Like always, the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie or SIHH 2019 had many of the best watchmakers and collectors all wound up. SIHH saw many perpetual calendars, an array of moon phases and also, several clocks. While some brands launched new, bold collections, others removed their archives for upgrades on classic watches. Here are the six most beautiful and innovative watches of SIHH 2019. 1. IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Spitfire Let’s begin with one of the affordable timepieces, an exquisite, brand-new version of the IWC Pilot’s Chronograph Spitfire. With this new model, IWC paid homage to the iconic British fighter plane – the Spitfire. The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Calendar Spitfire is merely a variation on its stainless steel brother. However, the watch offers a vintage feel, featuring an olive green dial, a bronze case and robust brown calfskin strap. And, the 41mm case diameter of the new Spitfire renders an appealing wrist presence. 2. Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar Vacheron Constantin showcased the innovative Traditionelle Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar. The watch features two regulating systems that operate at different frequencies. The user can select between a 5Hz active mode and a 1.2Hz standby mode, offering an impressive 65days power reserve. 3. Audemars Piguet Self-winding Chronograph Code 11:59 Audemars Piguet Code 11:59 collection ideally was the most alienating release at SIHH. The name ‘CODE 11.59’ refers to the last minute prior to a new day. The manufacturer released 13 new CODE 11.59 references, including three new calibres and five complications. Because of its classic, simple look, the collection certainly came as a huge shocker for those who are well-versed with AP’s most popular lineup. 4. Cartier Santos-Dumont Chronograph Louis Cartier designed the Santos-Dumont originally in 1904 to pay homage to the famed aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. Over the years, the manufacturer continued to upgrade the original model and finally, introduced a steel version of Santos-Dumont this year. However, Cartier equipped the latest Santos-Dumont collection with quartz movement. Some may sneer at the quartz movement, but the fact is that: While the quartz movement provides high longevity and efficiency, it also helped in keeping the price down. 5. Tag Heuer Tourbillon Nanograph
Tag Heuer introduced the Tourbillon Nanograph, fitting a carbon balance spring. The Tag Heuer Tourbillon Nanograph is quite a sheen statement timepiece that comes in a yellow-black colour scheme and a case of 45mm diameter. 6. Hermes Arceau L’Heure de la Lune Moon watch admirers will ideally do a double-take with this new Arceau L’Heure de la Lune. The limited-edition watch sports two small lacquer dials that turn around covering and uncovering the mother-of-pearl moons. However, it takes 59days to complete a full rotation. The watch portrays the moon concurrently in the northern and southern hemispheres. Looking to sell your watch in London? Fill up this online form and get a free valuation today.
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From the complex movement housed within the case to the luminous material on the metal and dial and also, gemstones that embellish the exterior, each aspect of a Rolex watch is made and devised with utmost precision and care. Rolex is known to take nearly one year to develop every timepiece that hits the market. And, this ideally provides an attestation to their superior quality. However, you may be interested to know that diamond and gold Rolex watches are among the most sought-after for their luxurious and striking aesthetic. Let’s today explore some facts about the Rolex collection of diamond timepieces and also, ever-growing world of aftermarket diamond Rolex watches. Have a look! Factory-set Rolex Diamonds Rolex is known to have incredible standards for the components it purchases from its suppliers. The materials include precious metals along with gemstones like diamonds, emeralds and rubies. Interestingly enough, the manufacturer has a big gemological department that aims to buy, test and set precious stones or primarily, diamonds in a range of Rolex watches. Whether using x-rays or any other alternatives, they check every incoming gemstone to make sure that they are real. As per the reports, only two in 20million diamonds have been found fake in the years Rolex has been testing diamonds. While the brand indeed assesses every batch of diamonds, it showers an expository effect on the diamonds they utilise. Each diamond or stone is meticulously inspected and selected based on its quality and clarity. Typically, they have a clarity grade of ‘IF’ and colour grade ‘D-G’. More significantly, all diamonds or precious gems on a Rolex timepiece are hand-selected as well as hand-set, allotting similar care given to an excellent jewellery piece. Consequently, every diamond is nearly perfect and holds its value well with time. Although it is more common to find a diamond dial or diamond bezel watch, Rolex also adorns some of its watches with diamonds on their bracelet and lugs. Rolex Watches That Have Diamonds Rolex has a few models in its catalogue that features factory-set diamonds. The sports watches like the GMT-Master II and the Submariner that the brand once fabricated with diamonds have been later replaced with less sumptuous references. However, while the demand for diamond Rolexes are still high, Rolex continues to craft watches embellished with factory-set diamonds. Examples are like the Rolex Datejust, Rolex Date, Rolex Day-Date and the Rolex Pearlmaster. These Rolex watches are graceful and considerately devised to render sufficient opulence without making them look too flashy. Ideally, this is one of the reasons that have accorded a lot to their success. Customised or Aftermarket Diamond Rolex Watches Out of the total number of Rolex timepieces introduced in the market, only a few ones are ideally factory-set with diamonds. Isn’t it surprising? The rest of the watches are actually custom or aftermarket. Rolex employs some of the most skilful gemstone-setters of the industry and utilises only the highest quality diamonds. A real factory-set diamond watch of Rolex is indeed rare and also, retains its value better than the aftermarket ones. Why? Whether it is about the diamond’s quality or quality of its setting, a custom diamond-set Rolex watch rarely comes close to the similar quality standard like a genuine diamond-set Rolex. In certain instances, you will find that a customised Rolex watch worth lesser than it was before the gemstones were set. An original factory-set diamond Rolex watch will indeed fetch you a higher price than an aftermarket one when you sell it to any potential watch buyers in London or anywhere in the UK. While many people consider the aftermarket diamonds as a non-genuine material, the diamonds can also sometimes cause functional problems for the watch. How to sell your Rolex in London?
