Before the Storm: Mechanical Mastery

Before 1969, the art of timekeeping was dominated by mechanical ingenuity. The Swiss led the charge with names like Patek Philippe, Omega, and Rolex pushing mechanical movements to breathtaking precision. The chronometer was the gold standard, and observatory trials were the stage for mechanical glory.

As the mid-20th century wore on however, it became clear that even the best mechanical movements had reached their practical limits. Accuracy within a few seconds a day was impressive but not perfection. The scientific community had been tinkering with an idea that promised something greater; using quartz crystals to tell time.

The Science Behind the Spark

Quartz, that humble mineral found in abundance in the Earth’s crust, hides a remarkable secret. When electricity passes through it, the crystal vibrates at a consistent frequency – 32,768 times per second, to be precise. This phenomenon, the piezoelectric effect, was discovered by the Curie brothers back in 1880.

Those steady vibrations offered something no balance wheel could: stability. A quartz oscillator didn’t care about temperature, position, or magnetism, it simply pulsed with unwavering accuracy. The challenge was not understanding quartz, it was shrinking the technology small enough to fit on the wrist.

1969: The Watch That Changed Everything

The race to miniaturize quartz timekeeping became an international obsession. Laboratories in Switzerland and the United States sought to claim the future. But it was the Japanese brand Seiko that made history.

On December 25, 1969, Seiko released the Astron 35SQ, the world’s first commercially available quartz wristwatch. It was accurate to within five seconds per month, a staggering achievement and it looked every bit as refined as a traditional dress watch. Its price? About the same as a small car. But within a decade, the technology inside it would be democratized and mass-produced across the globe.

The Quartz Crisis or Revolution

For enthusiasts, it’s a phrase that still stings: ‘The Quartz Crisis’. As quartz watches became cheaper, more accurate, and easier to produce, they swept through the market like wildfire. Japanese manufacturers like Seiko and Citizen, alongside American brands like Timex, flooded the world with quartz timepieces that outperformed Swiss mechanicals at a fraction of the cost.

Between 1970 and 1985, Switzerland’s watch industry imploded, losing more than 60,000 jobs and countless storied marques. The traditional craft of mechanical watchmaking seemed doomed. Yet, in hindsight, it wasn’t a death – it was a transformation.

The Swiss Fight Back

Enter Swatch in 1983. With its bright colours, plastic cases, and Swiss precision quartz movements, it redefined what a watch could be: fun, accessible, and distinctly European. Swatch single-handedly revived the Swiss watch industry’s fortunes and gave rise to the modern conglomerates – Swatch Group, Richemont, and LVMH, that dominate today’s luxury market.

Meanwhile, mechanical watchmaking found new meaning. Freed from the need to compete on precision, it became art, an expression of heritage, craftsmanship, and passion. The rebirth of brands like Blancpain and the mechanical renaissance of the 1990’s owe their existence to the very technology that once threatened them.

Quartz Today: Quietly Essential

Today, quartz timekeeping remains ubiquitous. From the rugged reliability of a G-Shock, to the razor-thin elegance of a Citizen Eco-Drive, to the ultra-precise Grand Seiko 9F, quartz is far from obsolete – it’s evolved. Even smartwatches, with all their computing power, still rely on quartz oscillators to keep their digital hearts beating in rhythm.

For collectors, quartz has found a new appreciation. Vintage pieces like the original Seiko Astron, Omega Megaquartz, or the Bulova Accuquartz have become cult classics, reminders of a time when the future of watchmaking was being rewritten in silicon and crystal.

Final Thoughts: The Tick That Changed Time

The quartz revolution didn’t kill mechanical watchmaking, it saved it. It pushed the industry to redefine value, to celebrate artistry over accuracy, and to innovate in materials, finishing, and design.

Every time we glance at a mechanical watch today, we owe a nod to that tiny, humming crystal that forced an entire industry to evolve. Quartz didn’t just measure time – it changed it.

