Matthew Bain

The Valjoux 72 isn’t just a chronograph movement—it’s the soul of mid-century watchmaking. From Rolex to Heuer, Universal to Breitling, this manual-wind column-wheel caliber powered icons of the golden era. Reliable, tactile, and full of character, the Valjoux 72 defined how a chronograph should feel—and why collectors still chase that unmistakable click today.

The Rolex “Jean-Claude Killy” Ref. 6236 is one of the rarest and most complex vintage Rolex watches ever made. This 1958 example—completely unpolished and beautifully preserved—captures a brief moment when Rolex dared to blend technical sophistication with refined sportiness. A true collector’s treasure, seldom seen and impossible to forget.

When evaluating a vintage Rolex, an expert’s hands often reveal more than their eyes. Matthew Bain shares a timeless lesson on “seeing with your hands” — how touch, not sight, can instantly expose condition, originality, and value. Discover the tactile skill every new vintage watch enthusiast should master.