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February 22, 2017

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What to Look For When Buying a Vintage Watch

Gloved hand holding Hamilton Khaki Harrison Ford Wrist Watch silver dial with brown band and stainless steel case

 

There are a number of good reasons to consider buying a vintage watch. For starters, many vintage watches are exceptionally valuable, either because of their design or historicity, though ideally, both. While there are a multitude of reasons for purchasing a vintage watch, it’s worth noting that it can also be a problematic enterprise. To protect yourself from potential errors, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some of the best ways to procure a luxury vintage watch at a fair price, and with the right credentials. Here are a few of the best tips we here at TimeScape suggest to help get you started.

 

Do Your Homework

 

Chronoswiss Timemaster CH 2833 Watch with yellow dial and papersWhile it may seem obvious, even seasoned watch collectors can be coaxed into buying a gorgeous vintage watch without conducting proper research. Since luxury vintage watches are often purchased from smaller proprietors or under less traditional circumstances, it can be tempting to move ahead with a purchase without doing your homework. However, it is to your advantage to take a step back, examine the paperwork, and get an expert second opinion. Be sure to purchase your items from a reputable person or dealer, and check into their return policy. Be wary of establishments or businesses that do not offer some sort of guarantee of authenticity or warranty. Last but not least, it is best to physically inspect the watch if possible, as many items for sale on the internet use stock photos, and not the genuine picture of the pre-owned item in its authentic condition. Be sure to trust your instincts, but definitely do your research.

 

Get It Checked Out

 

Watchmaker in lab looking through telescope at watchMuch like a vintage car, a vintage watch may look gorgeous, but it’s important to poke around under the hood. Enlist a trusted watchmaker, expert, or specialist to confirm that the watch you’re interested in is in good condition and has worn well over time. Verify that the watch is free from water damage and other environmental considerations, functions well, and contains original components and findings. While it may take some doing, the trouble of confirming this information will be worth it in the long run. We here at TimeScape have an expert watch technician that can authenticate watches. Be sure if you are entrusting a professional, they are certified and have had several years of experience in the industry.

 

Find a Design That You Love

 

It can be tempting to buy a vintage watch simply because of its purported value, but you’ll be happiest in the long-term with a watch that you personally adore. While luxury vintage watches can prove to be strong investment pieces, the most valuable item you own will be the one that you’re genuinely drawn to. With that said, be honest with yourself about what you’re looking for before you ever set foot in a shop, and do some preliminary searches in advance so that you feel comfortable with your own aesthetic preferences, eras of interest, and specific designers.

 

Enlist the Help of a Trusted Expert

Salesman showing a Ulysse Nardin watch with black gloves on standing over a display caseThere are three primary types of experts that are arguably the most useful in guaranteeing the value and authenticity of a vintage watch: watchmakers, manufacturers, and expert dealers. Watchmakers are often considered valued experts because of their insider knowledge and depth of experience. Likewise, manufacturers can often be contacted directly and, while it may take time, can often provide valuable information on several of their older models. Expert dealers are of enormous value because they are, in many cases, the most likely to have direct experience with a watch’s history, documentation, and appraisal value. By developing relationships with those involved in the industry, you’ll feel considerably more confident in your purchase of a vintage timepiece.

 

At TimeScape, we’re pleased to offer our advice and share our knowledge of our unrivaled selection of contemporary timepieces, vintage luxury watches, and professional winders. Along with our incomparable selection of watches and accessories, we also pride ourselves on having the expertise to support our one-of-a-kind collection. To learn more, or to inquire about a particular item, reach out to us directly in person, by phone at (877) 525-8880, or via email at info@timescapeusa.com.

February 15, 2017

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Timeless Watch Styles to Invest In

Glycine Airman No 1 with black dial black band and vintage pic of pilot

 

Many things come and go, but a timeless, investment-worthy watch can last forever. Whether you prefer rugged and sporty dive pieces, classic and traditional  designs or more glamorous,trendy, complicated pieces, a classic Swiss-made watch can be well worth the investment. To find the ideal style, it’s essential to choose a model that transcends current jewelry trends and that deeply appeals to your personal sense of taste. To help point you in the right direction, here’s a brief guide to some of the major styles of truly timeless watches that are worth investing in.

