By chance, I recently bumped into a fellow vintage watch collector. I was in a local shoe repair shop looking to have a leather watch strap repaired (I know I could buy a new one, but the existing one has a lovely patina). Sadly, the strap couldn’t be salvaged, but it led to a long…Read more
Category: Components
Browse our articles on vintage watch components. Understanding the individual parts of a watch is essential for identifying, dating, and appreciating vintage timepieces. This category explores the design and, functions of watch components.
The Rolex winding crown
Rolex watches have a long association with innovation, precision, and durability. Among the many defining features of these iconic timepieces, one of the most critical components is the Rolex winding crown. The crown serves a vital function beyond just setting the time. It’s also the key to one of Rolex’s most remarkable achievements, water resistance….Read more
Vintage watch case design
In this guide, we will explore the most common types of vintage watch case shapes and designs, their popularity over different periods, and how they relate to specific types of watches and materials. In the early days of watchmaking, timepieces were fragile and easily damaged. To safeguard their intricate mechanisms, the first watch cases were…Read more
Vintage watch hour markers: a comprehensive guide
In this post, we’ll explore the most common types of Vintage watch hour markers, detailing their shapes and historical significance. Despite their essential role in telling time, hour markers are often overlooked in favour of other design elements. However, these markers not only serve a functional purpose but also significantly contribute to a watch’s overall…Read more
Why do vintage watches tick?
When people think of vintage watches, one of the first associations that comes to mind is the sound of ticking. Almost all watches tick, and this distinctive sound has become synonymous with the passage of time itself. A common belief is that quartz watches tick, while mechanical watches exhibit a sweeping motion. While this appears…Read more
Omega bumper automatic wristwatch, 1952
This Omega bumper automatic wristwatch, dating from 1952, represents the transition from traditional manual-wind watches to automatic movements. In this instance, the bumper automatic movement was an Omega calibre 351. Its stainless steel case, signed crown, and iconic bumper automatic movement make it an appealing choice for vintage watch collectors. History of Omega Omega was…Read more
The history of the Omega Seamaster
Vintage Omega Seamaster watches are renowned for their timeless, understated designs. Featuring clean dials, slim hands, and well-proportioned cases, they reflect the elegance of mid-20th-century watchmaking. Built with durability in mind, these watches were crafted to endure, thanks to high-quality materials and Omega’s advanced waterproofing technology. Many vintage Seamasters remain functional after decades of use,…Read more
Vintage watch hands: a guide to the most common types
When it comes to vintage watches, the shape and design of the hour, minute, and second hands not only contribute to the watch’s visual appeal but also play a crucial role in legibility and functionality. Over time, various styles of hands have emerged, each with distinct characteristics and often tied to particular watch brands or…Read more
Vintage watch cases – stainless steel
Stainless steel is a versatile material that is widely used in watchmaking due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and hypoallergenic properties. It is highly resistant to rust, moisture, and sweat. This makes it ideal for timepieces and jewellery that need to withstand daily wear. Additionally, stainless steel causes minimal skin irritation, making it a preferred…Read more
Certina Blue Ribbon wristwatch, 1960s
We had a recent short break in Worthing, a seaside town on the south coast of England. The plan was to spend a couple of days strolling along the seaside in bright sunshine. However, the weather had other ideas. Instead of sunshine, there was howling wind and horizontal rain. We replaced the seaside walk with…Read more