Watch Reviews

Vintage Seiko S-Wave 21 Jewel Automatic Watch 7S26-0130

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 11:06:00 +0000

This is a beautiful, highly sought after Seiko S-Wave Automatic Watch with a rare black dial luminous indicies.

Powered by the now famous reliable 7S26A 21 jewel automatic movement introduced to the world, by Seiko, in 1996, this example was manufactured in January 1998 before Seiko introduced the see-through case back.

These watches are solid. Very comfortable to wear, thanks in part to the very funky (hence the name "S- Wave") bracelet style that actually contours to your wrist.

The black dial has contrasting indicies that glow quite nicely. The day/date function at 4:00 is very useful.

FEATURES:
Quality Seiko 21 Jewel 7S26A movement
21,600 BPH (6 beats per sec)
Day/Date at 4:00 Sunday Red
Black Dial
Glow-in-the-dark indices
Luminous hour and minute hands
Red second hand
Seiko's Hardlex (flat) crystal
Gleaming stainless steel case
Screw-on stainless steel case back
10 Bar/100 meters (330 ft.) water resistant
Solid link bracelet
Non screw-down crown at 4:00, signed
7 1/2 - 7 3/4" bracelet with removable links
Diver's buckle, stamped "Seiko"
38 mm diameter w/o crown, 40 mm w/crown
44 mm lug to lug--north to south
Bracelet starts at 20mm and tapers to 16mm
Case is 15mm thick
Weighs approx. 4.3 oz 121 grams

We offer quality new and vintage timpieces on our website and on Ebay. Our website is at http://www.17jewel.com/ and our Ebay store can be found at http://stores.shop.ebay.com/17-Jewel-Watches-and-More

1977 Seiko 6139.6002 Pepsi Chronograph

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:53:00 +0000

Seiko has always built tough well thought out timepieces. The 6139 is an example of a classic Seiko 17 jewel chronograph from the 70's. Worn into space by Col. William Pogue on the Skylab 4 missions in 1973, this watch is a timeless classic.

The 17 jewel automatic chronograph movement is housed in a beautiful massive stainless steel case, this watch has the famous blue and red Pepsi outer chronograph bezel. It also has an inner rotating bezel that is controlled by the crown, a feature found on watches costing thousands more.

The navy blue dial has contrasting luminous hour markers and is signed Seiko Chronograph Automatic at the 12 o'clock position. It has luminous hour and minute hands and a red chronograph sweep second hand.

The day/date display is at the 3 o'clock position. The date is set by pushing the crown; the day of week is set by pushing the crown in harder. A 30 minute timer at the 6 o'clock position is started with the top pusher and resets with the bottom pusher. The watch has a screw on case back and is signed. The matching stainless steel bracelet.

FEATURES:

Seiko Caliber 6139.6002 17 Jewel Chronograph
Pepsi bezel with slight wear at 7:00
Navy dial

Luminous hour markers and hands
Red sweep chronograph second hand

Inner rotating bezel
30 minute timer at 6:00 w/red hand

2 Pushers - top to start and stop chronograph,

bottom to reset.

SS Case and screw on case back signed
SS bracelet signed Seiko
Mineral crystal
Case diameter with crown 42 mm
Length to tips of lugs 52 mm
Distance between lugs 19 mm
Thickness 14 mm
Weight 3.8 oz.

Here is an add for the watch from the era:

You can find these on Ebay and on some vintage watch websites. Please check out our new and vintage watches for sale on our website at http://www.17jewel.com/ We have Ebay auctions in progress our Ebay store is at http://stores.shop.ebay.com/17-Jewel-Watches-and-More

Thanks for stopping by!

Invicta 9308 Pro Diver Watch

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:15:00 +0000

This Invicta Pro Diver 9308 watch is powered by a precision Swiss quartz movement.

The rugged case and bracelet are made of brushed stainless steel. It has a blue dial and ratcheting unidirectional rotating bezel. It has luminous hour markers and hands. There is a date display at 3:00 viewable through a magnified window on the scratch resistant mineral crystal.

Complete with screw on stainless steel case back and screw down crown, this watch is water resistant to 200 meters (660 ft).

It comes in a nice presentation case, with 1 year limited warranty, and manual

The watch is retail tagged $275.

Seiko SKA390 Kinetic Watch

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:45:00 +0000

Here is a beautiful example of Seiko's Kinetic technology, the Seiko SKA390 gold tone watch with black dial.

The watch uses the movement of your wrist to charge a battery that powers the watch. There is a display window on the back of the watch that shows the winding rotor in action. This one has the Cal. 5M62, the better of the two Kinetic movements which means that it has a reserve of up to 6 months when fully charged. Of course to charge, you have to be active. If you are a slug or don't wear the watch it will run out of juice. There is charging information in the book that comes with the watch showing how to charge the watch. It shows walking for 720 meters will charge the watch for 2 days. That shouldn't be too hard to do. The charge indicator on the dial can be used to show how much the watch is charged. You wait until the second hand is at 12:00 then push the button at the 2:00 position. The second hand moves forward 5 seconds for each 25% of charge.

