BuyingTime Daily - February 2, 2026
Swatch Group’s 2025 reality check, indie leadership shifts, sharp new launches, smart CPO moves, standout reviews, and a steel Patek auction closing tonight.
Time Graphing today’s watch universe
The February 2, 2026 edition of Buying Time opens with a reminder that even the largest players are navigating choppy waters. Swatch Group reported softer revenues for 2025, but the more interesting takeaway is the momentum building in the second half of the year, particularly in China, setting a cautiously optimistic tone for 2026. At the other end of the spectrum, the independent world saw a notable transition as Stephen Forsey stepped away from day-to-day involvement at Greubel Forsey, underscoring a broader theme of generational handoffs and long-term stewardship rather than exits or fire sales.
New brands and new ideas were also front and center. Zach Weiss’s announcement of OraOrea signals a playful, design-led entrant arriving this spring, while Christiaan van der Klaauw moving into certified pre-owned shows how even niche maisons are embracing transparency and lifecycle ownership. On the retail side, Vacheron Constantin’s freshly renovated Singapore boutique reinforces how physical spaces still matter when done well, blending heritage with localized experience rather than chasing sheer footprint.
From a technical and product perspective, the upgraded SW200-2 Power+ from Sellita is one of those quiet industry shifts that will be felt everywhere, while Tiffany & Co. continues to sharpen its post-LVMH watch ambitions with diamond-forward, conversation-starting pieces. The month’s broader launch roundup reminded us how active January really was, capped by Chopard’s ultra-light Zagato Lab One Concept and the theatrical return of Henri Grandjean via a triple-axis tourbillon.
Reviews and comparisons rounded out the picture, with hands-on looks at new releases from Isotope Watches, Le Forban Sécurité Mer, and Louis Erard, plus practical value debates pitting icons like Rolex, Omega, and Jaeger-LeCoultre against credible alternatives. Opinion pieces dug into why older generations of familiar models can still feel more “right,” and why online configurators remain an untapped opportunity for most brands.
There’s plenty to watch on video this week as well, from deep dives into Audemars Piguet R&D to broader looks at hype cycles, creator economics, and affordable sleepers. And don’t miss tonight’s auction report spotlighting the 2025 Patek Philippe Calatrava Weekly Calendar 5212A-001, a steel Patek with personality that wraps up this evening.
–Michael Wolf
News Time
Swatch Group Revenues Down In 2025
In 2025, Swatch Group reported revenues of CHF 6,280 million, marking a decline of 1.3% at constant exchange rates and 5.9% at current rates, amid a challenging environment for the watch industry. Despite the overall downturn, the company experienced a notable recovery in the second half of the year, with sales growth of 4.7% at constant exchange rates and a significant acceleration in the fourth quarter. Operating profit fell to CHF 135 million from CHF 304 million in 2024, primarily due to challenges in production. However, with improved activity in the latter part of the year, particularly in China, Swatch Group is optimistic about potential sales and profit growth in 2026.
Stephen Forsey, Co-Founder Of Greubel Forsey, Steps Down From Company Board
Stephen Forsey, co-founder of the Swiss watch brand Greubel Forsey, has stepped down from the company’s board of directors, confirming that he will no longer participate in the daily operations of the business. While he remains a significant minority shareholder, his departure marks a shift in the company’s leadership, as he had been gradually stepping back from his role. Under the new leadership of CEO Michel Nydegger, the company is not seeking new investors and has no intention of selling a stake. Greubel Forsey continues to produce fewer than 200 watches per year, focusing on quality over quantity.
Introducing OraOrea by Zach Starr Weiss
Zach Weiss, co-founder of Worn & Wound, announces the launch of his independent watch brand, OraOrea. The name “OraOrea,” derived from Latin for “golden hour,” reflects a sense of bliss and captures the essence of the moment when everything feels right. The brand’s design philosophy emphasizes not just functionality but also a playful and approachable aesthetic. The official launch is slated for early April 2026, and Weiss reassures followers that OraOrea operates independently from Worn & Wound.
Just Because: Christiaan Van Der Klaauw Steps Into The CPO Game
Christiaan van der Klaauw has introduced a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program aimed at connecting the brand’s community of enthusiasts with those seeking vintage watches. The CPO initiative allows collectors to sell their vintage CvdK watches, which are then inspected, refurbished, and verified by the brand before being made available for sale. This approach not only revitalizes watches that might have otherwise remained unused but also provides a trustworthy channel for buyers looking for specific models. Through this initiative, Christiaan van der Klaauw aims to strengthen its community and enhance the experience of both collectors and casual enthusiasts in the world of luxury timepieces.
