In this introduction, Richard Watkins welcomes new watch collectors to the hobby by sharing the basics of collecting. A longtime collector himself, Watkins seeks to provide a foundation for the beginning horologist with numerous photographs illustrating detailed features of the watches he discusses. He guides the reader through key elements of watch evaluation, dating watches using hallmarks and serial numbers, how to spot fakes, and understanding complications. In addition, Watkins explains the basics of watch repair and gives many suggestions for the essential publications needed to build an effective horological library. This book is an excellent starting point for the novice collector.