It comes with a matching gold tone bracelet. This is a large watch. It measures 41 mm diameter, 44 mm including the crown. It's 12 mm thick, it is 20 mm between the lugs and the bracelet is 19 mm wide. It weighs in at 4.7 oz.

The gold tone bracelet accomodates up to an 8 1/2 wrist and is adjustable downward. The bracelet has a pushbutton deployment clasp.

The watch has lumbrite hour markers and hands. It is water resistant to 100 meters.

It comes in a gift box with instructions and 1 year worldwide or 3 year U.S. limited warranty.

This is a stunning watch and a great value at $375. You can get it for much less at our Ebay store at http://www.ebaystores.com/17jewelwatchesandmore

Watch the video below for more on this great timepiece.

Thanks for stopping by.

Doug Clark
17jewel.com

Vintage Delbana 17 Jewel Chronograph Watch

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 22:13:00 +0000

Vintage Delbana Chronograph Watch Black Dial
Description		click on picture to super size click on picture to super size
This Delbana Chronograph from the 1950's is a very good example of Chronographs of the era. It is powered by a manual wind 17 Jewel Swiss Chronograph Movement. The watch has a black dial with luminescent hands and hour markers. It has a red second hand. The stainless steel case is 33 mm in diameter, 36 mm including the crown. It is 13 mm thick. It has two pushers for controlling the chronograph. The watch has a stainless steel case back and an acrylic crystal. These vintage chronographs are very popular and continue to appreciate in value. If you are a watch collector, one of these would be an excellent addition to your collection. FEATURES: Delbana 17 Jewel Swiss 2 register chronograph Circa 1950's Black Dial Size: - 33 mm case diameter - 44 mm long including lugs 19 mm between lugs - 36 mm diameter including crown - weight 41.4 grams (1.4 oz) Thanks for stopping by. Visit our website at www.17jewel.com for more information. Doug Clark

Watch Collecting as a Hobby

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:31:00 +0000

Watch Collecting as a Hobby

Vintage watches vary in price from ten dollars on up to over one hundred thousand dollars. A vintage 1950’s Rolex recently sold an Ebay for $16,500. I saw several listed at over ten times that amount. Just because you don’t have a big budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the hobby. Follow the guide below for a more satisfying watch collecting experience.

Where to buy – Vintage watches can be found almost everywhere. Look in your local free shopper newspaper. You’ll find them at local estate sales, antique malls, and auctions. Pawn shops usually have a good selection. On-line, check Craig’s List, Ebay and sites specializing in vintage watches. You might consider running an ad in the “wanted to buy” section of you local newspaper’s classifieds. Be careful, you may be swamped with offers.

Collect what you like – You may be interested in the Civil War or Railroading. If that’s the case, you may consider collecting pocket watches. Few people had the means or cared enough about the time to carry a pocket watch during the Civil War, but they were gaining in popularity.

With the expansion of the railroads timekeeping for rail safety became more important. The American Pocket Watch and specifically Railroad Watches are very collectible. Popular American Makers were Elgin, Hamilton, and Waltham.

The wristwatch became popular during WWI. There have been thousands of different types wristwatches made during the Twentieth Century. Wristwatches continue to be popular today and many are collectible. You many be fascinated with mechanical watches, automatics, multi-functions or chronographs. Since we can’t collect everything, choose a niche that interests you and follow that.

Caveat Emptor – (Let the Buyer Be Ware) The most convenient way to find a great selection of vintage watches is on Ebay. At any given time there are over 15,000 vintage watches listed for sales. You have to be careful, there are many fakes being offered as genuine. The last thing you want to do is spend hundreds of dollars on a watch and later find that it is not authentic. If your interest is in collecting Rolex watches, there are several guides on the Internet detailing how to spot a fake. If you do decide to buy an expensive timepiece on Ebay choose a seller with at very high feedback rating, like 99.7 – 100%. Over 1000 positive feedbacks, and A Powerseller. Read their return policy. Check the seller’s about me page and ask others on Ebay Forums. Buy from reputable sellers or dealers.

Do your homework - Study the listing, the description or lack of, and the pictures. Look for telltale signs that the seller is trying to pull one on you. Many sellers take lousy pictures, I often wonder if they do that because they don’t know how to use a camera or they post blurry, dim pictures taken far away from the item to hide something.

Many sellers take only one picture. When buying a vintage timepiece on the Internet it’s better to have pictures of the case, front, back and sides, the face, and the movement. This way you can get a better feel for the watches overall condition. If you feel that you need more pictures, email the seller and ask for them. Most honest sellers will not have a problem with your request.

Read up on the item you are considering bidding on. Estimate the fair market value of the watch. I use an excellent publication “Complete Price Guide to Watches”. You should be able to find a copy on Amazon or Ebay. This reference guide has over 1000 pages of information and pictures of pocket and wristwatches with information and recent prices paid at watch collector shows. You need this information to make an informed buying decision. This reference has valuable information about the history and technology of timekeeping devices as well.

