Microband watches offer a refreshing alternative to the mainstream manufacturers, but I find myself looking in a different place for watches with engaging design variations.
The strength of the watch industry over decades (and its recent resurgence) means that there is a huge variety of styles, sizes, materials, complications, and accessories available to the enthusiast. As manufacturers compete, and new styles develop, some only lasting a short time, a huge catalog has grown. I am, of course, talking about vintage watches.
The term “vintage” may conjure up visions of silver pocket watches on chains for some, but there is a variety of interpretations online about how old a watch needs to be to make it “vintage”. Some say 25-30 years is a cut-off point, others say pre 1980. Fortunately none of these interpretations really matter when it comes to finding interesting designs.
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Seiko’s SARB017 with its iconic green dial, cathedral hands, and internal rotating bezel was introduced as recently as 2006 as a refresh of a 1960’s Alpinist watch. The SARB017 was different enough to become an icon today, and now discontinued, its price has skyrocketed.
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to find interesting watch designs. The watch shown at the top of this page is a Seiko Skyliner 6222-5010. It’s tonneau case design, interesting dial decoration, and simplistic overall appearance are, for me, quite entrancing. And at the risk of being declared a watch nerd, the font used on the date wheel is quite outrageous.
This watch is from Seiko’s Skyliner range, an entry level range from the 60’s, and my version (not the one shown above) cost A$75 on a Japanese auction. It will require some work, including a new crystal but I am confident that this “refreshing new take on watch design” will be a very worthwhile addition to my collection.
It is no accident that many microbrands use vintage elements in their designs. Many also introduce truly unique features that are worthwhile additions to the whole watch design journey.
This is not an article bagging microbands. Microbrands have made a very useful contribution to the watch industry. But for me, the best place to look for interesting design is in the back catalogs, and fortunately they are rich in depth and variety. Enjoy the journey.
By Greg Smith
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