top of page
Over 30 Years Hunting Interesting Timepieces & Curating The Finest Watch Collections
Watch Industry Insights
Matthew Bain Blog
"An inside look at what piques our interests"
Must Reads
The Joy of Discovery: The Remarkable Patek Philippe Ref 2543
Few moments in watch collecting compare to the thrill of discovering something truly extraordinary. During New York's spring auction season, Matthew Bain acquired an exceptional Patek Philippe Ref. 2543 with a remarkable rainbow chapter ring dial. What began as a determined pursuit soon became an even greater revelation as research suggested the watch may be the only known example, making it one of the rarest Patek Philippe wristwatches he has ever owned.
Las Vegas: The Annual Mecca for the Watch Trade
Fresh from the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show, Matthew Bain reflects on another remarkable year at the industry's most important trade gathering. From strong market activity and global dealer participation to a late-night acquisition of an exciting 1960s Rolex Daytona in a private Hotel meeting, the week delivered both exceptional business and the kind of unforgettable stories that have made Las Vegas a yearly pilgrimage for watch professionals.
"Is It Polished?"
Does polishing automatically ruin a vintage watch? The reality is far more nuanced than a simple buzzword. While heavy over-polishing destroys case lines, soft edges, and value, a light, sympathetic polish over decades can preserve a watch's overall integrity. Discover why judging a vintage watch holistically - evaluating its case shape, lug fullness, and natural character - matters far more than chasing labels, and learn the six categories of vintage condition every collecto
The Joy of Discovery: The Remarkable Patek Philippe Ref 2543
Few moments in watch collecting compare to the thrill of discovering something truly extraordinary. During New York's spring auction season, Matthew Bain acquired an exceptional Patek Philippe Ref. 2543 with a remarkable rainbow chapter ring dial. What began as a determined pursuit soon became an even greater revelation as research suggested the watch may be the only known example, making it one of the rarest Patek Philippe wristwatches he has ever owned.
I Wish I Had a Time Machine, Part V
In Part V of I Wish I Had a Time Machine, Nicolas Zalles (@auctionlytics) looks back at the rise of F.P. Journe—from cult favorite to auction phenomenon. From Chronomètre Blues that once failed to sell at $20K to brass-movement Resonances now reaching six figures, this is a firsthand account of conviction collecting before the hype.
I Wish I Had a Time Machine, Part IV
Part IV of the 'I Wish I Had A Time Machine' series by @Auctionlytics. Here Nicolas takes the Time Machine back 15 years to 2008 amidst the worlds shake-up and recovery of the financial crisis. Check out some of the awesome watches that came up at the time!
I Wish I Had a Time Machine, Part III
Part III of the I Wish I Had A Time Machine Series. In this one Nicolas Zalles reviews historical sales and documents The Ones That Got Away
From $7,500 to $3.9 Million: The Most Expensive Watch I Ever Sold
Exclusive insiders lore on one of the most coveted watches in existence the Patek Philippe J.B. Champion Observatory Ref. 2458. Matthew Bain shares his knowledge and own experience in the historical trading of one of the worlds most storied timepieces.
I Wish I Had A Time Machine, Part II
Part II of Guest Contributor Nicolas Zalles Periodical - I Wish I Had A Time Machine. Focusing on some interesting auction results from the year 2000. In his analysis Nicolas breaks down The Ones That Got Away, wild What They Were Thinking??, and a displays a few picks of Before It Was Cool.
Pulling the Trigger: A Rare Audemars Piguet Grail and the Art of Conviction
In my 30+ years as a watch dealer, I’ve learned to trust my gut. My latest grail, a 1927 Audemars Piguet Complete Calendar in pale yellow gold, is a rare masterpiece. Its Breguet numerals, cathedral hands, and soft patina stole my heart. At auction, I bid big, driven by conviction, not numbers. This watch, one of 10 surviving, is why I never regret pulling the trigger.
bottom of page