Vacheron Constantin re-opens the Singapore Boutique - now newly renovated
Vacheron Constantin has officially reopened its newly renovated boutique in Singapore, located on the third floor of Ion Orchard, covering an area of 150 square meters. The boutique features a distinctive brass facade adorned with the iconic Malteze Cross design, creating an elegant atmosphere that reflects the brand’s prestigious heritage. Inside, glass display cases showcase a selection of timepieces, including Les Collectionneurs and Les Cabinotiers, while a dedicated corner for strap customization and a full-time watchmaker cater to clients’ technical needs. The new location serves as both a showroom for haute horlogerie and aims to provide a unique experience that merges the Maison’s 270-year legacy of craftsmanship with local influences.
Feature Time
A Technical Perspective: Sellita Introduces The SW200-2 Power+
Sellita has unveiled the SW200-2 Power+, an upgraded version of its widely used automatic movement, the SW200-1. While the new calibre maintains the same dimensions and appearance, it features significant mechanical enhancements aimed at improving efficiency, stability, and power reserve. Key upgrades include a new gear train with optimized tooth geometry, a redesigned barrel that allows for increased energy storage, and an improved automatic winding system that supports a 65-hour power reserve. This strategic upgrade aims to enhance the performance and durability of the movement without sacrificing serviceability, thus setting a new technical standard in contemporary Swiss watchmaking.
Check out Tiffany & Co’s new watches
Tiffany & Co. has generated significant anticipation regarding its men’s watch collection following its acquisition by LVMH. At the recent LVMH Watch Week in Milan, the company showcased standout pieces such as the 40mm chronograph Timer and the Sixteen Stone Mother-of-Pearl watch. The Timer is a limited edition of 60 pieces, crafted from platinum and featuring an El Primero chronograph movement, with baguette-cut diamonds marking the hours and a striking Tiffany blue dial. The Sixteen Stone Mother-of-Pearl watch draws inspiration from Jean Schlumberger’s designs, showcasing a mother-of-pearl dial surrounded by yellow gold stitches and 24 rotating diamonds.
Here And Now: Watchmakers Need To Start Taking Online Configurators Seriously
The current state of the luxury watch market is being challenged by the absence of engaging online configurators, which are common in other luxury sectors like automotive and writing instruments. The author highlights the impressive customization tools used by brands like Montegrappa, which allow users to personalize their products in a satisfying and cost-effective manner. Despite the potential benefits, such as increased brand loyalty and deeper customer engagement, most watchmakers, with Rolex being a notable exception, have not embraced this technology. The piece suggests that the integration of a car brand-style configuration tool could significantly enhance interest in luxury watches among consumers.
Photo Report: Watch Spotting At Pitti Uomo Fall/Winter 2026
The winter edition of Pitti Uomo in Florence showcased a vibrant array of watches, attracting over 19,000 attendees, including designers, journalists, and influencers. The event highlighted a blend of vintage and modern styles, featuring iconic pieces from brands like Patek Philippe and Cartier alongside rugged timepieces from Eberhardt and Panerai. Among the standout pieces was a Cartier Arcade inspired by the windows of Place Vendôme, as well as a 1940s Eberhard chronograph with a Telemetry dial. The photo report encapsulates the essence of watch spotting at Pitti Uomo, celebrating both the elegance and diversity of timepieces that grace the streets of Florence.
Speaking to Bernard van Ormelingen and Bernard Braboretz from Atelier Bernard
L’Atelier Bernard, founded by Belgian artisans Bernard van Ormelingen and Bernard Braboretz, has made a noteworthy entrance into the independent watchmaking scene with their debut model, The Owl. The duo emphasizes a holistic approach to watchmaking, merging aesthetics with mechanics, and their shared vision led them from Belgium to Switzerland where they adopted rigorous standards of precision and craftsmanship. The Owl is designed to highlight the intricacies of its movement, featuring a Duplex escapement, which is a rare choice in contemporary wristwatches. Limited to just six pieces, the watch showcases meticulous hand-finishing and thoughtful design, ensuring every component is crafted with care.
