freedomwatches

Watch Faces

2010-04-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

The watch face is a distinctive feature which plays an important role in watch design. It not only tells the time but it has to be appealing to the customer to entice them to buy it.

Most watches are either analogue or digital. An analogue watch face has fixed numbers 1-12 in a dial. Sometimes they are shown as roman numerals or no figures are used at all. A digital watch displays just the numbers and other features such as the date and can be used as a stopwatch or as an alarm. Clock and watch faces move clockwise as they originally imitated sundials and as the shadow of the sun moved in that direction that was adopted by watch makers.

Nowadays watch faces are available in numerous designs and styles. Watch companies place important emphasis on their watch face designs even making it possible to design watches to meet individual needs. In the past attempts have been made to add more technology into designs with Seiko Watches attempting to incorporate a TV screen into a watch face, Casio designed a watch that could translate Japanese and Citizen introduced a watch that would react to your voice. However these were all fads that never stood the test of time.

Seiko To Introduce New Solar Watches

2010-04-27T06:30:00.000-07:00

Seiko Watches have announced the unveiling of their new range of solar powered watches on May 14 2010. It is rumoured that they will be named Hybrid Solar Watches.

Solar powered watches aren’t new to Seiko Watches. However with this new design they have used transparent plates so the photovoltaic (PV) cells are visible. Seiko Watches hope this feature will appeal to the more eco-friendly market. They are targeting the younger generation who are environmentally aware and who find green gadgets appealing.

Seiko Watches hope to introduce a range of ten solar powered wristwatches retailing from £140-£180. Once fully charged these watches will last for 6 months.

Ladies Watches

2010-04-22T07:38:00.000-07:00

At the turn of the last century women would wear watches on a chain around their neck, tucked into their bodices or in a small pocket sewn in their skirt. It was considered unseemly and improper for women to wear wrist watches.

Nowadays, ladies watches are big business with all the major watch companies, from Seiko Watches through to Rolex, investing in new styles and designs for women. Small watches seem to be all the fashion at the moment as watches are marketed more as jewellery in their own right. Recently at Baselworld in Switzerland it was highlighted that watches for women are becoming more discreet and decorative.

Whether you are after a durable sports watch, an elegant timepiece or just a simple uncomplicated watch to tell the time with, pick one that works for you. One that you find pleasing to look at because it is you that will be wearing it!

Referee Watches

2010-04-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

Referees in a match or any sporting event play a vital role in officiating over the proceedings. Not only do they have to be extremely fit to keep up with the demands for refereeing an event they also need to exhibit exceptional timekeeping.

It is paramount that a referee has an accurate watch in order that no mistakes are made. A good timepiece needs to be durable, reliable and waterproof in order to keep working whatever the weather.

A reliable watch favoured by many referees is Seiko Watches W772 Referee Watch. Its features consist of a countdown timer which is important for sports such as soccer, which is played using time increments. Another strong feature is its ability to be a stopwatch and it also has a secondary timer which allows for play stoppage due to injuries etc. It also boasts a clear face for easy reading, a vibration mode and is water resistant.

Watch Straps

2010-04-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

Watches come in all shapes, sizes and materials. All manufacturers, from Seiko Watches through to Breil , offer a wide variety of timepieces to match any taste and pocket.

Titanium watches and straps are very durable but light in weight and long lasting making them a good long term investment. Stainless steel watches are a fairly cheap option and are renowned for being very strong and don’t corrode easily.

The most extravagant watches with matching straps are made from gold. They are seldom used by their owners and are generally brought out for special occasions. They do hold their value though, especially if the price of gold rises and are seen as a good long term investment. Silver watches are similar to gold ones and hold their value but they do tarnish easily.

Straps are important as they need to be adjustable and comfortable. Webbing straps are the cheapest option and are fairly durable. Leather watches are quite common and can be dyed any colour. Rubber straps are strong and water resistant and often used for children’s watches.

