December, 2023 - Leo Hamel

Top 10 Luxury Watch Brands

2023-12-292024-03-20 by Rylee Kahan

The art of watchmaking is one that dates back centuries, a tangible representation of mankind’s persistent fascination with time. Horologists of the past were praised for their skill and ingenuity. They were awarded at world fairs and exhibitions for their endless innovations. Several pioneers of watchmaking also founded some of the most famous luxury watch brands. Many of which you might recognize. These watch brands are known for manufacturing timepieces of superior quality, featuring several impressive complications to aid with any task.

If you’re in the market for a new high-end watch, you may be feeling overwhelmed with the many options. Each watch brand is known for something different. Whether you prefer Vacheron Constantin or TAG Heuer – find the best watch for your taste and budget without the headache. We’ve compiled a list of the top luxury watch brands in the world. Read more to discover their unique histories and learn about their contributions to the science of timekeeping.

Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe was founded in 1851 as a partnership between two watchmakers, Antoni Patek and Adrien Philippe. Philippe was known for inventing a keyless winding mechanism, an early prototype of what we recognize as a winding stem. Patek Philippe has crafted timepieces of the highest quality, blending traditional style with sophisticated gears and gadgetry. One example of the brand’s commitment to quality craftsmanship is the Sky Moon Tourbillon, which features several watch complications. These include a perpetual calendar, retrograde chart, sky chart, moon phases, and an enchanting night sky on the case back.

Such elaborately detailed designs have come to define Patek Philippe, elevating the brand to icon status. Patek Phillipe watches are known to turn record profits at auction houses. In fact, the brand’s Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 model is the most expensive watch ever sold at auction – a record $31.19 million. Patek Philippe is considered the finest watch brand in the world, and with their history, it’s easy to see why.

Audemars Piguet

Lifelong friends Jules-Louis Audemars and Edward-Auguste Piguet got their start in 1875, originally creating precise watch movements for upscale brands like Tiffany & Co. Before long, the duo began designing their own complete timepieces for sale. Considered a champion of the industry, Audemars Piguet designed the world’s first minute repeater wristwatch in 1882. They also produced the first steel luxury sports watch, known as the Royal Oak.

These are just two examples of how the brand has revolutionized watchmaking, but their list of accolades goes on and on. Today, the Royal Oak is still considered one of Audemars Piguet’s most notable watch models, setting the standard for luxury sports watches. Prior to the Royal Oaks’ unveiling in 1972, sports watches were less than luxurious, designed strictly with utility in mind. And would you believe, this iconic watch model was designed in just 24 hours by watch stylist Gérald Genta. Audemars Piguet is so legendary, Tiffany & Co. and Bulgari still use their movements in many of their watch models today.

Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin is one of the oldest Swiss luxury watch brands in the world, remaining in continuous operation since its founding in 1755. It’s not just their expansive history that sets them apart from other Swiss watchmakers. Their timepieces are known for being remarkably elaborate, featuring details like engraving, enameling, guilloche, and gem-setting. A Vacheron Constantin watch is truly a work of art, both inside and out. They’ve contributed immensely to the advancement of horological science, achieving many firsts over the centuries.

Vacheron Constantin set a record in 2015, creating the most complicated mechanical watch in the world. The Reference 57260 boasts an impressive 57 complications. Their record of designing timepieces with breathtaking beauty and exceptional accuracy falls perfectly in line with their motto – “Do better if possible and that is always possible.” Famous Vacheron Constantin wearers have included Harry S. Truman, Napoleon Bonaparte, and King Farouk of Egypt, to name a few.

Rolex

Rolex is arguably the most recognized luxury watch brand in the world and is certainly the most coveted. Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, it didn’t take long for Rolex to become one of the most revered watch manufacturers. Their long list of innovations includes the first waterproof wristwatch (Rolex Oyster), the first watch with an automatically changing date (Rolex Datejust), and the first with and automatically changing day and date (Rolex Day-Date). These exceptional timepieces are the epitome of quality watchmaking, carefully crafted using superior methods and materials.

Rolex watches are as stylish as they are useful, the ideal marriage of form and function for watch enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Made to withstand the perils of deep-sea diving, mountain climbing, and even arctic exploration, a Rolex watch is as much a tool as it is an accessory. In fact, the first wristwatch to ever reach the peak of Mount Everest was an early prototype of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer. With such a longstanding legacy, it’s now wonder Rolex has had its fair share of famous fans including Dwight Eisenhower, James Cameron, Eric Clapton, and many more.