Visit websites devoted to horology, the study of timekeeping, to learn more about this interesting hobby. Go to watch and clock shows. The National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors puts on several shows across the country every year. They also offer several workshops as well. Visit their website at http://www.nawcc.org for more information. While you’re at it, join, the NAWCC. You will receive the “NAWCC Bulletin” published bi-monthly and “The Mart” both interesting and informative.

Always buy quality - Like collecting anything, the most important thing is quality.

It is better to have one nice watch in your collection than five beaters.
Look at it this way. If your budget for the month is $200 for your watch collection look for that one $200 watch rather than buying five $40 watches. What good is it to have five watches that don’t work, have missing parts, and have cases with scratches, worn plating, scratched crystals, corroded dials and movements?

Never pay more than fair market value -You are always better off to pay more for a complete working timepiece with all original parts in fine condition or above. That being said, study your price guide and don’t pay more than fair market value. Don’t get caught up in an auction bidding war and end up paying too much. There will always be another example come up for auction at a later date.

Conclusion – Watch collecting can be fun and enjoyable. Follow these rules:
- Learn all you can about the hobby.
- Stay within your budget
- Find a niche – buy what you like.
- Buy from reputable dealers
- Always buy quality
- Never pay more than fair market value
- Have fun!

Doug Clark
www.17jewel.com

Why I Like Mechanical Watches

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:57:00 +0000

Reliability - I like mechanical watches because they don’t have a battery. Most of today’s watches are powered by a small button type alkaline or lithium battery; over 40 different sizes. Why can’t they have one size fits all battery?

The battery always seems to run out at an inopportune time. Sure most watches with quartz analog movements manifest a low battery by the second hand jumping two seconds at a time but we keep putting off going to the jeweler to get the battery replaced until it’s too late.

If I were in a survival situation I would rather have a mechanical watch with an automatic or self-winding movement. I wouldn’t be wondering when my watch was going to stop for lack of electrical power.

What about the Kinetic watches? Well, they have a capacitor that is charged by a rotor similar to one found on an automatic movement. I have had the capacitor fail on these movements more than once. Reliable? I think not.

There are other reasons to like watches with mechanical movements as well…

Esthetics – Mechanical movements with their gears, jewels, balance wheels and hairsprings are works of art compared to the cheaply made mass produced throwaway modern quartz movements.

Many of today’s mechanical watches have exhibition case backs with a glass window to proudly display the movement in action. Rock the watch and see the winding rotor move and catch a glimpse of the heart of the watch, the balance wheel, spinning in a constant rhythm.

Most pocket watch movements of the 19th and early 20th centuries had elaborately decorated and thoughtfully designed movements. True works of art and very collectable today. I doubt if today’s quartz watches will be treasured and sought after in years to come.

History – The mechanical watch can be traced back to the late 1500’s, with the development of a spring capable of supplying power instead of weights. The balance spring was developed in the late 1600’s.

The need for accurate timekeeping for global navigation led to the development of the chronometer was in the late 1700’s. Many improvements were made during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The advent of the railroad and accurate timekeeping to prevent rail accidents led to the development of the American Railroad Pocket Watch. Lever set and stem wound, these watches are still considered some of the best timepieces and very collectable today.

During the Twentieth Century many improvements were made. Wristwatches became popular during World War I. Having a watch on the wrist was more practical than fumbling for a pocket watch in the trenches.

Self-winding or Automatic Movements were introduced around 1920.
Mechanical movements continued to be popular until Seiko introduced the quartz movement in 1969. Because of the quartz movement’s accuracy, and increasingly lower cost to produce, sales skyrocket. The Swiss watch industry was brought to its knees. The production of mechanical movements plummeted in the 70’s and 80’s.

There has been a resurgence of watches powered with mechanical movements in the last two decades. People have come to appreciate the beauty and history of the mechanical movement. Most high end watches are powered with mechanical movements and probably will continue for years to come.

Sometimes old technology is best.

Doug Clark

17jewel.com

Watches and Water Resistance

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 23:31:00 +0000

Let's keep this simple. If you don't have a diver watch and you are going for a swim, take your watch off. If you are washing dishes, take your watch off. If you are bathing or taking a shower, take your watch off. It's that simple.

Watches are tested by manufactures by gently submerging the watch in a tank full of water. They do not test by actually swimming and sloshing them around under water.

That being said, it's best to purchase a watch rated higher in water resistance rather than lower.
If you plan on getting your watch wet a lot consider purchasing one that includes a screw on case back and a screw down crown. Avoid swimming with chronograph watches with pushers. Water is likely to leak in around the pushers.

One more thing; if you plan on dunking your watch under water and it does have a screw down crown, make sure it is screwed down. I had a customer with a new watch with the screw down crown feature, he went to the lake fishing, caught a fish and reached in to retrieve the fish and his watch promptly filled up with water. He had just set his watch and forgot to screw down the crown.

