What is a neo vintage watch?

The market has regained an interest in vintage. Whether for watches, furniture or even cars, there has been a renewed interest in vintage objects in recent years. For watches, this interest mainly concerns watches from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. Most of the mythical watch models were designed during these years, such as the Submariner or the Speedmaster for the 1950s or the Royal Oak or the Nautilus for the 1970s. Collectors are snapping up vintage models at a premium and the older the watches and the more closely they match the original model, the more desirable they are to collectors and the higher the resale price. It is not uncommon for the price difference between a reissue and an original model to be 1 to 10 or even 1 to 20!  The fact that these watches are beyond the financial reach of many collectors has encouraged watch brands to enter this market and offer new iterations of their flagship models. Thus, many brands have decided to reissue their iconic models by adapting them to contemporary standards.

 

 

it is a question of reviving an old model but with the desires and technologies of today.

 

The principle of the reissue, a watch made identical to the original

The principle of the re-edition is simple, it is a question of bringing out an old model but with the desires and technologies of today. Generally the re-editions integrate modern materials, their diameter increases to correspond to the current standards, are waterproof and have modern movements. There are several advantages to acquiring a re-edition of an old watch. Firstly, a re-issue is generally cheaper than a genuine vintage watch and there is no risk of being cheated on the authenticity of the watch or of certain parts that may have been changed. Reissues can be bought new which means they have a new movement, a warranty and a cleaner look for those who prefer a watch in perfect condition. Secondly, a neo-vintage watch is water resistant and usually has a larger diameter as watches have become larger over the years and through fashion. The new movements in these watches are generally more reliable than those of the time and benefit from the latest watchmaking innovations. These are watches that can be worn more easily on a daily basis, although a well-maintained vintage watch will also accompany you every day!

 

The best reissues of 2020

 

Let's start our top 3 reissues of the year 2020 with a quartz watch, proof that we love this type of movement! The new Hamilton American Classic PSR Digital Quartz is a re-edition of the 1970 digital model. We love its neo-retro look and its superb steel bracelet. It is a real connoisseur's watch that you will not see everywhere and that is nevertheless a legend! Price : 725€.

 

 

A reissue of one of our favourite movements, the Zenith El Primero, this Chronomaster A384 Revival benefits from the delightfully vintage 1969 37mm case. It is a truly contemporary watch with a 1960s design. If you like watches of this diameter, this is the ideal watch, especially with its leather strap that gives it a superb sporty chic look! Price: 7900€.

 

 

Finally a colourful diver! With its superb rainbow dial and its Milanese mesh bracelet, the Superocean Heritage 57 is a magnificent re-edition of a 1950s model. Equipped with a chronometer movement, a diameter of 42mm and a water resistance of 100m, it will accompany you every day while keeping its charm of yesteryear, a real watchmaker's favourite! Price : 4750€.