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How can you care for pre-owned luxury watches?
26 April 2023
admin@watchcapital.com.sg
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, you know that luxury watches are more than just a timepiece. They are works of art that deserve nothing less than the finest care and attention! Learning the proper methods to care for your luxury watch is a must to ensure its longevity and value. In this article, we will share how you can keep your pre-owned timepiece running smoothly for generations to come! How can you clean your luxury watches? When a luxury watch is well taken care of, it will not only perform better but also be more aesthetically pleasing. The natural oil from our skin, along with exposure to pollutants in the air, can contribute to our timepieces developing a scruffy look over time. Fortunately, a watch cleaning kit can be easily put together without having to revisit an authorized dealer. All you need is: A watch-specific brush or an extra soft toothbrush A clean and soft microfibre cloth. A pack of anti-bacterial wipes. A magnifying glass. Your very first step should be inspecting the watch closely. This is why we recommend you get a magnifying glass, as it allows for a more thorough examination. Pay attention to
What is special about the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak?
When it comes to luxury watches, there is one name that stands out above the rest – Audemars Piguet. And within the Audemars Piguet collection, there is a timepiece that has redefined the industry as well as become an icon in its own right: the Royal Oak. With its distinctive design, exceptional craftsmanship, and unparalleled quality, it has become a trendsetter in the world of luxury watches. A Revolution In The World of Luxury Watches In the early 1970s, luxury watches were made from gold, had a minimalist design, and were small in size. The unveiling of Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak introduced a revolutionary design concept into the industry. Born out of a collaboration between legendary watch designer Gerald Genta and Audemars Piguet, Genta’s groundbreaking creation challenged the conventional norms of luxury watches by introducing a stainless steel sports watch with an integrated bracelet. The Royal Oak’s octagonal bezel, secured by exposed screws, immediately captivated watch enthusiasts, elevating it to the standing it has today in the horological realm. A Trendsetter For Luxury Watch Designs Bold Octagonal Case The angular shape is deliberate as it is attention-grabbing and breaks away from the conventional round shape that we have come to associate with timepieces. This distinct design is a bold move by the design team in setting a new standard when it comes to watch aesthetics. Furthermore, the combination of sharp angles and polished metal creates an irresistible visual appeal that makes the Royal Oak instantly recognizable. Tapissere Dial At the heart of the Royal Oak lies its meticulously crafted Tapissere Dial. There are three different variants established by the luxury watch brand, known as the petite tapisserie, the grande tapisserie, followed by the méga tapisserie. They are characterized by a patterned grid design, which adds depth and elegance to the dial, enhancing readability in addition to creating a refined contrast against its octagonal case. Integrated Bracelet Crafted with the same level of attention and precision as any other parts of the watch, the bracelet is able to merge seamlessly with the entire timepiece to create a cohesive aesthetic. Unlike traditional watches with straps that are detachable, the Royal Oak bracelet flows seamlessly from the case, creating a harmonious aesthetic. This unprecedented design not only showcases Audemars Piguet’s form and functionality but also offers exceptional comfort to wearers. Craftsmanship Dedicated To Excellence and Quality Hand Finishing Of Every Component There are hundreds of components in a Royal Oak, and each of them undergoes hand finishing by highly skilled artisans who have honed their expertise for years. These components are also assembled by hand, and the watchmaker’s dedication to perfection can be seen in every detail. The blending of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary innovation elevates this timepiece to a league of its own. Exceptional In-House Movements From the iconic Royal Oak Selfwinding to the intricate Royal Oak Tourbillon, these calibres are masterpieces of horological engineering. Developed and assembled with meticulous precision, Audemars Piguet’s movements offer not only accurate timekeeping but also an impressive power reserve, showcasing the brand’s commitment to technical innovation. Rigorous Quality Control Before each watch is released into the luxury watch market, they are subjected to rigorous quality control to ensure they meet the highest standards of quality. Each Royal Oak undergoes a