Why It’s Important to Look After Your Quartz Watch

Even though quartz watches are known for their accuracy and reliability, regular care is essential to keep them performing at their best. Over time, dust, moisture, and worn seals can affect the movement, while an old battery can leak and cause costly internal damage. Routine servicing ensures that the crystal oscillator, circuitry, and gaskets remain in good condition, preserving both timekeeping precision and longevity. With proper maintenance from a professional watchmaker, a quality quartz watch can last for decades.

We recommend replacing your watch battery every 2 years. Our watch battery replacement & reseal + pressure testing service includes an ultrasonic clean and our batteries come with a 12 month guarantee. We also offer a postal watch battery replacement service. Visit our Watch Battery Replacement page for more information.

The post The History of the Quartz Watch & How it Changed Timekeeping appeared first on Michlmayr Watchmakers.

There is some confusion amongst owners as to when to get a watch serviced, how much they should expect to pay and where is best to have the service completed.

In this blog we will cover all of the above questions plus share a rough guide as to how much it costs to service a Rolex watch. However, it is really important to note that the cost of servicing a Rolex watch in the UK can vary based on the model, age, condition, and the service provider you choose.

How Often Should I Get My Rolex Serviced?

Rolex recommends you service your watch every 5 to 10 years, depending on the model and your wearing habits.

If for example you’re using your Sports or Dive Rolex as intended and subjecting it to daily strenuous activities or indeed you wear your Rolex daily rather than occasionally, we recommend you have it serviced closer to every 5 than 10 years.

Below are a few signs your watch needs some professional attention:

• Losing or gaining time
• Changes in the movement of the seconds hand
• Condensation or moisture under the crystal
• Difficulty setting or winding the watch
• Unusual sounds coming from the movement

If you notice any of these symptoms, we recommend you act quickly to avoid potential costly repairs. Professional watchmakers like ourselves will examine your watch and see if it needs servicing and/or specific repairs.

Where Should I Get My Rolex Serviced?

There are two main options available.

1. Official Rolex Service Centres

Official Rolex Service Centres are facilities authorised and trained by Rolex to service their watches. They use Rolex parts and Rolex servicing tools and follow the brand’s servicing guidelines to ensure your timepiece receives the level of care that it deserves. You will also receive a Rolex warranty on all repairs and replacements.

2. Independent Watchmakers

Independent Watchmakers like Michlmayr & Co specialise in service and repairs of various luxury brands, including Rolex.

Simon Michlmayr was an accredited Rolex watchmaker between 1989 – 2024 and as a Fellow of the British Horological Institute he has years of experience servicing and repairing Rolex watches. Michmayr has all the Rolex machinery, servicing tools and a huge stock of Rolex parts.

As a reputable watchmaker with a history of Rolex accreditation we are less expensive, can often offer a faster turn around time and a much more personalised local service.

Trusting someone with your Rolex is a very personal decision. Our advice is to check your local watchmaker’s certifications, read their reviews and ask other Rolex enthusiasts for personal recommendations.

How Much To Service A Rolex Watch?

In terms of how much it costs to service a Rolex, the price can vary based on the model and specific needs of your timepiece. Your watch might need a standard service or it might be a vintage model which requires specialist restoration work. Therefore we discuss with the customer how they would like to proceed and what they would like us to do, based on our guidance and experience.

Basic Service starts at £500 – This typically includes a full movement overhaul, cleaning of the case and bracelet, and performance testing.

Influencing Cost Factors 

Model of Rolex

Some Rolex watches such as the Rolex Sky-Dweller and the Rolex Yacht-Master II, have more complex movements that require specialized knowledge and tools to service properly. Therefore, servicing these models can be more expensive than servicing a simpler model like the Rolex Oyster Perpetual.

Age & Condition

If you own a vintage Rolex watch (pre 2005) or a Rolex that has not been serviced regularly, it may require more extensive repairs or replacements of worn components. Cost will vary depending on the specific component(s) that need repairing or replacing. For example, replacing a damaged or scratched sapphire crystal may cost approximately £100, while replacing a faulty movement or a damaged bezel can be significantly more costly.

