Kenneth Jacobs

Kenneth Jacobs is the founder and owner of Wanna Buy A Watch (WBAW?), a vintage watch boutique located in West Hollywood, California.13 He started the store in the early 1980s and has been in the business for over 40 years.1

Background and Career

Before entering the watch industry, Jacobs had a different career path:

• He earned a PhD in clinical psychology and worked in the field for several years.2
• Jacobs eventually became the head of a psychology department before transitioning full-time into the watch business.2

Transition to Watches

Jacobs' journey into the world of watches began with his lifelong passion for collecting:

• As a child, he collected various items like seashells and stamps.2
• He later became interested in coin collecting, which led him to frequent the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena, CA.12
• In the late 1970s, Jacobs discovered pocket watches and then wristwatches, which captivated him with their three-dimensional, functional, and historical nature.2

Wanna Buy A Watch?

Jacobs founded Wanna Buy A Watch? with a focus on vintage timepieces:

• The store has been a fixture in the Los Angeles watch scene for over 35 years.3
• Initially, Jacobs was drawn to Art Deco-style watches and rectangular designs from brands like Hamilton and Elgin.1
• Over time, the store's focus has shifted to include mid-century designs and sports watches.12

Approach to Watch Dealing

Jacobs is known for his passion for watch design and aesthetics:

• He emphasizes creating a beautiful, inviting, and comfortable environment in his retail store.1
• While not focused on the most expensive watches, Jacobs continues to offer "cool watches that are fun to own and wear".1
• His approach caters to both long-time collectors and first-time buyers.1

Kenneth Jacobs has established himself as a respected figure in the vintage watch industry, combining his background in psychology with his passion for timepieces to create a unique and enduring business.4