The 7 Coolest New Watches That Dropped in JanuaryJanuary was an exciting month for watch enthusiasts, showcasing a variety of new timepieces from both LVMH and independent watchmakers. Notable releases included Jacob & Co.’s collaboration with MAD Paris, featuring the world’s fastest tourbillon in a striking black design, and MB&F’s introduction of the LM Sequential Flyback Evo with innovative dual chronograph functionality. H. Moser & Cie. presented a skeletonized version of the Endeavour Tourbillon, while Hublot teamed up with Yohji Yamamoto for a unique camouflage timepiece. Other significant launches included Piaget’s revival of the two-tone Polo and Omega’s fresh iterations of the Speedmaster Moonwatch.
The ABCs of Time: From Repeaters to Alarms, The Sounds That Watches Make
The evolution of timekeeping devices is highlighted through the history of mechanical clocks and watches, beginning with bell towers that marked hours and events in Europe during the late 13th century. The transition from these primitive timekeepers to pocket watches and modern chiming mechanisms reveals the significance of sound in horology, particularly through repeaters and sonneries. Mechanical alarms and musical watches represent further advancements in watchmaking, with notable examples like the Vulcain Cricket and Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox. The craftsmanship involved in creating these audible art pieces underscores the unique blend of engineering and artistry that defines high-end horology.
The decline of Food52, Goop, Hodinkee—and the internet’s dream of content-to-commerce
The decline of prominent content-to-commerce platforms like Food52, Goop, and Hodinkee reveals significant challenges in the model that once seemed promising. Initially, these companies thrived by offering curated product recommendations alongside engaging content, capturing consumer interest through their unique perspectives. However, as they expanded and sought to scale, they overwhelmed their operations with acquisitions and new product lines, ultimately leading to unsustainable growth. The shift in consumer behavior also played a crucial role, as few users had purchasing intent, leading to low conversion rates, while competitors like Wirecutter thrived by targeting consumers at the point of need.
Weekend Reads: Five Days of Horological Editorials—This Week’s Thought-Provoking Content
The week featured insightful editorials centered on the upcoming Watches and Wonders 2026, highlighting key predictions for renowned brands like Patek Philippe, Rolex, and Tudor. Notable discussions included anticipations surrounding the 50th anniversary of the Patek Philippe Nautilus and the significance of Rolex’s Oyster Case centenary, along with Tudor’s own 100-year milestone. Additionally, the introduction of the Chopard Zagato Lab One Concept watch showcased a remarkable collaboration, emphasizing innovation with its lightweight design. Each editorial provided a comprehensive look at current trends and future directions in the watch industry.
Who Was Raymond Weil? Fratello Talked To His Grandson To Learn More About The Brand’s Founder
Raymond Weil, who founded his eponymous watch brand in 1976 at the age of 50, navigated the challenges of the Swiss watch industry during a time dominated by cheap quartz watches. His grandson, Elie Bernheim, now the CEO, highlights Weil’s dedication to family and the arts, emphasizing that the brand’s connection to music remains integral to its identity. Under Elie’s guidance since 2014, Raymond Weil continues to focus on affordable luxury watches, producing around 80,000 annually while maintaining independence in a volatile market. The brand has experienced steady growth, particularly with the successful Millesime collection during the pandemic.
Editorial Time
Are Luxury Smartwatches a Thing of the Past?
The luxury smartwatch market appears to be dwindling, with only TAG Heuer continuing to innovate in this space, while other high-end brands like Hublot and Louis Vuitton have seemingly withdrawn. Industry experts suggest that luxury smartwatches are becoming a niche market with little profitability, primarily due to the high research and development costs and shorter product life cycles compared to traditional watches. Despite the challenges, TAG Heuer recently launched its Connected E5, which features proprietary software and aims to appeal to affluent customers seeking a unique connected experience. The brand recognizes that while luxury smartwatches may not yet match the profitability of their conventional counterparts, there is a market segment that desires a blend of luxury and technology.
Opinion Time
Why I Bought A Third-Generation Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Over The New Version
A third-generation Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M was chosen over the newly launched fourth generation due to its more traditional design elements, which are perceived as more tool-like. The chosen model features a unique sandblasted gunmetal-gray dial and a robust design that emphasizes functionality over luxury. Although the new generation enhances elegance with polished elements, it moves away from the traditional ruggedness that characterized earlier models. The watch’s matte surfaces and practical features, such as a rubber strap that fits snugly, contribute to its identity as a tool watch, allowing for a genuine connection to the brand’s diving heritage.
