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RECOMMENDED READING: The rise of patina RECOMMENDED READING: The rise of patina

RECOMMENDED READING: The rise of patina

Felix Scholz

One of the longest and most sustained watch ‘trends’ in recent times is that of vintage and retro styled pieces. In fact, you could argue that it’s now a bona fide category in its own right. And underlying this entire movement is the concept of patina. Sure, retro design plays a part, but the real charm is in those faded paints and the kind of look that only comes from a long life well lived … 

Rolex GMT-Master patina
Image: gearpatrol.com

Patina is even more important in the secondary market — particularly the high-end auction space, where ‘good’ versus ‘bad’ patina on the right watch reference can make a massive difference in the number of zeros in the final hammer price. 

Suffice to say it matters, but patina is also an incredibly vague catch-all term, used and abused by enthusiasts and opportunistic dealers alike. Which is why this long and very informative read from Gear Patrol on the rise of patina is such a helpful article.

 Definitely worth a read. Something you can do at Gear Patrol.