Increase In Watch Sales

2010-04-13T09:14:00.000-07:00

Following the recent global economic crisis over the previous few years the watch industry, along with many other luxury item products, have all witnessed a fall in revenue due to the “credit crunch”.

In 2009 the Swiss watch makers were still reporting a significant loss in revenue, some as much as 22.3%. This was an all too familiar story from most of the watch companies around the globe, from Seiko Watches through to Tissot all experiencing the effects of the economic downturn.

However, with the market appearing to be starting to move in a more optimistic direction again, analysts are noticing a significant turnaround in the luxury goods market. Items such as, Champagne, jewellery and watches are beginning to report an increase in sale as the public are back out there shopping again!

Time Zones

2010-04-07T08:33:00.000-07:00

We have all experienced the confusion of travelling to another country and finding we have to change time. Confusingly either moving time forward and losing precious moments or moving time back and repeating time we have already lived.

In order to measure time it was globally agreed to have a starting point. Noon was decided on, when the sun is highest in the sky. As this occurs at different times around the world, as the earth rotates, it was decided that a point of reference was required. This became known as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).There are 24 time zones and each zone represents one hour.

The International Date Line (IDL) is an imaginary line on the opposite side of the world to Greenwich which is near London, England. If you cross the line heading west you add a day however if you are travelling east you go back a day and technically arrive before you left!

Modern day clocks and watch companies strive to improve technology in order to keep perfect time. From Seiko Watches through to Dolce and Gabbana, manufacturers constantly try to perfect innovative ideas in order to create the most accurate timepiece.

Seiko Launch New Timepiece

2010-04-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

Seiko Watches introduced last week their new E-Ink watch called the Active-matrix E-ink watch or "FutureNow".

This newly designed timepiece was unveiled last week at Baselworld. It boasts 80,000 pixels with a dpi resolution of 300, showing four shades of grey producing a very clear and sharp data display unit. For those who also like their gadgets the watch also displays time in the world’s major cities and show a photo of the Earth on the watch face.

The FutureNow is aimed at the younger end of the market being described as having a "cool display" and would suit "any urban hipster". Whether you are a fan of traditional analogue watches or digital technology this innovative timepiece is definitely one to be admired.

Grand Seiko

2010-03-30T01:23:00.000-07:00

This year sees the 50th anniversary of Seiko Watches Grand Seiko. This classic timepiece first appeared on the market in 1960 and has "long been recognised by collectors, watchmakers and industry observers as one of the greatest watches in the world".

The Grand Seiko is only manufactured in Japan due to the expert skills that are required to produce such a high quality timepiece. As well as quartz movements this watch also possesses spring drive technology. "Hands are made with razor edge precession. Even materials are special; the main springs are made of Spiron which delivers maximum power reserve and durability".

It was at Baselworld last week that Seiko Watches chose to announce that the Grand Seiko will now be available in some selective international markets with the major one being Australia. Seiko have introduced this change of policy due to their increased production capacity.

Seiko Launch New Watch

2010-03-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

Seiko Watches chose the annual trade fair, Basel world, to launch the new Seiko Quartz Astron to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the introduction, by Seiko, of the world’s first quartz watch.

When Seiko Watches first launched the original quartz watch back in 1969, it was seen to revolutionise the conventional watch. At the heart of this watch was a crystal oscillator coupled with an open step motor allowing Seiko to produce the most accurate timepiece on the market.

The new Seiko Quartz Astron incorporates the original design, but with the advancement of technology in recent years, Seiko has introduced new and improved concepts such as, a high torque stepping motor with a precise alignment of the second hand. Once again Seiko watches have produced a highly reliable and precision piece of technology creating new standards of timekeeping.

Baselworld Trade Fair 2010

2010-03-18T16:24:00.000-07:00

The Baselworld trade fair opened its doors this week to watch companies, raw producers and shop owners. All the major watch companies are scheduled to attend including Seiko watches, Rolex and Fossil.

