The Most Ridiculously Expensive Grillz in History

Grillz are decorative precious metals that you can snap over your teeth. Today, we see many Hollywood stars rocking grillz that ice out their teeth. However, the practice of wearing precious metals over the teeth actually began with the Etruscans. Not long after, the Mayans followed this practice (around 800 BC and 900 AD), sticking bits of metal over their teeth to signify wealth. But dental grillz’s popularity only rose during the 1970s, when modern people started using gold to replace their missing teeth. This practice was especially prevalent in New York back then, where African Americans from poorer backgrounds invented hip-hop along with wearing dental gold. 

Scientists claim that gold has antimicrobial properties, making them the perfect material for constant wearing inside the mouth. And thanks to the hip-hop industry, this dental necessity soon became a fashion item. Although it’s not clear who was the first Hollywood rap artist who wore grillz in a music video, many fans actually credit Kilo Ali and Raheem the Dream as pioneers of the trend. However, the majority of people claim that it was Slick Rick’s glittery grin during the debut of this 1988 album that changed the course of grillz’ history. Today, celebrities even outside the rap industry can be spotted rocking out iced-out teeth and dental gold from Las Vegas. Let’s go over some of the most expensive grillz and the celebrities that wear them.

6ix9ine

The New York rapper 6ix9ine is famous for wearing colorful grillz. He does not shy away from being eccentric and is proud of his fashion concept, which has evolved impressively since 2014. He usually gets his custom grillz from the highly in-demand jewelry Jimmy Boi. Here are some of the ridiculously fabulous pairs in his collection:

• 6ix9ine Gold Rainbow - This colorful and bright teeth accessory has become synonymous with 6ix9ine as it reflects much of his branding (that and all his tattoos). According to the rapper, rainbow to him is a love story. 
• Shark Rainbow Grillz - This set of grillz is somewhat one-tier above the 6ix9ine Gold Rainbow. It’s just a bit more advanced and intimidating than the previous one, but it’s just as impressive and colorful. They feature rainbow enamels in sharp shapes, making speaking a little tricky for the artist. 
• Vampire Diamond Rainbow Grillz - This is Jimmy Boi’s masterpiece for the artist. It’s one of the most expensive diamond dental accessories the Brooklyn-based rapper has ever paid for, costing him about $150,000. 
• White Gold 18K with 585 Diamonds - First spotted in 6ix9ine’s video clip “GOOBA,” this set of grillz is a work by Johnny Dang Grillz. It features tiny pieces of diamonds that coat the rapper’s teeth, completely icing out his smile to match his sparkly shark bling. 

Pharrell Williams

OG musician Pharrel Williams is one of the hip-hop industry’s game changers. His famous set of grillz is encrusted with 22k gold and various precious stones like sapphires, emeralds, and rubies glistening with blue, red, white, and yellow diamonds. The artist commissioned this set from a dynamic father-son duo from the New York-based Gabby Elan Jewelry for a whopping $100,000. 

Lil Wayne

Lil Wayne is one of the biggest names in the rap world and one of the pioneers who popularized the worldwide use of grillz. For as long as he’s been releasing albums, Lil Wayne has been wearing gold mouth sets, normalizing the practice of accessorizing teeth. One of his most iconic sets covers the front of his teeth with tiny diamonds that sparkle brighter than his career. It’s not clear if he had this grillz permanently installed onto his teeth or if he could take them out whenever he likes. But one thing’s for sure: this set cost him a handsome bill of $150,000. 

The Ultra Rare Double Eagle Gold Coin That Sold for a Record of $18.9M

One of America's last gold coins ever struck for circulation was sold for a whopping $18.9M in New York in 2021. According to the person who organized the coin's sale, this extremely rare 1933 "Double Eagle" gold coin is now the most valuable and pricey coin sold at an auction. It was able to beat the previous world record by two-fold. 

