call

How to open a Pocket Watch to View Movement

It’s been a very long time but we thought it would be a good idea to restart our blog that we’ve neglected for such a long time. One of the questions we get emailed about very frequently is how to open a pocket watch to view the movement.  There are so many different types of watches that we decided to do a detailed guide with lots of images to help out

Pair cased verge watches similar to this one  will usually open  from the front.

First depress the thumbpiece and open the outer case.

Remove the watch from the outer case. Then using your nail open the front of the case. The glass and bezel will swing back to reveal the dial.

Using your thumbnail depress the lever situated at the 6 O’clock position and the movement will swing back on its hinge so you can view the escapement.   

Hunting Cased Watches

Opening a hunting cased pocket watch is a little easier although it does require a watch knife or a penknife if the case is very tight and stiff. Turn the watch over so that you’re looking at the back of the case.  Using your knife or fingernails gently prize open the case to reveal the movement or inner cuvette.

If there is a cuvette apply do the same again to reveal the movement.

 

The World’s Most Expensive Rolex Has Just Sold for Over $5 Million

Geneva’s spring auction season kicked off in style at the weekend, when an exceptionally rare and unique Rolex watch became the most expensive Rolex ever to be sold at auction, going for $5,060,427.

(more…)

Collection of antique watches gets staggering price at auction

Les Jackson, who was from Shelford in Nottingham, had a beautiful cottage full of timepieces, from pigeon clocks to longcases and antique watches, his home was one of someone who was passionate about these fascinating objects.

Collection of antique watches.

(more…)

What it was like in Britain in the era of our timepieces

We have many antique clocks and antique watchesin our portfolio, ranging from the 17th century up to the 20th century. These timepieces are loved by their owners for many reasons, including their links to the past; that’s why we have decided to take a look at the fascinating eras that some of our antiques are from.

17th century antique watches available at Pieces of Time.

(more…)

Restoring antique watches

Regardless of whether you collect old cars or antique watches, everything will eventually need a little TLC to restore the item to its best quality. With vintage watches, there is a right and wrong way to restore them. The wrong process can drastically decrease the value of your watch, so it pays to understand and know the correct processes that go into restoring these timepieces.

This guide looks at the spec regarding vintage watch restoration, whilst preserving the historical integrity and value of the piece.

movements inside antique watches.

(more…)

Why you should invest in antique watches over smartwatches

Smartwatches seem to be the latest craze in the watch world, but like any new technology, they will become outdated when the next model is released. Instead it is wiser to invest your money in antique watches, that keep and increase their value over time if they are maintained well.

antique watch on man’s wrist.

(more…)

Guide to storing and maintaining your antique watches

Regardless of whether your watch is antique or not, storing and maintaining your timepieces is essential to protect the longevity of the piece. In this feature we will be providing you with handy tips for storing and maintaining your watch so you can admire your piece for years to come.

antique watches need proper dry, dark and safe storage.

(more…)

Why you should use an antique dealer when buying antiques

From auctions to fairs and markets, and even online, antique lovers of today are flooded with possibilities of where to make their next purchase of their antique watches. Whether you’re an antique veteran or a beginner buyer, there is always something thrilling about finding that perfect hidden gem.

antique watches, antique dealers, guide, watch,

(more…)

Timepiece’s role in transportation recognised in Bristol Museum

The American Clock and Watch Museum’s current exhibition grants a look into the early timepieces used within the transport industry, showing the importance these had on the success of evolving public transportation methods.

(more…)

Bonhams set to sell off collection of 2,000 watches belonging to Dutch noble family

One of the biggest watch collections on the planet, kept by a Dutch dynastic family which dates back to the 13th century, is set to go up for auction at Bonhams next month (December). Bonhams Auction Hall selling antique wrist watches like those sold at Pieces of Time (more…)

Auction records set by another Patek Philippe timepiece

It seems as though there isn’t a week that goes by where Patek Philippe movements aren’t making the headlines. This week is no different, following the latest news that a Patek Phillipe stainless steel watch realised a record £4.82 million at an auction in Geneva at the weekend (November 7-8).

A Patek Philippe logo, antique pocket watches for sale at Pieces of Time

(more…)

Are Apple watches eating the watch market up, or could they be the start of something beautiful?

September 2014, and the Apple chief designer Jony Ivemade some clear and incisive remarks about his company’s debut wearable device (The Apple Watch) to declare that the Swiss watch industry was ‘in trouble’. He’s not the first to make these kinds of remarks, or statements of intent. Swiss horologists have remained defiant in previous situations of extinction, and it can be done again.

An Apple watch on the wrist of a man looking at antique watches-Pieces of Time (more…)