Omega

Originally founded in 1848 as the La Generate Watch Co., OMEGA trails closely behind Rolex as one of the most highly recognized Swiss watch brands in history. OMEGA watches are highly regarded as some of the most precise and efficient in the industry. They’ve played a significant role in history, and in cinema.

OMEGA was named the official watch of Britain’s Royal Flying Corps in 1917 and the United States Army in 1918. In 1932, they became the official timekeepers of the Olympic games, a partnership that remains to this day. OMEGA even had its watches flight qualified for NASA’s Apollo 11 mission, and in 1969, OMEGA made history by becoming the first watch to ever be worn on the moon.

Astronaut Buzz Aldrin wore his OMEGA Speedmaster as he explored the moon’s surface, a fact which would help elevate the brand to a whole new level of success and prestige. In addition to the long list of achievements, OMEGA is probably best known for adorning the wrist of everyone’s favorite secret agent, James Bond.

Cartier

In 1904, Louis Cartier created his first wristwatch, the Cartier Santos. Inspired by his friend, Brazilian pilot Alberto Santos-Dumont, Cartier designed what would later be recognized as the first pilot’s watch. This was truly cutting-edge, as pilots were previously relying on pocket watches which were cumbersome and dangerous to fidget with while manning an aircraft. This was just an early taste of Cartier’s extraordinary watchmaking history. Other noteworthy achievements include the Cartier Tank and the Ballon Bleu de Cartier. Both of which were best-sellers for the illustrious jeweler and watchmaker.

In fact, the Ballon Bleu was the first watch model to include movements designed by Cartier. Prior to this, Cartier purchased its movements from the best of the best – Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Rolex, among others. While many luxury watch brands may stand out on the wrist, a Cartier watch looks a bit more refined. Most of their watch models feature roman numeral hour makers, giving them an esteemed look that also acknowledges the brand’s Parisian roots. A quick look at a Cartier watch and it’s easy to see why the brand has such celebrity appeal. Not only are they splendid and elegant, but they’re also a hallmark of Cartier’s grand cultural legacy.

Jaeger-LeCoultre

Established in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre, a self-taught watchmaker and inventor, Jaeger-LeCoultre is an acclaimed Swiss watch manufacturer. The brand is one of the single greatest contributors to the advancement of watch technology.

They’ve produced more than 1,000 calibers and hold over 400 patents for hundreds of various inventions. One such invention is the Calibre 101, the world’s smallest watch movement, developed by Jaeger-LeCoultre in 1925.

Prior to his invention, women’s watches were too small to function precisely. The Calibre 101 led to the design of the first luxury watch for women that was stylish and reliable, the Duoplan.

Their expertise is so highly regarded, they’ve even supplied movements to watchmakers like Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin. Jaeger-LeCoultre has long dedicated themselves to the art of watchmaking, a fact which is evident from their highly sophisticated, elegant timepieces.

IWC Schaffhausen

The International Watch Company was founded by an American watchmaker, Florentine Ariosto Jones, in 1868. Jones brought his skills and expertise to Switzerland – the horology capital of the world – and established his headquarters in Schaffhausen. IWC is best known for their dive and pilot watches, precisely engineered in accordance with the highest industry standards. In 1936, as the field of aviation was rapidly expanding, IWC Schaffhausen released their first pilot’s watch, and early mockup of the famed Big Pilot’s watch.

The brand was even commissioned by the British Royal Air Force to develop a service watch for its pilots, the IWC Mark 11. IWC has a unique system of record keeping that they established in 1885. They keep a meticulous catalog of every watch they’ve ever made dating all the way back to 1868. As if that weren’t impressive enough – IWC Schaffhausen has recently dedicated itself to increasing their production standards as a means of addressing growing environmental concerns.

TAG Heuer

Originally established as Heuer Watchmaking Inc. in 1860 by Edouard Heuer, TAG Heuer has made a name for itself as an innovator in sports timing, specifically in race car driving. In 1916, the watchmaker launched the Mikrograph, a mechanical stopwatch that could measure 1/100^th of a second. It was the first of its kind and transformed the business of sports timekeeping. Today, the brand is still heavily associated with the auto racing industry.

