Is Vintage Jewellery a Sound Investment?

Is Vintage Jewellery a Sound Investment?

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Owning vintage or antique jewellery means owning a small piece of history. And there are many unique pieces to be found.

It’s one thing to purchase vintage jewellery because you love it but another to purchase it as an investment. Is it a good investment at all?

Here is what you should consider.

Vintage vs Antique Jewellery

Vintage and antique jewellery is not one and the same. Vintage jewellery is anything that was created 20 – 100 years ago. Anything older than that is considered antique. It’s important to know the jewellery manufacturing date because antique pieces are usually more expensive.

Other factors that can influence the price include the signature of the watch’s designer or an official date stamp.

Now that you know whether a piece is vintage or antique, how can you tell whether it’s authentic?

Signs of Authentic Vintage Jewellery

Before you commit to buying vintage jewellery, you need to make sure it’s authentic. One of the best ways to do this is to have it evaluated by a professional.

An expert will know what defining characteristics to look out for and can easily spot counterfeit stones. Hallmarks is something else to look out for as this is proof the jewellery is indeed valuable.

It’s essential to only deal with certified jewellers and auction houses when evaluating vintage pieces.

Here are some further details on what you can expect during a jewellery appraisal.

Is Vintage Jewellery a Worthwhile Investment?

This is not a black and white answer because the demand for vintage jewellery tends to fluctuate. If you are serious about investing, opt for something from a timeless designer as these brands tend to retain their value. This is due to the quality of the jewellery as well as the brand recognition.

If you aren’t particularly interested in a well-known brand, pay careful attention to the design of the piece as well as the raw materials used. This too can determine how valuable a piece will be over time.

The only other factor that makes vintage jewellery a good investment is the uniqueness of the piece. If you can find a one-of-a-kind piece, there’s a better chance of it being worth your money.

If you are going to invest, take the time to find the best possible piece for your budget and do as much research as possible – it will be well worth the effort.

If you require assistance with jewellery appraisals, contact Martin at martin@martinsjewellers.co.uk  Or Gail, at gail@martinsjewellers.co.uk.

Jewellery Appraisals: What to Expect

Jewellery Appraisals: What to Expect

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Fine jewellery can be one of the best investments you make, provided it’s appraised and insured. In fact, it’s recommended that you have your jewellery appraised every few years to account for changes in the market.

If you aren’t familiar with the process, here is what you need to know.

Jewellery Appraisal Explained

Monetary value is just some of the information that an appraisal offers. Once your jewellery is officially evaluated, you will receive a detailed document that includes details on every aspect of the piece.

You can arrange an appraisal for your own information but in most instances, an appraisal is an insurance requirement. An appraisal is also recommended if you are planning to sell your jewellery.

The Jewellery Appraisal Process: What to Expect

Before

The first thing you need to do is find a professional who can assist you with the appraisal. It’s recommended that you spend some time on research to find someone who is qualified, experienced and has a sound reputation.

The appraiser will need as much information as possible about the piece, so find any details that you can. The required details will include the type of jewellery, where it was purchased and what it is made of.

It is also best to mention why you want the piece appraised.

The Appointment

For the physical appointment, you will need to bring the jewellery as well as any paperwork along with you. Before the appraisal begins, get the appraiser to explain the methods and grading system that will be used. Several different factors are generally considered during the appraisal, which should be explained to you.

After

Upon completion of the appraisal, you can expect to receive a detailed document with the full results. This is what you will use to either insure or sell the jewellery. Know that it’s not uncommon to seek a second opinion if you feel that the value of the jewellery is deemed too low.

The Cost of a Jewellery Appraisal

In most instances, you can expect to pay a flat fee for every piece you want to evaluate. Some professionals charge by the hour though, which is why it helps to shop around.

Appraisal fees depend on the complexity of the piece, as well as the value of the jewellery.

Pay attention to fees that seem too good to be true – you might be dealing with an inexperienced appraiser.

In Conclusion

If you own valuable jewellery, it’s always a good idea to have an accurate appraisal on hand, which is why it’s wise to get an updated appraisal every three to five years.

At Martin’s of Glasgow, our appraisal areas of expertise are jewellery, watches and clocks.

