Collectors Watch Club Saudi Arabia: A Sea of Passion

CWC is the first officially licensed watch club in Saudi Arabia; how vital was this formal recognition in transitioning the community from private collections into a structured national movement?

It was absolutely crucial. For a long time, Saudi collectors existed as individuals or within small, private circles, without a unified entity to represent their voice or influence. What began as the Saudi Watch Club was purely passion-driven.
Becoming the officially licensed Collectors Watch Club marked a defining turning point. By aligning with the Quality of Life Program under Hawi, we formalized that passion into a recognized institution – one that not only brings collectors together but also represents them nationally and internationally. This recognition transformed a fragmented network into a cohesive movement capable of engaging global brands, hosting large-scale initiatives, and shaping the narrative of watch collecting in Saudi Arabia.

Membership is defined by passion rather than the price tag of a collection; when vetting a prospective member, what is the specific quality or “spark” that confirms they belong in the CWC family?

At CWC, membership is never defined by the size or value of a collection, nor by years of experience in horology. True belonging starts with passion.
The journey begins with a simple application through Instagram, followed by an annual membership process. Then we move into screening and interviews, where we look for a certain “spark”: genuine passion, willingness to learn and share, and appreciation for exclusivity – not material, but mindset and conduct. Most importantly, we seek individuals
who embrace the spirit of the club as a collective.
CWC is built on the idea of “one for all, and all for one.” It’s not about personal agendas, but about contributing to something larger – a community that grows, represents, and evolves together.

Saudi collectors have a deep appreciation for heritage; how does the club ensure that global brands respect and reflect Saudi culture and history in their regional releases?

Across our previous 14 limited editions – and with 34 more in development – we have consistently placed Saudi heritage and culture at the heart of every collaboration. The Kingdom offers a rich narrative, not only through traditions but through its landscapes and natural diversity – from the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, to deserts, sand formations, and unique wildlife. Each element is a powerful source of inspiration.
We act as cultural translators, working with global brands to ensure that every regional piece is authentically connected to Saudi identity. At the same time, we position ourselves as strategic partners, helping brands strengthen their local presence and demonstrating the sophistication and purchasing power of the Saudi market. The result: collaborations that are
meaningful to collectors and respected globally.

Your recent event at the Red Sea – a destination defined by “regenerative luxury” – felt like a significant moment for the club; how did that unique environment influence the “watch talk” and the overall energy of the gathering?

Each year, we host our annual gala dinner – more of a festival than a formal event. Attendance is mandatory for all members, as it brings everyone together to reconnect, celebrate, and reflect – much like a shared anniversary of our journey. It’s also a rare opportunity to disconnect and refresh one’s energy.
Traditionally, the gala unveils a new limited edition. This year, set against the Red Sea, the atmosphere added a different energy – immersive, reflective, and aligned with regenerative luxury. We also hosted a friendly charity auction, with proceeds going to meaningful causes.

Logistically, gathering members from 18 cities and hosting 32 officials representing global brands is no small feat, but it underscores the dedication and cohesion of the CWC community. The environment encouraged open conversations, sharing stories behind our editions, and celebrating Saudi heritage. The setting elevated the event, turning it into a meaningful, experience-driven dialogue around watches, culture, and community.

In the metropolitan settings of Riyadh or Jeddah, we often see high-complication dress watches; how does CWC relate to the more integrated-bracelet sports watches or divers?

At CWC, we celebrate the full spectrum of horology. While high-complication dress watches are prominent, integrated-bracelet sports watches, modern divers, and technical tool watches are just as appreciated. These pieces represent versatility, design innovation, and lifestyle integration, often serving as everyday companions that marry technical excellence
with iconic aesthetics.
We encourage collectors to broaden their horizons and appreciate all facets of watchmaking. In fact, we are currently working on a unique project that addresses this very balance – but I can’t elaborate further due to confidentiality. The ultimate challenge involves the same watch in two versions – one sporty, one dressy – showing how a single design can bridge both worlds seamlessly.

We are seeing a global surge in independent watchmaking; how deep is the appetite for “Indies” among Saudi collectors compared to the traditional powerhouses?

Historically, Saudi collectors focused on established powerhouses – well-known, traditional brands with a long legacy. Interest in independent watchmakers was limited. Since 2021, however, appreciation for Indies has grown significantly, as collectors have developed a deeper understanding of their creativity, innovation, and storytelling. CWC has supported
this evolution by hosting several gatherings in Riyadh and Jeddah, giving members direct exposure to independent brands. The response has been very positive, with a new wave of collectors embracing bold, unique, and technically brilliant timepieces alongside the classics.

Red Sea Global is a pioneer in sustainability; is there a growing conversation within CWC about “conscious horology” or supporting brands that align with these eco-friendly values?

Honestly, sustainability hasn’t been a central focus for CWC so far. That said, we are always exploring innovative approaches, designs, and collaborations, and we remain open to working with brands that bring fresh ideas and forward-thinking values to the table. Our priority has always been creativity, craftsmanship, and storytelling – but we certainly don’t close the door on responsible and sustainable practices where it makes sense.

CWC has already successfully launched several impressive dedicated editions with major brands; moving forward, what is the core “concept” or untold Saudi story you are most interested in developing for your next limited edition collaboration?

When it comes to our next limited edition, I can’t reveal the full concept yet – it’s part of the excitement. But every release follows a careful approach: we respect the original spirit and identity of the brand, while adding our own touches to redefine the watch and take it to a new level. Our goal is always to create the most striking, refined version the brand has ever produced.
Past examples include the Zenith Lavender Lover, widely regarded as Zenith’s most beautiful watch; the Parmigiani Heritage with the British green dial; the Piaget Polo 45th, where the calm blue dial paired with the beige strap mirrored the waves and sands of the Red Sea, turning the watch into a piece of the landscape; and the Christopher Ward Makkah Edition
with its intricate three-layer dial. Each demonstrates how we honor a brand’s legacy while introducing a distinct CWC signature. Looking ahead, some releases will include elements never seen before in horology, pushing creative and technical boundaries. While I can’t share specifics, what’s coming will be sophisticated, visually stunning, and truly mind-blowing – a further step in redefining what a limited edition can be.

Every great collector has a story of a watch they regret selling or a piece that slipped through their fingers; what is yours?

Oh, that’s a bullet to my heart! Like any collector, especially from 2004 to 2013, I made plenty of mistakes – but the one I most regret is selling my Patek 5970G, which I consider the most beautiful modern Patek ever. Every time I think of it, it reminds me to cherish the watches you love before they slip away.