Besides its long list of partnerships with racing organizations, some of TAG Heuer’s most well-known watch models are named after famous racing events like the Formula One, Carrera, and Monaco collections. Actor Steve McQueen famously wore a blue TAG Heuer Monaco in the 1971 film Le Mans, cementing the watch’s iconic status. Besides manufacturing wristwatches, TAG Heuer also produces timepieces that can be mounted to the dashboards of automobiles, boats, and aircraft.

Panerai

Panerai is the only watch brand on this list that is based out of Italy rather than Switzerland. Giovanni Panerai founded his company in Florence, Italy in 1860. Shortly after his founding, Panerai began supplying the Royal Italian Navy with watches and other precision dive instruments. The watchmaker had patented a luminous powder called radiomir which could be used to illuminate a watch dial. They paired this radiomir paint with large, Arabic numerals to ensure ideal visibility underwater.

This simple, yet bold design has become a signature style for Panerai. Besides being known for their ultra-sophisticated dive watches, Panerai has made a name for itself as a luxury watchmaker. In the past two decades, the brand has released reimagined versions of famous models like the Luminor and the Mare Nostrom. In 2001, Panerai re-opened its original boutique located in Florence’s historic Piazza San Giovanni. The brand has exclusive, special edition models that are only available for sale at this flagship location, a definite stop for watch enthusiasts traveling to Florence.

Luxury Watches in San Diego

Wondering where you can find fine watches in San Diego? Stop wasting time on the web and come to Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers instead! We offer an extraordinary selection of new and pre-owned luxury watches, from these renowned watch brands, and more. A finely crafted timepiece is well worth the price, a treasure to cherish for a lifetime and then some. What’re you waiting for? Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers today, and discover the luxury watch that’s been calling your name!

Tips for Taking Care of Fine Jewelry

2023-12-262023-12-20 by Rylee Kahan

Did you get a fancy new gold necklace of a shiny engagement ring for Christmas? Congratulations! What makes jewelry so eternal is that it can always look as shiny as when you first got it, provided you take good care of it. Properly storing and caring for your jewelry, combined with an occasional visit to a professional will ensure that you will proudly wear your precious possessions for years and years to come. While some pieces of jewelry are fairly easy to maintain, others like pearls require extra attention and special precautions to be taken. In this guide, we will go through the proper ways of cleaning and taking care of different pieces of jewelry so that they truly last forever.

Jewelry Cleaning Advice

A rule of thumb for most pieces of jewelry in your collection is to follow your common sense. That said, one thing that can irreparably damage your jewelry is exposing it to household chemicals like chlorine bleach. These chemicals can discolor or completely ruin precious metal mountings. Likewise, avoid wearing your jewelry while you are doing rough manual chores or while you are playing sports as a hard blow could chip or jar loose the precious gemstones. When storing your jewelry, make sure that the pieces do not tumble against each other, as this can scratch them. Each piece of jewelry should be stored in a separate soft cloth bag or in a separate compartment in your jewelry box.

Silver Jewelry

You can clean sterling silver with a mild soap and warm water applied to a cotton cloth. To bring back its glow, wipe it with a jewelry polishing cloth specially made for polishing silver. Avoid circular movements and rub the silver in one direction instead.

Platinum & Gold Jewelry

Dilute dish detergent in a small bowl filled with warm water and soak your gold or platinum jewelry for three to five minutes. Rinse the jewelry under warm water using a clean cotton cloth to remove any traces of the dish detergent. Use a soft cloth to pat the jewelry dry. Make sure to dry it completely before wearing it again.

Gemstone Jewelry

Amethyst, citrine, blue topaz, and other crystalline gemstones should be cleaned in a bowl filled with water and a drop of mild dish soap. You can scrub the stones’ surroundings with a soft baby toothbrush. Rinse the soap thoroughly and dry with a cloth. Diamonds, sapphires, and rubies in gold or platinum are best cleaned by using water with a drop of ammonia. However, silver and organic gemstones can be damaged by ammonia, so use this solution only for gold and platinum jewelry.

Pearls

Keep pearls away from cosmetics, perfumes, chlorine, vinegar, ammonia, perspiration, and dirt at all costs. After wearing the pearl jewelry, clean it with a slightly damp cloth. You can wash pearls with mild soap using a soft cloth. Rinse any excess soap in clean water and wrap them in a damp cotton towel until dry. Store them in an environment that’s not too dry, as they require some humidity, so they don’t crack.

