The Renaissance of Watches – a Passion That Grows
Although you can now check the time on almost any device with a display, classic wristwatches remain very popular. One could even argue that they have been experiencing a renaissance in Poland since the mid-1990s, gaining a growing number of enthusiasts.
However, I don't know anyone who was born a watch enthusiast. It's a passion that takes years to develop. Some people, through their love of watches, are marked by their loved ones. Others are naturally forced to reject their phones (like a tail in evolution) as their sole source of information about the time. Regardless, choosing a good watch is a challenge for almost everyone. But what exactly does a good watch mean?
Anatomy of a Timepiece: What's Visible and What's Hidden?
To understand a watch as a whole, you first need to examine its individual components. Those visible at first glance, such as the case, dial, or crown. And those invisible. The movement is the heart of every watch, responsible for its durability, but above all, for its accuracy.
Case and finish quality – 904L steel and precision cuts
The case is the focal point of any timepiece and the focus of our attention. The material from which it's made and the precision of the individual details should be eye-catching. What should we pay particular attention to? A quality watch will be characterized by sharp, perfectly milled edges. These are the lines that connect the main surfaces of the case. These, in turn, should be satin-finished, polished, or finished using a mixed technique. Speaking of details, it's worth noting the level of finish in the Balticus Moonfish. The entire watch is made of 904L steel, used by the world's largest watch brands. This material is extremely demanding to work with, but it also produces spectacular results. The multi-faceted finish of the bezel edge in this watch represents the highest level of attention to detail. Thanks to the perfectly executed cut lines and the steel used, an astonishing effect has been achieved, dazzling in the sunlight. Looking at the Balticus Moonfish, you instinctively know that this is a high-end watch.
Dial and sapphire glass – details and readability
The inside of the case conceals the dial. Besides the movement, this is the most delicate part of the watch. Access to it is protected by a glass. This glass should be sapphire and have an anti-reflective coating. This makes it easier to read the watch in sunlight.
In more expensive watches, the indices on the dial are applied. Their interior should be filled with a luminous substance. Sometimes, the watchmaker incorporates a unique element into the dial design, enhancing its appeal. Our Deep Water is a prime example. This diving watch features miniature versions of two oxygen tanks at 12 o'clock, successfully replacing traditional indices. This design touch has made them such a distinctive feature that watch enthusiasts can't mistake it for any other diver's watch on the market.
The heart of the watch – which mechanism to choose?
When looking for a good watch, you should also pay attention to the movement. Swiss-made watches are particularly popular, but Japanese movements are no less popular. The type of movement also plays a role. It can be mechanical, crown-driven, or automatic. In this case, a simple wrist movement is enough to start the watch. A good movement guarantees at least 40 hours of power reserve and is reliable and cheap to service.
Bracelet or strap? Solid links and premium leather.
A bracelet or strap is an essential element of any watch. Firstly, they enhance the watch's character and secondly, they hold it securely on the wrist. Good watches have bracelets made of solid steel links. Straps, in turn, should be made of high-quality leather. To ensure the watch rests securely on your wrist, the bracelet or strap should be equipped with a suitable clasp. The best watch manufacturers equip their watches with sets with an additional strap or bracelet. Some also add other accessories to their purchased watches, such as a strap changer.
Individuality is also a hallmark of a good watch. When we're flooded with mass-produced watches, even from renowned brands, we should pay special attention to watch manufacturers who prioritize the uniqueness of their products. They create limited editions of watches, each with its own unique serial number. It's a pleasant feeling to own a watch produced in a small number.
Choosing a watch can be a serious dilemma. First, you should like the one. Versatility is secondary, as it's always better to have two or even three watches than one. But before making a purchase, it's worth setting aside aesthetic considerations and focusing on the quality of the materials used, the distinctive details, the mechanism used, and the brand's history and origins. All these qualities should contribute to the watch of your dreams.
