Posted On: October 6, 2026

Contributor

Media Organization: The Collector’s Compass

Company Description

The Collector’s Compass is an independent publication exploring the culture and experience of collecting through the people, stories, communities and experiences surrounding watches and other collectible objects. Its editorial approach emphasizes interesting and off-the-beaten-path perspectives, human connection and the stories behind what people collect.

Job Description

The Collector’s Compass is seeking a freelance field correspondent to help cover New York Watch Week in Manhattan, October 15–18, 2026. The primary assignment is expected to be Friday, October 16 at the Windup Watch Fair, with the possibility of additional assignments during the week and at future events.

The Collector's Compass is an independent publication focused on the culture and experience of collecting. Our coverage is less about specifications and press releases and more about the people behind the objects: what they collect, what they’re wearing, why something matters to them, and the stories that bring people together around collecting.

This is a field-reporting role rather than a traditional event photography assignment. The correspondent will independently approach collectors, enthusiasts, exhibitors and other attendees; conduct brief interviews; identify interesting stories; and capture vertical video, photographs, wrist shots and event atmosphere for social media.

Typical questions might include: What are you wearing? Why this watch? What brought you to the event? What have you discovered today? What piece in your collection means the most to you?

Watch expertise is not required. Curiosity, confidence approaching people, good interviewing instincts and an ability to recognize an interesting story matter more. An interest in watches, fashion, design, art, collecting, luxury or culture is a plus.

Responsibilities include:
• Conducting short, informal interviews with attendees and exhibitors
• Capturing high-quality vertical video and photographs
• Recording names, social handles and information about featured watches
• Identifying particularly interesting people or stories for follow-up
• Delivering organized footage, photos and reporting notes after the assignment
Applicants should have a modern smartphone capable of shooting high-quality video and photographs. The Collector’s Compass can provide wireless microphones and other basic reporting equipment as needed.
Published work will be credited. Selected social content may also be published collaboratively with the contributor on Instagram where appropriate.
The initial assignment is expected to be approximately 4–6 hours on Friday, October 16.

Pay -- $20/hour for on-site reporting. Bylined articles: $100–$200 per commissioned article depending on scope. Additional editing/production work compensated separately.

To Apply

Please email (jobs@thecollectorscompass.com) a brief introduction explaining your interest in the assignment, along with 1–3 examples of reporting, interviewing, photography, video, social media or other relevant work. Student work is welcome. Please also include your availability during October 15–18, 2026.
Formal watch expertise is not required.