Are you looking to ‘sell my Rolex London’ or ‘sell Rolex watch’ to raise instant cash? At The Luxury Hut, we provide our customers with a quick and straightforward way to sell Rolex watches for competitive prices. Simply, fill up our online form and receive a price quote. Or, you can call us on 0207 242 5411 to book an appointment at our office in Hatton Garden, London. With decades of experience and knowledge in dealing with pre-owned luxury watches, we make sure to offer an accurate valuation of any Rolex watches sold to us. Thus, you can rest assured to obtain the best possible price when you choose to ‘sell my Rolex’ to us at The Luxury Hut. Get your free valuation today. Like many seasoned watch collectors, you may find yourself confused when you try to differentiate between authentic and original watches. The foremost thing to do is to stop thinking of the terms 'original' and 'authentic' as synonymous. Whether you are looking to 'sell Rolex watch', 'sell watches' or invest in a new luxury timepiece, read on the below guide to know about the significant differences between two luxury watch categories – original and authentic. Authentic Watches Authentic watches are the genuine timepieces from the brand, uncontested in origin. Thus, if you refer a watch to be 'authentic', it should be 100% real. However, the term 'authentic' is used in the watchmaking industry to differentiate between genuine and fake timepieces that are significantly emulated and sold. When you decide to 'sell Rolex' or 'sell my watch' to any professional watch buyers, the first thing they will do is verify your watch's authenticity. The dealer may look at the accompanying papers, original box or any other relevant documents of your watch to confirm its authenticity. Thus, it is essential that you retain the original box and papers of your watch as it will not only verify its authenticity but also may fetch you a higher resale price when selling your watch. Similarly, if you choose to buy a luxury watch, you should follow the same. However, the first step to ensure you are getting an authentic timepiece is always choosing a reputable and trustworthy dealer to buy a luxury watch. To know what to look for when trying to authenticate a luxury watch, make sure to check out our 5 Tips to Authenticate A Luxury Watch. Original Watches At first, a watch has to be an authentic piece to be categorised as an original timepiece. The fact is that when a watch is categorised as 'original', it signifies that the timepiece is a genuine watch from the respective brand. More significantly, it means that the watch has not undergone any upgrades or modifications since it was originally produced and sold. In other words, a timepiece is considered to be original if any parts of the watch have not been replaced with later-era upgraded functionalities or changed in any way. However, the original watches are also often referred to as 'honest' timepieces. Collectors, as well as potential dealers, typically look for originality in pre-owned watches, specifically in vintage timepieces. It means that they look for aspects such as whether the original factory-installed parts are faded, chipped or scratched, and custom details like enhanced or diamond bezels. Indeed, certain watch buyers and collectors prefer timepieces that never underwent servicing or polishing that could have obstructed the watch's natural process of ageing. Today, potential watch dealers are willing to pay a premium for original vintage watches as they are scarce and difficult to find. Here lies the fact: Many years ago, it was quite natural for owners of luxury watches such as Rolex to get the timepiece polished, serviced or have its watch parts replaced (when necessary). Although the manufacturers did these using authentic new components, they were not still the original features of the timepiece. Thus, if a vintage watch retains all its original parts, it is indeed unique as well as highly valuable. So, how to tell if a Rolex watch is authentic? Read the blog: How to verify the authenticity of a Rolex watch.