Why I Bought The Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic Universal Time
In 2015, a drive from Amsterdam to Brussels led to a fascination with the Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic Universal Time, a watch that combines elegance with practicality through its world-map dial and unique deadbeat seconds feature. Although initially deterred by its price, the watch’s sophisticated movement and aesthetic appeal lingered in memory, and after its discontinuation, the opportunity to purchase this timepiece arose. The Geophysic Universal Time stands out not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its impressive functionality, including the ability to display 24 time zones simultaneously. With its high-quality movement and meticulous finishing, this timepiece has become a cherished addition to the collection, promising to be a reliable companion through future adventures.
The Latest Time
Chopard’s Zagato Lab One Concept, The Brand’s Lightest Titanium Watch Ever
Chopard has introduced the Zagato Lab One Concept, its lightest titanium watch, weighing only 36.5 grams without a strap. Launched at the Retromobile classic car show in Paris, this limited edition of just 19 pieces emphasizes an ultralight design by forgoing traditional dials and cases. The watch features a rhodium-finished movement mainplate that serves as the dial, showcasing a power reserve indicator, hours, minutes, and a 60-second tourbillon. The ceramicized titanium case measures 42mm in diameter and 11.5mm in thickness, with a water resistance of 50 meters. Priced at approximately $149,500 USD.
The Bold, High-Tech Chopard Zagato Lab One Concept - Read More >
Henri Grandjean and Cie
Henri Grandjean and Cie. Presents the Magician, With Mysterious Triple-Axis Tourbillon
The Henri Grandjean Magician marks the return of the esteemed brand to the horological scene, featuring a captivating triple-axis tourbillon that appears to float in mid-air. This illusion is achieved through two transparent discs that facilitate the tourbillon’s movement, allowing for an intricate display of its rotation around three different axes. Powered by the hand-wound calibre 1831, the watch showcases exquisite design elements such as a rose gold-plated movement with Geneva stripes and an off-centre display for hours and minutes. The 45mm x 16mm rose gold case is priced between approximately $402,500 and $552,000 USD depending on the materials and embellishments.
Norqain
First Look: Norqain Adventure Chrono 41mm NHL, The Official Watch of the Hockey League
Norqain has unveiled the Adventure Chrono 41mm NHL Limited Edition watch, marking its role as the first Official Luxury Watch partner of the National Hockey League. This limited edition features a 41mm stainless steel case with a brushed finish, designed for action with a screw-down crown, unidirectional rotating bezel, and 100m water resistance. The dial showcases a unique “scratched ice” texture, with nods to hockey through its design elements, including a small seconds counter resembling a face-off circle. Available in a limited run of 1,917 pieces, buyers can choose between a black rubber strap or stainless steel bracelet, priced at approximately $5,130 USD and $5,346 USD respectively.
Wearing Time - Reviews
Isotope Watches
Isotope Moonshot Chronograph “Terra Maris”
The Isotope Moonshot Chronograph “Terra Maris” is a striking timepiece that merges a sporty aesthetic with a unique design inspired by the shoreline of Portugal. With its light brown to black gradient dial, the watch features chronograph subdials capped in bright metallic blue, presenting a modern yet unconventional look. Crafted from grade 5 titanium, the case and bracelet are sandblasted and treated to a flat black finish, ensuring durability and a sleek appearance. Despite its bold design, the Moonshot Terra Maris maintains functionality, with a clean dial layout that allows for easy readability.
Le Forban Securite Mer
Le Forban Sécurité Mer Marseillaise Watch Review: A Retro Diver Remake Gets The First Rubber Bund Strap
The Le Forban Sécurité Mer Marseillaise Onyx Black watch features a unique rubber bund strap, marking a first for diver’s watches. This retro remake of a 1979 model is smaller than its predecessor, measuring 40.8mm in width and 12mm in thickness, while offering an impressive water resistance of 250 meters. The watch showcases a flat AR-coated sapphire crystal and a unidirectional rotating bezel, while housing a Swiss-made Sellita caliber SW200 automatic movement. This timepiece appeals to those who appreciate the aesthetic of bund straps and offers a distinctive vintage style.
