As watches age over the years, they tend to lose their factory straps and bracelets — either they get taken off and misplaced, or they simply wear out over time. Most collectors get around this by putting their vintage watches on aftermarket straps, and while there’s nothing wrong with that, there’s something special about a vintage watch rocking it’s original (or at least period-correct) bracelet. While they’re harder to find, they’re still out there, and these three vintage pieces prove they’re worth seeking out.
Tissot PR 516 Chronograph
What we like: Tissot’s PR 516 range of sports watches were made over many years and encompassed many different types of watch, but the chronograph model is particularly noteworthy. This one features a handsome tachymeter bezel made from bakelite, a hand-winding movement and, of course, a stainless steel bracelet. The whole thing looks to be in immaculate shape and well worth its sub-$2,000 asking price.
From the seller: Mint condition. The case has never been polished, dial and hands are 100% flawless and untouched. The bakelite bezel is crack-free, and the movement has recently been checked through by our watchmaker and runs perfectly in all functions.