Waterproofing

If your watch has been exposed to water damage, it may need additional attention to ensure its water resistance is restored.

In Conclusion 

Regular servicing is essential to maintain your Rolex’s performance and longevity. However, when budgeting for a Rolex service, it’s always a good idea to set aside a little extra to account for any unexpected repairs or replacements that may arise during the servicing process. Always consult with an authorised service center or reputable independent watchmaker to obtain an accurate quote tailored to your specific watch model and its condition.

The Michlmayr Promise 

When your Rolex is serviced by Michlmayr & Co, you can rest assured that it is in safe hands.  Simon Michlmayr will revive your watch, detecting any issues with the movement before they become a problem. We have a large stock of Rolex parts to uphold the quality and guarantees offered by Rolex.

If additional repairs or interventions are needed, we will consult, inform you of any additional costs and let you decide how you’d like to proceed.

We also offer the below additional services;

• Battery & Water Pressure Test 
• Sympathetic Watch Restoration

Get in touch today for more information.

The post How much to Service a Rolex Watch? appeared first on Michlmayr Watchmakers.

This is an independent seal of excellence recognising businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience. The award is presented to businesses that have collected at least 50 reviews between 1st January and 31st December 2024, with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 5.

Tony Wheble, CEO at Feefo, congratulated the winners

“During these economically challenging times, it’s inspiring to see companies like Michlmayr & Co consistently going above and beyond for their customers. The Trusted Service Awards recognise businesses that don’t just meet expectations – they exceed them. These awards celebrate companies that gather genuine feedback and use it to deliver exceptional customer experiences. The dedication shown by this year’s winners sets a benchmark for customer service excellence.”

We are incredibly proud to have received 84 – 4.5/5 star reviews since partnering with Feefo in October and the end of 2024.

A huge thank you to everyone who has taken the time to write us a review. Below are a few of our favourites and you can find more on our Feefo page.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ BRILLIANT, I am a very, very happy customer – Barbara Creasey

S Michlmayr & Co Ltd are exceptional. Caroline, their receptionist is brilliant and treats you like a valued customer. I don’t know the name of the genetleman who delivered my clock, he was very professional and clearly loves his work. The clock repair itself is stunning, I am very happy and will soon use the business again. From the beginning to the end they were fantastic!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Mr Garratt 

I was very impressed from the moment the doors were unlocked to the moment I left. Very professional and the work is as good as it gets. I won’t go anywhere else.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Omega Service & Repair – Mr Luke Laddiman

Fantastic service from Fiona and the team! Would highly recommend to anyone.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Delighted with this firm’s service – Anonymous 

I approached this firm, based upon a recommendation. Every aspect of their behaviour was examplary. I asked them to perfom a repair and a routine service on a rare 81-year old Swiss watch. The cost and time taken were reasonable. The customer liaison comms were excellent. The watch was packed well and looked magnificent on receipt, running sweetly and keeping excellent time. I’m delighted with this firm and will doubtless use their services again. Well done and TY to the Michlmayr watchmakers.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good – Mr John Mullins

New crown and spring fitted to a 50 year old ladies watch. Perfect job, thanks.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A cherished watch rescued! – Mr Gordon 

Thoughful and friendly attention, prompt completion of the required work. I was getting nowhere with the repair of my Braun wristwatch (a present from my son) and was very pleased with my reception at Michlmayr. The cost seemd fair for the serious work done.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ WELL SATISFIED WITH THE SERVICE – Mr & Mrs Taylor 

Three clocks that have been in the family for generations overhauled and working, a pleasure to hear them striking and chiming in the correct sequence. Cost of the work far in excess of their value bit on this occasion it was not a consideration. The service was excellent and we felt valued customers. Thank you!

Feefo work with over 6,500 brands and is the world’s largest provider of verified reviews. Only customers who have used our services and have been invited to do so, can leave a Feefo review.