However, when it comes to selling a luxury watch, The Luxury Hut provides a quick, secure and convenient way to get the best price possible for an authentic watch. Experts at The Luxury Hut can assess your watch's condition, quality and authenticity. For those who want to 'sell watches', 'sell my watch' or 'sell my Rolex watch', simply fill up the online form and get an initial price quote today. The brand-new Bulgari Octo Finissimo GMT chronograph set its fifth world record as the thinnest automatic chronograph in the world. The watch is endowed with a case that measures less than 6.90mm in thickness and a merely 3.30mm movement, thereby making it the thinnest watch in the world. Moreover, this all-new Bulgari chronograph sports a second complication in the form of a GMT that ensures to make things even better. Neither square nor round, the Bulgari Octo GMT chronograph of the Finissimo collection started a trend of ultra-thin timepieces in horology industry, surpassing brands such as Piaget in some ways. However, for those who are looking to ‘sell my watch’ of Bulgari or sell watches of any other luxury brand, get in touch with any trustworthy watch buyers in London to ensure you are getting the best possible deal. Let’s today take a quick look at the Bulgari Octo Finissimo GMT Automatic watch that has made a world record as traveller’s chronograph with its unique style. Features to Know The new Bulgari Octo Finissimo GMT Automatic watch flaunts titanium 42mm watch case size and a display case back.
The Movement The Bulgari Octo Finissimo GMT automatic chronograph is powered by a brand-new in-house movement along with a GMT function.
Where to sell luxury watches in London? For those who are wondering ‘where to sell watches in London?’ or ‘what is the best place to sell my watch UK?’, keep in mind: Whether you want to sell a Bulgari watch or ‘sell watches’ of any other luxury brands, it is always essential to choose a reliable watch buyer in London or anywhere in the UK. With trustworthy watch buyers like at The Luxury Hut in London, you can rest assured that you will get a fair and competitive price when selling your watch in a straightforward and hassle-free way. Simply, fill up the online form and receive your initial price quote. If you are satisfied with it, bring in or send your watch to confirm the final offer. Accept it and get paid within minutes. Rolex made the Explorer II for cave explorers or speleologists who could not track the time during their work below the earth’s surface. The fact is that when you are not bare to daylight, you are likely to lose track of time. Have you ever found yourself in such a situation? The Rolex Explorer lineup was devised for professional use. Indeed, the original Rolex Explorer watch can be regarded as the first-ever professional sports watch of the brand. However, the robust timepiece lacked certain complications or features that would make them particularly attuned to exploration. Nonetheless, the Rolex Explorer line that dates back to 1953 were self-winding and highly durable watches that exhibited merely the time of day. However, do you own a Rolex Explorer watch and planning to ‘sell my Rolex’ for cash? Keep in mind: Also Read: Rolex Datejust: The History of the True Industry Icon Whether you are looking to sell your Rolex Explorer or ‘sell Rolex’ watch of any other collection, it is essential to choose a trustworthy buyer to ensure you are getting the best possible deal. Nonetheless, let’s today delve into the history of the most significant and of course, the ultimate vintage sports watch – Rolex Explorer II 1655 that is rare and today extremely desirable among potential collectors. The Rolex Explorer II Reference 1655 Rolex launched the ever first version of the Explorer II reference 1655 in 1971. While the reference 1655 was not a re-modified version of the prevailing Explorer watch, Rolex accorded it the designation ‘Explorer II’. The watch was designed for people who work for prolonged periods in low-light conditions like in caves or deep caverns underneath the earth. Thus, what are the features that made the reference 1655 attuned for speleologists?
Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide to Rolex Serial Numbers Readability on the Rolex Explorer II 1655 The Explorer II reference 1655 features both 24-hour and 12-hour markings on its dial that boost the readability of its 24hour display.
Consequently, those who were accustomed to the legibility of 12hour display faced difficulties in reading the time. Thus, although the reference 1655 was made highly functional and innovative, it faced criticism for being cluttered as well as challenging to read. Also Read: The History of Rolex Cosmograph Daytona However, Rolex equipped the watch with the same COSC-certified calibre movement and 26-jewel that was employed inside its GMT-Master collection. This offered the additional functionality of the date complication and 24hour hand.