We are insured through T H March & Co Limited, Chartered Insurance Brokers for both our business and personal arrangements. If you require obligation-free advice on how best to protect your home and personal jewellery, why not give them a call on 01822 855555 quoting AM157T.

You can find out more about our valuation services here.

How to Choose a Watch Repair Professional in Scotland

How to Choose a Watch Repair Professional in Scotland

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If you love watches, you’re going to need to schedule a watch repair in Scotland at one point or another. From basic glass replacement to detailed repairs, you need the right professional for the job, especially if you own a luxury or vintage timepiece.

When a watch is opened and handled incorrectly, it can result in permanent damage, so we decided to put together some tips for finding the right horologist in Scotland.

Choosing a Watch Repair Professional in Scotland

Here is what to consider before you send your watch in for repairs.

  • Check Any Available Reviews

Reputation is everything and can tell you a lot about what you can expect from a watch repair professional in Scotland. A simple online search can provide you with reviews from past customers that will help you make a more informed decision.

  • Find Out About Qualifications

Next, you want to find out more about qualifications and experience. How long as this person been repairing watches and do they have any certifications? A true professional will have the right mix of hands-on experience and industry knowledge. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask questions regarding a professional’s qualifications and experience before sending your watch in for repairs.

  • Ask About the Types of Watches They Repair

Not every watch repair professional in Scotland is able to repair every type of watch. Find out whether they can assist you with your specific brand and model. When a horologist is familiar with a particular type of watch, you can rest assured they won’t end up damaging it.

  • Find Out About Cost

Next, get a quote for the repairs. You may be able to get a basic price over the phone, but for a more accurate quotation, the watch needs to be evaluated in person. It should be noted that a low price isn’t always a good thing. It’s essential to consider experience and reputation too.

  • Check for a Warranty

Industry experts will almost always offer a warranty on their work. If a warranty is in place, make sure you receive confirmation in writing – an oral warranty is not enough.

  • Ask About Replacement Parts

Once your watch is repaired, you want it to stay in good working condition for as long as possible. When you’re dealing with an expensive watch, it’s best to get original replacement parts. Instead of assuming that original parts will be used, rather ask about the parts before you leave your timepiece in the hands of someone else.

Settling on a Watch Repair Professional in Scotland

Once you have decided on a reputable professional such as Martin’s of Glasgow, you can book your watch in, knowing that it’s in safe hands. Don’t forget to ask how long your repairs will take so that you know exactly what to expect.

Contact us on 0141 946 6333 or martin@martinsjewellers.co.uk to discuss your watch repair requirements.

Is It Possible to Repair a Quartz Watch?

Is It Possible to Repair a Quartz Watch?

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How easily a watch can be repaired is one of the factors to consider when deciding on the type of watch you want to purchase.

And if you’re the owner of a quartz watch, this is what you need to know.

Can You Repair a Quartz Watch?

Quartz watches have been around since the late 1960’s and it’s usually possible to repair the more recent ones. What’s more, quartz watches are generally more affordable to repair too. And since this type of watch runs on batteries, you should expect to need to replace them every one to two years.

The next question is then whether it’s better to repair a quartz watch or replace the parts completely? This is entirely your choice – whether you choose to repair or replace the parts, the cost will be significantly lower than with other types of watches. You can also expect the repair process to be quicker in most instances.

Why Has Your Quartz Watch Stopped Working?

There are a few reasons why your quart watch has stopped working:

  • A mechanical issue has caused the wheels to become stuck
  • Dirt is affecting watch movement
  • The coil inside the watch is damaged
  • Corrosion has formed around the battery
  • The batteries need to be replaced

The Quartz Repair Process

A quartz watch that displays the incorrect time or stops working altogether needs to be repaired.

The watch repair process starts with an assessment by a trained technician. This is to determine what the fault is.

From there, any damaged parts are removed and analysed further before being replaced or repaired. The same applies if the watch requires an aesthetic repair. Keep in mind that if a part isn’t available, the technician will need to order it first, which can extend the repair process.

Once repaired, your quartz watch is cleaned and fitted back together.

It is now ready for collection.

In terms of servicing your quartz watch, this is recommended every 5 years – this way you can avoid unnecessary repairs.

If you require assistance with the service or repair of your quartz watch, contact Martins of Glasgow on 0141 946 6333.