Professional Jewelry Cleaning

If you want to make sure your jewelry keeps its sparkle for years to come, have it professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year. If you notice that the stones in your jewelry are chipped, the prongs damaged or clasps malfunctioning, contact Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers immediately. Don’t risk losing your precious gemstones from a broken or bent prong! Our in-house jewelers are available for all your cleaning and jewelry repair needs so visit us on San Diego Avenue today.

How Vintage Engagement Rings Reflect Your Style

2023-12-222023-12-20 by Rylee Kahan

Similar to Shakespeare’s famous quote “What’s in a name?”, you should know what a vintage engagement ring would say about your choice. But first off, let’s be precise what a vintage engagement ring is. A vintage ring is one that was originally created/purchased and worn anywhere from 1 day ago to 99 years ago. Because it was previously worn, it is no longer considered “new,” and so it is considered “vintage.” Jewelry that was created 100 years ago or more is also considered “antique.” And this is what it says.

You’ve Broken the Mold

Many vintage rings were handcrafted and created through a long and slow process which demanded an enviable amount of skill and patience. These vintage rings are unique in their craftsmanship and in their design. You won’t find another one like it. These rings are excellent matches for brides who are fond of the old and who like to show off their originality.

You Are Bold & Intense

One of the periods that vintage engagement rings come from if the Art Deco period (1915/1920-1935). Art Deco is all about gemological shapes, hosts of diamonds and bold designs. Art Deco jewelry is part of a much broader movement which took place around WWI. After the Great War ended, the belief in progress was what kept society moving forward. A new woman emerged – one who smoked, played tennis, drove, and danced all night to the sound of jazz. Corsets were abandoned and there was palpable freedom in artistic and fashionable expression. It’s truly hard to miss an Art Deco vintage engagement ring when you come across one.

You Are Feminine & Charismatic

The Retro period lasted from 1935-1950. Retro rings vibrate with a “larger than life” energy. These rings were inspired by the glamour of Hollywood and the express femininity of Hollywood actresses such as Marily Monroe. They feature fluid lines, asymmetry, sculptural dimensions, and a multitude of diamonds.

You Like Old Values

The 1950s mark the beginning of the Modern period for rings. The most prominent vintage ring detail of that period is the use of clean lines, platinum & diamonds, and textural features. The 60s, however, were an age of family values and family traditions. It was around the sixties that the diamond solitaire (especially with fancy cut center stones) became the classic engagement ring.

And let’s not forget what we have already said. The jewelry-making process in the past decades was much more about craftsmanship and devotion. Today’s market is flooded with mass-produced pieces of uniform design patterns barely distinguishable from one another. This is in stark contrast with how jewelry was made decades ago.

You Are Caring & Thoughtful

Vintage engagement rings are a beautiful choice, but some will come with advice to exercise caution and care during the everyday wear. In truth, any and every ring requires some level of caution or at least careful consideration of the design with respect to the fiancée’s lifestyle. Still, some vintage engagement rings (like some modern rings as well) could have a design which would require a more frequent care routine. This would include vintage engagement rings with pearls as center stones, for example, or those with a lot of filigree.

If you are in the market for a vintage engagement ring in San Diego, make sure you stop by our San Diego Avenue showroom. Here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, you will find a vast and carefully curated selection of the finest quality vintage engagement rings. All have been meticulously restored by our master jewelers to appear like new but have a lower price tag than new. Let us help you make a choice that will make you – and your fiancée – happy!

Where Did White Gold Come From?

2023-12-192023-12-20 by Rylee Kahan

The 19^th century saw the invention of white gold. At the time, manufacturers alloyed gold with palladium. It wasn’t commercially available until 1912, when it was issued as a patent in Pforzheim, Germany, subsequently gaining popularity as a more affordable alternative to platinum in the mid-1920’s. Essentially, it was gold alloyed with copper, zinc, and nickel. Nowadays, a metal belonging to the platinum family often replaces nickel because it prevents skin allergies and other allergic reactions. Depending on the recipe, the alloy can possess various characteristics when it comes to ductility, malleability, and hardness; in turn, different alloys can be used for different purposes.

1940s & WWII

World War II interfered with jewelry making in the early 1940s. precious metals were either rare or used for warfare purposes. In some cases, there was an explicit ban on selling precious metals for nonmilitary purposes. This especially applied to platinum. At the time, low-carat gold alloys were used, and they had a higher percentage of copper. Asa result, the gold gave off a subtle, yet perceptible reddish tinge. In addition, different alloys results in different colors appearing within one gold piece.

