significance of vintage watches created a warm and emotionally charged environment. The setting was equally impressive, with fine martinis and a beautiful backdrop that added to the overall experience.
During a dinner at the Metropolitan Museum’s Temple of Dendur, Hess reflected on the purpose of the event. “Collecting watches reminds us to slow down,” he said. “We’ve gone down rabbit holes no one even knew existed.”
A Showcase of Timepieces
The heart of Rolliefest was the watch luncheon held on September 27 at the Aspire space on the 102nd floor of One World Trade Center. The location, marked by a sign that humorously described it as a “marine biology conference,” offered a stunning view of the city skyline.
During the ascent to the 102nd floor, the reporter had the opportunity to compare watches with @oldwatchlady, an Instagram presence known for her extensive collection. She showed off a rare Rolex Princess Midas destro, while the reporter wore a more classic Rolex Explorer 1016. Above the city, more than $20 million worth of watches were displayed across several tables, creating one of the most extensive gatherings of vintage timepieces ever assembled.
“I don’t know where to go,” one collector exclaimed, overwhelmed by the sheer number of watches on display. Others were excitedly pointing out specific pieces, such as a Paul Newman with straight hands or a double Swiss.
Among the many watches on display, one stood out: a Universal Genève cloisonné dial featuring an outline of Saudi Arabia with Mecca marked on the dial. The vivid colors and pristine condition of the dial captivated the reporter, who spent an extended time admiring it.
Evolution of the Watch Market
In recent years, independent watchmakers have gained popularity among collectors, often surpassing the interest in vintage and mass-market high horology brands. However, Rolliefest serves as a reminder of the unique charm and historical significance of vintage pieces.
Eric Wind noted that the event has evolved, particularly with the increasing presence of younger attendees. “The irony is that the most common watch here is the extremely rare Berneron Mirage,” he said. “I’ve seen at least four,” he added, laughing at the coincidence.
Hess observed that the younger generation has found a new way into the world of mechanical watches, often starting with smartwatches like Apple. This shift has helped expand the appeal of traditional timepieces beyond older demographics.
Alessandro Fanciulli, a 29-year-old Italian watch collector known online as Mr A, captured the sentiment of many attendees. “I feel like we’re one big group of lost souls,” he said. “And we’re not alone because we’ve found solace in our little ticking time machines.”