In simple words, Rolex offered such a unique set of features to the Explorer II reference 1655 to make a perfect timepiece for cave explorers who work in total darkness for days. The Nicknames of Explorer II 1655 While the watch featured a big, 24hour arrow-shaped hand, the Rolex Explorer II ref 1655 earned the ‘Freccionne’ nickname among many Italian collectors and dealers. Interestingly, the reference 1655 also acquired the popular nickname ‘Steve McQueen’. How? Rolex is known to advertise a campaign that featured the popular Hollywood actor, Steve McQueen. However, there is no such proof that the noteworthy actor ever indeed wore or owned this specific model. From 1971 to 1985 production run, Rolex made little changes to the reference 1655. This includes slight changes in the dial, two distinctive seconds-hand designs and four bezel variations. However, the overall look and aesthetics of the Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 remained significantly unaltered. Also Read: How to Verify the Authenticity of a Rolex watch? So, Why the Rolex Explorer II 1655 is Important? The Rolex Explorer II reference 1655 holds a significant position in Rolex’s catalogue because of these reasons:
Indeed, the subsequent generations of Rolex Explorer II closely resemble the brand’s GMT-Master II timepieces. However, the watch might be virtually unpopular during its production period; the reference 1655 is today highly desirable by collectors. It is also coveted among potential buyers who are willing to pay the highest possible price for this vintage Rolex reference that comes with a unique appearance and features. Also Read: 5 Exclusive Rolex Cerachrom Bezels Regardless, while relatively all Rolex watches are created using the best-quality components and metal, they keep hold of its value with time. Thus, if you own a Rolex watch and looking to raise instant cash, you can choose to ‘sell Rolex’, ‘sell my Rolex’ or sell your Rolex to any potential watch buyers in London with full confidence. With professional and trusted watch dealers like at The Luxury Hut, you are likely to receive the most competitive market price of your Rolex watch. Simply, fill up the online form and receive an initial quote. If you are satisfied with the given quote, bring in or send your watch to confirm the final offer. Accept it and get paid within minutes with no hassle. Unlike the Rolex’s Submariner, GMT-Master or Daytona, Rolex Air-King receives less attention and is forgotten often among the more famous Rolex collections. However, the Air-King is one of the oldest collections of Rolex watches that come with a compelling history, spanning over 70years of continuous production. The Rolex Air-King is one of the most coveted Rolex watches, especially among the vintage watch aficionados or seekers out there. Nonetheless, the Air-King that is worthy of your attention is the iconic Reference 5500.
Thus, whether you are looking to sell your Rolex Air-King or ‘sell my Rolex’ of any other collection, today let’s take a close look at the longest running watches of the collection – Rolex Air-King Reference 5500. Rolex Air-King History – Dates Back to World War II Rolex manufactured many ‘Air’ iterations for the British Royal Air Force during and after World War II. The story goes like that British pilots of World War II rejected their standard-issued field timepieces in favour of Oyster Perpetual watches. Thus, Hans Wilsdorf, the co-founder of Rolex, decided to introduce a series of aviation watches, especially to pay homage to the brave RAF pilots. The first official ‘Air-King’ watch launched in 1945 was the Reference 4925. While the watch came in 34mm watch case, it was named as ‘King’ as the case size was regarded substantial during that time. The Rolex Air-King became a part of the ‘Air’ watch collection that included Air-Giant, Air-Tiger and Air-Lion. But, the Rolex Air-Kings outlasted the others. However, the first Rolex Air-King Ref. 4925 is now rare to find that features a cream dial along with even-numbered Arabic numerals. Also Read: The History of Rolex Cosmograph Daytona While the brand continued to upgrade the design, the Air-King collection started to achieve their aesthetic with the evolutionary Reference 6652. Launched in 1953, the Rolex Air-King Ref. 6652 housed the Calibre 1030 movement. However, the watch even debuts the creamy silver dial and stick hour markers that turned out to be an iconic complication in the succeeding Reference 5500. In 1957, Rolex introduced a brand-new version of the Air-King in the reference 5500. The Air-King Reference 5500 In 1957, Rolex launched the Air-King Reference 5500 to define the line for the next 37years. The watch featured an Oystersteel case of 34mm and a matching Oyster bracelet. However, the 34mm size of the watch case was even pretty small for the vintage era when the Explorer Ref. 1016 was available at 36mm. Depending on the production year, the Air-King 5500 was equipped with Calibre 1520 or 1530 movement. Nonetheless, the Rolex Air-King was not ever chronometer certified. Thus, the vintage Air-king watches do not have the words ‘superlative chronometer-certified’ engraved on the dials. Instead, you will notice the terms ‘precision’ and ‘super precision’ etched at the 6 o’clock position for the Calibre 1520 and Calibre 1530 respectively. In fact, one of the most coveted Air-King watches among the collectors is the one that flaunts the words ‘Air-King’ as well as ‘Super Precision’ in red. However, all watches