Here is a guide to wristwatch water resistance:

Rating Your watch should survive
50 Meters Casual hand washing
100 Meters Surface Swimming
200 Meters Snorkeling or Scuba Diving to 30 meters max
1000 Meters Scuba Diving

I hope this clears up some questions about water resistance. Thanks for stopping by.

Doug Clark

Watch Care

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 12:05:00 +0000

Introduction - This guide provides tips on how to care for vintage and modern watches. Quality timepieces are expensive and you want to make them last a long time to retain their function and value. This how to guide should help.

First we will examine how to care for vintage watches and then we will examine how to care for modern watches.

Vintage Wristwatch Care - When choosing a vintage wristwatch, remember that early models often had to be wound by hand daily, were not shock resistant, and were not water resistant.

For daily wear, a later model self-winding or automatic watch featuring shock resistance and water resistance may be a better choice. These features began showing up in the late 40's and early 50's and continued through the 70's until the advent of the quartz movement.

Your watch should be cleaned and lubricated every two years by a qualified watchmaker. Dirt increases wear and watch oils dry up with time and slow and eventually stop movements. Interestingly, your watch may begin gaining time when it needs a cleaning. The hairspring on the balance wheel may become dirty making the balance wheel swing in a shorter arc causing more beats per minute.

Keep your watch away from water. Moisture and rust kills more watches than anything else. Once rust attacks a movement little can be done to reverse the damage.

It is a good practice to wind your watch every morning. If you need to ship your watch, wind it fully before hand to reduce the chance of damage in transit. Modern Wristwatch Care - The same principals apply to care for modern watches as for vintage watches. Keep them wound regularly by hand, or with the use of a winder for automatic watches.

Although most modern wristwatches are shock resistant and water resistant, avoid excessive shock and exposure to water. There are special diver watches made for underwater use, but most wristwatches are not "waterproof".

Battery operated watches require care too. Change or remove the battery as soon as it runs down. An old battery left in a watch my leak and ruin the movement.

Avoid extreme temperatures, magnets, and harsh chemicals. Remove your watch when working on your car or other equipment to avoid scratching the case, bracelet and crystal.

Following these tips, your timepiece should last for years to come.

For more information visit our website www.17jewel.com

Pulsar PF3647 by Seiko Men's Tech Gear Chronograph Alarm

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:29:00 +0000

This great looking Men's Pulsar by Seiko chronograph watch is from the Tech Gear collection. Truly an awesome timepiece it is powered by a quality Seiko precision quartz chronograph movement. It has a patterned navy blue face, with 3 subdials, luminous hour and minute hands and a yellow second hand. It also comes with luminous hour markers and a date display at the 3:00 position. A nice feature of this watch is the built in alarm function. All stainless steel case, with a screw on case back found in watches costing hundreds more, this watch is water resistant to 100 meters. The stainless steel adjustable link bracelet features a push button release for the fold over clasp. It comes beautifully gift boxed with 3 year limited warranty and manual. Retail priced $250

FEATURES:
NEW Pulsar by Seiko Men's Quartz Chronograph
Blue patterned dial with three functioning eyes
60 minute 60 second, and 24 hour alarm sub dials
Luminus hands, and hour markers
Yellow second hand
Date display at 3 o'clock
All stainless steel case/screw on case back.
adjustable bracelet with push button release
Gift boxed with instructions and 3 yr warranty
Retail pre-tagged $250
Visit our website www.17jewel.com for this and other great watch values.

CROTON CA301094SSBL SS AUTOMATIC DATE WATCH

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 22:54:00 +0000

This great looking Croton Automatic Watch features all stainless steel construction and classic styling found in watches costing thousands more.

The quality Japanese self winding movement needs no batteries, it is powered by the movement of your wrist.

The watch comes with a royal blue dial and luminescent hour markers and hands. The unidirectional rotating bezel is useful for timing. It comes with a screw on stainless steel case back stainless steel and signed screw down crown give the watch water resistance to 200 meters or 660 feet.

The adjustable bracelet is heavy stainless steel with fold over signed clasp. The coated scratch resistant sapphire coated mineral crystal features a magnifier over the date display at the 3 o'clock position.

It is 43 mm in diameter, 13 mm thick and the bracelet is 22 mm wide. The watch weighs 5.6 oz.

The watch comes in a nice faux leather presentation box with instructions and limited lifetime warranty.