The 1933 Gold Double Eagles

The coin features Liberty on one side, while the other depicts an eagle in flight. For legal purposes, the Government gave the coin a face value of $20. The 1933 version of the Double Eagle coin was never put into circulation. The US Government had tried to retrieve all of them for melting down. However, they failed to retrieve all of them. 

Only a small handful was spared from this, and the surviving coins eventually entered the market. So, to recover all of them, the Secret Service declared in 1944 that any of these coins found in collectors' hands would be considered stolen. 

The particular one sold at an auction in 2021 was the only Gold Double Eagle that a civilian could legally possess. However, the freedom to own this specific coin was only a result of a legal battle between the US Treasury and the coin's former owner. Its recent sale was also a considerable step up from the coin's selling price in 2022, when it fetched $7.6M. 

Double Eagle Coins in General

The Gold Double Eagle coin was a staple of American coinage during the 1920s and '30s. It was highly prized for its high gold content (99.9%). But did you know there were other factors involved in its creation? Did you also know that the coins we see today aren't the original version of these coins? 

The Gold Double Eagle began its life as a United States minted silver dime, or dime, a coin with a higher copper content than the copper half dollar that came before it. The higher copper content meant that the coins had a higher face value and were easier to counterfeit. 

History

The Gold Double Eagle Coins were first minted in 1921 and were the brainchild of George Berresford Morgan, a Philadelphia coin manufacturing executive. The coins were designed by Louis Ehlert, a coin engraver and a member of the American Numismatic Society. The team in charge of the coin chose the name "Double Eagle" to reflect their relative value instead of the silver dollar it replaced. The coins first saw circulation in 1923 and were minted in silver and gold. The silver coins were called "Dollars," and the gold coins were called "Eagles." 

While they were prevalent in their original form, the ones we see today are not the original coins. These coins are usually referred to as "old" or "original" coins, but they are not the same coins that saw circulation during the first year of production. Since the coins were designed to be hoarded, they were popular with the wealthy and elite. This meant that the average person did not see them, which is why we have these counterfeits. This also meant that you would see more of them in states where coins are common, which is why there was an impressive amount of Gold Double Eagle coins in Las Vegas.

Why People Invest in Gold Centenario

The Gold Centenario is one of the top reasons why you should invest in gold. It is a well-known fact that the value of a fiat currency like the US Dollar or Euro fluctuates depending on a variety of factors. These fluctuations result in a depreciation or appreciation of that currency's value. For example, when the US Dollar collapses due to factors such as the American Empire collapsing, the value of gold (and other precious metals) will rise as a response to preserve investor confidence in that fiat currency. The same goes for other fiat currencies such as the Canadian Dollar and the British Pound. This article explains why you should invest in gold centenario, and which gold coins are currently most undervalued compared to their respective spot price.

What is a Gold Centenario

First minted in 1921, the Gold Centenario is one of Mexico's gold bullion coins. It was made to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the country's independence from Spain. Most people who own a Gold Centenario know better than to use it for its face value of 50 pesos. This value is assigned only for legal purposes. The coin's value as a bullion coin is worth far more.  

Characteristics

Generally, the Centenario coins weighs 41.67 grams and sits 37mm in diameter. It contains about 1.2 troy ounces of gold, and the best way to describe its composition is 90% gold and 10% copper. 

The coin was designed by a man by the name of Emilio del Moral. Its obverse features the of Winged Victory or El Ángel de la Independencia: "The Angel of Independence." The angel carries a laurel wreath in her right hand, while her left hand holds broken chains. In the background are two of Mexico's famous volcanoes: Popocatepetl and Iztaccíhuatl. On the lower left part of the coin, the year "1821" stands in out relief to commemorate the year of Mexico's independence. To its right is the mintage date of the coin, with 1921 and 1931 being the most valuable ones. 

Meanwhile, the coin's reverse depicts Mexico's coat of arms, featuring the Gold eagle perched on a cactus carrying a rattlesnake in its beak. 

Why Do People Invest in Gold Centenario Coins?

