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Finding the Right Wrist-watches for You
Antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches have captured the hearts and minds of all manner of watch collectors as well as the watchmakers themselves — it's time you found your own.
Certain vintage watches for men and iconic watch designs for women are sought after not only because of their graceful proportions or innovative materials but also because of the illustrious histories of the houses that created them, histories that they stylishly embody.
Bulgari’s legendary Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional wristwatches.
Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.
In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.
Are you shopping for a wristwatch? It’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.
Find antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches for sale on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024The history of watch straps begins with the introduction of wristwatches during the 19th century. Early watches featured metal bands secured by pins or rivets that fit into drilled holes. By the late 19th century, watchmakers had discovered genuine leather to be a comfortable, more flexible alternative to metal, especially for soldiers who needed timepieces to wear on the battlefield. Gradually, throughout the early 20th century, this innovation became common in watches intended for civilians as well. During the 1930s, some designers revisited the concept of the all-metal watch, devising a slimmer, easier-to-fasten metal bracelet. As consumers became interested in metal watches, makers developed stretchy mesh expansion bands that eliminated the need for size adjustments. Then 1973 brought the advent of the NATO strap, a heavy-duty canvas band originally designed for the British military that would become popular for all types of watches. The scuba-diving craze of the 1990s led to the development of rubber watch straps that could withstand the effects of water better than leather. Watch designers have continued experimenting with new materials, such as straps crafted out of Perlon, a type of braided nylon, carbon fiber, silicone and more. Find a large selection of watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023Yes, you can typically replace leather watch straps. Most timepieces feature two-piece straps that can be removed and swapped out with replacements that are the same size. The proper method for changing straps varies from watch to watch, so consult the care manual included with your timepiece for specific instructions. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of leather watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023There are a couple of disadvantages of leather watch straps. First, leather straps are more vulnerable to wear and tear than metal straps and may require replacement sooner. Unless the leather is treated, the straps can also become damaged when exposed to water and other liquids. Plus, leather straps may not match everything in your wardrobe, depending on their color. At the same time, the straps do have some benefits. For example, they can be quickly swapped out to change the look of your timepiece, and many people find them comfortable due to their flexibility and supple texture. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of watches and straps.
- Does Hermes make watch straps?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Hermes makes watch straps. In fact, they are one of the noted makers of Apple Watch bands, giving your modern technology a distinctly luxe vibe from this historic brand. Find vintage and contemporary Hermes accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Hermes watch straps can be changed. You may be able to do it by yourself by pressing the buttons on the underside of the watch, next to where the band fits in. Better yet, you can take your Hermes watch to an authorized Hermes dealer and they can help you. Shop iconic vintage and contemporary Hermes fashions and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Adjusting the strap on a Versus Versace watch depends on the style that you have. Leather and metal bands are adjusted differently, so if you’re unsure, take it to the authorized dealer you purchased the watch from for more instructions. Shop a collection of Versace watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024Yes, you can change the leather strap on a Cartier watch. However, Cartier recommends that you leave the job to a repair shop that is authorized to work on Cartier timepieces. Doing so can greatly reduce the risk of damaging your timepiece. Shop a wide range of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The exact method of changing a strap on a Patek Philippe watch varies by the model. To detach straps from the timepiece, there will be small push buttons to release. Remember to use a toothpick or other tool that will not scratch the metal. Consult the brand’s website for more specific information on each model.
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