 

Pilot Watches

 

Glycine Airman No 1 Pilot's watch with black dial and black Nato Strap

What they are: Pilot watches were originally designed for aviators in the early 20th century, but they hit their stride during World War II. Multiple time zones, large dials, rotating bezels and chronograph functionality are classic elements of this watch style. The pilot's watch was primarily designed for pilots to calculate air speed, fuel consumption and general help with navigation. During wartime pilots watches were given by armies to their infantry to help coordinate combat attacks and timing bomb drops.

 

Why we love them: Defined by a kind of rough and ready glamour and nostalgic quality, pilot watches are known for their comfortable and aesthetically pleasing design. Additionally, the face lays flat against the wrist to be easily read, making this type of watch especially functional and wearable.

 

Why invest: Many classic Swiss-made watches such as the Airman Collection by Glycine are extraordinarily well designed. The appearance and style of pilot's watches have already proven to be timeless with certain models that carry an authentic historical element that continue to be re-produced for their popularity making them truly special.

 

 

Swiss-Made Watches

 

Maurice Lacroix Pontos Chronograph with blue dial stainless steel case and black leather strap

What they are: Though Swiss watches can vary significantly in design, all authentic Swiss-made watches are required to include movements assembled exclusively within Switzerland, where each watch’s mandatory final inspection must also be conducted and meet strict standards of quality.

 

Why we love them: Classic Swiss-made watches are famous for a reason: their extraordinary precision and craftsmanship. This precision makes these timepieces aesthetic marvels, and reliable timekeeping instruments that are truly designed to last. The Pontos Collection from Maurice Lacroix is a prime example of Swiss made horological excellence.

 

Why invest: Swiss-made watches hold an undeniable degree of cachet among serious watch collectors, partly because of the historical clout of the region, but primarily because of the exceptional standards and enduring quality of the watches themselves.

 

Vintage Luxury Watches

Breitling Navitimer Olympus A19340 Watch

What they are: Proven classics, vintage luxury watches are timepieces that have, to a certain degree, already held up over time. These pieces are often considered collection-worthy because of their rarity or historical significance.

 

What we love: Vintage luxury watch collecting can be a bit like a treasure hunt: it’s very personal, requires a bit of research, and can be extremely rewarding if done correctly.

 

Why invest: With the right documentation and homework, a high end vintage watch can be a very safe investment. Another advantage is years of existing market research to support your purchase, as well as the likelihood of increased rarity over time.

 

Investing Wisely


It has often been said by serious art collectors that one should first and foremost invest in artwork that one loves. We believe that watch collecting is exactly the same. While a smart investment can certainly pay off over time, the safest bet is always with a beautiful item that you truly want to own. By capitalizing on your own personal tastes and instincts, you’ll have a worthy investment regardless of what happens in the market.

February 08, 2017

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Ladies’ Guide to Styling Watches for Everyday Looks

Graham London Ladies watch white dial band playing piano romantic

 

For women who dress well, the watch can be the ideal finishing touch to perfect an ensemble. Whatever your personal taste, the right wrist watch can communicate beauty, status, and sophistication. To express your style through the best accessories, it’s important to have a sense for pairing watches with your everyday looks, including clothing and accessories. From professional wardrobe options to casual and athletic wear, read on for our take on using timepieces to ensure your everyday look is pristine with the best classic women’s watches.

 

Professional Attire


Maurice Lacroix Eliros Date Ladies Watch White dial w gold tone case and brown strapWhen it comes to building your watch collection, one or two items with a clear sense of versatility are key. For professional attire, it’s best to select watches that pair well with multiple ensembles. For instance, a watch like the
Maurice Lacroix Eliros Date Collection communicates luxury and elegance, but is subtle enough to wear regularly without distracting from your overall appearance. The trick is to avoid watches that are too flashy, but that still contribute to a strong, balanced, and stylish visual impression. Opting for brands that are well-known for crafting the best classic women’s watches such as Maurice Lacroix, Seiko, and Eterna can be a great way of achieving this with confidence.