Choosing a Rolex Watch Repair Centre

Key Questions to Ask a Rolex Watch Repair Centre

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Before you go ahead and request a repair, you need to make sure you can trust the Rolex watch repair centre you’re considering – this is one of your most valuable timepieces after all.

In this blog, we will provide you with some guidelines that will help you choose the right horologist for the job.

Choosing the Right Rolex Watch Repair Centre

To help you feel more comfortable with the watch repair centre you choose, there are a few key questions you should ask first.

  • How long have you been in business? How long a business has been running is an indicator of how good its repair services are. It also helps to do a bit of your own research. Do they display any customer testimonials on their site? What about social media – what are customers saying there?
  • What Rolex-specific training do you have? You do require specific skills to be able to repair a Rolex, so ask about training and certifications. It’s much easier to decide on a repair centre when you know they have the necessary skills, knowledge, and equipment to carry out any repairs safely.
  • How is my watch protected while it is with you? If a repair centre doesn’t mention how they protect your watch while it’s in their possession, it’s best to ask. Reputable repair centres generally have insurance and other safety measures in place should your watch need to stay in the store overnight.
  • How long will my repairs or service take? The more you know what to expect, the more peace of mind you have. What’s more, knowing how long the repairs will take means you know when you can wear your timepiece again. Keep in mind that new issues you weren’t aware of might crop up, so have realistic expectations when it comes to your repair timeline.

Where to Start Your Search for a Rolex Watch Repair Centre

Google is always the ideal place to start your search for a Rolex watch repair centre. Once you have a list of potential places in your area, you can begin narrowing down your search by looking at each centre’s website and their social media pages.

It’s recommended that you compare at least two repair shops using the above questions before you make a final decision.

At Martins of Glasgow, Rolex servicing is carried out by Graham, our Rolex accredited watchmaker & colleague. Graham is known as one of the best Rolex “refinishers” within the UK and has worked with most Rolex models, both vintage and contemporary.

You can schedule your repairs with Martin or Gail on 0141 946 6333.

What to Consider When Buying a Watch as a Gift

What to Consider When Buying a Watch as a Gift

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Whether you’re commemorating an important milestone or simply want to spoil someone important, a watch is a gift that can last a lifetime. However, just like the clothes we choose to wear, watches are highly personal. This is one gift that requires some careful thought.

Here are some of our top tips for anyone buying a watch as a gift.

Buying a Watch as a Gift: Key Considerations

  • Set a budget. Before you even begin searching for a watch, set a budget. This will immediately help you narrow down your gift choices. Different watch brands and movements will affect the cost. It’s also recommended that you consider maintenance and repair costs before you purchase a watch as a gift.
  • Decide on a movement. As you start shopping for a watch, you’ll need to decide between a mechanical, automatic and quartz watch. Mechanical and automatic watches don’t need batteries to keep running, which makes them more timeless. You can also expect to pay more for a mechanical or automatic watch versus a quartz watch.
  • Consider the recipient’s lifestyle. How will this watch be worn? Does the recipient spend a lot of time in the office, or do they lead a more active lifestyle? Do they tend to go to a lot of events? Wear and functionality-type questions should be asked prior to settling on a watch.
  • Consider the recipient’s taste. Next, you want to consider the person’s style and taste. This means you need to have some idea of how they like to dress and their general style preferences. If you aren’t sure, speak to a trusted friend or family member who can offer you some insights. Some people prefer a more classic look with clean lines, while others prefer to make a bold statement – find out which box your gift recipient falls into.
  • Decide on a size. This goes hand in hand with selecting a specific watch style. The size of the watch face and band can make a big difference to the final look. For someone who likes a more classic and elegant look, you may want to opt for a smaller watch face. However, if you’re dealing with an active person with a large wrist, a larger watch face and a leather strap might be more fitting.

When shopping around for a gift, it’s best to stay away from trends, particularly if you want this to be a timeless gift. However, a limited edition watch could be just right for the person you have in mind.

If this is the first time you’re purchasing a watch as a gift, you may benefit from speaking to a professional about your options.

4 of the Most Common Jewellery Mistakes to Avoid

4 of the Most Common Jewellery Mistakes to Avoid

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When jewellery becomes a part of your everyday life, it’s much easier to make a few common mistakes – mistakes that can ruin your favourite pieces.