Investors who want to protect their money from inflation should buy assets that are most likely to appreciate in value, such as gold coins. The theory behind this is that as inflation gets closer and closer, the value of money will rise in tandem with the general value of the economy. This is why many investors buy gold coins: they are safe investments that will appreciate in value when inflation is low. 

In addition to this, many people are interested in making a long-term financial planning and investment strategy. For example, if they are able to purchase a large amount of Gold Centenario in Las Vegas at a time, they can save this investment for later use when they are of higher value. This way, they will not have to spend money on storage fees or other maintenance costs when they are sold later on.

Simply put, it provides a good return on investment. With the expected increase in demand from countries like China and India, the price of gold will rise as a result of this growth. This will provide a good amount of income for the investor. 

But the most special thing about Gold Centenario coins is that they carry 20% more gold than other gold bullion coins. In other words, you get more value for your money if you invest them in Gold Centario. Its limited supply also makes them highly coveted, which makes the coin's value go beyond its gold content. 

Impressive Antique Silver Cutlery

Silver has always been one tier below gold. However, that does not mean it is cheap and inexpensive. In fact, there have been claims that silver is rarer than gold. Its bright white luster strongly appeals to collectors and wealthy silver aficionados. There are incredible antique silver items in Las Vegas since its fabulous glam suits the area's lifestyle quite well. And through the years, ornate sterling silverware has become an exciting way to show off one’s financial capabilities and status. 

Brief History

Many tools and coins from ancient civilizations were crafted using silver. Archeologists claim that the earliest silver mines were in Turkey, which was known as Anatolia in the 5th century BC. Also, silver was considered the most potent disinfectant until it was overthrown by penicillin in 1928. Due to its antiseptic properties, silver became the ideal material for crafting the perfect cutlery, plates, and various household items. 

A wide range of factors can influence the value of any antique silver item. Such include age, history, condition, design, and rarity. This is especially true for antique silverware. While most pieces of antique silver end up being melted down into something else, the ones that last through generations gain more monetary value. However, the ones that really tickle most collectors; fancy are those that come from historical origin. 

Great Silver Wine Cistern of Thomas Wentworth

A wine cistern is a traditional tool that Europeans use to help alcohol bottles maintain a cool temperature. And today, the Great Silver Wine Cistern of Thomas Wentworth holds the place as the most expensive English silver cistern acquired at an auction. Crafted between 1706 and 1711, this wine cistern was initially valued at $3.8M. The talented artisan Philip Rollo used the 168 pounds of silver given by Queen Anne of England herself in crafting this remarkable silver piece. The item carries Britannia marks on both of the handles and features intricate details that depict the royal arms and the cipher of Queen Anne. 

Richard and Alice Brackett Silver Cup

This silver cup is valued at almost a million dollars. It was crafted back in 1660 by renowned Boston silversmiths John Hull and Robert Sanderson Sr. The American couple Richard and Alice Brackett acquired ownership of the cup after moving into Boston. They donated the revered cup to the United First Parish Church of Massachusetts before passing away in 1660. Aside from its quality and craftsmanship, what makes the cup particularly special is that it is made purely of rare Pilgrim Century silver. This material set the cup’s price equivalent to $775,750 in today’s money. The Richard and Alic Brackett Silver Cup is currently displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Arts for viewing. 

Germain Soup Tureen 

The skillful silversmith and artisan Thomas Germain specifically handmade this Germain Soup Tureen for French king Louis XV. If you’ve experienced dining with ridiculously expensive silverware, you’re still thousands of dollars away from eating soup from the same bowl as King Louis XV himself did. This notable silver piece is custom-built and one of a kind, making it an extremely rare tureen. A number of silver tureens during the time were melted down to aid the production of weapons or finance wars and battles, including the French Revolution. King Louis XV’s Germain Soup Tureen had a lid that can stand as a beautiful piece of artwork. It features fishes, vegetables, and fowl in intricate details that suit profligate suppers well. In 1996, however, this Germain Soup Tureen was sold for $10M at an auction held by Sotheby’s New York. 

