Swiss Precision Watchmaking
2010s Wrist Watches
Gold, Stainless Steel
Antique Early 1900s Edwardian Wrist Watches
18k Gold
Antique 1790s Collectible Jewelry
Gold
Recent Sales
20th Century Swiss Art Deco Pocket Watches
18k Gold
2010s European Wrist Watches
Late 20th Century Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
People Also Browsed
20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches
20th Century Pocket Watches
Silver
Antique 19th Century French French Provincial Pottery
Earthenware
21st Century and Contemporary French Top Handle Bags
Mid-20th Century Pocket Watches
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold
1990s Wrist Watches
18k Gold
Antique 18th Century French Chinoiserie Table Mirrors
Mirror, Wood
20th Century Pocket Watches
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 20th Century French Vases
2010s Indian Art Deco Signet Rings
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary English George III Pier Mirrors and Consol...
Wood, Pine
21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches
18k Gold
Early 2000s Italian Evening Gowns
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches
Steel
Antique 18th Century and Earlier French Country Wardrobes and Armoires
Swiss Precision Watchmaking For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Swiss Precision Watchmaking?
Finding the Right Watches for You
Records show that, in Europe, by the 16th century, it was high time for portable clock devices. Right now, perhaps you’re shopping for your own. If so, find a vast range of fashionable and functional antique, vintage and luxury watches on 1stDibs.
While wall-mounted time tellers and grandfather clocks were much more convenient than the sundials of ancient history, watches were becoming crucial for an increasingly connected society whose members learned that the latest advancements in technology meant they could carry devices that kept time to within a minute a day. Tragically, the first pocket watches — albeit an improvement on the accessories that preceded them, which dangled from a chain worn around the neck — didn’t help much as far as accuracy or portability. Focused on style over substance, the upper class frequently carried lavish pieces that ran hours behind.
Eventually, watches migrated from owners’ pockets to their wrists. In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.
Indeed, although exceedingly practical, the watches of today are far from bland. Bulgari’s iconic Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional watches. You’ll always know what time it is because you won’t be able to tear your eyes away from your new accessory.
Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.
When shopping for a watch, it’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.
Find exactly what you’re looking for in an unparalleled collection of antique, vintage and luxury watches on 1stDibs that includes Cartier watches, Rolex watches, Patek Philippe watches and more — we promise it will be worth your time.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024What the top Swiss watchmakers are is largely a matter of personal opinion. Switzerland is home to many luxury watchmakers known for producing precise, finely crafted timepieces. Among the most well-known Swiss watchmakers are Patek Philippe, Rolex, Audemars Piguet, OMEGA, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Vacheron Constantin, IWC, Breguet, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Blancpain. Shop a wide range of Swiss watches on 1stDibs.
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The Rolex Datejust Is Celebrating Its 80th Anniversary
The watch has transformed several times over, but it’s still undeniably a classic.
The Rolex Bluesy
This is perhaps the least subtle version of the Submariner.
Rolex Starbucks
If you think this looks like the Rolex Kermit, you're correct.
The Rolex Hulk
This all-green version of the Submariner is much sought-after.
The Rolex Sprite
This model was designed for lefties.
The Rolex Pepsi
This model's other nickname, Pussy Galore, come from a James Bond film.
Patek Philippe’s Calatrava Watch Is an Icon of Understated Elegance
Launched in 1932, the model has become emblematic of quality craftsmanship and timeless design.
Bulgari’s Serpenti Wristwatch Is the Power Piece of the Moment, Again
From Elizabeth Taylor to Zendaya, the Serpenti has been the accessory of choice for generations of it girls.