This show is a highly acclaimed global event. It not only brings all the elements for watch manufacturing together but also allows companies to showcase new products and to promote original and fresh ideas in response to current trends.

With sales in decline over the past year, watch companies have noticed a gradual turnaround. The fragile world economy is still recovering from the recent current financial crisis so small steps are required. Sylvie Ritter, Managing Director of Baselworld adds that "the current economic climate was challenging for most of 2009 and of course this has a negative effect". The watch companies however, remain optimistic.

Limited Edition Seiko Watch

2010-03-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

In October 2008 Seiko watches unveiled a new timepiece that was out of this world! The Spring Drive Spacewalk watch was designed by Seiko watches for space tourist Richard Garriot on his inaugural space trip to the International Space Station.

As the watch was to be worn on the outside of the spacesuit it had to go through rigorous tests to ensure that it could withstand extreme radiation and pressure. A Spring Drive movement was selected as it could be exposed to temperature ranges of minus 20c through to plus 70c.

The watch has a traditional face with a date function; it is constructed in a high intensity titanium casing and has a specially designed nylon strap. Only one hundred of these high specification watches were made. They went on sale for $28,000 in February of this year. Last September one was auctioned in New York raising $45,000 for charity.

Daylight Saving Time

2010-03-12T10:32:00.001-08:00

This weekend sees the onset of daylight saving time. All wrist watches and clocks will be put forward one hour in order to save an hour of daylight as we enter into spring.

But what is time? Albert Einstein said "space and time are bound up with each other". Time organises our actions and thoughts. Historically timepieces can be traced back through the centuries with the introduction of calendars and sundials to mark time.

With development in recent technology, time is big business. Modern timepieces like wristwatches and digital clocks are constantly being updated. Companies such as, Seiko watches, Tissot and Citizen are always competing to be the first to get the most up to date watch on the market. But if time is relative as some believe, whatever timepiece you own, time flies by for some whilst others see time as dragging!

The Genuine Article

2010-03-09T12:11:00.000-08:00

Gone are the days when you could buy a fake watch off a man on the street, nowadays there is global demand for phony timepieces.

The stigma of wearing a replica watch has gone, to a certain extent. Some people chose to save their designer brands for special occasions and wear an alternative watch for everyday use. Others buy one out of curiosity, to impress their friends or as an inexpensive gift. However, these people are buying because of a brand not because they want a quality watch and that shows a lack of integrity on their part. If their watch is fake what else is fake about them!

This multi million pound business is bad news for manufactures of the legitimate products. It has been estimated that over 30 million counterfeit watches are sold each year with £600 million lost in revenues for companies such as, Seiko watches, Omega and Rolex.

Many fakes don’t last long, even if they work at all. When you invest in a classic timepiece you are buying quality and craftsmanship, a watch that can last a lifetime. So what better way to invest in time than buying the genuine article?

Men's Obsession with Watches

2010-03-03T09:38:00.000-08:00

There may be a recession on but watches are big business, the industry is booming. Men in particular appear obsessed it owning not only the latest must have, but the traditional and classic styles too.

Annually watch companies from Seiko watches through to Tag Heuer, introduce a new range of men’s and ladies watches. They are particularly aimed at grabbing the attention of the male consumer. The watch must be designed with the latest advanced technology and possess numerous functions to satisfy mans need for gadgets!

Men are further enticed into buying the latest timepiece through the power of advertising. Millions of pounds are pumped into marketing these products. Men’s magazines such as, GQ and Esquire litter their pages with glossy ads. Men are further drawn in by the sportsmen and celebrities who endorse the watch. They want to feel part of the glamorous image the watch portrays and the intrigue and power it projects.

Just as women buy designer handbags, men invest in classic timepieces. They are not merely timekeepers but are seen as a reflection of a man’s personality. Gone are the flashy sports cars and in are watches, the new portable status symbol.