Understanding the Idiom: Born With a Silver Spoon in One's Mouth

The idiom born with a silver spoon in one's mouth is the phrase that first triggered my interest in linguistics. In short, the idiom's meaning changes depending on a case-to-case basis. For example, if you have money to spend (in other words, you are considered wealthy), then it means that someone else has put you in a position of privilege and wealth; therefore, you are living your life with an idyllic existence. 

On the other hand, if you do not have money but live a luxurious and comfortable life due to your inherited wealth, you are seen as trying to be rich. Hence, the term 'silver spoon' refers to the fact that whoever coined it was referring to people living idyllic lives with access to luxury goods and services.

What does a Silver Spoon mean?

First, let's define what a silver spoon is. A silver spoon, especially Las Vegas silver spoons, is a spoon made of precious metal, usually with a minimal alloy of copper and zinc to help the item hold its shape. While most people associate silver with the kitchen, it can also be in flatware, decorative, kitchen and bathroomware, and even medical equipment.

History of the Idiom

The history of the silver spoon goes back as far as the 3rd Century BCE when it was believed that the Greek gods kept dippers made of silver. This is why people today use spoons made of silver for rituals and religious purposes. In the 16th Century, spoons with attached pieces of metal were first manufactured, and the tradition of giving spoons for jobs and achievements continued for a few hundred years after that. 

Although silver is not the most popular metal for making spoons, most silver spoons are made of silver. Interestingly, some silver spoons are, in fact, made of gold.

Examples of the Idiom Born with a Silver Spoon in One's Mouth

There are many famous examples of the idiom "born with a silver spoon in one's mouth," including:

• A silver spoon can be used to dig through the soil or to scratch an itch. If you have a silver spoon in your mouth, you are probably going to use it to scratch an itch or dig through the dirt.
• If you have a silver spoon in your mouth and speak a foreign language, you are likely trying to sound like someone who has a silver spoon in their mouth.
• If you have a silver spoon in your mouth when you are offered a bribe, you are most likely accustomed to receiving bribes and will accept them without question.

How to tell if you have a Silver Spoon in your Mouth?

• If someone refers to you as 'poor' or 'desperate' while you are present, it is a pretty good indicator that you have a silver spoon in your mouth.
• If someone offers to give you money, even for a service, it is a pretty good indicator that you have a silver spoon in your mouth.
• If you have inherited a lot of money, it automatically makes others think you have a silver spoon in your mouth.
• Living in a fancy or luxurious house can also be a pretty good indicator that you have a silver spoon in your mouth.
• Having access to luxury goods and services probably indicates that you have a silver spoon in your mouth.

Difference Between Cast and Poured Silver Bars

Silver bars are exactly what the name suggests - bars made up entirely of silver. They are a form of silver bullion that wealthy people can invest their money on. If you have proper storage for it, silver bars from Las Vegas can be an excellent way to protect the value of your money against inflation. There are other silver bullion items you can invest in, but silver bars seem to be the most popular one, succeeding silver coins. With silver bars, you have two options: cast bars and poured bars. But what is the difference between a poured silver bar and a cast silver bar? That is a question that is asked often.

Poured Silver Bar

A poured silver bar is made by pouring molten or liquid silver into a mold. During this process, the mold determines the nature of the bar. When making poured silver bars, the hot metal is poured into open graphite or other heat-resistant molds. The metal is left to cool there. Because of this, the silver that is exposed to the open face of the mold will demonstrate cooling lines or striations. 

 

The practice of pouring and turning liquified precious metals into bars and ingots has been around for hundreds of years. This practice involves a simple process that anyone can learn, especially if one has access to hot and consistent fire and some sturdy tools. However, this process is very traditional and can take a long time. In addition, due to its lengthy procedure, it's more applicable for larger silver bars than smaller bars weighing less than a hundred ounces.