It retails for $500 but get it for much less on our website. www.17jewel.com

FEATURES:

Quality Automatic Movement - No batteries needed
Rugged stainless steel case
Screw on stainless case back and screw down crown
Water resistant to 20 ATM - 200 meters or 660 feet
Heavy adjustable ss bracelet with deployment clasp
Unidirectional rotating bezel
Beautiful Royal Blue Dial
Luminous hands and hour markers
Sweep second hand
Scratch resistant sapphire coated mineral crystal
Date display at 3 o'clock with magnifier
Case diameter: 43 mm
Case thickness: 13 mm
Distance between lugs: 22 mm
New in beautiful presentation box
Instructions and limited lifetime warranty

Retail price $450.00

INVICTA 9897 CHRONOGRAPH STRAP SWISS ETA WATCH

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:48:00 +0000

The Invicta 9897 Tank Chronograh Watch is equipped with a precision Swiss ETA G15.211 6 Jewel Quartz 3 eye Chronograph Movement.

The subidials include a 30 minute timer at 10 o'clock, a 1/10 second timer at 2 o'clock, a second hand dial at 6 o'clock. The second hand is used for the 60 second timer. The chronograph is controlled and set with the two gleaming pushers.

The watch has a gray dial with contrasting raised gleaming arabic hour markers. It has luminous hour, minute and second hands. This watch has a black leather strap with signed tang buckle. It is water resistant to 50 meters.

This watch comes gift boxed with instructions and a one-year limited warranty. Sure to be noticed, this watch is at home in the office or after hours. It retails for $375 but get it for much at http://www.17jewel.com/

FEATURES:

Swiss ETA G15.211 Quartz Chronograph movement.
Gray Rectangular Dial with date display at 4:30
30 min, 1/10 sec and 60 sec eyes
Raised Silver tone hour markers
Luminescent hour minute and second hands
Water resistant to 50 meters
Width 39 mm, Length 44 mm include lugs
22 mm between lugs, 13 mm thick
Weight 2.6 oz
Battery 394, est. life 38 months
Black leather strap with silver tone signed buckle
Gift Box, instructions and 1 year warranty
Retail price $375.00

Visit http://www.17jewel.com for this and other great watch values.

INVICTA 9905 SWISS RESORT CUBE CHRONOGRAPH WATCH

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:46:00 +0000

This awesome Invicta Resort Chrono Cube watch features a professional Swiss chronograph movement. Sure to be noticed, this watch is at home in the office or after hours. A great addition to your collection.

FEATURES:
Professional Swiss Quartz Chronograph Movement
42mm Gleaming Case 12.5mm thick
Black Enamal Dial
Silver colored hour markers
Three subdials Seconds, 60 Minutes and 12 hrs
Luminous Hands
Padded Black Italian Lorica Strap
Gift box, instructions and warranty included.
Retail price $550.00

Check this and other great values on our website http://www.17jewel.com/

Choosing a Luxury Watch - One Man's POV

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 18:33:00 +0000

Have you ever considered what your watch says about you? Like an automobile, your watch makes a statement about your personality. Do you drive a Lexus or a BMW? If you drive a Lexus you probably want to impress others and enjoy being seen in it. If you drive a BMW you probably drive it because you enjoy it's superb handling and appreciate the engineering that goes into it. Bling or Breitling.

Increasingly, people are turning to watches as a luxury accessory that says as much as your choice of clothing might. Fashion gurus agree. Albert Bensoussan, director of Louis Vuitton Watches, in an interview with the International Herald Tribune, said "It is not so much about telling time any more . . . It is about self-expression."

What Expression Do You Want To Make? From deciding on the type of band that best suits your needs to the color of the face to whether or not you want to include precious stones, the thought that goes into your fine watch selection should be just as important as the thought that goes into any other part of your wardrobe. You wouldn't put on a wrinkled cotton t-shirt to meet with an important client. Why wear a watch from a discount store?

Factors to Consider Your Personality: If you have a fun, laid back personality, you probably want a luxury watch that is less formal like a Franck Muller. A bold personality might indicate that you need a unique, cutting-edge watch that will display your confidence well. Think about who you are, and let your watch help you make that statement.

Your Sense of Style: Think about your standard dress. If it's the suit and tie crowd, you certainly need something with a precious stone or certainly something more proper than a sports band. If, on the other hand, you run a diving shop in the islands, a luxury sports watch like one made by Omega is going to be your style. Girard-Perregaux is one company that seems to understand style well, and their watch offerings match the day to day needs of many.

Your Needs: You must have a watch that is on par with your day to day needs. As a result, if your watch wearing needs vary from formal to casual, more than one luxury watch is advisable.

Finding the right watch is essential to completing your image. Make your selections carefully, buy what you like, after all, you are the one paying for it and the one who will enjoy wearing it.

Let me know what you think...
Doug Clark
17jewel.com

How to Choose a Watch

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 14:05:00 +0000

Introduction - There are literally thousands of different styles to choose from. Prices range from tens to thousands of dollars. Case materials range from plastic to stainless steel, gold or titanium. Functions start from the basic to the extreme.

Your objective in choosing a watch is to buy a watch with the features you need at a price you can afford. Because you probably have an active and varied lifestyle, this may mean buying more than one watch. You may end up with a collection of watches. There is nothing wrong with that.

Movements include battery powered electronic quartz and classic mechanical.