thorough inspection to guarantee its accuracy, durability, and water resistance. This process guarantees that every timepiece bearing the Audemars Piguet name meets the expectations of even the most discerning watch enthusiast. A Status Symbol That Goes Beyond The Wrist A Well-Known Cultural Icon Spotted on the wrists of celebrities, athletes, and influential individuals all around the world, the Royal Oak has transcended from being a mere watch to a cultural icon. A famous example is Arnold Schwarzenegger, who was spotted wearing it in the action-packed science fiction series named “Terminator.” Limited Editions and Collaborations Constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity by introducing limited editions and collaborations within the Royal Oak collection, Audemars Piguet offers unique interpretations of this exceptional timepiece. If you are a fan of Marvel, you’ll surely be familiar with its iconic characters. Audemars Piguet has released the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Spider-Man” as well as “Black Panther.” The collaboration between them and Marvel started in 2021, representing the luxury watch brand’s search for inspiration beyond the conventional. Enduring Legacy As A Status Symbol Audemars Piguet limits its production to 40,000 pieces of the Royal Oak per year. Therefore, if you want one gracing your wrist, you’ll have to join a waitlist due to its popular demand. Having it in your possession represents your commitment towards achievement, excellence, and timeless elegance. Do you want to know more about the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak? The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak stands undisputed as a horological masterpiece through its distinct design, impeccable craftsmanship, and cultural significance. Whether you are a watch enthusiast, collector, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, the Royal Oak is an icon that will captivate your imagination in addition to leaving a lasting impression. At Watch Capital, we have a variety of brand-new as well as pre-owned watches in store for you to browse through. If you happen to have any questions or doubts, feel free to send us an enquiry or book an appointment to visit our showroom, and we will get back to you soon.
How to Wind a Rolex?
Rolex, a name tied to luxury and precision, is a brand that has captivated watch enthusiasts for over a century. As a proud owner of a Rolex timepiece, it’s essential to understand how to wind your watch correctly to ensure its longevity and maintain its accuracy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll guide you through the process of winding an automatic and manual Rolex, optimizing your watch’s performance, and preserving its value. Understanding Your Rolex Movement Before diving into the winding process, it’s important to understand the movement that powers your Rolex. Rolex watches are equipped with either an automatic (self-winding) or manual (hand-winding) movement. Automatic Rolex watches rely on the natural motion of your wrist to wind the mainspring, while manual Rolex watches require manual winding to keep the watch running. Winding an Automatic Rolex Automatic Rolex watches, such as those in the Oyster Professional and Oyster Perpetual line, are designed to wind themselves through everyday wear. However, if your watch has stopped due to not being worn for a period of time or you’ve just received a new timepiece, you’ll need to give it an initial wind. Here’s how to wind an automatic Rolex: Step 1: Unscrew the Crown To begin, locate the crown on the side of your watch. Gently unscrew it counterclockwise until it pops out to the first position. Step 2: Wind the Watch With the crown in the first position, gently turn it clockwise approximately 30-40 times. This will give your watch enough power to start running. Step 3: Set the Time and Date If your watch features a date function, pull the crown out to the second position and turn it clockwise to set the date. To set the time, pull the crown out to the third position and turn it until the desired time is displayed. Step 4: Secure the Crown Once you’ve set the time and date, gently push the crown back in and screw it clockwise until it’s securely in place. Winding a Manual Rolex For manual Rolex watches, like those that fall under the vintage models of Rolex Cellini and Oyster Date, regular winding is needed to keep the watch running. The steps are similar to those for an automatic Rolex, Here’s how to wind a manual Rolex: Step 1: Unscrew the Crown Similar to an automatic Rolex, locate the crown and gently unscrew it counterclockwise until it pops out to the first position. Step 2: Wind the Watch Turn the crown clockwise until you feel resistance. This typically takes around 20-30 turns. Avoid over-winding, as this can damage the movement. Step 3: Set the Time Pull the crown out to the second position and turn it until the desired time is