 

Casual Wear

 

Eterna Lady Eterna Small Seconds 2802.41.62.1398

Dressing down and dressing well do not have to be mutually exclusive. To demonstrate a knack for chic even on your day off, opt for watches that communicate style as well as functionality. For instance, the Lady Eterna Collection by the brand Eterna is casual yet feminine, with an unimposing 28mm case size and sleek dial. When it comes to pairing more casual watches with your everyday looks, the most important aspect to look for is high-quality materials with function and comfort. Elements like brushed stainless steel, clean legible dials, accompanied by neutral colors, and high-quality leather bands and straps can mix well with casual attire in any environment.


 

Daytime to Nighttime

 

Among the best classic women’s watches that make a strong impression is the effortless transitional watch. Many dress watches are a bit too aggressive for the office, gym, or errand-running, just as many casual watches are too toned down for the workspace or an evening out. To perfectly bridge the gap, transitional watches offer a grounded and functional, yet versatile and elegant appeal. One of the primary advantages of this category is the ability to communicate genuine luxury and a sense of high-end taste without the risk of over- or under-dressing for any occasion. An added bonus to this style is not feeling pressure to change watches halfway through the day. As a perfect example of this style, the Glycine F104 Collection is exquisitely well-designed for both appearance and performance, utilizing elegant elements such as mother-of -pearl in an understated way with a more casual band and finish. Incorporating a bit of both luxury and conventional materials makes a transitional timepiece the perfect union with an overall stunning result.

 

 

 Glycines F104 Automatic 40mm mother of pearl dial w stainless steel case and blk alligator grain strap

Discover Your Ideal Look

Ultimately, selecting the right watch to complement your daily look is a matter of taste, personal preference, and capturing your own authentic style. We at TimeScape look forward to helping you select from the best classic women’s watches, and to supporting each purchase with outstanding customer service, special order options, free shipping on every order, and over two decades of industry expertise.

 

Explore our exquisite collection of ladies’ watches in-store or contact us with any questions by phone at (877) 525-8880 or via email at info@timescapeusa.com.

February 01, 2017

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Styling Men’s Watches for Any Occasion

Maurice Lacroix Aikon Mens watch white dial silver case bracelet mens blue white cuff shirt

When it comes to creating the perfect impression, choosing the right accessories is key. Nowhere is this truer than in the area of men’s watches, which have the power to make or break an ensemble. From upscale luxury options to rugged everyday wear, choosing the right watch can help to create a cultivated sense of sophistication. To help you craft the perfect look for every occasion, read on for our top advice and suggestions for styling best men’s luxury timepieces.

 

Dress Watches

 

Maurice Lacroix Eliros Date blue dial stainless steel case metal mesh bandOne of the most important categories of men’s watches is the dress watch. A must-have for special occasions, professional and business meetings formal events and affairs . The dress watch serves as a statement piece to indicate respect, professionalism, personal taste and position and authority. While a good portion of your selection will be based on personal preference in brands, color, dial size and shape, and other aesthetic elements, quality is always a major factor. Most dress watches tend to be thinner cases with roman numerals and polished metals with bracelets or luxury leather bands in lizard or alligator grain.  Men’s luxury timepieces from brands like Maurice Lacroix, Eterna, and Ulysse Nardin dominate this category with sleek yet masculine bands and elegant face displays. Ultimately, the trick to finding the perfect men’s dress watch is combining statement with subtlety.

 

Transitional Watches

 

In a time when the world’s most high-powered individuals are embracing travel, luxury, and leisure, transitional watches are becoming an increasingly crucial category. Designed to seamlessly transition from formal occasions to casual ones, the transitional watch is typically defined as casual and comfortable  yet luxurious.


Glycerine F104 automatic men’s transitional watch white dial tan leather bandOne of the advantages of this type of watch is convenient pairing with a range of attire, from sports jackets and slacks to dress shirts and jeans, and it’s difficult to compete with its versatility. To perfect the look, consider
men’s luxury timepieces with basic leather bands such as a suede or smooth calf-skin. The materials often are a mix of brushed and polished metals with subtle and simple details in the dial. Generally these pieces are larger and thicker and more sportier looking than a dress watch.  .

