Collecting Clocks and Watches

This page describes the collecting of clocks and watches. It introduces and lists the collecting of clocks particularly valuable clocks for collectors.

Deutsche Uhren Seite / German Clocks Page

Old Omega Pocket Watch Grand Prix Paris 1900

Collecting clocks and watches is a fascinating and rewarding hobby that spans centuries of craftsmanship, innovation, and design. Timepieces are not just functional devices; they are works of art and engineering marvels.

Here's an introduction and some information about collecting clocks and watches:

A Rich History: The history of clocks and watches is a journey through time itself. From ancient sundials and water clocks to intricate mechanical watches and precise atomic clocks, timekeeping devices have evolved significantly. Collectors have the opportunity to explore this rich history through their collections.

24-hours-clock painted by Paolo Uccello in Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence.

Types of Timepieces: Clocks and watches come in various forms, including:

Antique Clocks: These often include grandfather clocks, mantel clocks, and wall clocks. Antique clocks can be made from wood, brass, or other materials, and they offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship of bygone eras.

Vintage Watches: Vintage wristwatches and pocket watches from the 20th century are popular among collectors. Swiss brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Omega, as well as iconic models like the Rolex Submariner or Omega Speedmaster, hold particular allure.

Horological Complications: Collectors may specialize in timepieces with intricate complications, such as chronographs, tourbillons, moon phases, and perpetual calendars. These watches are admired for their mechanical complexity and precision.

Modern and Luxury Watches: Contemporary luxury brands like Audemars Piguet, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and Cartier produce high-end timepieces that are coveted by collectors for their quality, design, and innovation.

Artistic and Novelty Clocks: Some collectors focus on clocks that are true works of art or have unusual designs. These clocks often feature intricate sculptures, automations, or unique mechanisms.

Conclusion

Collecting clocks and watches is a journey that combines history, craftsmanship, and personal passion. Whether you're drawn to antique clocks, vintage wristwatches, or modern luxury timepieces, each piece in your collection tells a unique story of human ingenuity and the measurement of time. As with any collectible, research, patience, and a discerning eye are key to building a meaningful and valuable collection.

Renaissance Turret Clock, German, circa 1570
Source: Wikipedia

Service History: Knowing the service history of a mechanical timepiece is vital. Regular servicing and maintenance contribute to longevity and value.

Rarity: Rare or limited-edition timepieces are often more valuable due to their scarcity and collector demand.

Brand and Model: The brand and model play a significant role in determining value. Some brands and specific watch models are more sought after and command higher prices.

Complications: The presence of horological complications, such as a perpetual calendar or minute repeater, can substantially increase a timepiece's value.

Materials: Precious metals like gold or platinum, as well as gemstone embellishments, can significantly impact a timepiece's value.

Collecting Focus: Determine your collecting focus. Are you interested in a specific era, brand, type of timepiece, or horological complications? Your collecting goals will shape your collection.

Budget: Collecting clocks and watches can be an expensive hobby, so it's essential to establish a budget and prioritize your acquisitions accordingly.

Here are some categories and examples of particularly valuable clocks and watches for collectors:

Antique Clocks

Longcase Clocks (Grandfather Clocks): Clocks from renowned makers like Thomas Tompion, George Graham, or Joseph Knibb can command substantial prices. Their craftsmanship and historical significance make them prized collectibles.

Mantel Clocks: Antique mantel clocks, especially those with intricate movements, beautifully crafted cases, and made by esteemed makers like Breguet or Cartier, are highly valued.

Regulator Clocks: Precision regulator clocks known for their exceptional accuracy and high-quality movements are sought after by horology enthusiasts.

Mystery Clocks: These clocks, pioneered by magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin and later produced by Cartier, have hands that appear to float without visible connection to a movement.

Vintage and Antique Watches

Patek Philippe Calatrava: Patek Philippe watches, particularly vintage models like the Calatrava, are highly coveted by collectors for their timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship.

A Patek Philippe chronograph wristwatch
Source: Wikipedia / Photographer: Rama

Rolex Daytona: Vintage Rolex Daytona chronographs, especially those with Paul Newman dials, are among the most valuable and collectible Rolex watches.

Omega Speedmaster Professional: The Omega Speedmaster, known as the "Moonwatch," is famous for its association with NASA and the Apollo missions. Vintage Speedmaster models are prized by collectors.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso: The Reverso, with its iconic reversible case, is a classic watch appreciated by collectors for its Art Deco design and horological history.

Vintage Heuer Autavia and Monaco: Vintage Heuer chronographs like the Autavia and Monaco, worn by Steve McQueen in the movie "Le Mans," are highly collectible.

Vintage Patek Philippe Calibre 89: The Patek Philippe Calibre 89, one of the most complicated watches ever made, is an exceptional collector's piece.

Modern and Luxury Watches

Rolex Daytona "Paul Newman" Reissues: Rolex's reissued Daytona models with "Paul Newman" dials have gained popularity among modern collectors.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: The iconic Royal Oak design by Gerald Genta has made Audemars Piguet's luxury watches highly desirable.

Patek Philippe Nautilus: The Patek Philippe Nautilus, with its sporty design and limited availability, is a sought-after modern classic.

Richard Mille: Watches from Richard Mille, known for their avant-garde designs and use of innovative materials, are highly prized by collectors.

F.P. Journe Tourbillon Souverain: Watches by independent watchmaker François-Paul Journe, especially tourbillon models, are esteemed by collectors for their craftsmanship and exclusivity.

Antique Clock

Horological Complications

Minute Repeaters: Watches with minute repeater complications, like those from A. Lange & Söhne or Patek Philippe, that chime the time are highly valuable.

Tourbillons: Watches with tourbillon complications, which improve timekeeping accuracy, are appreciated for their technical prowess and beauty.

Perpetual Calendars: Timepieces with perpetual calendar complications that account for leap years are highly prized by collectors.

Chronographs: Watches with chronograph functions, especially vintage models from renowned makers, are sought after for their historical significance.

Moon Phase Complications: Watches with moon phase complications, like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre Sphérotourbillon Moon, appeal to collectors for their elegance.

Quartz Revolution Pieces: Early quartz watches, like the Seiko Astron, represent a pivotal moment in horological history and are of interest to collectors.

Conclusion

These are just a few examples of particularly valuable clocks and watches for collectors. The value of timepieces can vary greatly based on factors such as brand, model, condition, rarity, and historical significance. Collectors should conduct thorough research, consult experts, and stay informed about market trends to make informed acquisitions and build a valuable and meaningful collection.

:-) Thank you.

• Wikipedia - All about clocks
• www.nawcc.org - National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors Museum