Mercier was first established in 1830 by brothers Celestin and Louis Baume in the Swiss village of Les Bois, and like many watchmakers of the time, they initially focused on pocket watches. However, the company evolved rapidly and built a reputation for designing sophisticated models which utilize a variety of innovations. While most watchmakers focused exclusively on male clientele, Louis Baume recognized the importance of women’s watches and in 1869 gave his daughter a pocket watch made from gold.

The Hamilton Watch Company was established in 1892, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Although it originates in the United States, the brand today is sold under the Swatch Group which is a Swiss-owned company located in Bienne. When the company was first formed, it became notable for its luxury wristwatches and pocket watches, but ceased American manufacturing by the 1960s. Today, it has become a conglomerate which is highly diversified.

Those who are considering buying a new watch may ask themselves which is better, a contemporary or vintage model? The watch industry is very complex with so many brands, designs and styles that inexperienced shoppers can quickly become overwhelmed. Below are some key things you should know about contemporary or modern watches versus vintage timepieces which were manufactured decades or even centuries ago.

When it comes to money and finance, many people make the mistake of assuming that every large purchase is an investment. But many consumer goods, such as electronics, cars, and clothes, depreciate in value, unless they become rare vintage items that are never touched and are preserved in mint condition. Watches are a more complicated matter. While most carry very little long term investment value, there are a few brands that do. Below are some things to keep in mind when shopping for them.

While virtually every woman today has a smartphone that can tell her the time, watches aren’t worn merely for this purpose. The watch you wear is an extension of your personality, much more so than other accessories. For 2017, minimalist watches with an ornate design are in for women, and below are some timepieces which are highly recommended.

Breitling is a manufacturer of Swiss watches which is headquartered in Grenchen, Switzerland. Leon Breitling established the firm in 1884 and over the last century the brand has become famous for its chronometers which are precision made and well suited to aviators.