The post Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award 2025 appeared first on Michlmayr Watchmakers.

What is a Marine Chronometer?

The Marine Chronometer is a precision timepiece that is carried on a ship and used to determine a ship’s position (longitude) by celestial navigation.

Developed during the 18th century, this feat of British engineering propelled Britain to become the most powerful seafaring nation in the world. Men’s lives would depend on their performance in extreme conditions. For the first time, a ship’s longitude could be accurately measured, and navigational disasters averted. It proved an invaluable nautical tool and was adopted by seafarers around the globe.

British ships had the ability to navigate oceans with unprecedented accuracy, greatly aiding the expansion of the Empire. Giving the Royal Navy an unassailable advantage over its rivals.

Plus – it has a rather unusual sound. If you listen carefully, unlike a normal clock that ‘tick tocks’, the Marine Chronometer ‘tick ticks’

The Longitude Problem

In the 16th and 17th centuries, maritime nations sought a reliable method for determining longitude at sea. Latitude could be measured using the position of the sun or stars, but longitude required knowing the precise time at a reference location (e.g. Greenwich Mean Time) and comparing it to local time at the ship’s position.

Early Attempts

1. Astronomical Solutions:
   • The method of measuring lunar distances involved observing the moon’s position relative to stars, but it was complex and error-prone.
   • Galileo and others proposed using the motion of Jupiter’s moons as a “celestial clock,” but this was impractical aboard a moving ship.
2. Pendulum Clocks:
   • Pendulum clocks, developed in the 17th century, were precise on land but failed aboard ships due to the motion of the sea.

The Breakthrough

English carpenter & clockmaker, John Harrison (1693–1776) made the most significant advances in marine chronometry. His work marked a turning point in solving the longitude problem.

Harrison’s first marine timekeeper was a large, complex device resembling a clock. It was accurate but too bulky for practical use. He continued to refine his designs, focusing on eliminating errors caused by temperature changes, friction, and ship’s movement.

In 1761, Harrison created a large pocket watch and it was accurate to within seconds over long voyages. This success demonstrated that a portable and reliable timepiece could determine longitude.

Impact and Adoption

The British government’s Longitude Act of 1714 offered a prize for a solution to the longitude problem. After extensive trials, Harrison’s designs proved capable of meeting the accuracy required to win the prize.

By the late 18th century, marine chronometers became essential tools for navigation. Manufacturers such as Thomas Mudge, John Arnold, and Thomas Earnshaw improved the design, making chronometers more affordable and widely available.

Later Developments

Mass Production: In the 19th century, marine chronometers became standardized, with innovations like temperature compensation and improved escapements.

Integration with Astronomy: Combined with sextants and accurate star charts, chronometers enabled precise celestial navigation.

20th Century and Beyond: The advent of radio time signals and later, GPS, made marine chronometers less critical for navigation, but they remain a symbol of innovation and precision engineering.

Legacy

The marine chronometer not only revolutionized navigation but also spurred advances in horology and global exploration. It stands as one of the key technological achievements that enabled the expansion of trade, science, and Empire across the world.

We love seeing and restoring old time pieces – clocks, watches and pocket watches. If you have something you’d like us to take a look at, get in touch and we’ll do our best to restore it to it’s former glory.

The post The Marine Chronometer – A Brief History appeared first on Michlmayr Watchmakers.

Tell me a little bit about how the first generation of Michlmayr watchmakers began


My Dad (Frederich but known as Fritz) was born in Austria and came to England in 1956 as a newly qualified watchmaker to learn English.

Training at that time was very different to how it is now in Europe. You had to do an apprenticeship or go to college to be able to call yourself a watchmaker.

When he first came to the UK, he worked in a shop called Baines on Prince of Wales Road, Norwich. It just so happened his future wife, my mother, lived above the shop with her parents. After a few months of working at Baines, he started to lodge with them and went on to marry my mum in 1958.