Cast Silver Bar

Also known as pressed bars, cast silver bars are obtained through casting sterling silver into molds or forms. However, these molds or forms do not have open faces like those used to cast poured bars. Casting is often used to make silver and gold jewelry and silver art pieces as a result of this method. A closed mold is usually used, so pour lines are not usually seen.

Unlike pouring silver bars, the process of casting silver bars is more suited for manufacturing silver bars in smaller weights. It's also a more recent practice, so recent that it involves technological advancements comparable to how mints produce coins. 

The Comeback of Silver Jewelry in Las Vegas 2022

Silver jewelry in Las Vegas has long been a staple of the fine jewelry market. It is especially popular for wedding and engagement rings, earrings, and necklaces. However, these pieces are typically quite small in size and scope. That's because silver as a material has waned in popularity over the last few decades. However, that's all about to change by 2022. The Comeback of Silver Jewelry forecast places the value of this industry at $3 billion by this year, with a strong return on investment during the same time period. Let's take a closer look at why we are seeing such demand for silver jewelry once again and what it means for you as an investor and consumer.

Why Is Silver Jewelry Making a Comeback?

The silver market saw a strong resurgence in the 1990s, peaking in 1996. That year, the silver jewelry industry realized $4.9 billion in total sales. However, over the next few decades, that number steadily declined. It's not entirely clear why this happened, but it's likely due to a combination of factors. First, the jewelry market as a whole has declined since the 1990s, so the drop in silver jewelry sales can likely be attributed to that alone. However, the rise of more affordable, synthetic materials like cubic zirconia and moissanite may also have played a role.

What Types of Jewelry Will Benefit From This Comeback?

As the value of silver increases, it will become more cost-effective to use in jewelry. That will allow silver jewelry to recapture some of its former popularity and bring it back into the mainstream. There is now a high possibility of a resurgence in the use of silver in a number of different jewelry types. Specifically, silver earrings are likely to benefit most from this rising popularity. Silver bracelets, necklaces, and rings will also likely increase in demand.

What to Look for When Investing in Silver Jewelry

When investing in silver jewelry, you will want to find a piece that is both affordable and high-quality. You can research to find graphs that determine the premium on the silver used in your jewelry. By comparing the difference in silver prices from one month to the next, you can get an idea of how the cost of the metal is trending. You will also want to get a highly durable piece. Silver can tarnish over time, especially in Las Vegas weather; you'll want to look for jewelry made with high-grade tarnish-resistant material.

Pros and Cons of Investing in Silver Jewelry

Pros: Silver jewelry has an obvious appeal to many investors. People are naturally drawn to this shiny and beautiful material. Plus, it can be used in different ways: as jewelry, as a table centerpiece, or even to make a fancy frame for an artwork. This wide range of potential uses makes silver an attractive investment for just about anyone. Silver is also a relatively easy metal to work with, making it ideal for jewelry designers. Because of this, you can expect to see a wide variety of silver jewelry come to market as the industry continues to grow. 

Cons: The main drawback to investing in silver jewelry is that it can be costly to make. This is especially true for larger pieces, which require more silver. This can make investing in silver jewelry cost-prohibitive for smaller retailers.

Conclusion

Silver jewelry will make a strong comeback in the coming years, especially in Las Vegas. This valuable commodity will likely increase in price over the next few years, making it more affordable to use in jewelry. While silver jewelry will likely never be as popular as gold, it is likely to become a popular material once again, thanks to its affordability and the wide variety of designs it can be used in.

Costume Jewelry VS Fine Jewelry

The difference between Las Vegas costume jewelry and fine jewelry comes down to the jewelry item’s materials. You just need to figure out the quality of the metals and gemstones used in manufacturing jewelry items. Doing so will help you determine whether your items are mere costume jewelry or fine jewelry. Knowing this is important so you can learn the actual value of the jewelry your carry. That way, you can take care of them properly. This information can also help you avoid paying for more than what you tend to buy. 