 

Sport Watches

 

Eterna Kontik Chronograph Manufacture Blue dial blue rubber strapFor men who value adventure and an active lifestyle, sport, dive and  casual watches are a must-have for their personal collection. When it comes to this category, performance is everything, and features such as water resistance, durability, precision timekeeping, and magnetic resistance may be especially critical. Brands like Glycine, Eterna, and Seiko offer visually statement-making timepieces that are also built for optimal performance. Sport watches usually entail rotating and dive bezels, 200 meter water resistance, chronograph dials and GMT hands. This category involves larger or thicker watches made with coated PVD metals, titanium, luminous appendages, rubber and silicone or nato straps for comfort.  Pair with athletic attire, active-wear, or t-shirts and jeans to expertly complete your outfit, even in the most casual scenarios.

 

Finding the Ideal Watch for You

 

For true watch connoisseurs, the best men’s watches offer the perfect marriage of function and form that conform and fit your style. At TimeScape, we’ve curated an exceptional collection of the best men’s luxury timepieces to suit every style, personal preference, and occasion. We invite you to explore our collection, from high-end luxury dress watches to performance-centric, yet stunning casual and sport watches.

 

Speak with our experts about creating the ideal watch pairings to perfect your own personal look. We look forward to helping you find the perfect timepiece to complete your collection. Reach out to us anytime at (877) 525-8880, or reach us via email at info@timescapeusa.com.

January 25, 2017

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What Does Your Watch Say About You?

Man with shirt cuff putting Ulysse Nardin Watch on

A picture is worth a thousand words, and when it comes to projecting a certain image, your watch can have a powerful impact on the style of your self expression. It’s important to familiarize yourself with what you like aesthetically, your lifestyle and profession, how your choice of watch contributes to your overall look, and what your personal watch style says about you. To help you discover your ideal watch style (or styles), here’s a brief guide to some of the most notable character profiles and classic luxury watch styles worth considering.

 

The Adventurer

Some individuals are defined by their lust for life, and pursuing new, exciting experiences is a central feature of who they are. Just like the people who wear them, the watches best suited to this personality profile are bold, strong, and geared for performance.


Seiko Prospex Dive Watch SRP 779 blk dial Pepsi bezel Stainless Steel w blk Rubber bandWe recommend models like the
Seiko Prospex Automatic, a dive watch with exceptional durability and rugged style. Featuring a tuna can shaped case and Pepsi colored bezel, as well as a silicone strap and water resistance to 200 meters, this piece will sustain in any environment. Offerings from the Glycine Airman Collection are also a classic favorite among lovers of pilot's watches. The nostalgic collection pays tribute to the world of flight with multi-time zone functions and 24 hour dials, nato straps and rotating locking bezel convey serious performance with a bold visual statement.

 

The Art Lover



ETERNA - KONTIKI 4 HANDS ETERNA-MATIC blk dial Stainless steel case w braceletFor a true lover of art and culture, a
classic luxury watch is more than a mere timepiece. Each detail reveals something about the wearer, and the orientation of particular details are key. While functionality is still of great significance, this type of person profoundly understands the value of beauty, and his or her watch communicates a high level of discernment, taste, and insight. If you find yourself in this category, we recommend a watch similar to Eterna Kontiki Four Hands Series.  A striking watch for the gentleman that appreciates refined tastes whose balance, texture, and intricate subtleties are an ideal match for the discriminating palate. This piece has a runic pattern dial with a central day/date disc giving it an unusual look. The attention to unique details such as diamond shaped hands and pyramid numerals will appeal to the eclectic individual. 

 

The Jetsetter

 

Maurice Lacroix Eliros Eternity Moonphase white dial brown band black backgroundFor frequent world travelers, expert communication is crucial. This is true, not only for the communication of information, but also the communication of ideas. To communicate your best and truest self, a sophisticated and visually stunning, yet subtle timepiece is essential. We recommend the Maurice Lacroix Eliros MoonPhase wrist watch, a piece as functional as it is beautiful. This watch is ideal for serious travelers, and boasts an exceptional caliber of precision timekeeping. The thin 10mm case is traditional looking enough with a satin white dial and Roman numerals, but the center moonphase complication makes a statement complete with blue sky and stars.