displayed. Step 4: Secure the Crown Gently push the crown back in and screw it clockwise until it’s securely in place. Ensure it is screwed back down against the case to prevent water or dust from entering. Tips for Proper Rolex Maintenance To ensure your Rolex watch remains in optimal condition, follow these maintenance tips: Wind Your Watch Regularly: For manual Rolex watches, wind them daily to maintain accurate timekeeping. For automatic Rolex watches, wear them regularly or invest in a watch winder to keep them running smoothly. Clean Your Watch: Gently clean your Rolex with a soft cloth and warm water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the watch’s finish. Service Your Watch: Rolex recommends servicing your watch every 5-10 years, depending on the model and usage. Regular servicing by a professional ensures your watch remains in peak condition and maintains its value. Store Your Watch Properly: When not in use, store your Rolex in a clean, cool, and dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This is to prevent dirt and dust from settling on the watch which can give it a grimy appearance. We recommend keeping them in a watch box or case to protect your timepieces. Do you want to know more about luxury watches? Different models may have varying functions and directions for caring for the timepiece. Therefore, when in doubt, it is best to refer to your Rolex model’s user manual or contact a certified Rolex dealer. Winding your Rolex watch is a simple yet essential process that ensures your timepiece remains accurate and reliable. By following this guide and practising proper maintenance, you’ll enjoy your Rolex for years to come and preserve its value as a cherished investment. If you want to know more about Rolex, or any other luxury watch brands, feel free to send an enquiry or book an appointment and we will get back to you soon! We also have brand-new and pre-owned watches in store for you to browse through.
Top 10 Luxury Watch Brands
These gorgeous watches are works of craftsmanship that combine artistry, precise engineering, and a deep legacy. They are more than just timekeeping gadgets. Join us as we explore the top 10 luxury watch companies that have come to represent enduring refinement in the world of horological perfection. Patek Philippe Patek Philippe has established itself as one of the most prestigious and revered watch brands in the world. Having been led by the Stern family for more than 80 years, the brand has been consistent in its philosophy and is one of the only family-owned independent watch manufacturers in Geneva. What further sets Patek Philippe apart is its long-standing tradition of crafting timepieces entirely in-house, from the initial design to the final assembly. The brand is known for its exceptional complications, including perpetual calendars, minute repeaters, and tourbillons, showcasing the pinnacle of technical expertise. These timepieces are also often adorned with exquisite materials such as precious gemstones and diamonds, which enhance their appeal. Along with being worn by famous figures like Queen Victoria, Albert Einstein, and Paul McCartney, these watches have cemented their reputation as everlasting heirlooms. Following the company’s motto, “You never really own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation.” Each watch is subjected to stringent quality control and testing, ensuring that only the best reaches the hands of its clients. Audemars Piguet In 1972, Audemars Piguet took a bold step by introducing the Royal Oak, a luxury stainless steel watch with a sporty design—an unconventional move at the time. The risk paid off, as the Royal Oak became an instant success and revolutionized the concept of luxury sports watches. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Royal Oak’s octagonal bezel, exposed screws, and integrated bracelet became an iconic symbol of audacity and luxury. The Royal Oak has since remained the brand’s flagship model. The brand continues to push boundaries with avant-garde designs, innovative materials, and complex complications, captivating the imaginations of watch enthusiasts who crave both tradition and innovation. Owning an Audemars Piguet timepiece is a statement of individuality, a declaration that you appreciate innovation and are unafraid to break the mold. Rolex Rolex is synonymous with achievement and prestige. The brand has a long-standing association with exploration and adventure. Rolex watches have accompanied explorers to the highest peaks and the deepest depths of the ocean. For example, the Rolex Deepsea Special, attached to the outside of the Bathyscaphe Trieste, reached the bottom of the Mariana Trench, a depth of over 35,000 feet. The brand’s dedication to accuracy is demonstrated by its Superlative Chronometer certification, guaranteeing a remarkable level of precision and performance. Additionally, it has a rich history of innovation, including the invention