Collecting clocks, watches and other small items was just a way for a Filipino based in London to take his mind off loneliness and homesickness from being away from his family.
Eventually, Butch Ambion said his diversion became a hobby that in a span of five years, he was able to collect about 5,000 different kinds of clocks and watches displayed in his home in London.
His collections are not ordinary as these are not often found inside local stores in London.
“Nasisiyahan ako kapag nakakabili ako ng relo na gusto ko. At least wala kang mabibiling ganun sa karaniwang tindahan,†said Ambion.
Prior to the clocks and watches, Ambion started collecting small liquor bottles, later on expanding to memorabilia of the Royal Family, particularly that of Princess Diana during his three decades in England.
His collections gained the admiration of Filipinos who visits his home.
"Una akong dumating dito nagulat talaga ako kasi siya lang yung nakita kong tao na kahit ano kinokolekta niya. Like pati yung mga phone cards siguro mga 50,000 na yung estimate ko doon sa mga phone card niya,†said Ronel Rante, a student.
His collections are estimated to amount to 15,000 to 20,000 pounds or around P2 million.
At the moment, Ambion is setting aside his hobby due to the global financial crisis.
-ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau
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