of the reference 5500 do not certainly follow this nomenclature rule. Also Read: New Rolex Day-Date 36: The Watch of Prestige Additionally, in some rare Air-King ref. 5500 timepieces, no text appears on the lower half of the dial, and sometimes collectors call them as ‘Pre-Precision’ dials. With no additional features like a rotational bezel, date complication or chronograph registers, the Rolex ref. 5500 boasts one of the simplest and most underrated designs of all time. The watch sports a creamy, silver dial housed below an acrylic crystal and stick markers at the 12 o’clock position. The Reference 5500 stayed in production for nearly 37years and its rugged durability, and classic look remained significantly unaltered the entire time. Although the watch has always been regarded as one of the ‘entry-level’ Rolex, its superior build quality and timeless design have made it a popular choice for politicians and celebrities. Also Read: How to Verify the Authenticity of a Rolex watch? The Rolex Air-King ref. 5500 comes with all trademark complications of a Rolex watch but with no unnecessary features. Moreover, the watch’s modest 34mm size makes it a versatile choice for men as well as women. However, for those who are looking to ‘sell Rolex’ or ‘sell Rolex watches’ for instant cash, get in touch with trusted watch buyers who apprehend the real significance of the watches manufactured by elite brands like Rolex. With reliable watch dealers like at The Luxury Hut, you are likely to obtain the best possible price of your Rolex watch, be it is a vintage Rolex Air-King or any contemporary Rolex model. To get started with the process, fill up our online form and get an initial price quote right away. The luxury watch market is filled with different types of horological pieces, and among the sports watches, diver timepieces are especially more popular and highly coveted. While they indeed are some of the coolest looking watches out there, divers’ watches typically work more than a mere functional tool for diving. Today, the diver watches serve not only as precise underwater equipment but also as a fashion statement. Whether you are looking to ‘sell my watch’, or ‘sell watches’ for cash, let’s first take a look at some of the most significant diving watches that ideally should be stapled in everyone’s collection.
Rolex Submariner The Rolex Submariner is one of the world’s most popular watches out there. Although it is believed that the Submariner was the first contemporary diving watch, it is not the case. However, the story of Rolex Submariner starts in the early 1950s. The amateur diver and director of Rolex, Rene P. Jeanneret challenged the company to fabricate a diving timepiece that would be perfect for everyday use. In response to the director’s request, Rolex produced a diver watch in 1953 and introduced its first two Submariner watches in the 1954 Baselworld. Consequently, a legacy was born. Although the manufacturer has made several improvements to the materials and technology, Rolex has hardly touched its looks. Thus, the Rolex Submariner has not significantly changed in its design over the decades. Also Read: 3 Vintage Rolex Watches Set World Record Prices at Phillips Auction House Omega Seamaster Ploprof Omega Seamaster ‘Ploprof’ has enjoyed an iconic status ever since it was released in 1971. The Ploprof 600 is a highly robust, reliable, and water-resistant watch, designed especially for professional divers in the shipping and oil industries. However, Omega collaborated with the world-popular Jacques Cousteau and historic COMEX divers to ensure they made the ‘Ploprof’ right. The watch case sports a unique crown that is fastened by a locking bolt and is designed from a single stainless steel block. One of the most significant features is the Ploprof’s locking bezel that is operated through a big push-piece as well as its mesh bracelet and a polygonal shape. With some improved specifications, Omega generally launched a re-creation of the original watch in the form of the new Seamaster Ploprof 1200M. Also Read: 5 Myths & Misconceptions to Know Before You Sell Watches for Cash Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Introduced in 1953, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms watch was developed in alliance with Captain Robert Maloubier and his lieutenant. While the company released twenty watches for testing in 1953, they indeed passed each test and soon turned to be the official timepiece of the combat divers at French Navy. Today, the Fifty Fathoms remains the most important watch of the brand and has developed into an entire collection of timepieces with options ranging from the classic Fifty Fathoms Automatique to the modern edition Bathyscaphe. Moreover, this watch pays tribute to the first contemporary diver watch and the beginning of a significant era in the history of watchmaking. Want to sell your luxury watch? Luxury watches are indeed classic works of art and craftsmanship. And, we at The Luxury Hut understand the value of a watch, manufactured by elite brands like Rolex, Breitling, Cartier and many others. For those who are looking to ‘sell my watch’ or sell your watch, get in touch with us today. You are likely to receive a fair value of your watch in the second hand market when selling your watch to us at The Luxury Hut. Selling a watch to The Luxury Hut is simple, secure and straightforward, be it is online or via appointment. To begin the process:
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