With over 500 colour illustrations showing wristwatches from the earliest days of watchmaking to the latest developments in precision engineering, this is a pocket guide to the world of collectible wristwatches and timepieces.
Fashion with Function Step into the fascinating world of watches. From the early "trench watches" of World War I to some of today's elegant diamond-studded cocktail watches, Vintage Wristwatches will entertain and educate you about these small works of art that have stood the test of time. Whether novice or seasoned collector, you'll enjoy the rich histories of American and European manufacturers past and present. Original newspaper and magazine advertisements complement more than 1,200 photographs of collectible wristwatches, while brief descriptions include values recently commanded at auction. In addition, you'll find: • A glossary of watch terminology commonly used among collectors • Tutorials for identifying wristwatches • Factors to consider when determining a wristwatch's value
A richly illustrated, detailed account of wristwatch chronometers and the rigorous testing they must undergo to become certified. Over 400 photos document this crowning achievement of the watchmakers art while information about testing methods, procedures, and guidelines make it clear how great a challenge it has been. A compilation of participating makers based on Swiss Testing Agencies' yearly reports from 1925 and the Swiss Observatories' reports is included as is a guide to current values.
The early 2000s were an important period, spanning a time when mechanical watches had quite rightly retaken their place in the world market. We all may have a digital device in our pocket that is more accurate than a mechanical watch, but a timepiece has soul, personality, and history. The collection in this book is a step into the world of vintage watch collecting, with a range of photographs, intricate research, and accessible reference material that will intrigue both the casual and avid enthusiast. The collection showcases some of the most interesting, luxurious, and functional 20th-century (1930-1980) mechanical timepieces ever to be produced, including Heuer's Autavia, Rolex's Submariner, Gallet's MultiChron, Zenith's De Luca, and the Universal Space Compax.
Photographs of over 500 watches manufactured in Russia and the USSR during the second half of the 20th century, with explanations of their styles, workings, and manufacturers. Poljot, Wostok, and Slava wristwatches are covered, along with a sampling of pocket watches, deck watches, and marine chronometers. Watch faces commemorate all the great moments of Russian and Soviet history.
An accessible, design-savvy collector's guide to the world of unusual, rare and dazzlingly retro watches. Retro Watches is a popular, accessible collector's guide for anyone who wants to make a statement with the watch they wear, but who wants to choose a timepiece that is very different from the 'classic' and very mainstream watches by the major Swiss brands. It brings together the most intriguing, visually striking and 'out-there' watch designs from little-known but influential watch brands, along with overlooked but brilliant pieces from the major players. One hundred watch models are featured, specially photographed for the book and accompanied by accessible, informative texts discussing the watch's design, its intriguing features, and its rarity and value. The book also dives into the cultural and fashion history of watch design and the many innovations from the 60s, 70s and 80s.
100 Years of Vintage Watches features wristwatches and pocket watches produced from 1870 to 1970. Each listing features a detailed description and accurate pricing information; before-and-after pictures illustrate restoration stages, and photos of near-mint versus the average watch aid in identifying and valuing collections.
The name Rolex is recognized around the world. As an icon of beauty, quality, accuracy, style, and taste. While there are other fine manufacturers of timepieces, none has reached this pinnacle of public respect and acclaim. The watches produced by Rolex over the last 90 years are celebrated in this lavishly illustrated classic, now in an expanded second edition. Dowling and Hess, both acknowledged Rolex authorities, have captured the watches' beauty in color photography and present the most thorough and extensive history written of the company. Information for collectors and newly revised market values of the watches make this a truly useful volume, one that will be cherished by watch lovers around the world.