Giannis Antetokounmpo's Watch Collecting Journey: Lessons from a Breitling Ambassador
How NBA Superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo Built a Watch Collection of 80+ Timepieces
Watch collecting isn't reserved for lifelong horology enthusiasts — even NBA legends can become passionate collectors. As aBlogtoWatch reported, Breitling ambassador Giannis Antetokounmpo has amassed a collection of over 80 watches, and his journey offers valuable lessons for beginner collectors everywhere.
The Origin Story: Family Influence
Like many collectors, Giannis's passion started with family. His older brother handed him a watch box after a workout — a gift with Giannis's name engraved on it. A second watch followed before an NBA All-Star Game. But it was his brother's explanation that some watches retain significant value over time that truly sparked Giannis's interest in purchasing timepieces for himself.
What a Beginner Can Learn from Giannis
| Giannis's Preference | Lesson for Beginners |
|---|---|
| Prefers 41mm case sizes | Find what suits YOUR wrist, not trends |
| Favors Navitimer and Chronomat | Start with iconic, versatile models |
| Loves green and ice blue dials | Choose colors that have personal meaning |
| Values watches that hold value | Consider resale potential early on |
| Owns 80+ pieces | Collections grow gradually over time |
The Breitling Connection: Accessibility Matters
Despite his superstar status, Giannis gravitates toward Breitling — a brand known for producing luxury watches accessible at various price points, including models under $5,000. When asked about his dream signature watch, he chose stainless steel with an ice blue dial at 41mm — proving that even athletes earning millions appreciate modest, wearable timepieces over ostentatious displays of wealth.
Key Takeaways for New Collectors
- Let family spark your interest: Many collectors trace their passion to a parent, sibling, or friend who introduced them to watches.
- Understand value retention: Learning which watches hold value helps make smarter purchase decisions from day one.
- Size matters — find yours: Giannis at 6'11" still prefers 41mm. Don't assume bigger is always better.
- Start with one brand: Building knowledge around a single brand (like Breitling) before branching out is a proven strategy.
- Casual is king: The best watch collection reflects your personality, not a price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I spend on my first watch?
There's no minimum. Giannis's journey started with gifted watches. Many excellent timepieces from Seiko, Tissot, or Orient are available for under $500 and offer incredible value.
Is it important to buy luxury brands?
Not at all. As Giannis demonstrated, even a $5,000 Breitling is considered accessible in luxury watchmaking. Focus on what you love, not what impresses others.
How do I know if a watch will hold its value?
Research is key. Visit our beginner's guide to learn about brands and models with strong resale markets.
Source: aBlogtoWatch, "Watch Collecting And A Casual Approach To Excellence With Breitling Ambassador Giannis Antetokounmpo," February 3, 2023.