In 1961 my dad started up his own business and it was called the Swiss Watch Shop. His first shop was on Bethel Street which got knocked down to build the library. He then moved to Charing Cross, which was knocked down to build the dual carriageway. I get the impression the council didn’t like him particularly!

He then moved to Pottergate and opened a shop selling all sorts of watches and stuff. In the mid ‘70s, Dad decided that he wanted to only service watches, so he shut up shop. He bought the house next to ours on Park Lane and converted it to a watch service centre.

In 1979 he decided to convert a house into a shop on Unthank Road and moved the service centre back onto the high street. Sadly, he died unexpectedly in 1986, which is when I took over the reins.

Born into a family of watchmakers, was your career path predestined?

Simon & his brother Peter opening his first business in 1986

No. When I was young, I was mad about aeroplanes, and I wanted to be a pilot. 
I was in the air training corps but sadly when I tried to join up for the RAF, I was rejected because of my eyesight. I then thought OK, I’ll become a navigator but again my eyes failed me.

At the time, the RAF would put you through university, so I decided I’d study engineering and become an Officer Engineer, But sadly I couldn’t apply as both parents needed to be British. Dad said he’d get naturalised, but at that point, I thought, this just isn’t meant to be.

At 17, having been in the workshop all my life, I decided to train as a watchmaker in Hackney Technical College, London.

My brother Peter was already training as a watch repairer in Germany. In those days, business families used to swap children on an informal apprentice exchange.

We had all sorts of people in and out of the business over the years and my mum taught them English. Luckily for my brother, he was raised to speak German and was sent to Germany to learn the trade.

He initially went to train in a place called Solitan in Switzerland and was probably the first non-Swiss person at that point who ever got to go to Swiss watchmaking School. It was a huge honour but unbelievably my brother decided after a year that he didn’t want to make watches, he wanted to repair them and left. I would have loved to have had that engineering opportunity. Back then designing for Rolex would have been the dream.

Peter stayed in Germany and has worked as a watchmaker since.

What’s the favourite part of your job?

I’ve been doing this a long while now, but I still see different things every day and I’m still fascinated by engineering.

A pocket watch could be 250 years old, yet the engineering and craftsmanship is as amazing as some designs today. They probably had to forge their own metal, make their own cutters and lathes and do all the maths. It would have been so much harder in those days, but they still produced such quality.

I love the variety, one day I’m working on church clocks, next day I could be at someone’s house looking at a domestic clock.

Every timepiece comes with a history. We recently had a gentleman bring in a Rolex watch that his father had ordered whilst he was a prisoner of war in Colditz. Incredibly, British prisoners of war could order from Rolex, they’d deliver to the camp, and you paid when you got back to the UK. That’s some history.

What has been the most important horological invention in your lifetime?

The co-axial escapement which was invented by renowned British Horologist George Daniels in 1976. I met him a couple of times and he was an unbelievably clever man.

The biggest downfall in watchmaking is lubrication as it fails over time, which then affects the time keeping. Daniels spent a lifetime researching a solution and succeeded with his design of a lubricant-less escapement which is now called the Co-axial.

When you look at the principles of it, it all seems so bloody obvious. His design was bought by Omega who have continued to refine it as manufacturing and materials have improved.

You have been involved in the development and build of two watch brands – tell us a little bit about both

Over the years, I’ve done a lot of work for other people – assembling watches, design and build of watch parts. But I knew when I left college that I wanted to make my own watches.

I went to the arctic a few years ago and I was sponsored by Breitling at the time. I got to pick a watch to wear on the expedition, I chose a Chrono Colt.

It was great and it did the job, but I kept thinking this doesn’t quite do what I want. 
When I returned home, I decided to design my own watch – The Meridian. It’s a simple watch which is tough enough to function in Arctic conditions, our strapline is ‘it’s a tool not a toy’. You can see and buy Meridian watches at Oakleigh Watches.

I also co-own Garrick Watchmakers, which is a very different style of watch. The designs are not always traditional, but they’re all built using traditional watchmaking skills.

