Spotlight: Vintage Watch Models

Vintage and classical watch models come under the microscope in today’s special report by Keith W. Strandberg, MPParabia’s Geneva-based special, international correspondent, who continues his series examining various facets of the watch industry. 

Everything Old is New Again: Vintage Style Makes a Comeback

While there has been a trend towards "out there" watches and designs at recent BaselWorld Fairs, this year there are some watches that are being introduced that are very classic and traditional. TAG Heuer, in the midst of their concept watches and revolutionary mechanisms, the brand introduced the Calibre 1 this year, a hand wind mechanical that is decidedly traditional. Patek Philippe's introduced a new rectangular movement last year, the brand's first rectangular movement since the 1950s, and this year sees the new Gondolo 5124G (white gold) with a vintage dial. IWC is celebrating its 140th anniversary with the Vintage collection, a grouping of the brand's iconic watches that are updated versions of the originals. Zenith is continuing its tradition with the Chronomaster Open Grande Date, while Piaget is introducing the simply elegant Altiplano. Girard-Perregaux is offering the Vintage 1945 Off Center, a unique take on a very classic watch, and Breitling has several vintage inspired watches, including the Superocean Heritage.

While there is no doubt many brands are moving forward with modern timepieces, there is also a trend towards more traditionally-styled timepieces.