Pieces In Time

2010-03-01T11:32:00.000-08:00

Pocket watches were the first portable watches to be introduced. They were initially carried by the upper classes and were used not just as timepieces but were regarded as a symbol of class and refinement.

In the early 20th century, watches worn around the wrist were launched and rapidly gained in popularity. Initially adorned by women, wrist watches were redesigned not only as a fashion accessory but marketed as an essential addition to modern day life.

Over the decades, watches using the latest technologies have been designed and improved on, ranging from wind up to quartz precision and digital to linear motion. Traditional watchmakers such as Seiko watches, Casio and Timex have all stood the test of time adapting to changing technologies and trends. They are still around today producing up to the minute timepieces.

There is an exhausting range of ladies and men’s watches on the market to choose from. Just as you think technology has reached its ultimate peak the watch makers surprise us with the introduction of a new range of high tech watches in contemporary designs.

Top Tips for Buying a Watch

2010-02-26T08:02:00.000-08:00

Your watch is viewed as a reflection of your personality. It is quite often one of the first things people notice about you. So when buying a watch, it is important to have an image in mind which you wish to project and choose accordingly.

Most importantly it is essential that you buy something that you like; remember you have to look at it every day. Ask yourself, does it reflect your own expression and style. Take into account, when deciding on a watch, that it mirrors your lifestyle. There is no point buying a delicate dress watch if you do a physical job.

Always buy a brand you can trust. Traditional watch companies, such as Seiko watches, produce an extensive range of men’s and ladies watches to suit everyone’s needs and pocket. Keep in mind it’s important to make a good first impression but it’s equally important to enjoy wearing your chosen timepiece.

Swiss Made - the Genuine Article?

2010-02-24T08:19:00.000-08:00

It has been revealed recently, that “Swiss made” watches may not be all that they seem. Brands carrying the Swiss label are highly marketable products and best sellers, which is one of the reasons Switzerland is regarded as the market leader in watches.

To qualify for the “Swiss made” label, the watch itself must be assembled in Switzerland and have at least 50% of its components locally made. However, it has come to light that Seiko Instruments Incorporated, who manufactures Seiko watches, has been providing “the intellectual property for its first in-house movement” to Tag Heuer.

The temptation for some manufactures is that they can buy cheaper mechanisms, such as, dials, hands and movements in countries like China or from Seiko watches in Japan for five times cheaper than in Switzerland.

In Switzerland, 80% of watch movements are supplied by Swatch Group’s manufacturing unit ETA, who until recently supplied Tag Heuer. Chief executive Nick Hayek accuses some watch makers “of being hollow brands that invest little in the craft and spend millions on glamorous ad campaigns”. Whether “Swiss made” watches weather the current global economic crisis and still remain on top, remains to be seen.

Seiko- Still Keeping Time

2010-02-19T07:04:00.000-08:00

Seiko is Japanese meaning “success” and “exquisite”. The first Seiko watches were introduced onto the market in 1924. Since then they have continued to be highly regarded globally for their quality ranges of ladies and men’s watches.

From ground breaking Seiko Kinetic and Auto delay watches through to solid and reliable ones, such as the World times and Alarm Autograph, Seiko have maintained their reputation for precision technology for nearly a century.

Seiko watches are seen as classic timepieces. Many collectors hold Seiko wrist watches as prize items. Always renowned for their advanced technology and innovative ideas their reputation precedes them.

Seiko takes pride in being the first to launch cutting edge technology to the world. For each new timepiece they introduce, they feel they are creating a “Landmark in time”.

Seiko Launches new timepiece

2010-02-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

March will see the launch of Seiko’s new addition to their range of precision ladies and mens watches. They have chosen Baselworld, the leading event for the watch industry, to exhibit their new timepiece.

The Kinetic Perpetual watch, part of Seiko watches Premier range, incorporates the most up-to-date technology. There is no need to change batteries, ever, as the watch is powered by the movements of the wearer.

