Today we’d like to introduce you to Mauricio Perez.
Hi Mauricio, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My professional journey actually started in TV and film. From around 9th grade through 2016, I was deeply involved in production, storytelling, and creative work. What began as a passion project eventually turned into real-world experience, shaping how I think about detail, presentation, and the importance of telling a compelling story.
After my daughter was born, my priorities shifted and I transitioned into a more stable career in technology and engineering. While that may seem like a completely different world, it reinforced a different skill set. Problem solving, precision, and operating in high accountability environments all became part of my day-to-day. Those two backgrounds together ended up shaping how I approach business today.
My introduction to watches came a few years later, in 2019, during our first real family vacation. It was a cruise to Alaska with my wife and our daughter, and during that trip I purchased my first luxury timepiece, a TAG Heuer Formula One Gulf. It wasn’t the most expensive piece, but it marked a moment. It represented how far I had come, and it’s a watch I’ll never part with.
That experience is really what sparked everything.
What started as a personal interest quickly grew into a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship, design, and the stories behind each piece. I began collecting, then sourcing for close friends and connections, and eventually realized there was a gap in the market. Many people were entering the space without a trusted guide, while seasoned collectors were looking for a more personalized and transparent way to buy, sell, and trade.
That’s what led me to start The Arieli Collection in 2021, a name inspired by my daughters and rooted in the idea of building something meaningful that lasts.
Today, the business is centered around relationships. Whether it’s sourcing a hard-to-find reference, structuring a trade, or advising someone on their next addition, the focus is always on creating a smooth, trustworthy experience. A large portion of our growth has come from repeat clients and referrals, which is something I take a lot of pride in.
At the end of the day, watches are more than just objects. They’re tied to milestones, memories, and personal achievements. Being able to play a role in that process and help clients build collections that reflect their own story, is what continues to drive me forward.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but most of the challenges have come from learning how to operate in a space where trust and capital are everything.
One of the biggest early hurdles was credibility. The luxury watch market is relationship-driven, and when you’re starting out, you don’t yet have the track record or network that more established dealers do. Building that trust took time, consistency, and a lot of attention to detail in how I communicated, delivered, and followed through with clients.
Another challenge has been navigating the financial side of the business. Unlike many traditional businesses, inventory in this space can represent a significant amount of capital, and each decision carries weight. Learning how to structure deals, manage risk, and grow sustainably without overextending was something that came with experience.
There’s also a level of unpredictability in the market itself. Values shift, demand changes, and not every deal goes exactly as planned. That’s forced me to stay adaptable and disciplined, especially when it comes to pricing, sourcing, and timing.
On a more personal level, balancing a full-time career, a growing business, and family life has been its own challenge. Building something meaningful while still being present at home requires structure and intentionality.
That said, each of these challenges has helped shape how I operate today. They’ve reinforced the importance of transparency, consistency, and long-term thinking, which are all core to how I run The Arieli Collection.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Arieli Collection?
The Arieli Collection is a relationship-driven luxury watch business focused on sourcing, selling, and advising on high-end timepieces. While we work across a range of brands and price points, the core of what we do is helping clients navigate the market with clarity and confidence.
A large part of the business is centered around sourcing. Many of our clients come to us looking for something specific, whether it’s a particular configuration, or simply guidance on what makes sense for their collection. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, we take the time to understand what the piece represents to them and build from there.
We also work closely with collectors on trades, acquisitions, and collection refinement. For many, this is not just about buying a watch, it’s about making informed decisions in a market where pricing, condition, and authenticity can vary widely. Acting as a trusted advisor in those moments is a big part of what we’re known for.
What sets us apart is the level of transparency and personal involvement throughout the process. From detailed communication to documenting packaging and delivery, every step is handled with the understanding that these are high-value, often meaningful purchases. That consistency has led to a strong base of repeat clients and referrals, which continues to drive the business forward.
One of the things I’m most proud of is how organically the brand has grown. The Arieli Collection, named after my daughters, was built on the idea of creating something lasting and meaningful. That philosophy carries through in how we work with clients and how we approach every transaction.
At the end of the day, the goal is simple. To make the process of buying, selling, or trading a luxury watch as seamless, transparent, and enjoyable as possible, while helping clients build collections that reflect their own story.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
If there’s one thing I’d leave readers with, it’s that getting into watches doesn’t have to be intimidating.
Whether it’s your first piece or you’ve been collecting for years, the most important thing is that it means something to you. Some of the most meaningful watches aren’t the most expensive ones, they’re the ones tied to a moment, a milestone, or a memory. That’s something I was reminded of with my first watch, and it’s a perspective I still carry with me today.
If anyone is looking for guidance, whether it’s sourcing a piece, understanding the market, or just having a conversation about watches, I’m always happy to help. A lot of what I do starts with simple conversations that turn into long-term relationships.
At the end of the day, the goal is to build something lasting, not just in the watches themselves, but in the relationships behind them.
Pricing:
- Timepieces typically range from $3,000 to $100,000+, depending on brand, model, and rarity
- Sourcing services are tailored based on the specific watch and market conditions
- Trade-in opportunities are evaluated on a case-by-case basis
- Consignment options available for select pieces
- Personalized consultations are always complimentary
Contact Info:
- Website: https://arielicollection.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_arieli_collection/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheArieliCollection
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauricioperez818/
Image Credits:
Mauricio Perez
