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Many people consider real estate or gold jewelry as the best and safest legacies to pass on to the next generation, but most people are ignorant of the fact that watches can also be a part of this legacy. In Indian households, this is a common thing to even consider. We have often seen our father wearing our grandfather’s watch and soon we will find that on our wrists as well. No matter how many watches you own, this particular watch will always be special as it shares the bond and emotions of three generations transcending through time. This is what we call a heirloom watch. However, a new watch that has emotional significance or an antique that was purchased from someone else can also be considered a heirloom. When it comes to heirlooms, the watch you choose needs to have a personal meaning. Popular heirloom timepieces are frequently associated with historic stories passed down through talking with family. They reflect not only an investment but also exceptional relationships, as well as a bond between the buyer and the watch.
Top 7 Timeless Heirlooms to Invest In: In case your grandfather’s or great-grandfather’s watch couldn’t reach you or went beyond repair, you might consider buying from this list
1. Patek Philippe Calatrava ref. 5227
People who have an interest in antique pieces will know it is impossible to start the list without a Patek Philippe. Their heirloom theme states, ‘You never actually own a Patek Philippe, you merely look after it for the next generation.’ Ref.5227 has a German-style movement, with a focus on minimalism, and top-notch craftsmanship. The timeless, classical, and refined design, put together with a finely manufactured automatic movement hidden underneath a hinged back checks all the categories of a ‘heirloom watch’.
2. Omega Speedmasters
The series of famous chronograph watches were related to the Olympics under the nickname ‘timekeeper’. These watches feature a straight lug, broad arrow hands, and a steel bezel with engraved lettering. The iconic straight baton hands came in 1963. Traditionally, the watch case measures 39 millimeters. With later models, the company enlarged the watch's diameter from 39mm to 40mm and placed an O-ring around the pusher to achieve increased water resistance. Widely regarded as one of the finest watch movements, the movement stands out for its horizontal-joint starter mechanism and chronograph column wheel. This also happened to be the first watch worn on the moon! Any of these classic Speedmasters would be an incredible heirloom watch and should hold value for years to come.
3. Rolex Submariner
Talking about classics without Rolex is like sipping your tea but cold. Created in 1953, the Rolex Submariner has been the most famous diving watch as well as the most famous luxury watch. The versatility of the watch is off the charts as it goes well with almost any outfit. Talking about the dynamicity and style statement, even half a century later the watch will be perfectly classic and a timeless investment. The superb pedigree ensures that the watch passes from one generation to the other effortlessly, but we highly doubt if you ever want to pass it on if you get your hands on such a majestic watch.
4. Cartier Tank
The watch is inspired by the actual WW1 Renault tank and has an elegant French look with a rectangle-shaped case. The bold Roman numerals stand out due to their haphazard arrangement and crown. The watch cannot be confused with other designs and stands out in any collection. The Tank also has a sapphire cabochon on the crown, which is Cartier's trademark symbol. Since the classic tank watch is no longer manufactured, it has become even more valuable and rare. Tank Louis Cartier, Tank Americaine, Tank Francaise, Tank MC, Tank Solo, and Tank Cintree are the current Cartier Tank watches in the line. As the manufacturing is discontinued, the watches can be pretty expensive.
5. FP Journe Chronometre Souverain
Thinking of a classic dress watch from one of the most famous brands, which you would like to hand down to the next generation? FP Journe Chronometre Souverain is just the watch you have been looking for. The watch is precious inside and out featuring not only a gold case, but its movement is also made entirely of rose gold, a signature of the brand.
Increase your sophistication with this watch.
6. MB&F Legacy Machine 1
An absolute stunner, the name in itself is everything. This is a testimony of the forgotten past. Inspired by the 19th century pocket watches this horological beauty will leave you amazed in its awe. The bold design of the watch certainly demands some amount of eccentricity from its wearer. But certainly, it is a very tasteful choice reflecting the owner’s personality and one of the best legacies to preserve. Look exotic with this watch.
7. Rolex GMT Master I & II
One of the most famous GMT models out there. Initially designed for pilots, this watch has successfully transcended time and profession. Rolex introduced this masterpiece to the world in 1954 which efficiently displayed two time zones. The first Rolex GMT-Master featured an Oyster coating, a 38-mm case, and a GMT hand. The bezel rotates and is marked within 24 hours. The GMT-Master II first appeared in 1983. It wasn't just a name change, but a larger shift in the model. The watch has a sapphire crystal, a quick date setting, and a glossy dial with white gold hour markers. Whatever you choose you will get the premium choice. Add this to your collection
Inheriting a heirloom watch might not be for everyone, not all people can understand or preserve the tradition but you can start the tradition. Consider buying a new watch to celebrate a key milestone. Whether it's a marriage, the birth of your first child, or a monumental business deal, the watch will mark a moment of growth and the positive memories that surround it. And since this piece is intended to stay in the family for good, make it unique and yours. A case-back engraving, for example, makes the watch one-of-a-kind. It'll also give the following generations of owners insight into the watch's significance.
Here are the ways that you need to turn your investment into a heirloom watch
1. Go for What Makes Sense
When choosing an heirloom piece, go for a classic model. Mechanical luxury watches are time-tested, and the iconic design will remain a mark of distinction for decades to come. Keep in mind, that you must choose a watch that suits your lifestyle. Go for a watch that embodies your passion. Be it the side of your oceanic exploration with Rolex Submariner or trekking with Omega Speedmaster, choose the one that is right for you.
2. Care for Your Investment
While the premium watches in the heirloom category are built like tanks and, some are built specially so that they can be part of a long-term legacy, they need some amount of care and servicing. It's important to get into a maintenance routine. For new watches, once every ten years is enough.
3. Use It Well
Well since you are willing to pass it down, it doesn’t mean you have to keep it in a safe. Using the watch is the only way it will become part of your life, whether it's every day, on special occasions, or while pursuing your passions. Each ding or scrape will tell a story and add to the personalization of the piece.
4. Pass it Down
Just as you collected the watch with a milestone, the next chapter should begin with a key life moment. Whether it's a wedding or graduation, there's no one perfect time to pass on a piece to the next generation. Instead, go with your gut. Your instincts will tell you when you've finished your time with the watch and it's ready for a new owner.
5. Tell the story
The last block to develop a lasting legacy is telling the story to those who will inherit it. This will give them a better understanding of what the watch means to you and help them connect the emotional strings to appreciate its significance.
Want To understand how to select the right watch for yourself? Watch the video
Well, that’s all there is to owning a heirloom watch. In case you don’t have the fortune to own one, select your preferred one from the list of the elites and gift something special to the next generation. Build that string of memories and emotions with your loved ones transcending the idea of time. For more such interesting information and blogs, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and join our WhatsApp community to be a part of the largest grooming community for men.
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