Over the centuries, man’s desire to keep accurate track of time gave rise to several breakthroughs in clock making technology. 18th and 19th century artisans began embellishing timepieces with fine engravings, precious metals and stones. The watch thus became a work of art.

Why Buy a Fine Watch?
Watches are highly priced as personal possessions. They are valued for their ability to keep precise time, for their ease of use and for many other functions they perform. A fine watch is associated with success, status, and service, and is a unique expression of personal taste. A fine watch is the perfect gift for yourself, a family member or a business colleague.

It’s Fashionable
A fine watch is a crucial and functional fashion accessory. Watches are available in numerous styles that reflect the personal tastes and needs of their owners. From rugged diving watches to sleek, stylish dress watches, there is a watch to match every lifestyle.

It’s Prestigious
Some watches carry the grace and tradition of well-known brand names recognized around the world as symbols of elegance and quality. Many of these brands have established their reputation over the span of decades.

It’s Artistic
Fine watches are designed and created by talented, highly trained artisans who turn the various components that make up a watch into a functional work of art. It is not unusual to see a watch created from precious metals and accentuated with gemstones.

It’s a Potential Heirloom
A properly maintained, fine crafted timepiece can be passed down from generation to generation. It’s a lovely remembrance of a loved one. In some cases, your watch can have value as an investment. Certain watches may increase in value over time as evidenced by the prices that some of the more prestigious brands fetch at auction houses.

Selecting a Fine Watch
Prices for a fine watch can range from $20 to over $10000, depending on the materials used to create the time piece, the watch’s functions and the quality of workmanship.
Gold or platinum watches with precious gemstone accents provide an excellent way to accessorize your wardrobe and show off your fashion style. To achieve the expensive luxury look without the expense, gold-plated watches are also available.
Your professional jeweler can help you select a watch that meets your needs and fits your budget.

Taking Care of Your Fine Watch
- No matter how handy you are, don't attempt to perform repairs yourself. Only expert jeweler/watchmaker should be trusted to put your watch back into working conditions.
- Replace broken or scratched crystals immediately. Even a hairline crack can let dust and moisture into the timekeeping mechanism, threatening its accuracy.
- Have your jeweler/watchmaker or an authorized watch dealer replace the battery in a quartz watch before it runs out. Dead batteries left in a watch can leak or corrode, ruining the timepiece.
- Oils from your skin can build up on a watch, you can give it a quick cleaning with a mixture of warm water and either a mild soap or a dish detergent. Dry the watch with a soft cloth after cleaning.


Jewelers of America, INC.