of the first waterproof watch, the Rolex Oyster, and the introduction of the world’s first self-changing date on the Datejust model. Tudor Tudor, the sister brand of Rolex, offers a compelling combination of quality, heritage, and affordability. While maintaining Rolex’s commitment to precision and reliability, Tudor timepieces provide an excellent entry point into the world of luxury watches. Each Tudor watch undergoes the same rigorous testing procedures as its Rolex counterparts, ensuring exceptional performance in various conditions. With its vintage-inspired designs and modern aesthetics, Tudor captures the essence of timeless elegance with a touch of contemporary flair. Similar to Rolex, their timepieces are known for their robustness and reliability, making them the choice of adventurers and explorers, which is further exemplified by its partnership with the renowned French Navy, known as the Marine Nationale, who used Tudor watches during their missions. Omega The Omega Speedmaster, famously known as the Moonwatch, was the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Since then, Omega has been chosen as the official timekeeper for numerous Olympic Games, showcasing its precision and reliability on the world’s grandest sporting stage. Another captivating fact is that Omega’s Seamaster watches have been the preferred choice of the world’s most famous fictional spy, James Bond, since 1995. This iconic partnership has solidified Omega’s reputation for elegance, precision, and a sense of adventure, making their watches a symbol of sophistication and daring. Panerai Panerai’s watches have a distinctive aesthetic characterized by their bold and oversized cases, inspired by the brand’s origins as a supplier of timepieces to the Italian Navy. As a true icon of the brand, the Luminor Marina was historically favoured by the Italian Navy’s elite diving forces, further enhancing its reputation for durability and reliability. One fascinating fact about Panerai lies in its mastery of luminescence. The brand’s dedication to exceptional visibility led to the development of “Luminor,” a luminescent substance named after their iconic watch collection. With Luminor, Panerai watches offer a captivating glow, ensuring that time can be read even in the darkest depths. It’s this remarkable feature that has captivated a loyal following of watch enthusiasts who appreciate the fusion of functionality and distinctive style. Bulgari Bulgari watches are renowned for their integration of luxurious materials and exquisite craftsmanship. Each timepiece embodies elegance, blending Italian flair with Swiss expertise. What sets these watches apart is their bold use of colours and unconventional shapes, drawing inspiration from their heritage in Roman art and architecture. The brand often incorporates precious gemstones, such as diamonds and coloured gemstones, into its timepiece designs. Bulgari’s expertise in jewellery design is evident in its Serpenti collection, where watches are crafted to resemble coiling serpents, adorned with shimmering diamonds and vibrant enamel scales. This combination of exceptional jewellery craftsmanship and horological expertise makes Bulgari watches coveted by those seeking a truly unique and glamorous timepiece. Cartier Cartier has a rich history of creating iconic watches that have become enduring symbols of luxury and style. The brand’s Tank collection, for instance, was inspired by the lines of military tanks and has been worn by cultural icons such as Andy Warhol and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. With its clean, rectangular case and exquisite details, the Tank is a testament to Cartier’s legacy of pushing the
Are Luxury Watches a Good Investment?
Luxury watches have always been a symbol of status, wealth, and taste. These timepieces, produced by renowned brands, are frequently linked to opulent style, excellent craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. But beyond their aesthetic appeal, are luxury watches a good investment? For many enthusiasts, investing in a luxury watch is not just a fashion statement but a smart financial decision. In this article, we will explore the reasons why luxury watches can be a good investment and how can we make the most of it. Getting to Know the Market for Luxury Watches Before purchasing a watch with investment in mind, you’ll have to conduct some research. For example, due to the high number of counterfeits that flood the market for both brand-new and pre-owned luxury timepieces, buyers will need to know how to spot a fake luxury watch to avoid being duped. You will also have to get in touch with where the market is shifting towards, such as vintage, pre-owned, or brand new. This can help you predict trends and increase the value of your timepieces. What Affects the Value of Your Luxury Watch? Rarity When demand exceeds supply, the value of a certain product will rise. Limited edition models, rare