Reintroducing Older Designs

The techniques used for producing gold were weaving, braiding, and coiling. Consequently, certain patterns, such as resilla, cannetile, and lacy filigree, made a comeback. The design was accentuated by juxtaposing different textures, for example, matte and bright finishes. Eventually, gold was in widespread use for jewelry making in the 1940s and 1950s.

Jewelry Remodeling Instead of Buying

Since the stocks of pre-war metals and gemstones were scarcely employed, customers usually had to remodel the jewelry they already owned rather than buy new. Interestingly enough, those who were really keen on having a brand-new piece of jewelry had to provide the precious metals themselves. In France, however, the State confiscated a considerable percentage of these private precious metal stocks to be used for war purposes.

Introducing New Techniques

New techniques arose, such as those for creating thinner gold sheets, while ensuring the undiminished scale with the underlying base metal. Moreover, consumers started placing their trust in precious metals and gemstones rather than currency. Strangely enough, the more austere the fashion became in those struggling war years, the greater was the need for bejeweled feminism.

Some countries were completely shut off from the gemstone supply lines coming from South Africa, India, and Burma, while other received only modest and occasional supplies. As a consequence, synthetic and faux gemstones started featuring in novel jewelry designs. Gemstones like citrine, amethyst, aquamarine, and topaz enabled a wide palette of hues and a range of sizes. Higher-carat gems such as diamonds, rubies, or sapphires were extremely rare. Jewelers used small precious gems in pavé and invisible settings with the aim of creating a massive-looking piece comprised of a number of small ones. It was common to blend gemstones in order to achieve gradual color changes within brooches or bracelets.

Post-WWII Trends

While pre-WWII designs typically paired colored stones with diamonds, the scarcity of gemstones resulted in the combinations of colored stone with no diamonds. Rubies and sapphires were now paired with moonstones, aquamarines, and other chunkier, paler gems. Vivid gems were accentuated (and sometimes even replaced) by enamels. This results in a painterly fashion style that brought inventive highlights to the underlying gold. Transparent enamel was used by Boucheron to create a series of floral necklaces.

White Gold Jewelry in San Diego

If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind white gold piece, be sure to stop by Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. We offer an exquisite collection of white gold jewelry in San Diego, ranging from antiques and vintage designer pieces to brand new models. Our showroom is open every day through Christmas Eve. Make the best of our extended holiday hours and browse through all of the wonderful pieces that we offer. We are here to help you find something truly special!

What’s the Difference Between Quartz & Mechanical Movements?

2023-12-152023-12-14 by Rylee Kahan

The watch movement or the caliber is a mechanism that makes every watch tick. It is an engine that powers a watch and all of its functions. The mechanism moves the hands and powers any additional features such as annual calendars, chronographs or dual time zone displays. Powering all the timekeeping tasks, the movement is the most important component in any watch. There are many different movements that power a watch, but they all fall into two categories: mechanical and quartz movements.

How Can You Tell Which Movement is Which?

A simple way to tell a mechanical movement from a quartz movement is the way the second hand moves. The second hand on a quartz watch moves in ticks, while with mechanical movements, the hand moves smoothly.

Quartz movements are extremely accurate and need little regular maintenance apart from replacing batteries. While some lower-end quartz watches may run for decades without maintenance, a fine Swiss quartz watch should be serviced every 7 to 10 years. The batteries should be changed every 2 years to prevent damage.

Quartz watches tend to cost less as they have fewer moving parts and are cheaper to manufacture. Watch aficionados aren’t as attracted to them as they lack the craftsmanship and fine engineering of their mechanical counterparts. However, when made by high-end Swiss watch manufacturers, quartz movements are a perfectly acceptable solution.

Mechanical movements are preferred by many watch enthusiasts because they incorporate a high level of craftsmanship and quality. They are skillfully made by watchmakers and contain several tiny compartments that work together to power the mechanism. Mechanical movements use energy from a wound spring. This spring stores the energy and uses it to power a series of springs and gears. While the design of mechanical watches has remained unchanged for centuries, the latest technology allows for more precise engineering and finer details.