We do so much stuff in watchmaking that’s not even seen. Finishing and polishing that unless you take the watch apart, you’ll never appreciate the heart and soul that goes into it. But for me, it’s all about the artistry and craftsmanship – that’s what Garrick’s all about. Every watch is different, even the basic designs have got a twist for the customer.

Tell us a little bit about your spirit for adventure?

The North Pole

Since I was a teenager, I’ve been walking and rock climbing around the UK, Europe and even Russia.

I helped with the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, and we used to travel all over the place doing trips with school children. It was hugely enjoyable.

But for my first big adventure, in 1994, my best friend and I drove from here to Tanzania in a Land Rover. It took us 5 months in total.

Then in 1986 and 1987, I completed two trips to the North Pole. I like the cold.

The first expedition was a paid adventure called the Ultimate Challenge, organised by David Huntman Adams. I was fortunate to be invited back the following year to help guide an expedition.

The trip is 6 weeks, and life becomes very straightforward – it’s all about survival. Things that you take for granted like having a cup of tea or going to the toilet, must be carefully planned. Everything must be planned, which means you don’t have the head space to worry about anything other than how you’re going to get from A to B.

Eating becomes a huge focus. I had to eat 8000 calories a day – that takes a lot of planning and time to consume. Even then I lost a stone and a half as I was burning so much energy to walk and keep warm.

The simplicity is nice, this was pre mobile ‘phones and the internet – so you could disappear completely. When I was in Africa, a letter I wrote to my mother arrived 18 months after I’d returned home. She had no idea where I was during those 5 months. Imagine if she’d had to live through the day, we got stuck in a hole in what was then called the Congo!

Of course, when you get back to reality, life becomes more complicated again, which is why I love trips like these.

Do you prefer working on watches or clocks?

Both. I’m slightly strange because most people within the industry specialise in either clocks or watches.

I adore watches, but I also really like working on big public clocks. Maybe it’s just the use of the large hammer or it’s the adrenaline of dangling on a clock face and abseiling down.

But overall, it’s about problem solving, and working on both gives me the variety and challenge I love.

Do you have a favourite watch brand and if so, why?

Well, obviously it’s Garrick but if I had to choose another it would be Lange & Söhne.  They’re beautifully made, well-proportioned and the design is not overly fussy.

I obviously spend a lot of time looking at the inside rather than the outside of watches and Lange & Söhne are really well engineered.

Watches are a bit like cars, Ferraris for example – they are wonderful on the day they work properly. 
When the roads are right and the weather’s great, they perform perfectly. But on a not so nice day, you think why on earth have I got this thing?

So, you need a watch that ticks all the boxes, not just the aesthetic and status ones!

Time is precious, what’s your favourite way to spend an hour off?

24 hour Snetterton Race

I race cars now; I love the adrenaline. I don’t know why I didn’t start doing it years ago. It’s brilliant, I love it and can’t wait to get back out the next time.

I’ve never been particularly competitive, and to begin with I preferred endurance racing because of the strategy behind it. But actually, when I get on a race track and start fighting with somebody else for a position, I become incredibly competitive and just want to be in front.

I race a Citroen C1, which allegedly is the cheapest form of motor racing, but don’t let anyone tell you that!

The post 60 Minutes with Simon Michlmayr appeared first on Michlmayr Watchmakers.

Just like at the North Pole, the Christmas Countdown has already started in our workshop. This is just a little friendly reminder that if you want to have your watch serviced or repaired in time for Christmas, please get it booked in by the end of October 2024. Our workshop is currently working at a 4-10 week return time, depending on the repair.

Enjoy!

Wolf British Racing Green Single Watch Roll

Part of Wolf’s special new British Racing Green collection, this watch roll is made from pebble-grain leather and has an ultra suede lining.

The perfect place for stowing and protecting your favourite watch, and is just at home in your chest of drawers as it is in a suitcase.