Costume Jewelry

Costume jewelry, or fashion jewelry, usually contains metal alloys and imitation stones. The metal alloys usually include base metals like aluminum, brass, and copper, which can easily bend and tarnish. Some costume jewelry items are also made of textiles, leather, and gold-plated items. You will also find ones that carry plastic stones, Swarovski crystals, and cubic zirconia, which can mimic the brilliance of diamonds. 

Some enthusiasts insist upon a middle category of jewelry called “semi-fine.” This category includes jewelry with gold vermeil and the ones that are gold-filled. Jewelry with affordable (yet real) gemstones also falls under this category, such as opals and morganite. There are also “enhanced” gemstones, which are treated with heat or chemicals to make them appear clearer and flawless. 

Costume jewelry is affordable and easy to wear. However, it’s more prone to cracking and tarnishing and doesn’t have much shelf life. Moreover, they can be hard to fix once broken or damaged. Luckily, costume jewelry tends to be far more affordable than fine jewelry, so you can easily replace them. 

Fine Jewelry

Fine jewelry consists of jewelry made of solid precious metals like gold, sterling silver, and platinum. They are also usually embellished with real, high-quality gemstones like genuine diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and more. Although fine jewelry often has intricate designs, its solid composition makes them stronger than fashion jewelry, which is usually made flimsy. As a result, fine jewelry can last a lifetime and can even be passed down to generations if cared for properly. They may cost a hefty price, but the craftsmanship and the materials behind each piece make fine jewelry worth all the investment. 

Meanwhile, we have “designer jewelry,” and nobody truly knows if it falls under the fine jewelry category. To help, you need to know the materials in their composition. Some designers craft fashion jewelry to make their brand more accessible, but these designer fashion jewelry can cost higher than unbranded ones. The same designer brands can also carry fine jewelry, so you must be careful before purchasing. Feel free to scan the item for hallmarks to help determine if it’s authentic fine jewelry or just fashion jewelry with a fancy name. 

Are Fossil Watches Worth Your Money

Fossil is probably one of the most popular names in the industry of watch-making. More than half of the world knows the Fossil watches, but they never seem to be too expensive. Even fabulous Fossil watches from Las Vegas are not as pricey as a Rolex or Patek Philippe. The affordability of Fossil watches makes them seem too good to be true. However, the low price can still make people doubt its quality. And nobody ever wants to spend their money on something they’re not sure of. To straighten things out, we’ve listed some reasons why you should get a Fossil watch anyway. 

Fossil watches are worth every penny. They perform very well and are always great when it comes to aesthetic appeal. The Fossil Group has been around since 1984, producing high-quality leather accessories, wristwatches, smartwatches, and even jewelry. 

Top Quality

Fossil stays on top of its game when it comes to making the most out of its resources in creating high-quality watches that could last virtually a lifetime. Additionally, aside from perfecting the secret to manufacturing conventional watches, Fossil has also shifted its world-class intelligence into the production of smartwatches. One proof of Fossil’s commitment to high-quality watches that are aesthetically pleasing is their customizable line of watches called the “Gen 5.” The watches in this collection boast breath-taking features that make Fossil proud of its brand. 

World-Recognized Brand

The Fossil Group, Inc. is licensed not only as a manufacturer of watches but also as jewelry, accessory, and leather producer and distributor. They offer watches all over the world, mainly because they are incredibly trendy and of impressive quality. 

Water Resistance

The majority of Fossil watches are water-resistant, especially the ones they make specifically for sporting activities. Although, it is still important to read the label at the back of a Fossil watch to know the full extent of water it can be exposed to. Of course, Fossil watches have a seal that helps with water resistance, so be careful when you get them cleaned or repaired. An expert jeweler can help you with this so that your watch can maintain its ability to function under water. 

