Watches Watches everywhere…
Thanks to the innovation of quartz movements, watches nowadays are factory massed produced and inexpensive; purchased more for their practical timekeeping qualities than their aesthetic ornate designs and ingenious mechanisms.
However, that’s not to suggest that the demand for more ‘up-market’ masterpiece watches is by any way in decline, quite the contrary classic watches are becoming increasingly popular as both collectors’ items and stunning fashion accessories.
A very brief history
The real rise in the popularity of the wristwatch came as a result of the First World War; soldiers strapped timepieces to their wrists for easier reference. However, it has been argued that watches first appeared as far back as the 17th century; or more accurately miniature clocks attached to garments.
Vintage watches, and indeed, clocks and pocket watches, were engineered with wonderfully ingenious mechanical mechanisms; precision-made timepieces requiring the skills of a master craftsman to produce and repair.
Furthermore, aesthetically, many vintage watches are delightful works of art. Their imaginative designs and intricate mechanisms are still appreciated and coveted to this very day. Indeed, modern retro designs stand as homage to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of our ancestors.
Photo Credit: Ruby Lane Vintage
Modern classics
More modern classic watches are likewise much sought after and in some cases extremely valuable. These watches, such as the Swiss-made Omega Seamaster, are typically presented in stainless steel bodies. However, the metals can be mixed and matched, demonstrated in the sixties wonderful ‘light and the dark side of the moon’ designed Rado Starliner, the case is a combo of gold-plating and stainless steel.
Furthermore, the Starliner stands as a reminder that watches are made for the gratification of both sexes, ladies watches are equally as popular as men’s watches!
Whatever the metal used, watches are perceived as sound investments and, dare I say, status symbols. Also, the rarer and more sought after they become, the more they appreciate in value. That’s probably why they make for such popular gifts, whether they’re brand new or used, or should I say pre-owned?
Which brand to choose?
It’s virtually impossible to mention watches without referring to the Swiss phenomena in the same breath.
The Swiss are particularly renowned for producing fine precision watches; some of the top Swiss manufacturers are, arguably, Rolex, Cartier, Omega and Longines; with Tissot, TAG Heuer and Breitling snapping at their heels.
There are, of course, many other credible options worthy of consideration.
Photo Credit: Chrono24
Where can I find the widest range of vintage watches for sale?
The sensible answer is to simply view the watches available on our site; Vintage Time Watches; here you’ll discover a magnificent rainbow of choice from the elegance of Gucci to the stylish contours of Cartier, literally dozens of well-known brands are here to view and purchase.
Vintage Time Watches have an impeccable trading history with over 10 years in the business. Please do check our reviews on Trust Pilot and Google to see what customers think of us!
There’s a wristwatch for everyone, be they deep-sea divers, mountaineers, girlfriend, boyfriend or socialite!