The most popular mechanical watches are those that contain perpetual-wind movements. They’re more popular because as long as you wear them regularly, you don’t have to wind them every day to make sure they are accurate. Perpetual-wind watches gather energy through the motions of your wrist. A metal weight spins with each move of your wrist, harnessing that energy to continually wind the mainspring. A special mechanism prevents it from over winding, keeping optimum tension for impeccable timekeeping performance.

Pros & Cons

Quartz watches are extremely accurate, but what also makes them popular among buyers is their low price and durability. These watches can also be equipped with additional technological features such as GPS tracking or illumination. They are also slightly more accurate than mechanical watches, which may be accurate to within a few seconds a day.

On the other hand, mechanical watches boast a much more impressive mechanism that watch-lovers love to observe. Many mechanical watches will have a clear crystal window on the back of the case to allow the owner to see the mechanism at work. Mechanical watches can last for generations as they have a significantly longer life span than their quartz counterparts have, and thus can become cherished family heirlooms.

Mechanical watches require regular maintenance and need to be cleaned by a professional every 3 to 5 years to avoid excessive wear on the parts of the movement. However, this investment will ensure that your mechanical watch lasts for many more years to come.

Watch Servicing

In conclusion, if you are looking for a cheap, accurate watch with little to no need for maintenance, you should go with quartz watches. But if you want an impressive mechanism that represents a form of art, and you are looking for a watch that will last you a lifetime, a perpetual-wind mechanical watch is an unrivaled choice.

If you own a mechanical watch, make sure to have it serviced every 3 to 5 years so that it continues to perform as well as the day it was acquired. If you need your watch professionally cleaned or serviced, call us at 619-299-1500 to find out what our in-house watch department can do for you. Our watchmaker is certified and was Rolex factory trained.

A complete watch service at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers consists of disassembling the watch movement, cleaning out old lubricant, re-lubricating all friction points, re-assembling the movement, and adjusting the timing to factory specifications. Included is a one-year warranty on timekeeping and a 90-day warranty on parts.

The exterior of the watch is then fully refinished; removing all scratches and restoring the factory finish to the case and bracelet, making your watch look new again. You’ll be surprised at what a difference that makes!

Christmas Gifting on a Budget? We’ve Got You Covered!

2023-12-122023-12-13 by Rylee Kahan

The holiday season is all about being joyful and spreading cheer. But holiday shopping can be so stressful that you start to feel like the Grinch! Trying to find the perfect gifts while staying on budget can be quite challenging. Your loved ones deserve nothing but the best, but what if your spectacular gift ideas become too pricey to afford? At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we completely understand the desire to buy your loved one’s luxurious gifts at a reasonable price. We’ve compiled a list of some of our most exquisite and affordable Christmas gift ideas. All of the gift ideas featured below are under $500 and are sure to spread Christmas cheer.

New Madison L Jewelry

Madison L Designs has an array of lavish fine jewelry. Each piece is created and designed with the greatest attention to detail and utmost care. Combining elegance with a modern inspiration and unchallenged craftsmanship, Madison L makes an excellent and affordable Christmas gift for any lady with a classic style.

Vintage Tiffany & Co. Jewelry

Tiffany & Co. is one of the most universally recognized fine jewelry brands. A gorgeous piece of Tiffany jewelry always makes an exquisite gift. When it comes to affordable Christmas gifts, vintage Tiffany & Co. is the way to go. You’ll receive a better deal on beautiful designer jewelry that appears brand new. Our vast collection of vintage Tiffany includes something for everyone – like cufflinks and loving heart rings. Watch your loved one’s face light up when they see a Leo Hamel gold gift bag under their tree!

New Wolf Watch Winders & Jewelry Storage

Everyone needs a safe place to store their jewelry and watches. Wolf designs elegant and durable jewelry boxed and watch winders that are perfect storing solutions for home and travel. This stackable jewelry box tray set features different sections that are ideal for holding rings, bracelets, earrings, and more – and it’s less than $60! For automatic watches lovers, Wolf watch winders are an excellent and affordable Christmas gift. Take away all the hassle of manually winding and resetting your automatic watch – for less than $250!

New Tissot Watches

With their signature “Innovators by Tradition,” Tissot develops high-tech, advanced functionality timepieces. With a broader, more versatile range of high-quality timepieces at a more attractive price than any other Swiss watch brand, a Tissot watch makes a remarkable holiday gift. Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is committed to carrying a large selection of brand new in-the-box Tissot watches for men and women, making excellence accessible to everyone. Each timepiece is fit for everyday wear and will be treasured for a lifetime.