Jewellery will always be subject to general wear and tear, but there are steps you can take to ensure you don’t cause unnecessary damage.

Since we regularly assist clients with jewellery repair, we know what mistakes are made most often, which is why we’ve created this quick list.

Common Jewellery Mistakes to Avoid

1. Failing to Remove Your Jewellery.

Never removing your jewellery is one of the first mistakes to avoid – this includes your wedding ring. Over time, all the products you use on your skin and around the house will leave a residue on your jewellery, which eventually damages the metal and the settings. Make a point of removing your jewellery anytime it might come into contact with harsh chemicals, especially household cleaners and chlorine.

2. Forgetting to Clean Your Jewellery.

Even if you remember to remove your jewellery most of the time, chemicals and dirt can still build up. It’s important to clean your jewellery every once in a while, if you want it to last for as long as possible. Remember to stay away from harsh soaps and abrasive materials when cleaning your jewellery as this can cause damage. If possible, have your favourite pieces cleaned by a professional for the best results.

3. Failing to Maintain Your Jewellery.

If you ever notice a loose or bent setting, it’s important to contact a professional about a repair right away. All too often, people try to repair their jewellery at home using a DIY video, which only causes further damage. If you’re worried about cost, know that most basic jewellery repairs are more affordable than you might think. Contacting a professional is going to save you time and money. Plus, the sooner you repair your jewellery, the sooner you can wear it again.

4. Forgoing Insurance.

If you see your jewellery as an investment, you can’t skip the insurance. Yes, it’s an extra expense, one that you might not feel is necessary, until the day you need it. If you want to ensure the safety of your favourite items, add them to your home’s insurance policy sooner rather than later. This will protect you against theft, loss and damage.

By keeping these common jewellery mistakes in mind, you can avoid having to give up your favourites too soon.

We suggest, as we use them for our own business and personal insurance requirements, you contact T H March on 01822 855 555, quoting reference AM157T, and ask them for a quote.

Buying a Watch Online: Is It a Good Idea?

Buying a Watch Online: Is It a Good Idea?

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Most of today’s watch purchases, or at least the research, starts online. Making a final call on what watch to purchase is a highly personal choice, so does this mean it’s a good idea to complete the purchase online?

Here is what you need to know to help you decide whether you should purchase a watch online.

Buying a Watch Online: Should You Do It?

Whether this is your first watch purchase, or you usually buy watches in brick-and-mortar stores, you are here because you want to know whether online sales are a good idea.

The answer lies in how much you value the human interaction and confidence that comes with evaluating and purchasing a watch in person. When you purchase a watch in a store, you get to physically touch and examine the timepiece. You also get to ask as many questions as you need to without having to go back and forth over chat or email.

What’s more, you can also consider other recommendations from a professional – options you might not have considered had you purchased a watch online.

Lastly, there’s the benefit of negotiating and potential discounts, something you cannot generally do online – unless it’s an auction that is.

The only real drawback of purchasing a watch in person is that you may need to drive around to different stores to consider all your options and find the right price. This is a much easier task online.

If you aren’t planning to invest in a rare or luxury watch, making an online purchase is a great option. It’s convenient, easy to compare prices, and you don’t need to leave home.

If you are planning to invest in a luxury watch, here are some of our top tips.

Tips for Buying a Watch Online

If purchasing a watch in a physical store is not a must for you, here are some tips for buying a watch online.

  • Find an authorised dealer. If you want some added peace of mind while shopping online, shop on an authorised dealer’s store. If you cannot find an authorised dealer, do as much research as possible to ensure you’re dealing with a trustworthy and reputable seller. Reviews from past customers can tell you a lot.
  • Do some research. Before you start shopping for a watch, research the makes and models you are interested in and what they generally sell for, so you know what to expect. This will also help narrow down the online stores to consider.
  • Look at the return policy. While you don’t want to have to return a watch, sometimes it is necessary. Be sure to look at the store’s return policy before you complete your purchase.
  • Look at the warranty policy. Next, you want to look at how their warranty policy works. What should you do if something goes wrong?

There are pros and cons to purchasing a watch online versus in-person. In the end, it all comes down to your personal preferences. Just know that there are reputable online stores, which means you don’t always need to purchase a watch from a physical location.

