Vintage Jewelry Pro

Patek Philippe is credited with creating the first wristwatch in 1868.  Prior to that time people did make attempts to adapt watches so that they could be strapped to the wrist.  But Mr. Philippe really invented the first modern wristwatch.  When these watches  first appeared on the fashion scene they were called wristlets and were primarily thought of as an accessory for women.  However, the onset of World War I saw a change in that point of view.

Soldiers found that strapping a watch to the wrist was far more practical than trying to pull out a pocket watch during battle.  At first, soldiers would use a leather strap  to attach a watch to the wrist.  Then, in the early 1900’s, two methods were created that made it easier to attach watches to the wrist.  The expandable bracelet was flexible and made it easier to put on and take off wristwatches.  In addition, wire loops (lugs) started to be used in order to attach straps to the watches in a simpler manner.

Other improvements were also made during wartimes.  The first alarm wristwatch was made in 1914.  In 1925 the first watch containg a perpetual calendar was created by Patek Philippe. 

By the time the war ended the men’s wristwatch had become an acceptable adornment in everyday life.  After that there were a host of improvements made to the wristwatch.  In the 1930’s wathes became waterproof and shock resistant.  Later, in the early 1950’s we saw the introduction of battery powered wristwatches.  The 1960’s brought quartz watches to market and the 1970’s brought in digital timepieces. 

The next time you glance at your vintage wristwatch remember that the war made wristwatches popular and is ultimately responsible for the replacement of pocket watches for everyday use.

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The often free flowing and somewhat mystical style of the Art Nouveau period makes it my favorite. In this era we see vintage jewelry that catches the essence of femininity and lighthearted whimsy. Jewellery created during this phase was really made for and worn by the ‘hip’ crowd.

While each country invented its own special style when making this type of vintage jewelry, there are certain characteristics that were prevalent in pieces made during this time. Free flowing lines and S shaped curves are seen in many of the treasures from this period. For example, you might find a vintage brooch containing a feminine figure with long flowing hair.

Another major theme seen in Art Nouveau jewelry is the use of natural and organic subjects. You will likely see living things such as butterflies, birds, vines and flowers when out shopping for vintage rings, bracelets and other baubles from this era. For example, you might find a vintage necklace that incorporates an intricate design of flowers, leaves and dragonflies.

There is a special sense of mystery and fantasy that comes to life in many of the vintage pieces from this period. The combination of nymphs and fairies with natural objects like vines and snakes make these jewels fascinating and fun.

Art Nouveau designers focused on artistic expression rather than the use of expensive materials. You will notice that much of the jewellery crafted in this era contains lesser metals and semiprecious stones such as moonstones and opals. The use of these types of translucent stones adds to the ephemeral feeling that comes through in many of these vintage items. However, there is also a lot of color to be found in pieces from this time.

Vibrant colored vintage pieces from the Nouveau designers were often created with the use of enameling techniques. Striking vintage brooches, rings, and other items were made with enameling methods such as cloisonné, plique-a-jour, and champlevé. Even if you currently have no idea what these methods mean, you will undoubtably appreciate the beautiful effects they contribute to vintage jewellery from the Art Nouveau era.

The jewelry created during this time has a fresh, unique, and spontaneous quality that brings out the feminine spirit. Take a bit of time to look at some vintage bracelets, earrings, or rings from this time. I think you’ll find these pieces quite enchanting and fun to wear.

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Vintage jewelry is a broad category that describes jewelry created anywhere from the 1920’s through the late 1980’s.  However, there are many smaller periods of time that fall within the general ‘vintage’ category.  These  periods have their own names to identify jewelry created during those years.  Generally, these periods are as follows:

Arts and Crafts (1894-1923):  During this period designers created pieces with intricate craftmanship.  Designs were simple and the jewelry was colorful.

Art Nouveau (1890-1915):  This period began with French designers and American designers quickly followed them. These pieces often contain graceful flower designs, dragonflies, and other insects.

Edwardian (1901-1910):  After Queen Victoria died this period began.  These pieces are very decorative and most often have an elaborate and lavish feel to them.  The vintage jewelry created during this era contained an abundance of pearls and diamonds often accented with rubies, emeralds and other gemstones. accents.

Art Deco (1910-1930):  The pieces made in this period contained many geometric shapes and contrasting bright colors.  Japanese, Egyptian, and African themed jewelry became popular.  At the same time many bakelite and celluloid pieces were created by designers during this era.

Retro (1940s – to about 1980):  This period was inspired somewhat by Hollywood.  So, the pieces were often big!  The jewelry was very elaborate and colorful.  It generally was gold and was created with a large variety of gemstones.    Charm bracelets became favored during this time.

You should be aware that the time periods set forth above for each period are fluid and flexible.  In other words, even the experts in this field disagree somewhat regarding when each era begins and ends.  But the discrepancies are relatively minor and only vary by 5-15 years at most.

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