I have written about vintage Longines Flagship models in the past. I have owned a modern Heritage version and have always been on the lookout for a classic vintage Flagship. Last time, it was another case of the “one that got away”. However, this time I got lucky and have a nice Longines Flagship automatic…Read more
The Rolex Oyster case
Established in 1905, Rolex is world-famous for tough, reliable watches. This reputation largely comes from the Oyster case, Rolex’s patented waterproof design. Introduced in 1926, the Oyster was a radical step in watchmaking. Rolex had found a way to seal a wristwatch so water and dust could not enter. The brand’s own account calls it…Read more
Omega 351 bumper automatic, 1950
This is an early Omega Seamaster 351 bumper automatic that we came across recently. It has one of the early “bumper automatic” movements, the Omega calibre 351. It is a classic vintage Seamaster, dating from 1950, and has aged very well. Timekeeping is good, and it has that distinctive “bumper action” on the wrist. The…Read more
Vintage watch buyers guide
Vintage watches have captured interest worldwide, and it’s no surprise why. They combine craftsmanship, design, and a touch of history. Sports watches from legendary brands like Rolex and Omega are especially sought after, but thanks to the internet, vintage watch collecting has become more accessible than ever. You can now browse and buy any vintage…Read more
Zenith Sporto, 1970s
Zenith is a brand that rarely appears in these pages. There is a reason for that, which we will discuss further down the page. That said, this post is about a vintage Zenith Sporto wristwatch dating from the 1970s. It caught our eye and our interest. Although the watch was sold before any of us…Read more
The Omega Genève range, an overview and history
The Omega Genève is one of Omega’s lesser-known brands. It was an entry-level watch of good quality that fell by the wayside in the late 1970s. Although when it launched in the 1950s, it was a high-tier dress watch, second only to the Constellation. Later, in the 1960s, Genève’s target audience shifted to the entry-level…Read more
Omega Seamaster replacement dial, 1965
Omega Seamasters feature prominently at Set Back In Time. It’s hard not to like a Seamaster. The Omega brand has history, and the Seamaster range has proven itself to be a reliable, rugged timepiece for over 70 years. As collectors, we value originality and authenticity. We aren’t investors. We just appreciate vintage watches. That said,…Read more
Vintage watch maintenance
Vintage watches are amazing little time machines. They’re built with skill and care, and they can last a lifetime if you take good care of them. However, keeping these mechanical masterpieces in great shape means regular maintenance (How to care for a vintage watch at Gear Patrol). Experts say you should get your vintage watch…Read more
Vintage watch date complications
A watch complication, by definition, is any function of a timepiece that is in addition to its primary function of keeping time. One of the most common complications on modern watches is the Date function, which is a display of the date via a numbered disk. Typically, this is displayed via a small aperture or window…Read more
Longines Ultra-Chron, High Frequency
Longines relaunched the Ultra-Chron in 2022. It is a near-perfect revival of the high-frequency range that first appeared in the 1960s. We saw a vintage Ultra-Chron on one of our recent expeditions to an Antiques and Collectors Fair. There wasn’t a known service history for this particular example, so it wasn’t purchased. However, it did…Read more