For over two centuries, the horlogerie sphere has accommodated some of the finest tastemakers the world has ever known. One of the more notable profiles in fact is Britain’s second longest reigning monarch, Queen Victoria, whose passion and influential patronage for arts, culture and, as it appears, luxury timepieces — was empirically exemplified among distinguished aristocrats.
At the London Universal Exhibition held in 1851, her majesty found favour with Patek Philippe, amid discovering the Patek, Philippe & Cie, Geneve, No.4719, a blue pendant watch of exquisite craftsmanship. Adorned with a bouquet of flowers set in rose-cut diamonds against a sky-blue enamel, the piece features a yellow gold case, white enamel dial with painted Roman numerals, and blued steel Breguet hands.
Queen Victoria Pendant Watch-Patek Philippe No-47191-1
Unlike most models of its era, this particular timepiece bore the maker’s signature on the dial, case, and movement. It was a rare distinction that renders it truly remarkable.
A New Generation of Collectors
Over the years, the enticing allure of luxury watches has never waned. From royal courts to modern collectors, timepieces have transcended their function to become emblems of artistry, status, and sentiment. What began as a mark of precision and prestige has evolved into a deeply personal expression of taste and identity, persevering in its mission to captivate a new generation of discerning women who, much like Queen Victoria, see in a watch not just the passage of time, but a reflection of legacy, craftsmanship, and enduring elegance.
Today’s modern generation of collectors can familiarly attest to the evolving pace of social order, viably utilising platforms and communities to redefine what collecting means in this digital age. Female collectors in particular have emerged as powerful tastemakers, curating pieces that speak not only to heritage and design, but also to individuality and meaning.
Michelle Yeoh wearing Richard Mille RM 51-01 Tourbillon featured in 2010, photo from Richard Millie
Whether through vintage discoveries, bespoke commissions, or avant-garde collaborations, these women are reshaping the narrative — transforming watch collecting into a statement of empowerment, intellect, and timeless style.
Jessica Owens (J.J Owens)
Jessica “J.J.” Owens’ fascination with horology began early, nurtured through hours spent collecting watches alongside her father. A favoured past time no less, evolved into a lifelong appreciation for vintage timepieces, particularly those with a racing provenance and a story to tell. At just fourteen, J.J. launched her own social media consulting business, combining her analytical mind with a growing fascination for horology. Today, as part of the team at Watchonista and founder of @dailygrailofficial, she’s helping make watch collecting more accessible and engaging for younger audiences.
Photo: Jessica “J.J.” Owens
J.J also happens to be a distinguished member of the Horological Society of New York, bringing both intellect and instinct to her collecting ethos. Having an instinctive affinity for numbers, she draws deep resonance between her love for mathematics and the intricate precision of horology watchmaking, as she relays that timepieces represent the purest measurement of time.
Trang Trinh
As the founder of GIRLSOCLOCK, Trang Trinh has built a community where women can explore the art of horology with confidence and style. Acknowledging that the world of fine timepieces can often feel intimidating, Trinh uses her platform to make it more accessible — merging the technical with the aesthetic. Through Instagram and TikTok, she blends storytelling with sophistication, pairing elegance with identity.
Photo: Trang Trinh
Her digital entrepreneurship has not only redefined how women engage with luxury watches but also illuminated the artistry behind collecting with purpose.
Lung Lung Thun
In an industry often perceived as male-dominated, Hong Kong – based financier Lung Lung Thun has emerged as a powerful and articulate voice within the watch community. Running her own securities firm, Thun approaches collecting with precision and intention, valuing pieces that resonate with her personally rather than trend.
Photo: Lung Lung Thun
Her perspective bridges finance and femininity, proving that mastery of detail and passion for craftsmanship can coexist seamlessly. With an instinct for authenticity, she continues to inspire a more inclusive dialogue in luxury horlogerie.
Zoe Abelson
For Zoe Abelson, collecting watches is an act of preservation. From family heirlooms to rare vintage finds, she treats each timepiece as a story worth safeguarding. Her passion was first ignited while working at an auction house, where she developed a fascination with the history and artistry behind watchmaking.
Photo: Zoe Abelson
Today, her discerning eye and contagious enthusiasm have positioned her as a respected voice in the community. In a world that still carries traces of chauvinism, Abelson’s grace and confidence stand as a quiet rebellion — a testament to women who collect not for status, but for meaning.
(Sources: Revolution, Remix and Wristcheck)
