Antique Swiss Pocket Watches

“If it’s Swiss-made, it’s definitely the best” That’s what watch-lovers and collectors say. Having an Antique Swiss pocket watch gives you the chance to look back in history.

Watch-making began in Geneva in the middle of the 16^th century. It became one of the most lucrative businesses around that period and the number of watch craftsmen grew. Others were forced to look for other commercial places. A large number of them settled in the Jura Mountains where they continued to develop pioneering techniques in watch making that made Swiss pocket watches famous for its accuracy and innovative designs.

With so many existing Swiss brands, let us know what makes a Swiss made pocket watch distinct from the others? Remember that it was not until World War 1 when wristwatches began to appear.

Design

At the last quarter of the 18^th century, Swiss watch producers have mastered the art of watch making. Various innovations have been introduced by Swiss watchmakers, at this time the perpetual watch movement was perfected which is the precursor to the automatic or self winding design. Other improvements were made like the flyback mechanism and the chronograph was also launched.

Compared to other brands, Swiss made watches possessed more aesthetic value for its complicated engravings on solid gold, silver and steel case watches. Precious gems, diamonds, and rare stones served as embellishments for the more exclusive brands. Although the earliest Swiss made pocket watches were thicker and bigger in diameter.

Omega is considered the forerunner of Swiss watches that hit the market big-time when it started producing luxury pocket watches in 1848. Moreover, their products became popularly known in tie-ups with big sports events as they served as the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games. They did not stay long enough in making pocket watches, though and turned their focus on wristwatches later. Longines and Tissot were also among other established brands as competitors.

Precision

The antique Swiss pocket watch is well known for its accurate movement. It is the impeccable craftsmanship that makes them tick till this time. The Swiss creations were deemed most reliable and accurate time reference. The arduous time spent in creating state-of-the-art Swiss timepieces is what makes them popular, that is why Antique Swiss pocket watches are pretty expensive even until now.

It has been quite a journey but its all worth it. Today, Switzerland is one of the largest timepiece maker that exports 95% of its watches globally.

Our Rating: