That first evening at RollieFest set the tone for what would become one of the most memorable weekends I’ve experienced in this world of watches — not for the pieces alone, but for the people.

A Gathering Like No Other

RollieFest has earned its title as the “Met Gala of Watches,” and my first experience proved exactly why. Across two days and three distinct events — an evening Gala at the MET’s Temple of Dendur, a luncheon 102 floors above Manhattan at One World Trade, and closing cocktails at the Waldorf Astoria — every detail struck a balance between sophistication, authenticity, and community.

Walking into each venue felt like stepping into a different expression of our shared passion. From the museum’s soft glow to the sweeping skyline and the storied halls of the Waldorf, it was clear that this wasn’t just another watch meetup. It was an experience — one that transcended the watches themselves and reminded me what makes this community truly remarkable.

The Evolution of RollieFest

What began in 2019 as an intimate, invite-only gathering among collectors has evolved into one of horology’s most anticipated private events. Founded by Geoffrey Hess, now Global Head of Watches at Sotheby’s, RollieFest has grown from a Rolex-centered celebration into a brand-agnostic tribute to horological passion itself.

Although this was my first year attending, I quickly got the sense through conversations just how meaningful this event has become for the community. The way people spoke about past editions — the friendships formed, the trust built, the anticipation leading up to it — made it clear that RollieFest isn’t just an event; it’s a tradition. There’s an unspoken mutual respect among enthusiasts, dealers, brands, and creators that binds everyone together.

A Table of Timepieces and Trust

It wasn’t until the next day — during the luncheon at Aspire, 102 floors up at One World Trade — that the sea of watches appeared. Tables covered in some of the world’s most coveted pieces filled the room, with the center table serving as the main horological buffet. Collectors moved from one masterpiece to another, freely sharing and swapping stories behind each piece.

It was a sight to behold: vintage icons beside modern independents, rare grails beside daily wearers, all laid out not to impress, but to connect.

Moments like that encapsulate the magic of RollieFest. The trust it takes to set down something irreplaceable and invite others to experience it is profound. It’s what turns a gathering of collectors into a celebration of community.

People First, Always

As much as I love watches, I’ll admit — I didn’t spend nearly as much time studying them as I thought I would. I was too caught up in conversations.

Throughout the weekend, I reconnected with old friends, chatted with new and longtime clients, and finally met people I’ve only ever known through a screen. Some were familiar faces I’d spoken to countless times; others I finally had the opportunity to put a face to the wrists and watches I’d seen online for years. There’s a unique poetry in moments like that — realizing there’s a person behind the photograph, a story behind the strap.

This is what RollieFest did best for my experience. It stripped away pretense and brought humanity back into collecting. The event blended the energy of a high-society gala with the warmth of a friend’s gathering, where enthusiasts, brands, and dealers all met as equals — bonded by shared fascination and mutual respect.

Representing WAX

It was an honor to represent WAX throughout the weekend alongside our CEO and colleague, Rich Vinhais. RollieFest isn’t just about admiring what’s rare — it’s about protecting what’s meaningful. And being surrounded by collectors who understand the emotional and financial weight of their pieces reinforced why we do what we do.

Gratitude and Reflection

Thank you to Geoffrey Hess for not only the invitation but for orchestrating such a remarkable celebration of horology, and to Vincent Brasesco for the opportunity to be there. The effort, precision, and thoughtfulness that go into curating an event of this scale are nothing short of inspiring.

As the weekend came to a close over cocktails at the Waldorf Astoria, I couldn’t help but reflect on how far this community has come — and how lucky I am to be part of it. RollieFest isn’t about showing off what’s on your wrist; it’s about showing up for one another.

So to everyone who stopped for a chat, snapped a wrist shot, or simply shared a moment — thank you. You made the experience unforgettable.

Because in the end, it’s not just about collecting watches. It’s about collecting moments — and this weekend, there were plenty worth remembering.