Category: Collecting

Explore our articles on vintage watch collecting. This covers everything from identifying and researching watches to understanding movements, restoration, and building a meaningful collection.

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 give your vintage watch…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

How to get moisture out of a vintage watch

Discovering condensation inside your vintage watch can be a frustrating experience. Yet with the right techniques and a little care, you can remove the moisture and preserve your timepiece. In this guide, we explore various methods to remove moisture from your vintage watch, explain why condensation occurs, and share tips to prevent future issues. How…Read more

Vintage watch terminology

In this post, we will explore vintage watch terminology. These are terms beginners may find confusing when collecting vintage watches. These terms cover a range of important aspects, from traditional regulatory systems like the pinned regulator, which helps adjust the watch’s timing, to advanced features like the Incabloc system, which protects watches from shocks. It…Read more

The history of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch

The Omega Speedmaster, commonly known as the Moonwatch, has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the early days of space exploration. It is one of the most legendary and collectable watches in the world of horology. The Speedmaster was not originally designed for space exploration. Introduced in 1957 as part of a…Read more

Rules for wearing a vintage watch

Vintage watches aren’t just practical timepieces. They add a stylish touch to your look. Whether you lean towards dress, sport or tool designs, a good watch elevates your game. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you’re wearing it right and keeping it in good working order. These are…Read more

The Omega Marine: the first true dive watch

I must admit, I have never seen an Omega Marine watch in person. They are not on my immediate list for collection, because I am not a massive fan of dive watches, although the Rolex no-date Submariner is an exception. However, I am a big fan of Omega in general, particularly the Seamaster and Speedmaster…Read more

9ct gold Omega wristwatch, 30T2 calibre, 1944

The Omega 30T2 is one of the brand’s most respected movements. A vintage watch with this calibre has been on my wish list for a while. During my search for a suitable candidate, I came across this particular example at The Vintage Wrist Watch Company. It’s a 9ct gold Omega wristwatch, dating from 1944. Sadly,…Read more

Preserving the past: a guide to servicing vintage watches

Questions about the maintenance of vintage watches frequently arise for anyone involved in buying or selling these timeless pieces. Modern watches often last around a decade, but well-made vintage Swiss watches can endure generations with proper care. This is particularly the case with Swiss watches from the golden era of watchmaking. This includes timepieces produced…Read more