One of the main reasons for wearing a watch is to allow you to tell time. If this of main importance to you, then select a watch with a quartz movement. Better yet, buy one with the atomic feature that sets the watch automatically via satellite.

If however, you are interested in the mechanical and epithetic value of the timepiece and are less concerned with absolute accuracy, choose a mechanical watch. These come with mechanical and self winding movements. Self winding or automatic movements are powered by the movement of your wrist. The motion causes a rotor to turn inside the movement that winds the mainspring giving the movement power to operate.

Developed over the centuries, I find mechanical movements most interesting. Many are a work of art and become collectors items and family heirlooms.

Bracelets range anywhere from plastic, or leather to gold, stainless steel, titanium, or a combination of different materials.

Watch Crystals are made from acrylic, harder to scratch mineral glass, or harder synthetic sapphire.

Value - the value of a watch is determined by the materials, the type of movement employed, the quality and attention to detail in manufacture, the number of complications (functions), and the rarity.

Function - There are different styles of watches suited for different activities. Dress or casual watches made of stainless steel, gold or titanium are a good choice for the office. Sport watches made of plastic or stainless steel are a good choice for outdoor activities.

The most simple analog movements include an hour and minute hand. Followed by the three hand movement that adds a second hand. Next, a date display, and a month display. Each added feature is called a complication. Movements featuring several complications such as moon phase, chronograph, and alarm are called grand complication movements.

Digital movements use electronics and LCD (liquid crystal diode) or LED (light emitting diode) displays. Most are multi function and may include chronograph, alarm, and other advanced features such as thermometer, altimeter and more.

Some watches feature both analog and digital displays, the analog/digital watch movement.

Shock and Water Resistance - are other factors to consider. In the board room, a gold watch with a leather strap may be appropriate, but utterly useless sailing or skin diving.

Shock resistance is the ability of the watch movement to withstand g-forces. Higher quality mechanical watches typically have better shock resistance built in. Quartz movements are more shock resistant based on their design. Since they are electronic, they have few moving parts and are less likely to be damaged by being roughly used.

Water Resistance relates to how the watch can withstand being submerged. Water resistance is measured in atmospheres (ATM's) 1 ATM = 10 meters. Most dress watches are rated at 3ATM and can withstand accidental splashes. Watches rated at 5 ATM can be worn in the shower. For swimming or snorkeling, watches rated at 10 ATM or above are recommended.

Most watches with higher water resistance have screw down crowns which help keep water out. Read on to learn more about selecting a watch.

For more information we encourage you to visit the NAWCC web site to learn more about vintage watches and this fascinating hobby.

Swiss Army 241083 Garrison Calendar Strap Watch

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 01:52:00 +0000

This Swiss Army Garrison calendar strap watch will look great on your wrist and last for years to come because it is a genuine Swiss made Swiss Army brand timepiece.

It's case is all stainless steel with a screw on stainless steel case back making it water resistant to 100 meters. It contains a precision Swiss quartz movement.

The black dial has a read Swiss Army logo at 12:00, large easy to read luminous hour markers and luminous minute and hour hands. It also features a red second hand and date display at 3:00.

The watch is 43 mm in diameter including the signed crown. It is only 9 mm thick and weighs in at 2.1 oz.

The genuine brown leather strap has a tang buckle and is 20 mm wide at the lugs. It will accommodate an 8 inch wrist.

FEATURES:

Made in Switzerland
Precision Swiss Quartz Movement
Swiss Army Logo @ 12:00
Black dial with luminous hands, markers
Military time ring
All stainless steel, screw on caseback
Calendar window @ 3:00
Scratch resistant mineral crystal
Luminous minute and hour hands
Red second hand
Easy to read luminous hour markers
Water resistant to 100 meters/330 feet
Brown genuine leather strap with tang buckle
New, boxed wit warranty and manual
1 year limited manufacturer's warranty
Retail marked $135
Dimensions:
- Diameter: 43 mm at signed crown
- Thickness: 9 mm
- Weight 2.1 oz
- Strap 20 mm wide
- Accomodates 8" wrist.
Retail price $135.00

Two Movements Compared the ETA 2824-2 and the Miyota 8215 Automatic

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:04:00 +0000

The Miyota 8215 and ETA 2824-2 are two Automatic Date movements that have been around for years. Both are fine watch movements that are dependable and accurate. Both are used by several watch makers world wide.

While it is not publicized, most watch manufactures these days don’t make their own movements. Swiss manufacturers were hit hard in the mid Seventy’s with the advent of cheap disposable quartz movements. Many makers when out of business, most of those who survived now employ "ebauche" (spec) movements, manufactured by ETA ,Valjoux and a few others.

The Swiss ETA 2824-2 25 Jewel Automatic movement is used in the Invicta 9937 a great value at $299.99.

The Swiss ETA 2824-2 movement is used in several makes including Auguste Reymond, Cartier, Dugena, Eterna, Festina, Fortis, Gaddy's, Kienzle, Maurice Lacroix, MHR, Motochron, Oris, Schwarz-Etienne, TAG-Heuer, Tissot to name a few.