Stacking Gold Bracelets

With the current necessity to wear masks, accessorizing has become tricky. Hence, a lot of fashion enthusiasts have come up with ways to spruce up multiple outfits. One of these genius ways is to wear stacks of bracelets that can make even the most basic attires look chic and trendy. It may be hard to pull off stacked bracelets, especially if you don’t do it often. For first-timers, it’s important to remember that the key is knowing where to start, which pieces to put together, and what outfits to wear with your stacked look. Don’t be afraid to get creative with it; just remember that the goal is to feel good about yourself. Although this may sound fairly easy, there are still quite a few things you must avoid when mixing, matching, and stacking. Today, we’ve put together some tips and tricks to help you start. 

Sizing

Bracelet chain sizes are a personal preference. Combining a variety of sizes and textures can result in a personalized look that can add depth to your outfit. For thick pieces, you can probably go for three to five if you’re feeling a bit bold. On the other hand, if you’re playing with thin bands, you can go for as many as your wrist can handle. A good rule of thumb is to not cover more than ⅓ of your forearms. Also, wear snugger pieces closer to the base of your wrist near your hand to help you keep your wider bracelets behind them.

Mix & Match

Incorporating colors is an easy way to elevate your stack. Feel free to go for fun pieces with interesting shapes or colors. A beaded strand or Las Vegas gold bracelets with gemstones are also good choices. Always keep your outfit in mind when selecting the color for your bracelets. You want to wear colors that coordinate with your clothes. If you’re having a hard time, you can use an all-metal stack. You probably already own good pieces for this look, which will always result in a slightly modern ensemble. 

What to Wear With Stacked Bracelets

No one should stop you from wearing literally whatever you like, especially not a stack of bracelets. You can go and wear it with a basic t-shirt and jeans combo or even with your favorite black dress. A white shirt can act as a blank canvas that can work well with colorful bracelets. Meanwhile, a plain and simple black dress can turn into an edgy yet classy ensemble if you elevate the look with stacked metal bracelets. Just remember to keep it chic and straightforward. Avoid loud statement pieces to help keep you from going overboard.

How Swiss Watches Dominated the World of Horology

When it comes to luxury watches in Las Vegas, Swiss-made watches are the first thing that comes to mind. This is a no-brainer because they are known for their quality and accuracy in time-keeping. Not only that but they are also known for their multi-functionality.

Switzerland was not always the world’s leader in watchmaking. The Dutch and the French were the first ones to dominate the industry of clocks. Then, just before Switzerland made watches their pride, Germany earned the lead in the game, especially after inventing the portable clock back in 1509. These portable clocks are small enough to be worn as pendants or attached to clothing. Historians credit this invention to Peter Henlein, a clockmaker and locksmith based in Nuremberg. So how did Switzerland catapult itself into dominating the world’s watchmaking industry? 

In the early 1500s, the Protestant Reformation ignited a series of violent religious revolutions with Germany at its epicenter. During this era of intense violence, even peacetime industries such as watchmaking became severely affected. Violence slowly spread through France, and it affected France’s watchmaking industry. 

Switzerland became a haven for the French protestants during the reformation as Switzerland is a neutral country. Many French watchmakers also fled to Switzerland, and most of them settled in Geneva. As a result, Switzerland became the epicenter of skilled watchmakers.

A prominent Protestant reformer, John Calvin, led a revolution in Geneva as the French protestants immigrated to the city. John Calvin was also a very religious and strict person, especially when it came to a person’s outward appearance. And because of Calvin’s piousness, he decreed that residents of Geneva should not wear jewelry. As a result, Geneva’s thriving jewelry-making and goldsmithing industry was severely affected.

Jewelers, goldsmiths, and other artisans who were affected turned towards watchmaking instead of leaving the city. Significant innovations in the watchmaking industry were conceptualized and actualized in Switzerland; examples of these are the invention of chronometers, perpetual movements, and tourbillon, among many others.

Today, as smartwatches and mass-produced cheaper watches are found everywhere, Swiss-made watches are still the pinnacle of quality. The care and attention to detail in crafting every piece of watch is an art. And top watchmakers such as Rolex, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and the others are still constantly striving for innovation in their pieces. As a result, Swiss-made watches are not your ordinary timepieces; they are a work of art and tiny machines that will survive the test of time.