Louis Erard
Louis Erard 2340 Watch Review: The Brand’s Take On The Integrated Sports Watch
The Louis Erard 2340 watch marks a significant departure from the brand’s traditional focus on collaborations and regulators, introducing a modern chronograph into the competitive integrated bracelet market. This watch features a stainless steel case measuring 40mm across and 9mm thick, designed with a unique case shape that has oblong shoulders. Available in three color options—blue, slate, and mint—the dial showcases a repeating pattern that adds vibrancy and character. Powered by the Swiss automatic Sellita SW300-1, the watch achieves a slim profile while providing a robust 56-hour power reserve.
Comparing Time
Best Rolex GMT-Master II Alternatives We’ve Ever Reviewed
The Rolex GMT-Master II is often considered the benchmark for modern GMT watches, but its high price makes it inaccessible for many enthusiasts seeking value. This summary explores several alternatives that prioritize wearability, functionality, and affordability, including the Imperial Oceanguard GMT at $600, the Steinhart Ocean 39 GMT at $650, the Monta Skyquest GMT at $2,435, and the Tudor Black Bay GMT at $4,300. These alternatives each bring unique strengths to the table, catering to collectors who desire a practical GMT watch without the luxury price tag of a Rolex. Features such as reliable movements, solid build quality, and user-friendly designs ensure that these watches remain functional companions for travel and everyday use.
Best Valentine’s Day watches
February brings the opportunity to celebrate love with thoughtful gifts, and watches can serve as the perfect token for Valentine’s Day. A range of options are available, from the playful Swatch x The Simpsons Sweet Embrace to the luxurious Van Cleef & Arpels Lady Arpels Pont des Amoureux, which showcases exquisite craftsmanship with its romantic theme of lovers meeting on a moonlit bridge. For those looking to make a significant statement, the Louis Vuitton Tambour Fiery Heart Automata is a standout choice, blending artistry and symbolism in a stunning design. Whether opting for a fun collaboration or a sophisticated timepiece, the right watch can express affection and thoughtfulness this Valentine’s Day.
Buying Guide: Five Super Stylish Luxury Sports Watch Priced Below 1K
The buying guide highlights five stylish luxury sports watches, all priced below EUR 1,000, catering to those seeking affordable yet fashionable options. The featured models include the Mido Multifort 8 One Crown, the Citizen Tsuyosa 60 automatic, Yema’s Urban Traveller, Tissot’s PRX Powermatic 80 in lightweight titanium, and the ultra-thin Maen Manhattan 37. Each watch combines aesthetic appeal with functional design, ensuring they meet the needs of modern watch enthusiasts. This selection showcases that luxury does not have to come at an exorbitant price, allowing collectors and casual wearers alike to enjoy stylish timepieces without breaking the bank.
Citizen vs Orient: Which Affordable Watch Brand Offers Better Value?
The comparison between Citizen and Orient reveals two distinct philosophies in watchmaking. Citizen emphasizes convenience and practicality, offering a wide range of reliable watches that require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for those who prefer a “set-it-and-forget-it” approach. In contrast, Orient focuses on the emotional connection and engagement of wearing a mechanical watch, fostering a deeper relationship through the act of winding and maintaining the timepiece. Ultimately, while Orient provides a fulfilling mechanical experience, Citizen is presented as the better choice for those seeking maximum performance and reliability in an affordable watch.
Fratello’s Top 5 Favorite Recent Audemars Piguet Releases
The recent highlights from Audemars Piguet showcase a range of innovative timepieces that blend technology with aesthetic appeal. Notable releases include the Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar, the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph RD#5, and the RE:Master02 Selfwinding which pays homage to classic designs while introducing modern elements. The collection also includes the 37mm yellow gold Royal Oak with a turquoise dial, which offers a refreshing, tropical vibe with a distinctive natural stone face. Each model reflects Audemars Piguet’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, ensuring that the brand continues to surprise enthusiasts with each new release.