 

The Leader


A traditional staple piece that transcends the test of time, a
classic luxury watch can denote status and significance in any decade. The ideal statement piece for a true leader can convey power, professionalism, and command authority of a room without ever lifting a finger. High-quality materials in metals, of polished gold and silver, to clean and clear clutter-free dials that display all the basics such as date, hour and minutes, with a no nonsense leather band often define this type of watch.

Eterna Eternity for him blue dial w stainless steel case and braceletAs a stunning example, we recommend the Eternity Collection by Eterna. The line has various colored dials and finishes such as rose-gold and stainless steel, two-tone versions with classic crocodile bands and brushed and polished 7-link bracelets.The Eterna Eternity classic luxury watch is as powerful as it is elegant and will bestow the wearer an air of confidence.

Your Ideal Statement Piece

With hundreds of the finest, classic luxury watches from the world’s leading designers, We here at TimeScape are pleased to offer something truly exceptional for everyone. Whatever your personal taste, preference, and lifestyle, we’re excited to help you find the perfect piece.

 

For help in selecting the ideal item for you, we encourage you to visit us in-person, call our expert staff at (877) 525-8880, or reach out to us anytime via email at info@timescapeusa.com.

January 18, 2017

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How to Maintain Your Timepiece

Swiss Kubik Masterbox Aluminium singles in wood case

When it comes to valuable items, it’s important to maintain them properly. This simple principle is true of luxury sports cars, fine art and jewelry, vintage spirits and, of course, high-end watches. Whether you’re a collector of one valuable watch or many, it is vital to understand their care and what is entailed with their maintenance, so that you can continue to enjoy them for years to come. Should you invest in the best watch winder on the market? What kind of storage solutions do you need for your growing collection? These are the questions to ask to help you create the habits that will preserve your most cherished timepieces.  Here at TimeScape, we’ve put together a brief guide for the short-term and long-term care of your favorite watches.

Orbita Verona open leather watch case with 3 watches

The Basics

 

 

To preserve your watch over a number of years, certain small steps can be taken on a regular basis. First of all, keeping your watch clean is vital. This can be achieved partly through proper storage, whether it’s a sturdy leather micro-fiber cloth-lined watch case or a dedicated watch winder that is programmed to your watches exact manufacturers winders' specifications. In addition, you might want to consider a secure lockable storage solution, such as a wall safe that can accommodate not only storage but watch winders . We at TimeScape have numerous solutions and styles for everyone's tastes, even down to do-it-yourself or custom-made options.

 

All watches also benefit from routine small-scale cleaning, and a microfiber jewelry cloth will typically do the trick. However you will periodically need a full service cleaning to get out all the grime, grit and skin cells that accumulate with regular use of your timepiece. Here at TimeScape we offer a basic spa service where we ultrasonically externally clean the case and bracelet separately, while verifying and testing the fit of your pins and screws for integrity. To address minor surface scratches, you might consider a buff and polish service. This will address minor surface scratches; for more medium to serious damage, you should consider case and bracelet refinishes, as this involves more complex work. Of course, the more frequently you wear a given watch, the more frequently it will need to be cleaned, and keeping your timepiece smudge and dust-free will help it keep its ideal appearance each time it is worn.

 

Watch Winders

 

 

Swiss Kubik Masterbox single watch winder leather w window protect openA remarkable device for maintaining the functionality of automatic watches over time, investing in the best watch winder can be an outstanding asset for collectors with multiple watches, or for those who don’t wear a watch every day. By replicating the natural motion that automatic watches require to stay accurately wound, watch winders perform a highly practical function while also offering a very attractive and reliable storage option. Watch winders come in a variety of materials, sizes, colors, and designs, as is particularly well evidenced by the MasterBox watch winder Collection by Swiss Kubik in a variety of colored leathers, woods, and metals.  These winders can service anywhere from one to several watches, depending on the model.

