The story of steampunk is both futuristic and retro. If you are looking to discover and invest in something entirely distinctive and unique, steampunk is for you. But what is it exactly? Originating from the 19th century Victorian era, steampunk blends genres such as romance, horror, science fiction, fantasy and adventure into quirky and offbeat objects that cherish functionality and endurance over the shiny, new and slick. Pocket watches represent the pinnacle of this era and to this day remain to be sought after items by steampunk collectors from all over the world.
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Their intricate details and historic charm represent the steampunk style of functionality and creativity. Luckily for you pages and pages of these coveted timepieces can be found on Catawiki. So before you start your steampunk story and get investing in some of the most rare and sought after pocket watches, discover some top tips, facts and features to watch out for!
Let’s Rewind the Time
Although originating from 16th century Europe, the widespread use of pocket watches came into full force around the same time as the beginnings of the steampunk era in the late 19th century. The rise of railroading meant that keeping the precise time was crucial for railroad guards. So, crucial in fact, that Levi Strauss, arguably the founding father of jeans, incorporated a tiny pocket into the main front pockets of his jeans solely for the protection of the pocket watch. If you, like myself, ever wondered what that was for then there lies your answer!
Get Your Money’s Worth
If you are looking to invest in your own steampunk pocket-watch then there a few things to look out for. The dial of any timepiece is the money maker so always, always, always look at it in depth for blemishes and scratches. Small marks, a broken hinge or missing screws can easily be fixed but obvious dents and missing components will prove a much harder and costly mission to restore. Top tip: Make sure the gears are made of metal rather than plastic as this is much longer lasting. Essential elements such as the bezel, the piece on the metal case that holds the crystal dial in place, should also be unharmed. There is not one but two steampunk styles to choose from; open-faced or hunter. Hunter styles have a circular metal cover that closes over the watches crystal and dial. Open-faced styles on the other hand do not have this feature. The heart and soul of steampunk is revealed by its exterior decorations and long lasting functionality so the more decorative style the more steampunk you will go!
How old is old?
For serious collectors and investors, the pocket watch will not be considered vintage unless it holds 75 years of ticking to its name. Many even argue that the timepiece must be no longer in production for it even to be granted as a vintage. As with many vintage objects, if all its original parts are still intact then this is clearly going to have a higher value and be a much more solid investment in the long term. If a vintage Rolex pocket watch tickles your fancy, then make sure you look for the original crystal glass that covers the watch’s face. Sapphire crystal was introduced in the 1980s to use instead therefore this material should not be present on a vintage Rolex.
The best to invest?
High end brands are always going to be worth more and retain if not increase in value. Rolex, Movado, Omega, IWC and Patek Philipe are some seriously lust worthy watch makers that are worth your time. More expensive yes but you are guaranteed to get more than your money’s worth. Furthermore, these luxury labels were in full working condition throughout the pinnacle of the steampunk era, so if you’re an avid steampunk collector then these names are worth a look.
Pocket watches are just one of many different items from the steampunk genre that can be found on Catawiki. Discover the genre in depth and invest in some great steampunk memorabilia online!