Sunday Morning Showdown: Longines Ultra-Chron Classic Vs. King Seiko SJE089
The Sunday Morning Showdown features a comparison between the Longines Ultra-Chron Classic and the King Seiko SJE089, both of which are vintage-inspired watches designed for daily wear. The Longines Ultra-Chron Classic, a remake of the original from 1967, boasts a high-beat caliber and a modern 37mm case that retains the charm of its predecessor while enhancing its relevance for contemporary users. In contrast, the King Seiko SJE089 draws inspiration from the classic King Seiko KSK ref. 44-9990 and features a moderate size and dressy aesthetics. Both watches are celebrated for their unique qualities, and the showdown invites enthusiasts to determine which one deserves the win based on their preferences.
Watching Time - Videos
Audemars Piguet’s R&D Revealed — Lucas Raggi Breaks Down Its Wildest Innovations
Audemars Piguet has unveiled some of its most groundbreaking innovations in research and development, with Lucas Raggi providing an in-depth analysis of these advancements. The video explores the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and enhancing the craftsmanship of luxury timepieces. It highlights various technologies and design philosophies that set Audemars Piguet apart in the competitive watchmaking industry. The presentation delves into the unique features and functionalities of the latest models, showcasing how they incorporate cutting-edge materials and engineering techniques.
Can Tim Find the Next Hype Watch?
The video explores the latest trends in the watch industry and examines what defines a “hype watch” and how Tim navigates the fast-paced world of luxury timepieces. The content is designed to engage viewers by investigating current market trends and emerging desirable models. With thoughtful preparation, it ensures the content is both timely and relevant to the current watch collecting landscape.
Fred Savage & Andrew McUtchen face off in a 3-WATCH THROW DOWN - YouTube - Time+Tide Watches
In a highly anticipated face-off, Fred Savage and Andrew McUtchen compete in a unique challenge that promises an entertaining clash between two personalities known for their distinctive styles. The video showcases the participants’ knowledge and passion for timepieces, highlighting their preferences and opinions on various watch models. The production emphasizes the excitement surrounding watch culture and aims to attract viewers through its engaging competitive format.
How watch youtubers make their money
YouTubers have developed various revenue streams through their platforms, capitalizing on the vast audience they attract. Many creators earn money through ad revenue generated from their videos, which is facilitated by YouTube’s Partner Program, while sponsorship deals with brands can significantly boost their income. Additionally, merchandising is another avenue where creators sell branded products directly to their fans. YouTubers also engage with their audiences through memberships and platform features like Super Chat, where viewers can pay to have their messages highlighted during live streams.
Rolex Fan Girl Buys First Grand Seiko
A Rolex enthusiast embarks on a new journey by purchasing her first Grand Seiko watch, showcasing her evolving taste in luxury timepieces. The transition from a Rolex fan to embracing Grand Seiko signifies a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship and the unique qualities that the brand offers. The video captures the excitement of this significant milestone, detailing the reasons behind the purchase and the emotional connection to the new watch.
The Biggest Watch Brands EXPOSED
The video explores the prominent players in the watch industry, revealing insights into their branding, marketing strategies, and product offerings. It delves into the history and evolution of these brands, highlighting how they have established themselves as leaders in a competitive market. Viewers can expect a detailed analysis that uncovers the strengths and weaknesses of major watch brands, along with their impact on consumer preferences.
These Affordable Watches Shouldn’t Be This Good!
The video highlights a selection of budget-friendly watches that offer exceptional quality and style. The content showcases various models and brands, emphasizing their features, durability, and aesthetic appeal, which often rival more expensive options in the market. Viewers can expect to see detailed reviews and comparisons, helping them make informed decisions without breaking the bank. With a strong focus on value, the presentation encourages viewers to explore these remarkable timepieces that combine functionality with a fashionable design.
Who makes Christopher Ward watches?
Christopher Ward watches are known for their blend of quality craftsmanship and affordability, appealing to a diverse range of watch enthusiasts. The company operates with a direct-to-consumer model, which helps them reduce costs and provide better value compared to traditional luxury watch brands. The production involves a collaboration with highly skilled Swiss manufacturers, ensuring that each piece meets strict standards of quality and performance. The brand is committed to transparency and ethical practices, which is reflected in their sourcing of materials and the manufacturing process.
