Vintage is a relative term for horology enthusiasts. It is also rarely put to use for labeling watches of the early 1990s or 2000s. The question here is what to call the early watches from a brand like Victorinox. A brand that only started with timepieces in 1989? What shall be a better term for a Swiss army watch?
Yes, you read it right, so let’s address the elephant in the room, drum rolls, please – Victorinox is the brand behind the Swiss army watches.
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Swiss Army Watch – Victorinox as a Brand
If you are confused that Victorinox of the Swiss Army Watch fame only began production some 30 years ago – you are not alone. There is massive confusion regarding the early years of Victorinox as a watchmaker. While most Swiss watchmakers have longer histories, even going back centuries, the Swiss Army Watches are a relatively new addition.
Fun Fact: Did you know the Swiss in the name of Swiss Army Watches is not only an affiliation? Almost all of the Swiss Army Watches in Canada and the world are produced only in Switzerland.
It is pretty common knowledge that Swiss watches are pretty badass – and the brand behind these masterpieces is Victorinox.
Missing Block of the Puzzle
People do not immediately picture a watch when they hear “Swiss Army,” and that is a shame. However, let’s look into the fact of the matter and decide: what sets Victorinox Watches Apart?
Affordability of Swiss Army Watches in Canada
These watches are reasonably priced between $350 to $550 – this is a far cry from other brands of Swiss watches in Canada that will cost you thousands. But what about the quality of these pieces? Below is a complete rundown of features – which drive the Swiss quality.
Accuracy of a Swiss Army Watch
Swiss Army or Victorinox makes their own movement (movements are what makes the watches tick). With Swiss Army timepieces, movements are incredibly accurate and able to measure time within a few seconds of accuracy per year.
Durable Mechanisms
The watches use imitation rubies in the movement components, thus preventing them from wearing out with use.
Scratch Proof
Swiss army watches, including the versions available in Canada, have hard crystal coating, which is more than twice in comparison to industry standards. The mainstream hardened mineral crystals come up to 450 Vickers, while the Victorinox timepieces come with hardened crystals rating up to 900 Vickers.
The Victorinox watches also come with Sapphire crystals rating 1,200 Vickers. Evidently, these are so hard that only diamonds can scratch them.
Intrigued? Let’s address the following:
Why should you buy a Swiss Army Watch?
- Timepieces from the Swiss Army are made rugged enough for multiple and varying adventures.
- In addition, these pieces are practical for everyday use.
- The watches come with both leather and metal bracelet options, making them a must-have versatile watch in the market.
- They are the real deal and not pretentious, to begin with.
- These are watches for everyone, and come along with a generous amount of style, and offer value for money.
- We highly recommend the brand itself to people who are looking for a sporty yet solid mechanical watch with conservative aesthetics.
Care Guidelines
Below are some useful care guidelines for making the most out of these stellar pieces of engineering:
Manual Wind
It is important to manually wind a traditional mechanical watch on a daily basis at a regular set time to ensure the smooth running of the piece. You simply have to turn the crown back and forth, that is, until you feel a slight resistance to this. It is also important not to overwind to keep the mechanism from damage.
Automatic Wind
The auto or mechanical winding watches auto-wind when in use. If your Swiss Army watch stops after not being in use, the movement will be needed to be manually wound. This is done by turning the crown back and forth a few times.
It is important to note that in order to maintain the accuracy of mechanical movements, the watch will require regular checks and maintenance. Additionally, the mechanical movements are far more sensitive in comparison to the quartz movements. These can be true for varying parameters, including physical shocks, temperature variations, gravity, magnetism, and even the wearer’s activities.
Thus, we recommend that customers with mechanical watches get the movement serviced and the rate realigned every five years.
Cleaning the Watch
When you buy a Swiss army watch, the last thing you want to do is to let it lose its luster. You must maintain the attractive appearance of the watch by cleaning the case properly in addition to cleaning the gold or steel bracelet. This can be done using soapy water, and then you can simply rinse off the water and wipe the piece clean with a soft cloth.
If you have a soft bristle toothbrush at hand, try using it too to clean your Swiss Army watch gently. The soft bristles are important, so you do not scratch the bracelet or the watch case. To effectively clean the leather strap of your watch, rinse it under clean water and then rub it carefully with a soft brush; you can also use a little bit of soap. After that, wipe the strap clean with a soft cloth and leave it to air-dry. Also, keep the leather away from any source of heat.
Choice of a Quartz Watch
The quartz watch movements are through a battery, thus eliminating the requirement of winding the watches manually. Thus, the battery needs to be changed in contrast to mechanical movement. Traditionally, most batteries last up to 24 months. However, their actual lifespan depends on multiple varying factors.
Final Word
The rise of the vintage Swiss Army watch era is a testament to the quality and durability of Victorinox timepieces. Though the brand only started producing watches in 1989, they have quickly made a name for itself. Victorinox manufactures affordable, accurate, and scratch-resistant watches with durable mechanisms. These are capable of lasting multiple adventures.
If you are looking to add to your collection of quality timepieces – visit Bijoux Eclore for tons of affordable options.