5 Tips for Protecting Your Watch Against the Elements

5 Tips for Protecting Your Watch Against the Elements

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When you purchase a new timepiece, you want to wear it as often as you can. However, this also means it’s going to be exposed to the elements. Naturally, the more you invest in a watch, the more you’re concerned with its longevity.

This is why we’ve put together some of our top tips for keeping your watch safe come rain or shine.

Protecting Your Watch Against the Elements: Expert Tips

1. Clean Your Watch Regularly.

Keeping your watch clean will stop dirt and dust from affecting its functionality. If you know how to clean it safely at home using warm water, mild soap, a soft bristle toothbrush and a soft cloth, do so. The other option is to have it professionally cleaned at least once a year.

2. Storage Matters.

Humidity and dust can both affect your timepiece, so think twice about where you choose to store your watch. You want to keep your watch completely dry, so any area where moisture collects is not a good storage option. It’s also important to store your watch in the right box or container. Placing it face down on a hard surface will only lead to unnecessary scratches. You also want to avoid packaging that retains moisture – bubble wrap being an ideal example.

3. Reduce Watch Strain.

If you have a mechanical watch, regularly winding your watch is essential. Not only does this keep it operating as it should, but it also lubricates the watch, which reduces strain. To do this, remove the watch from your wrist to unscrew the crown. Give the dial 20 – 40 turns in a clockwise direction.

4. Schedule In Regular Maintenance.

Scheduling your watch in for regular maintenance is one more thing you need to do and pay for, but it is well worth it. When you maintain your watch, you avoid having to deal with costly repairs or permanent damage. It will also ensure that your watch is protected against the elements.

5. Keep Your Watch Away from Magnets.

Unfortunately, exposing your watch to a magnet can have a negative effect on the internal components. This includes laptops, televisions and other electromagnetic devices. You can’t always avoid magnets completely but being aware of how much you’re exposing your watch can help.

Keeping Your Watch in Good Working Order

With the help of the right horologist, keeping your watch protected and in good working order doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. At Martins of Glasgow, we service a wide variety of watch brands at a fair price. Contact us on 0141 946 6333 or martin@martinsjewellers.co.uk to discuss your requirements.

What You Need to Know About Insuring Your Luxury Timepiece

What You Need to Know About Insuring Your Luxury Timepiece

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If your watches are some of your most cherished items, insurance is a must.

Yes, some timepieces are irreplaceable but at least you would be compensated should it be lost or stolen.

Luxury watch insurance generally offers global coverage and is based on the current market value of your watch.

Watches are often stolen because they are next to impossible to trace and really easy to sell. And unfortunately, watch crime has been on the increase over the last few years.

Tips for Insuring Your Luxury Timepiece

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you start your search for the best insurance.

Schedule Regular Valuations

When you know what your watch is worth, you can arrange sufficient coverage. It also means you won’t end up paying more than you need to on a monthly basis. The luxury watch market is always changing, so you never know when the value of your timepiece could change. Having a watch evaluated annually is generally enough to keep your insurance accurate.

Invest in Storage

Ideally, you want to avoid insurance claims altogether, so it helps to invest in quality storage for your luxury timepiece. Not only does this keep your watch protected, but you will probably find that it reduces your insurance premiums too. You can even ask a potential insurer for recommendations on acceptable storage.

Choose Your Insurer Carefully

It makes a real difference when you use an insurer who understands the luxury watch market. It’s also highly recommended that you pay close attention to the specifics of your policy. Many insurers require you to update the value of your watch on a regular basis. There may also be certain circumstances when your timepiece won’t be covered.

We are insured through T H March & Co Limited, Chartered Insurance Brokers for both our business and personal arrangements. If you require obligation-free advice on how best to protect your watch, or other valuable items, why not give them a call on 01822 855555, quoting AM157T.

Keep Your Paperwork Safe

Make a point of hanging on to all the paperwork you received when you purchased your timepiece. Most insurers will request this should you ever need to submit a claim. This includes everything from the certificate of authentication to the details of where you bought it. Luxury watches are complex, so the more information you have on yours, the better.

Be Selective When Wearing Your Timepiece

Another way to ensure you don’t need to deal with unnecessary insurance claims is to be picky about when you wear your luxury watch. Think twice about where you will be going before you leave the house with your favourite watch.

By keeping these tips in mind and shopping around for the right insurer, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your timepiece is as protected as possible.