STOP THE CLOCKS

The interest in timepieces is fuelled by their investment appeal and enduring charm

Horology is the study of time and has been at the forefront of human endeavour ever since man began to question his place in the world. From clocks to watches, sundials, hourglasses, chronometers and atomic clocks, we have been eternally charmed with creating instruments with which to record time’s passing.

And, while ornate mechanical clocks have long held a fascination, it is the smaller, more practical (and fashionable), wristwatches that have really cemented a place in our hearts – a trend which is looking set to continue, both in terms of watches as collector’s pieces and as investments.

Nino Santi is general manager of Watches and Jewellery of Bond St. (watchcentre.com), and as such sees some exceptionally rare pieces, sourced from around the world.

“The market for rare and vintage watches is very strong, especially as many people are looking for alternative investments,” says Santi. “In terms of pre-owned watches and vintage watches, the strong brands are predominantly Rolex and Patek Philippe. These types of watches are getting harder and harder to find, and so their value will continue to increase.”

Richard Lewis, chief operating o cer for auctioneers TheSaleRoom.com, says: “One really strong area is gentlemen’s mechanical watches – particularly the so-called ‘tool’ watches – those made for the army or pilots and divers. They have come to epitomise the alpha male and as such are considered the number one accessory for men. A watch’s history and design reflect the personality of the wearer, allowing for true self-expression.”

Watch and clock expert, Adrian Hailwood of Fellows auctioneers ( fellows.co.uk), agrees:

“As the major Swiss brands are obsessed with their heritage, going vintage allows you to own the original watches that their premium heritage re-issues are inspired by. The heyday of tool watches was from the

CONTINUED ON PAGE 36