Back to Basics
The past year has been one of the most defining periods of my life—professionally and personally. I didn’t just hit pause. I went into monk mode.
I stripped everything back. I got quiet. I observed. I spent time with my family. I focused on the relationships that mattered. I built. I slowed down. And through it all, I found clarity. Where I’ve been is where it matters.
Acknowledging the Fatigue
Let’s be honest: the burnout was real. The watch world had become too noisy, too transactional, too performative. I lost my drive. I lost the joy. But that stillness gave me the clarity and conviction to move forward with purpose. There’s power in admitting something isn’t working—and even more power in doing something about it.
Collected Gave Me Direction
In the quiet, Collected came into focus. It became more than a product—it became a compass. It showed me where my time, energy, and talent could actually move the needle. It brought the excitement back. This wasn’t just about fixing a broken system—it was about building something entirely new. Building something that reflected my values: transparency, trust, and long-term thinking.
Collected reminded me of the kind of community I wanted to help create—and that I didn’t need to shout to be heard. I just needed to build.
Deepening Genuine Connections
This year, I was in fewer deals—but it ended up being my most profitable year. I wasn’t chasing volume or trying to stay visible. I was focused on the relationships that mattered—conversations rooted in honesty, mutual respect, and shared values. That shift not only brought greater fulfillment, it also clarified the kind of work I want to do more of.
It was that clarity that led me to productize my services. I wanted to create offerings that aligned with these lessons—services built around trust, intention, and the kind of collector relationships that made this year so rewarding. Reconnecting with old clients and friends, and forming new relationships grounded in trust, reminded me what I’ve always loved about this space: the people.
Falling in Love With Film
Another unexpected gift from this slower season was falling in love with analog photography. Slowing down behind the lens reminded me how to see again—not just through a viewfinder, but in life. Film forces you to be present. It captures a moment in time—nothing more, nothing less. And time is finite.
What I didn’t expect was to find a community that felt so familiar. The Leica world in particular struck a deep chord. Beautifully designed tools, built to last, rich with history—and yes, even specific production batches that are obsessively sought after. Sound familiar? In many ways, it mirrors the best of the watch world.
Film reminded me that storytelling, intention, and attention to detail aren’t just philosophies—they’re foundations. And I’d be remiss not to thank my friend Johnson Lee in Hong Kong—an incredible dealer and an even better human—whose generosity reminded me how powerful it is when people share their passion freely and without ego.
Family First, Always
The most transformative part of my year wasn’t a business breakthrough—it was becoming a dad again. I think in many ways, I knew what was coming—and how important that first year would be. I knew how fleeting those days would be.
When I was building my first company, I didn’t have the same awareness or opportunity to be fully present. This time, I did.
We traveled to Hawaii—twice. We explored Europe as a family. I collected the most meaningful thing of all: memories. Laughing in the sun. Early mornings at the beach. First steps. Wonder in his eyes. Presence. That’s the real luxury.
These moments reminded me why I collect. Why legacy matters. Why this industry, at its best, is about stories—not status.
Monk Mode Lessons
Monk mode gave me clarity. It taught me that:
Depth beats speed.
Presence matters more than performance.
Fulfillment comes from alignment, not attention.
These aren’t just personal takeaways—they’re strategic anchors for how I lead, advise, and build from here.
Staying True to Myself
I’ve never worn a mask. What you see is what you get. I don’t want to be admired—I want to be trusted. I’m not here for impressions—I’m here for impact.
The industry is full of personas. I’ve seen behind the curtain. That’s not for me. I’ll keep showing up as I am: a builder, a collector, a father—and someone who deeply cares about where this space is headed.
Let’s Get the Band Back Together
If we’ve crossed paths before—let’s reconnect. If you’ve felt the fatigue too—let’s talk. If you’re ready to move differently—let’s build.
This is a rallying cry to those who still care. Let’s bring the heart back into collecting. Let’s create a space where passion matters more than positioning. Let’s get excited again.
Thank You
To all of my amazing clients who continue to believe in my vision for a better market—thank you. Your support means everything. You’ve helped me stay the course, and you’re a huge part of what gives this work meaning.
Our Path Forward
This isn’t just reflection—it’s a foundation. It’s the groundwork for everything I want to build next.
Through T.J. Bender and Collected, I’m committed to creating something lasting: a platform and a practice rooted in integrity, intentionality, and real connection.
Let’s make every day count. Let’s get back to what matters. Let’s go forward—together!