 

 

 Professional Maintenance 


Watchmaker looking through loop on open movementWhile having the best watch winder at your disposal on a daily basis is vital to your timepiece’s long term maintenance, developing and sticking to a servicing routine for your watch is also crucial. Most timepieces should be regularly cleaned, oiled and adjusted by a professional. You want to be assured you take your investment to a WOSTEP (Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program) Certified Watchmaker, as this is an internationally recognized professional qualification in the maintenance and care of fine quality watches.Most experts agree that high-end quartz and mechanical watches should receive professional servicing every 3-5 years. In addition staying true to the same watch technician who services your watch regularly will ensure your watchmaker will have familiarity and know the particulars on how your specific watch is suppose to function and run, with a documentation of history and service.

 

 

Preserving Your Most Valued Timepieces

 

By prioritizing the longevity of your luxury timepiece, you will significantly increase the likelihood of achieving and maintaining the integrity and value of your high-quality investment pieces. Investing in the proper storage, maintenance, and performance of your watches will enable to you succeed in protecting them for years to come. In addition you might want to consider insuring your investment and getting your collection appraised. We at TimeScape offer watch appraisals as well as watch authentication.  

 

To learn more about proper watch maintenance, how to choose the best watch winder for your collection, or for questions about preserving particular watches in our collection, reach out to our knowledgeable, experienced team at (877) 525-8880 or info@timescapeusa.com.

January 11, 2017

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How Can the Swiss Watch Industry Rebound from 2016 Market Conditions?

Smart phone next to hand with watch typing on computer

Throughout 2016, digital competitors and a decreased emphasis on traditional precision timekeeping, exacerbated by shifts in eastern and western markets, are threatening the time-honored significance of Swiss-made timepieces. The slowdown of sales in luxury timepieces in recent years is causing leaders in the industry to reexamine their businesses, but those who are committed to playing the long game remain optimistic. Despite current market conditions and various economic circumstances, the best Swiss watch companies in the industry are preparing for a resurgence in the coming months.

 

An Appeal to Timelessness


Apple WatchWhile the advent of newer electronic timekeeping devices (most notably the Apple Watch) has worried some in the industry, there is still a lot of optimism among luxury timepiece providers. One of the reasons for this is the inherent timelessness of Swiss-made watches. While digital technologies in timekeeping represent a current and popular trend, many feel that timepieces made by
the best Swiss watch companies are essentially built to last, and will ultimately outstrip the mere utility and popularity of alternative devices.
 
 

More Than Just a Watch 

Watch RepairMany experts have pointed to the value of the Swiss watch as far more than simply a precision timekeeping mechanism. Some feel that the shift away from the watch as an essential device for telling time, for instance, a person who wants to know the exact time does not need a Swiss watch in the same way that he might once have, has led to an obvious slump in the market. However, an authentic Swiss-made watch has numerous other aspects with which the technological market simply cannot compete. One of these areas is gift-giving, and the concept of the watch as a sentimental object or status and symbol is expected to endure. As a result, several leaders in the industry agree that the current market conditions of the Swiss watchmaking industry represent an understandable hitch rather than a permanent direction of motion. 

 

Looking Beyond the Economy


Ulysse NardinIn recent times, the condition of the Swiss watch market has been likened to that of the fine art world. Overarching economic conditions, both regionally and internationally, can certainly have an impact on supply, demand, and perceived value. However, as is true of most luxury industries,
the best Swiss watch companies are expected to weather these fluctuations as a result of its role in transcending a necessity-based economy. While this may not immediately spell good news for industry leaders, new innovations in watchmaking and cutting edge developments in design are giving many industry leaders hope.
 

What We Think

At TimeScape, we remain optimistic of the shifting tides that face the Swiss watch industry. We expect that the reimaginings of the role of the watch in contemporary society will create a new niche from which luxury watch makers, providers, and users can all profit.
To learn more about the best Swiss watch companies and brands available on the market, and to experience the latest offerings from the best international and Swiss designers, we invite you to peruse our exceptional collection of timepieces at TimeScape. For questions, we invite you to give us a call at (877) 525-8880 or to reach us anytime via email at info@timescapeusa.com.