materials, or discontinued models can fetch a high price in the eyes of collectors. This can be seen in Patek Philippe’s Nautilus, Rolex Daytona Paul Newman, and Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak, which are highly sought after due to their limited production runs. Age and Condition The age and condition of the watch are also critical factors to consider. Vintage watches from the 1950s and 60s, for example, are highly sought after, and their rarity can make them valuable investments. However, the condition of the watch is equally important. A well-maintained vintage watch can appreciate in value over time, while a poorly maintained one may decrease in value. Craftsmanship and Design Each luxury timepiece is crafted by a team of professionals who have years of experience in the art of watchmaking. Instead of being churned out in a factory, they are handmade and can take months for a piece to be completed. A single watch from:Patek Philippe can take up to two years to be ready, depending on the model and complexity of its design. Rolex could need up to 12 months, with only one million pieces produced each year. Audemars Piguet may require a year, with time added to when it comes to decorating and subjecting it to extensive testing. Omega can take up to 500 hours, with the number of production varying according to each model. Furthermore, luxury watches that are made with high-quality materials like gold, platinum, or diamonds, and that feature intricate movements and complications, are often more valuable than simpler designs. Current Trends in the Market The luxury watch market is always evolving, and current trends can have a significant impact on the value of certain models. For example, vintage watches may be in high demand one year and less desirable the next. Keeping up with current trends in the market can help you make informed decisions about buying and selling luxury watches. Association with Celebrities or Movie Characters Celebrities and movie characters can have a significant influence on the luxury watch market. Rolex’s Submariner and Chronograph, along with Omega’s Seamaster, are often associated with James Bond. Robert Downey Jr’s globally acclaimed portrayal of Iron Man has been spotted wearing a plethora of luxury watches, ranging from Jaeger-LeCoultre to Audemars Piguet, making them highly sought after by collectors. What are the Pros and Cons of Investing in Luxury Watches? Investing in luxury watches can be a lucrative venture, but it also comes with risks. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making a decision. Pros: Potential for high returns: As we discussed earlier, luxury watches can appreciate in value over time, especially if they are rare, in good condition, and made by reputable brands. Tangible asset: Unlike stocks or cryptocurrency, luxury watches are a physical asset that you can enjoy wearing or displaying. Diversification: Investing in luxury watches can be a way to diversify your investment portfolio. Status symbol: Luxury watches can also be a status symbol that displays wealth, taste, and sophistication. Cons: High upfront cost: Luxury watches can be expensive, so investing in them requires a significant upfront cost. Market fluctuations: Like any investment, the luxury watch market can be volatile, and values can fluctuate. Maintenance and storage: Luxury watches require maintenance to keep them in good condition, and proper storage is necessary to prevent damage or theft. Counterfeit risk: As mentioned earlier, the luxury watch market is flooded with counterfeit watches, which can be difficult to spot. Tips for investing in luxury watches: Do your research: Before making a purchase, learn about the brand, model, and the factors that affect its value. Research the market trends and the reputation of the seller or dealer. Buy from reputable sources: To avoid purchasing a counterfeit watch, buy from authorized dealers or established sellers with a good reputation. Look for limited editions: Limited edition models often have a higher value due to their rarity and exclusivity. Keep the watch in good condition: Regular maintenance and care can help preserve the value of the watch. Store it in a safe place, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, and have it serviced regularly by a professional. Where can I sell or consign my luxury watch? If you’re looking to sell or consign your luxury watch, there are several options available. You can sell your watch privately, through an auction house or a luxury watch dealer, or you can consign it to a luxury watch marketplace. However, it’s crucial to do your research and choose a reputable and trustworthy dealer or marketplace to ensure that you get the best value for your watch. Come to us at Watch Capital for a personalized experience when it comes to selling or consigning your watch! We will walk you through the process, while also taking care of
How To Spot Fake Luxury Watch?