A Man & His Watch: Iconic Watches and Stories from the Men Who Wore Them by Matt Hranek

‘A Man & His Watch’ is the perfect literary gift for watch lovers.

Matthew Hranek, a watch collector and NYC men’s style fixture, has travelled the world conducting first-hand interviews and diving into exclusive collections to gather the never-before-told stories of 76 watches, complete with stunning original photography of every single piece. 

Handmade/Personalised Watch Stands

Watch stands come in all shapes, sizes, designs and prices. However, we really like the handmade styles found on etsy.com.

Many offer the option to personalise, making your gift that extra bit special.

This double watch stand pictured is priced at £37.50.

Subscription to Oracle Time Magazine

An annual subscription to Oracle Time magazine is the watch gift that keeps on giving – 10 issues in fact!

Dedicated to luxury watches, it’s the first stop for long-time collectors and new enthusiasts alike who want to stay on top of all things watch and lifestyle related.

Genteel Handmade Cognac Calf Leather Watch Strap

The Genteel Ready-to-Wear watch strap collection comes in colour combinations of cognac, black, blue and green.

Different size strap widths, standard or quick release spring bars and the buckle is included.

Custom made design options available too!

We hope you’ve enjoyed our selection of gifts for watch lovers. Don’t forget to give us a follow on Instagram for more useful advice and offers.

The post Gifts for Watch Lovers Under £100 appeared first on Michlmayr Watchmakers.

The success of TV drama Peaky Blinders has certainly shone a light on 1920’s fashion. Which got us thinking …. rather than condemn it to the past, maybe it’s time for a pocket watch revival?

Let’s briefly step back in time to see where it all began.

Brief History

Clocks small enough to be worn on the person date back to the early 16th century – often worn as pendants by men and women. Next came the pocket watch, which were both expensive and painstaking to produce. As a result, they were mostly worn by men and seen as symbols of wealth and status. 

As technical advances were made and designs simplified, the pocket watch evolved from a luxury to a necessity. The cost dropped and they became a functional apparatus. One might evoke images of a train conductor checking his pocket watch and shouting “All Aboard!”

However, the pocket watch remained predominantly for men until early in the 20th century as the wristwatch was considered too feminine and unmanly. They began to be superseded by wristwatches around the time of World War I. Function winning over fashion as officers in the field realised a watch worn on the wrist was more easily accessed than one kept in a pocket.

At Michlmayr we love bringing old watches back to their best and very much enjoy the craftmanship of the bygone era. We thought we’d share a few reasons why we think they deserve a revival:

Fashion over Function

A pocket watch doesn’t have to be for everyday. Like a favourite hat, tie or belt – it can add a touch of vintage class to a formal occasion or can simply be worn casually to make a fashion statement.

Timeless Gifting

They make a great alternative gift idea for many occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, Father’s Days, weddings, and retirements.

It’s more unusual than a watch and feels like you’re giving a gift of horological history. Plus, because it’s larger it’s perfect for engraving a special message.

Generational History

A pocket watch that has been passed down the generations becomes a sentimental keepsake. It becomes a significant carrier of family history and memories.

Collector’s Choice

They can reflect so much horological history, that most serious collector’s will own at least one. Even if never worn, they are objects of admiration, intrigue and sometimes value.

Modern Pocket Watches

Many popular watch brands still produce modern pocket watches. Alternatively if you’re looking for something a bit more vintage, try searching the pre owned market for brands such as Longines. You might pick up a bargain and we’d be happy to take a look and clean it up for you. Here are a few of our favourite modern pocket watches. 

Tissot Savonette £300

Woodford Double Hunter Skeleton Back £290

Tissot Savonnette  £830

Hamilton Railroad £1,295

Omega Olympic Pocket Watch 1932 Rattrapante Chronograph £112,000

We are certainly seeing an increase in repairs and servicing and offer a full pocket watch restoration service. Make sure you keep yours free of dust and moisture and remember if you want to hand it down to the next generation, get it serviced every few years.

