92 WATCHES & TIMEPIECES
First Oyster Perpetual , 1931 In 1931 , Rolex invented and patented the world ’ s first self-winding mechanism with a Perpetual rotor . This ingenious system , a true work of art , is today at the heart of every modern automatic watch .
Longines Legend Diver Mens Watch latest technologies . They constantly strive to create the latest model using cuttingedge technology . And there are others that straddle between the two , creating breakthrough horological advances .
A great watch has intricate engineering , cultural heritage , historical processes and time-tested traditions .
On a serious note , you shouldn ’ t invest in an impressive timepiece based on its monetary value . There are a lot of factors that can influence a watch ’ s value . Hype can inflate the value of watches and rapidly deflate them after the bubble bursts . Components or repair services may also have been phased out . This can seriously impact your watch ’ s value .
Ultimately , the value of a watch is determined by its condition and make – basically how a watch is made and finished . If a watch has been serviced or parts have been changed for modern or non-branded parts , this can negatively impact its value .
That ’ s when knowing who ’ s who in the watchmaking industry comes in .
Some watchmakers specialise in traditional watchmaking techniques . Skills that have been honed to perfection over decades of time . Others place an emphasis on the
Knowing who specialises in what can help you when you curate your watch collection . It also keeps you on the alert for upcoming opportunities .
It can be difficult to keep track of new watch launches and investment opportunities . A key thing to do is nurture a relationship with retailers . Also , keep up to date with watch innovations and learn as much as you can about the different makers out there . All this can help you get the skills and expertise to identify key opportunities .
Watch collecting is a joy and an art , but it ’ s also a science . The best way to start a watch collection is to appreciate the history and inner workings of watchmaking first .
TAG Heuer Formula 1 X Red Bull Racing Chronograph A Special Edition Formula 1 X Red Bull Racing watch £ 1,800
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THE ART OF LUXURY Issue 52 2022