By: Ask Bill
Submitted: 2010-04-24 14:23:36 | Word Count: 567
In a modern world, it is understandable that all the low-tech devices of yesteryear are, well, in the past. But there are many individuals that care for these nostalgic pieces. For some it might be an old typewriter, a vintage record player, or in the world of timepieces the mechanical watch. The mechanical watch in particular is just one of those classic pieces of technology from the past that have become some kind of collector's item for watch lovers around the world. But what exactly is it? What distinguishes it from all other watches? And why is it such a collector's item? Well here are some answers to those questions and suggestions on where you can buy them.
What is it?
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What is a mechanical watch? Well, it is essentially a timepiece that is mechanized by a spring (also known as a "mainspring"), and once it is activated, it sets off a series of mechanisms within the watch to also activate and thus allowing the timepiece to reveal the appropriate time. This process becomes continuous, which is probably why when you hear the "ticking" sound off from one of these timepieces every second, which indicates that the watch is operating. However one feature that can be troublesome (especially to those that are accustomed to the advancement of technology) is the fact that at often times the mainspring must be wound from time to time to generate the momentum within the mechanism. But for some that is just a small price to pay for such a beautiful piece of vintage watch engineering.
How old is it?
Simply put, it's pretty old. The mechanical watch was derived from spring powered clocks, which appeared in Europe in the 1400s. The portable sized versions were developed in the 1600s. The first personal timepieces were attached to clothing or around the neck, not the wrists, and was used by the wealthy, who were the only ones that were able to afford it. It was definitely a status symbol that symbolized who you are, how much money you have, and essentially what is your status in society. However within time, as the technology in watchmaking improved and mass production was introduced to the industry, these once prized items were worn by the masses. And soon the mechanical watch became a thing of the past when the much efficient and convenient quartz watch was invented in 1969. The introduction of the quartz made this watch a thing of the past, but since then has become a prize collectors item that has become more valuable than ever before.
Where can I get it?
Your best bet to finding one of these gems is probably the internet. There are a ton of specialty retailers across the web that are shelving out these vintage pieces, many at a good price. Although there are some that may cost you a couple thousands, there are some (depending on the brand) that can set you back for only a few hundred dollars. Also there are a lot of famous brands that are still producing these types of watches. Brands like Cartier, Tissot, and Omega have some amazingly beautiful timepieces that I am sure anyone can appreciate.
Although it might be overshadowed by advanced watchmaking technologies, it is no doubt that the mechanical watch is truly a collectors item that will be treasured for years to come.