Luxury watches are more than timepieces, as they can also be seen as valuable works of art. However, the market for such watches can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of choices you have for both pre-owned and brand-new ones. Furthermore, with fake timepieces imitating famous brands, it can be challenging to differentiate between counterfeit and genuine watches. In this article, let’s explore how we can identify fake luxury watches to make informed purchases and avoid being duped. Beware of offers that are “too good to be true”. If you spot an offer for a well-known brand that presents a heavily discounted price when compared to the official website and authorized dealers, then it is most probably not a genuine product. When it comes to limited pieces or discontinued collections, a price tag that is lower than usual is a cause for concern. The reason for being aware of such offers is that the materials and craftsmanship that are poured into luxury watches are factored into their cost. High-end watches aren’t simply a symbol of exclusivity, but also of quality and the intricacies that go into their production. Watch out for mistakes and defects. Luxury brands take pride in delivering perfection in each timepiece produced. They hold themselves to high standards and deliver only the best in terms of materials used along with craftsmanship. Therefore, it is near impossible that you’ll find any imperfections in a genuine luxury watch. Before you bring a watch home, you should take time to carefully inspect every surface. We also recommend familiarizing yourself with how an authentic watch should look and feel. Here is a list of warning signs to look out for when trying to spot a counterfeit: Crooked text, sloppy or unequal font. Incorrect or missing logos. Poorly finished case with possible rough edges. Subpar materials that may be peeling or flaking. Flimsy bracelet clasps which may not close. Missing serial number. The production of counterfeit watches is done in a rushed manner, using subpar tools and machinery. The production of counterfeit watches is done in a rushed manner, using subpar tools and machinery. Therefore, there will be errors in the watches made which you can detect. What are the signs to watch out for with specific brands? As the demand for luxury watches rises, the amount of imitations flooding the market grows along with it. Well-known brands like Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe were reported as being the most frequently counterfeited. Therefore, we have provided some simple tips and tricks for those who are interested in knowing what to watch out for. Rolex: You can begin by inspecting the serial and model numbers. If they are missing or look faint and faded, then it is most likely a fake. Rolex’s serial and model numbers are made up of deep as well as solid fine lines. Next, you can take a look at the cyclops, which is a convex magnifying lens above the date window. It will magnify the number to improve its readability. The weight of the watch can also be used to determine its authenticity. A genuine Rolex will be heavier due to the quality of materials and metals used in its creation compared to an imitation, which will be significantly lighter. Patek Philippe: The brand name should be free of misspellings, with fonts that are consistent and crisp. A common error that can be seen on counterfeit pieces is “Philippe,” where it may be missing a “P” or have an extra “L.” Another telltale sign is an irregular or erratic ticking. A genuine Patek Philippe timepiece can have hundreds of tiny components, meticulously pieced together using skilled hands. The sound produced should be smooth and uniform. Omega: Omega has spent years innovating and perfecting the hand movements that can be found in their watches. Therefore, if you see a stuttering second hand, then you might be looking at a replica. To further examine its authenticity, you can pull on the crown to adjust the timing. On a genuine Omega timepiece, the second hand will stop moving to ensure accuracy in timekeeping. However, if it doesn’t stop, then it is not an authentic piece. Timepieces produced by Omega are also completely silent. Therefore, if a watch claiming to be an Omega has a ticking sound, then it’s a fake. Tudor: The iconic Tudor Rose is on the side of the crowns of all watches made by Tudor. While many fake watches have attempted to replicate this detail, they may use low-quality materials or have sloppy craftsmanship, resulting in an inferior appearance. Genuine timepieces by Tudor have sharp engravings of the Rose with a neat appearance. Audemars Piguet: Audemars Piguet has a unique Tapisserie pattern lasered into the dial. This is done with the utmost precision and care, making it difficult to replicate. Therefore, on fake watches, you may see an absence of the aforementioned pattern or a poorly drawn one. You can also take a look at the rotor to gauge its legitimacy. Genuine timepieces from Audemars Piguet have a smooth rotor along with a polished finish. In contrast, a fake piece will have a dull glow due to the cheap materials used. How to avoid buying fake luxury watches? Get familiar with the brand: Knowing the specifications of the watch you’re looking for will go a long way in protecting you against counterfeits. Visit the brand’s official website and look at different models, as many of their features are distinct and serve to make it harder for them to be faked. Speak with authorized dealers: You can speak with authorized dealers who are well-versed in the brands they provide, along with their different models. Visiting the brand’s official website or participating in forums that cater to luxury watches can also help arm you against falling prey to imitations. Visit an authorized dealer: Even though online shopping has its convenience, making the trip to visit an authorized dealer is worthwhile. At Watch Capital, we not only verify each of our timepieces for their authenticity but are also licensed by