This wristwatch also senses 24 hours of inactivity and turns itself off in order to conserve energy. It automatically adjusts itself for leap years until 2100.

This unique watch is another welcomed addition to the already impressive range of reliable and innovative watches which seiko is renowned for worldwide.

Seiko Launch Space Watch in India

2010-02-08T14:08:00.000-08:00

Seiko watches, known for reliable and precise luxury watches, launched the "Seiko Spring Drive Spacewalk" for the first time to an Indian audience in Mumbai. Other watches from the brand were also presented at the same time.

The "Seiko Spring Drive Spacewalk" has particular notoriety because it was worn by Richard Garriot, the well known game designer and explorer, who wore one during his space travels in 2008.

Seiko have had an interest in the Indian market since the launch of Seiko Watch India Private Limited in 2007. The long term plan is to open Seiko own flagship stores in the most prestigious retail areas in major city centers throughout India but currently the watches are available in several up market outlets.

Millionaires Prefer Seiko

2010-01-28T10:35:00.000-08:00

According to a recent article the difference between being rich and acting rich is huge. Millionaires do not necessarily sport the expected brand names. Apparently more millionaires wear Seiko watches than Rolex, and drive Toyota’s rather than BMW’s.

A study which was conducted at the University of Georgia by Thomas Stanley (author of several books about the social behaviour of the rich) illustrated this point perfectly distinguishing between the habits of the super rich and the ordinary man on the street. Buying expensive brands was not found to be a trait common in the rich…but rather those who aspire to appear to be rich and therefore spend over their means.

The study concluded that ultimate happiness has little to do with what we eat, wear and own and that in fact affluent people tend to derive pleasure from more simple things like entertaining their friends and watching their grandchildren play!

Will New Fantasy Sci-Fi Watch be a Success?

2010-01-13T12:56:00.000-08:00

There are lots of watch manufacturers in the market. Some, like Seiko Watches have a reputation for designing and making reliable and accurate timepieces.

According to a recent article, others it would seem are obsessed with the recreating fantasy watches like the new watch-phone launched recently and reminiscent of those seen in sci-fi comic pages. The latest example, a watch-phone made by Kempler and Strauss, was being demonstrated at the Las Vegas 2010 Consumer Electronics Show.

The general feeling is that whilst the watch caused quite a stir amongst photographers and journalists attending the show it was unlikely to be successful. The mobile phone industry has developed so much in recent years and young people have got accustomed to having phones in their pockets which do multiple jobs – telling the time, taking photos, recording video as well as communicating.

A wrist watch is an entirely different thing – it’s a fashion accessory, a status symbol, a style choice, a precious gift - but it really doesn’t need to be a mobile phone too. Whist a watch-phone is novel and fun, is there any point?

Seiko's Arctura Range

2010-01-07T08:55:00.000-08:00

Seiko Watches Arctura range represents a very masculine style and exudes natural strength. According the Seiko’s own website it stands for “strong, solid build quality and aerodynamic design”. It was inspired by the arc shapes which are found in the natural world like rainbows and the curve of the earth.

Unsurprisingly, because it fits with the ethos of natural strength, the whole range is powered by the movement of the body relying on kinetic power.

Seiko to Increase Stake in Indian Watch Market

2009-12-28T08:02:00.000-08:00

According to recent reports, the Japanese brand Seiko Watches is to increase its stake in the Indian watch market in the coming months.

The company plans to open to exclusive boutiques in Delhi and Mumbai next year and through these outlets will launch the Ananta range in India next year.

Seiko’s plan is to open a further 8 stores in cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Although, exactly where the new stores will be has not been confirmed.

The company which made the transition to a premium watch retailer from a mass market outfit about 7 years ago now retails watches through authorised online retailers and through many multi brand stores in India. But the acquasition of these new retails outfits represents a significant increase in Seiko's profile in India.