Over two years ago, I bought a new home. It was a major project that took up more energy and time than I expected, but I’m extremely  happy with how it turned out. At the same time, I found myself dealing with some complex tax matters related to renouncing a certain passport—while also becoming a Swiss citizen. Add to that some turbulence in the financial markets, and it’s fair to say I was in survival mode. Writing, understandably (but sadly), took a back seat.

To write Le Monde Edmond well, I needed a clear head—and I just didn’t have it. Before I knew it, more than two years had flown by. Fast forward to today: I’m settled into my new home, the markets are cooperating again, and I’ve found new energy and focus.

It feels good to be back—and I’m ready to write.

A lot has changed in the world of collecting during my time away.

The broad correction in collectibles that began in 2021 is still playing out. The art market is in flux, the classic car market is adjusting, and despite strong results in some areas, I believe the watch market may not be as robust as it appears on the surface. I’ll be diving deeper into these topics—especially as they relate to vintage Rolex—in the weeks ahead.

However something else and very interesting has caught my attention: the way collectors learn, engage, and share is evolving. A new generation of influencers—many of them women—is reshaping the landscape. With engaging videos and short-form content, they’re making collecting more accessible and entertaining. This is how younger collectors are choosing to learn, and it’s an exciting development!

At the same time, the fundamentals for the watch world remain strong: more collectors, more media coverage, more celebrities showing interest, and a growing presence of content creators. In my view, this bodes very well for the future of watches. Have I been collecting these past two years? Yes I have. Very selectively in watches, which is how I have always operated. I will repeat what I have often said: The best collectors say no to 99% of what is available. It is a hard exercise to do, but resisting temptation is an Art only few collectors master. 

I will be selectively sharing what I have bought and you might get a hint in the type of articles I will write going forward (I have also started collecting in an entirely new field, more on that later).

While my writing style will remain true to what longtime readers know, I recognize that evolution is essential.

I’ll be experimenting a little—though the core of my content won’t change. This blog has always been a reflection of my personal taste, independent thinking, and honest opinion. I don’t have sponsors or backers, so I can speak freely—highlighting what I love and critiquing what I don’t. What you see is truly what you get.

That independence is rare, and I believe it gives this blog its unique voice—something few others in the watch world can genuinely claim.

So yes, I’m back—and looking forward to reconnecting with you. As a teaser: my next article will focus on one of my all-time favorite Rolex references. A true beauty from the 1950s, with only three known examples in the world.

Stay tuned.