The post The Pocket Watch Revival appeared first on Michlmayr Watchmakers.

1. Heritage and Legacy

Founded in 1832, Longines is one of the oldest Swiss watch brands in the world and that comes with a rich heritage. They have a history of innovation and have been involved in significant events, including pioneering achievements in aviation and sports timekeeping.

Longines Heritage Classic “Sector Dial”

• Features: Automatic movement, small seconds subdial
• Design: Vintage-inspired with a sector dial and black calf leather strap
• Strap: Black calf leather strap
• Price: £2150

2. Quality and Craftsmanship

Longines is known for its high-quality Swiss craftsmanship, ensuring precision and reliability in their timepieces. The brand uses high-grade materials such as stainless steel, sapphire crystal, and quality leather, ensuring durability and longevity. As a watchmaker, this is important because it makes our job to restore, repair and service much easier.

Longines Master Collection

• Features: Automatic movement, moon phase complication, chronograph, and date
• Design: Classic with a silver “barleycorn” dial and blued steel hands
• Strap: Brown alligator leather
• Price: £3350

3. Elegant Design

Renowned for their classic and elegant designs, Longines watches are perfect for all occasions from dressy events to everyday wear. The brand pays meticulous attention to detail in design elements, resulting in beautifully refined watches.

• Features: Automatic movement, date function
• Design: Simple and refined with a blue dial and applied indices
• Strap: Stainless steel bracelet
• Price: £1800

4. Innovative Technology

Longines use both automatic and quartz movements, with advanced features such as chronographs, moon phases, and perpetual calendars. Their commitment to precision is shown by their involvement in world sporting events including skiing, showjumping and the Commonwealth Games.

Longines Conquest

• Features: High-precision quartz movement, perpetual calendar, and shock resistance
• Design: Modern with a silver dial and stainless steel case
• Strap: Stainless steel bracelet
• Price: £850

5. Diverse Collections

They have a wide range of collections, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. From the sporty HydroConquest to the vintage-inspired Heritage line and I particularly like that they frequently release special and limited editions.

Longines HydroConquest

• Features: Diver’s watch, water-resistant up to 300 meters, ceramic bezel, and automatic movement
• Design: Sporty with a black dial and stainless steel bracelet
• Strap: Stainless steel bracelet
• Price; £1700

6. Affordability and Value

Compared to other luxury Swiss watch brands, Longines offers excellent value for money, providing high-quality watches at more accessible prices. So they’re a good place to start on your watch collecting journey. If cared for well, they generally retain their value, making them a good investment too.

• Features: COSC-certified chronometer, automatic movement, date function
• Design: Aviation-inspired with a black dial and large Arabic numerals
• Strap: Brown leather strap
• Price: £2150

7. Reputation and Recognition

Longines is a well-respected and globally recognized brand and it’s association with prestigious events and ambassadors in sports and entertainment enhances its image and appeal. I love this recreation of their classic 1960’s dive watch.

Longines Legend Diver

• Features: Automatic movement, water-resistant up to 300 meters, internal rotating diving bezel
• Design: Retro-inspired with a black lacquered polished dial
• Strap: Black rubber strap
• Price: £2250

In summary

Each of these watches offers a blend of classic elegance, modern functionality, and robust craftsmanship, making them favorites among the Longines enthusiasts in our team. The choice of favourite Longines watches for men often depends on personal style preferences and the intended use of the watch, whether for formal occasions, everyday wear, or specific activities like diving.

As a certified service centre, we offer Longines watch repair and servicing to the high standard you would expect. Our Longines servicing includes precision cleaning of the movement, incorporating each component and the repair or replacement of any faulty or worn parts.

It is recommended by Longines that their quartz watches receive a battery service every 2 years and all watches receive a complete service every 4-6 years. However, if the watch is regularly worn in water, they also recommend an annual pressure test.

Get in touch with us for a service or repair and one of our expert watchmakers will give your Longines timepiece the attention it deserves.

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