Almost identical Invicta 8926 with a Miyota 8215 21 Jewel Automatic a great daily wear value at $104.99.

The Miyota 8215 is used in such brands as Camel, Citizen, Dugena, Festina and Invicta. Miyota is owned by Citizen in Japan.

The two movements, while similar, have differences that set them apart, both in functionality and application.

Cost - The 25 Jewel ETA 2824-2 Automatic Movement can be purchased from Ofrei (A large watch materials house) for about $78. It is employed in watches costing thousands including the Rolex Tudor Submariner. The 21 Jewel Miyota 8215 costs about $37 and is used in watches priced from $100 and up.

BPH - Beats per hour. ETA 2824-2 28,800 BPH or 8 beats per second (4 Hz) vs 21,600 or 6 beats per second (3 Hz) for the Miyota 8215. Most mechanical movements run at 18,000 BPH or 5 beats per second (2.5 Hz). Both movements have higher than average BPH a plus.

Accuracy is generally better on movements with higher BPH. The TimeZone has an excellent article on the subject.

Higher end watches employ movements with high beats per second. An easy way to judge movement quality without taking it out of the case is to watch how smoothly the second hand runs. Higher quality movements display a smoother running second hand.

Finish - The finish on the ETA is smoother and more polished than the Miyota. The ETA is available with gold plating as used by the Invica 9937. This does not affect the performance of the movement. Many and many could argue who’s going to look at the movement anyway? It’s is an esthetic issue.

Jewels – The ETA has 25 Jewels and the Miyota has 21 Jewels. Jewels, typically synthetic rubis are used in watch movements, not to add to their value, but to reduce friction and wear on moving parts. Lower end watches may have only 7 to 15 jewels. The standard for quality watches is 17 jewels or more. There is an upper end to the number of jewels necessary, typically, anything over 25 jewels for these types of automatic movements are just for decoration.

Power Reserve - Power reserve is the number of hours a movement will run when fully wound. Most mainsprings will power a watch for 30 hours or more. The ETA has about a 40 hour power reserve, the Miyota has a 45 hour reserve.

Winding Mechanism – Both watches employ a winding rotor that winds the mainspring with the movement of the wrist. The Miyota employs a ball bearing unidirectional winding rotor. The ETA utilizes a ball bearing rotor that winds in both directions. The ETA takes less wrist movement to wind the mainspring.

Second Hand Drive – The Miyota employs an indirect second hand drive and the ETA uses the newer direct second hand drive. The second hand on the Miyota may appear to stop for a moment with various wrist movements, but this does not affect accuracy.

Shock Resistance – The ETA uses Incabloc shock resistance, a method developed in the 1930’s to allow the end jewels on the balance staff to move or ‘float’ so the balance is not damaged when the watch is dropped or bumped. The Miyota uses its own proprietary shock resistance on the balance (Parashock).

Hacking – The ETA’s second hand stops when the stem is pulled for setting the time. A feature called hacking. Handy for synchronizing watches like in the war movies, or setting the watch with a standard clock like WWV. The second hand does not stop on the Miyota 8215 when setting the time.

Date set – Bot the ETA 2824-2 and the Miyota have the quick set date function.
Conclusion - Both movements have a track record of accuracy, dependability, and longevity. They are employed by several low, medium and high end makes. The ETA 2824-2 in my opinion is the better of the two. It is Swiss made and has been in service since 1982. With 25 verses 21 jewels, higher beats per minute, omni-directional winding mechanisim, and hacking feature, the 2824-2 comes out ahead.

Based on price, the Miyota 8215 by Citizen is a great value and would be a good choice in an everyday watch or weekend beater.

Email us if you have questions, suggestions, or want to add to this article.

Doug Clark
http://www.17jewel.com/

Timex Expedition T45881 Analog/Digital Watch

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 21:46:00 +0000

Great for the military, hiking, camping or working in the yard, this Timex Expedition resin combo watch provides all the benefits of digital & analog watches in one. With a 24 hour chronograph, 24 hour countdown timer, and no less than 3 time zones. Full face Indiglow system illuminates both analogue face and digital display. Features INDIGLO night-light, NIGHT-MODE feature, 24-hour chronograph with lap or split option, 24-hour countdown timer, 3 time zones, Alarm, Water-resistant 100m, Analog Movement with Digital Display, Olive Nylon Strap, Metallic Case, One-Year Warranty, 3 Year Battery Life.

