Parisian Vintage Watch Dealer Tour — WatchProSite Forum Digest

AndrewD · 2012-07-30T15:31:43Z

Explore a Parisian vintage watch dealer through AndrewD's captivating photos. Discover rare Omega, Rolex, and Jaeger-LeCoultre Futurematic models.

AndrewD

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

17 replies2432 views31 photos

AndrewD takes readers on a captivating photographic tour of a Parisian vintage watch dealer, affectionately dubbed a 'den of antiquity.' His post highlights the unique pleasure of discovering horological history outside traditional museums, emphasizing the role such establishments play in nurturing future collectors. This exploration underscores the enduring appeal of vintage timepieces and the vibrant community that cherishes them.

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Hi All,

One of the pleasures of travelling is to visit knowledgeable second hand watch dealers. Outside of museums and the collector community, this is where the general public can view and touch the history of horology, and hopefully become the collectors and curators of tomorrow.

I have fond memories of Art taking me to his local vintage Omega dealer in Los Angeles [Click Here] and while visiting Paris recently Nicolas took me to his local den of iniquity. I mean den of antiquity.

It is a beautiful place to visit with some lovely watches displayed to their best advantage. I am sure Nicolas would be more than happy to indulge you with a visit if you are in Paris.

Hope you enjoy the photographic tour.

Andrew

There’s no place like HoMe!

Key Points from the Discussion

The vintage watch dealer in Paris is known for its 'sensory attack overload' of exquisite watches, suggesting a rich and overwhelming selection for collectors.
Well-curated vintage watch shops can function as horological museums, offering a tangible connection to watch history.
The post features a rare Omega Speedmaster Professional with a salmon dial, prompting a question about its potential as a limited or national market edition.
A contributor, initially not a 'vintage guy,' expresses a newfound appreciation for vintage watches after taking the time to learn and discover them.
The shop is located near the Luxembourg Gardens in the historical Saint-Germain area of Paris, making it a key destination for watch enthusiasts visiting the city.
The photos were captured using a Leica M9 for mood and a D-Lux 4 for detail, highlighting the photographer's deliberate approach to capturing the shop's atmosphere.
The concept of a personal watch den with old display cases is appealing, though it would require careful attention to security.
The shop's aesthetic is highly inspiring, with one contributor noting it's exactly how they envision their own watch den.
The presence of a Jaeger-LeCoultre Futurematic is noted, recognized as one of the classic timepieces.

The Discussion

ArthurSG

Jul 30, 2012

This is fantastic and refreshing Andrew

for me at least, vintages can provide a very welcome respite from the several of the newer offerings.

Dr No

Jul 30, 2012

I rather like the phrase . . .

. . . you chose as a euphemism for a vintage watch store! The Speedy Pro with a salmon dial was most interesting . . . can't say that I remember seeing this one before. A limited edition for a national market, perhaps? Cordially, Art

amanico

Jul 30, 2012

Superb photos and reminder of a nice moment spent together.

I agree with you, Andrew. When a shop is nicely conceived, with top stuff, it can be seen as a kind of horological museum. From your pics, I am feeling you are developping a strong affection for Rolex and Tudor Vintage... ;) These parisian moments were true great moments. Best, and thanks for the superb photos. nicolas

small-luxury-world

Jul 30, 2012

Lovely watches and pictures ...

probably taken with two different cameras :-) I love those kind of places, especially when they are looking that good. Thanks! Oliver

AndrewD

Jul 31, 2012

Correct, Oliver ...

M9 for mood and D-Lux 4 for detail. Still learning what works , but I like the 'feel' from both. And the shop had lots of wonderful moods and details to capture. :-) Thanks for noticing. Andrew

Mark in Paris

Jul 31, 2012

Very nice journey backward in time

Thanks for the share Andrew ;) Indeed, I wasn't a vintage guy but it's like many things, when you take the time to learn and discover you have, sometimes, good surprises and end to like them. Do you know (or Nicolas will may be answer) where it was exactly ? Cheers, Mark

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