Vintage Watches: Collector's Overview

mblum3 · 2024-12-27T14:00:24Z

Explore the Art Deco aesthetic with mblum3's vintage desk clock, drawing parallels to Patek Philippe Ref. 524 and Longines 'Inclinex' watches. Discover iconic stepped designs and collector insights.

mblum3

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

20 replies2663 views4 photos

In a captivating exploration of Art Deco horology, mblum3 shares a personal desk clock that serves as a springboard into the distinctive sloped and stepped designs prevalent in vintage timepieces. His post highlights the enduring appeal of these geometric forms, drawing parallels between his cherished clock and iconic wristwatches from Patek Philippe and Longines. This article delves into the aesthetic and historical significance of these designs, enriched by community insights.

Emmanuel had a marvelous post of art deco watches from Patek, Vacheron and Audemars. This clock has been on my desk for about 25 years. Both Patek and Longines made this sloped and stepped shaped in a wristwatch. I believe there were two steps on each side. As an aside, the first time I saw a Hamilton Brooke I was floored. At the beginning of my watch journeys. Doubly asymmetrical. Sloped and narrower at the top and wider at the bottom.

Key Points from the Discussion

The author's desk clock is reminiscent of several iconic Art Deco wristwatches, including the Patek Philippe Ref. 524 and 576, and the Longines 'Inclinex' Ref. 4100. Bulova also produced a similar 'Rite-Angle' design.
The author previously owned an 18k Longines version of the sloped and stepped design and a platinum Longines Coronation with a Breguet dial, which he sold to a friend with a right of first refusal.
One contributor is attempting to service a vintage Cartier timepiece with a similar aesthetic, noting the challenge of finding a replacement battery for the long-discontinued model.
The author acquired his desk clock at an antique show at the Piers in New York many years ago, highlighting the thrill of discovering unique pieces at such events.
Beyond watches, Art Deco designs were also prevalent in bakelite radio/clocks from the 1930s and 1940s, offering a variety of colors and styles suitable for desk clocks.
Another collector is actively seeking a similar desk clock or a small wall clock, considering marine chronometers but finding the featured design more suitable for a desk.

The Discussion

mblum3

Dec 27, 2024

I haven't seen many of these. Wish it were in a bit better condition, but it's all original and makes a very nice impression.

VinnieD

Dec 27, 2024

I am on the hunt for something similar , or a small wall clock. Looking at some marine chronometers but your design is better for a desk!

mblum3

Dec 27, 2024

There are also beautiful radio/clocks in bakelite from the thirties and forties. Many different colors and art deco designs. Great for a desk clock.

mblum3

Dec 27, 2024

I bought it at an antique show in NY many years ago. They used to have them at Pier 88, 90 and 92 at the Hudson River. They were so much fun to go to. You never knew what you'd find!

mblum3

Dec 27, 2024

In a bright light, the signs of age appear worse than they are. The same could be said of me! But as an old friend said to me about watches, eye to wrist, not with a 10x loupe in your hand. You've seen the Patek I referred to, yes? Never owned it, but the Longines version in 18k I did. Do you know the Longines Coronation? That's about as art deco as it gets. I had one in platinum with a Breguet dial which I sold to a friend, so at least I know where it is. I also have first right of refusal shou

quattro

Dec 28, 2024

which is indeed reminiscent of Patek's ref. 524 (and, to a lesser extent, of ref. 576) and Longines' "Inclinex" ref. 4100. There was also a Bulova "Rite-Angle" with a very similar design. Thanks for the kind words. Best, Emmanuel Patek Philippe ref. 524 credit: onbehalf Longines ref. 4100 "Inclinex" credit: @chronovantage2 & @barfindwatches Bulova "Rite-Angle" credit: art deco wrist watches Patek Philippe ref. 576 credit: onbehalf

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Horological Meandering forum with 20 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum