Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Book Club: Cult Watches

I just came across this great title by noted timepiece journalist Michael Balfour, and wanted to share it with you. Cult Watches: The World's Enduring Classics is a compendium of the top 30 most popular styles worldwide. There's a real range here--from the high-end Cartier Tank and Rolex Cosmograph Daytona to Swatches and Mickey Mouse Ingersoll brands. 
I like this book because it not only provides great images, but also excellent historical context. While particularly interesting to collectors, it also appeals to watch lovers without a great deal of technical know-how. Many (including myself) find watches to be pieces of art both mechanically and aesthetically, so it's always fun to know the backstory behind captivating styles. 

If you're in the market for a watch that stands the test of time, you'll be particularly pleased with a new feature launching on Portero today: Dealer Starting Prices. For a little more explanation, here's a note straight from Portero's CEO:

An open letter from Michael Sheldon, Founder and CEO of Portero.com:

I am very pleased that we have reached a milestone in customer activity, which allows Portero to deliver very exciting news to our membership. Over the next couple of days, most of our watch auction starting bids will be adjusted down to reflect dealer prices. We believe that the online marketplace should dictate the final value of the watch merchandise on Portero.com, through our members bidding on the site. 

What this means to you is that you will get your dream watch at the right price. Like any auction, if there are several bidders who want the same piece that you do, the price will go up. However, if you are the only bidder, you get an unbelievable deal for a purchase you can be proud of. 

When you win a watch at Portero you will receive a fully authenticated and certified timepiece that is elegant and refined, and as always, you will also receive top notch customer service every step of the way. It is our goal to be your online auction source for world-class luxury watch brands. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to bid and win the watch you have always wanted. With a growing selection of premium brands such as Cartier, Rolex, Breitling, TAG Heuer, IWC and more, I hope that you will be delighted with the selection. Portero.com is the smarter way to own luxury. 

And finally, thank you for being a member and making Portero your preferred place to shop for luxury. 

Sincerely, 

Michael Sheldon

Click right here to check out the watches listed in Dealer Starting Prices. For example, this Must de Cartier Tank Watch is not only a great deal, but it made the list in Cult Watches
Image via Amazon.com