Time Deals
The latest edition of eBay Finds showcases an impressive selection of vintage watches, with a particular focus on the timeless Omega Seamaster models. Featured items include a classic Omega Seamaster DeVille from 1967 with a stunning pink gold automatic movement and an elegant linen-finished silver dial, along with a unique 1960s Wittnauer “mystery dial” watch. Other highlights are a vintage Racine chronograph with a striking reverse panda dial, a sleek Seiko Lordmatic 5606-7190 from 1971, and another charming Omega Seamaster DeVille from 1965, complete with its original presentation box and papers. Each piece is carefully described, emphasizing their condition, unique features, and the craftsmanship that makes them desirable for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Events
Chronopolis launches during Watches and Wonders 2026
Chronopolis is a new watch event scheduled to take place from April 14 to 18, 2026, coinciding with Watches and Wonders in Geneva. Located at Les Halles de l’Île, the event aims to create a unique atmosphere that fosters creativity among independent watch brands with a focus on a design-led space that encourages genuine interactions between brands, collectors, and industry professionals. The event is free to all visitors and features 20 independent brands including notable names such as Atelier Wen, Baltic, and AWAKE. This inaugural event seeks to provide an immersive experience that celebrates storytelling and scenography, redefining the norms of the watch industry by prioritizing independence, authenticity, and openness.
BuyingTime at Auction
A few select current auctions that caught our eye on Grailzee and Bezel
[Friday’s auction watch, the 2020 Konstantin Chaykin Joker Classic L.E. 42MM Silver Dial Leather Strap (K07-O.Ti01.03) - was bid to $12,000 but did not meet its reserve. - make an offer]
2025 Patek Philippe Calatrava 40MM Silver Dial Leather Strap (5212A-001)
Auction Report: Patek Philippe Calatrava Weekly Calendar 5212A-001 (Full Set, 2025 Papers)
The lot on deck is the Patek Philippe Calatrava Weekly Calendar ref. 5212A-001 in stainless steel with the brand’s silvery opaline dial and that unmistakable “handwritten” typography. It’s a complication packaged like a daily planner with delusions of grandeur: day and date are joined by a central hand that points to the week number, because apparently we all needed one more way to feel judged by the calendar. Patek positions the concept explicitly around the “paper diary” vibe, with the week display as the headline feature.
On the hardware, this reference is notable precisely because it’s steel and still wearing a Calatrava-style suit. Patek calls steel “rare” for one of its complications, and the watch keeps the dressy proportions at 40mm while leaning casual with the strap and dial treatment. Inside is Patek’s self-winding caliber 26-330 with the weekly-calendar module (often listed as 26-330 S C J SE), and you’re typically looking at roughly a 35–45 hour power reserve depending on source and condition.
The seller description matters here: “very good condition,” plus inner/outer boxes, extras, and papers dated April 2025. That’s the checklist buyers actually want for a modern Patek that’s going to live in the secondary market—full set, recent papers, and no mystery backstory. As always, “very good” can mean anything from “lightly worn and honest” to “photographed softly,” so the real swing factor is case condition (bezel dings show up fast on steel), dial cleanliness, and whether the strap is original and tired or replaced and tidy.
On value: the market has been choppy for anything that isn’t a hype sports model, and the 5212A tends to trade like a cultured outsider—admired, but not immune. WatchCharts recently pegged the market price around the low $30Ks (about $31K as of late January 2026) while showing an authorized-retail “retail price” figure in the mid-to-high $40Ks. Other secondary listings across major marketplaces commonly cluster from the low/mid $30Ks up into the $40Ks depending on year, completeness, and whether the seller is feeling optimistic. Given your specifics—2025 papers and a full set—a realistic expectation for hammer/close (before taxes/fees/shipping) is usually roughly mid-$30Ks, with downside into the low $30Ks if the photos reveal real wear, and upside if it presents closer to “near-mint” than “very good.”
The punchline is that the 5212A is one of the more original modern Pateks you can actually wear without feeling like you’re cosplaying a banker. You’re buying a quirky calendar complication in steel with a dial that doesn’t take itself too seriously—while still paying the Patek tax for the privilege. If the condition is as clean as advertised and the set is truly complete, this is the kind of lot that makes sense when it closes in the $30Ks and starts looking less clever when it sprints into the $40Ks.
The auction ends tonight at 10:08 pm (Monday, February 2, 2026.)
Current bid: $20,000
Really interesting call on the Sellita SW200-2 Power+ being a bigger deal than most folks realise. The power reserve bump to 65 hours is nice but the gear train optimization actaully matters more longterm for serviceability. I wokred with a watchmaker who swore the older SW movements had too much friction under certain conditions, so this quiet upgrade might finally fix that.