FEATURES:
Men's beige dial, military resin case
Stainless steel caseback
Arabic numerals
Unidirectional, ratcheting bezel
Analog Movement with Digital Display
INDIGLO night-light
NIGHT-MODE feature
3 time zones
Alarm
24 hour countdown timer
24 hour chronograph with lap or split option
Hourly chime
Water resistant to 100M/330F
3 year battery life (approximate)
Olive, nylon strap, tang buckle
NEW, boxed with warranty and manual
1 Year Warranty
Dimensions:
- Weight 1.2 oz
- Diameter: 43.mm including crown
- Thickness: 12 mm
Battery: CR2016
Retail price $49.95

Buy it for less on our website: http://www.17jewel.com

Timex T45501 Men's Perpetual Day/Date Quartz Bracelet

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 21:53:00 +0000

Want a massive man watch without all the fluff? This is it. It's a Timex - "Takes a licking and keeps on ticking". Battery life 7 years (approx) with free replacement.

Weighing in at 5.5 oz this Timex Expedition perpetual calendar is sure to keep you on time. It's man sized stainless 46 mm case (including crown) encases a perpetual date movement with day of week and magnified date display. Large luminous hour markers and luminous hands make it easy to read and the Timex Indiglo feature makes it even easier to read at night. For timing, use the unidirectional rotating bezel. The stainless steel bracelet has a signed pushbutton fold over clasp and accomodates up to a man sized 8" wrist.

Features:

Men's Expedition silver/white patterned dial
NEW, boxed with warranty and manual
Blue Indiglo night light
Unidirectional rotating bezel
Perpetual calendar
Magnified date window @ 3:00
Day window @ 9:00
Luminescent hands
Second hand
Stainless case and case back
Stainless bracelet w/push button release
INDIGLO night light
Water resistant to 330 Feet
7 year battery life (approx)
Battery CR2016
1 year warranty
Dimensions:
Case Diameter: 42 mm
Diameter including crown: 46 mm
Thickness: 12.5 mm
Weight: 5.5 oz
Retail price $99.95

Swiss Army 24127 Base Camp Watch Review

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 19:52:00 +0000

This Swiss Army Base Camp Watch would be great for military, field, hiking, camping, or any casual use. Hey it's a Swiss Army, built to last.

Check out the video below:

Read more about this watch below and remember to visit http://www.17jewel.com

FEATURES:

- New in Box Genuine Swiss Army Brand Watch
- Made in Switzerland with Swiss Quartz Movement
- Scratch resistant mineral crystal
- Water resistant to 100 meters (330 ft)
- Stainless Steel Case
- Luminous Hands and Hour Markers
- Black dial with military time ring
- Screw on stainless steel case back
- Date display at 3 o'clock
- Smoke colored rubber strap with tang buckle
- Case diameter: 40 mm 44 mm including signed crown
- Thickness: 9 mm
- Distance between lugs: 13 mm
- Widest part of strap: 20 mm
- Weight: 2.3 oz
- Comes boxed with instructions and 1 yr warranty
- Retail price $175.00

Timex Watch Review T42271 Men's Expedition RealTree Hardwoods/Compass Watch

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 16:07:00 +0000

Description
This is a great watch for the outdoorsman, camper, hiker, soldier or weekend beater. This rugged Timex Expedition RealTree Hardwoods watch features an electronic compass so you'll never get lost. The compass always points north. The rotating bezel allows you to set the compass rose. With large luminous hour markers and hand and the Timex Indiglo feature it is easy to read even at night. It even has a date display at 4:30. For more information please visit our website at http://www.17jewel.com

FEATURES:

RealTree Hardwoods pattern on case and strap
Accurate electronic compass
Declination adjustment scale
Stainless steel case
Water resistant leather strap with tang buckle
4th hand compass needle (red)
20 second "time-out" in compass mode
Quick-date calendar window @ 4:30
3 year battery life (approx)
Bi-directional bezel with compass markings
Luminescent hands
INDIGLO night-light
Water resistant to 100M/330F
Retail tagged @ $109.95
Dimameter including Crown: 43 mm
Thickness: 14 mm
Strap fits up to 8" dia wrist
Weight: 2.6 oz
Battery CR2016

Timex Ladies Gold Toned Dress Watch w/Indiglo (20101)

noreply@blogger.com (watchblogger) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:07:00 +0000

Description

This Lady Timex gold toned dress watch will look great on your wrist. Great for work or after hours this watch features easy to read raised gold tone hour markers and a sweep second hand. It has the cool Indiglo feature so you can read it at night by pushing the crown. The gleaming case is about the size of a quarter and has gold tone accents so you can wear it with gold or silver jewelery. The strap is genuine black leather and accomodates up to an 8" wrist. Water resistant to 30 meters, it comes factory fresh with 1 year warranty and instructions. A great watch at a great price.

Click here to visit our Ebay store for this and other great products

FEATURES:

Ladies silver/white dial
Arabic gold toned numerals
NEW, boxed with 1 year warranty and manual
Quartz analog with bezel and crown layered in gold
Silver tone base metal case
Water resistant to 30M
Indiglo night light
Stainless steel caseback
Black genuine leather upper strap
Suggested retail - $34.95
Diameter 25 mm (about the size of a quarter)
Thickness 8 mm
Fits up to an 8" wrist.
Weight 0.6 oz.

Retail price $34.95