New & Vintage Gemstone Earrings

Gemstone earrings are always an exceptional gift. Every lady needs a gorgeous pair of studs – what better gift to give them than a pair of earrings set with thei favorite gemstone? Of course, some gemstones cost more than others, like diamonds, but you can get a great deal on a smaller carat stone. Whatever your loved one’s favorite gemstone is, we’re sure to have a great deal on a pair of radiant earring studs.

These are just a few affordable Christmas gift ideas for this holiday season. Find exquisite gifts to make your loved ones happy at our jewelry store on San Diego Avenue. We completely understand the holidays can be hard on your wallet, so don’t forget about our flexible payment plan options. Or if you truly can’t decide, you can never go wrong with a Leo Hamel gift card. Happy Holidays!

Which Engagement Rings Are Better For Active Lifestyles?

2023-12-082023-12-13 by Rylee Kahan

Most women dream of the day the love of their life pops the question. They envision their beautiful engagement ring shining on their hand and can’t wait to show it off to the world. Most women also lead very active lives and are terrified of losing or damaging their sparkling symbol of love. Constantly removing your engagement ring for fear of losing it actually increases your chances of misplacing it!

So, when shopping for your future fiancé’s dream ring her lifestyle needs to be taken into consideration. You wouldn’t want to buy a ring she’ll rarely be able to wear, right? When purchasing an engagement ring most people are solely focused on the appearance. But when looking for the best engagement ring for active women there are other things that need to be considered as well – durability and comfort. If your future bride-to-be is always on the go, you want to be sure you find a ring that will perfectly fit in with her life. But how do you balance beauty with practicality?

The Bezel Setting

The bezel setting is an active woman’s best friend. Bezel settings offer a ring of protective metal around the girdle of the center stone. This protects the delicate stone from being chipped or damaged. This also helps prevent any potential snagging or scratching, which is a common issue with prong or claw set rings. This setting is great for women who:

Participate in extreme or contact sports like soccer, softball, basketball, snowboarding, etc.
Regularly go to the gym and lift weights
Enjoy hobbies that require constant use of the hands like pottery, woodworking, kitting, etc.
Constantly use their hands at work (doctors, hair stylists, chefs, etc.)
Seem to be especially clumsy – always tripping or bumping into tables and walls, etc.

Center Stone Shape

Another factor to consider when looking for the best engagement ring for active women is the shape of the diamond or colored gemstone you choose. Sharp points and corners, like those seen on princess, pear, and marquise cuts, can more easily snag on clothes and hair. They are also more at risk of chipping or breaking when accidentally banged on a hard surface. The ideal cut for an active woman’s engagement ring should have smooth edges. The gentle curves of round or oval cuts are a great way to ensure the center stone of your engagement ring stays looking impeccable and remains unblemished.

Metal Type

Last, but most certainly not least, is the type of metal you choose for an active woman’s engagement ring. There are many different precious metal options, and you should go with the one that best fits her style. However, platinum is recommended for those who lead active lives. Platinum is the most durable precious metal and will be better able to handle hard blows and rough wearing. Platinum is a popular choice due to its hardness (resistance to being scratched), toughness (resistance to being bent), and natural white sheen. It’s also naturally hypo-allergenic, making it even more irresistible!

The best engagement ring for active women is comprised of three main factors: a bezel setting, a round or oval shape, and a platinum band. These factors will ensure a beautiful, comfortable, and secure ring that she’ll be able to show off no matter what she’s doing. You can also find a gorgeous bezel set wedding band to perfectly match her engagement ring!

If you think a bezel set ring is the perfect fit for your future wife, visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers on San Diego Avenue. Our vast collection of bezel set rings features everything from classic solitaires to unique, vintage three stone rings. The active woman in your life will be grateful you thought about her love for adventurous activities. She’ll cherish her ring – and you – for a lifetime.

December Birthstones: Turquoise, Blue Zircon, & Tanzanite

2023-12-052023-12-13 by Rylee Kahan

December birthstones aren’t the colors you’d expect, as shopping during the month of December you’re bombarded with holiday hues like red and green. But when shopping for a December baby, you have an entirely different color palette to discover. Shopping for a loved one born during the month of December can be a little tricky since you have to find them a birthday gift in addition to a holiday gift. However, you can make searching for the perfect gift easier by purchasing beautiful December birthstone jewelry!

December babies are lucky enough to have not two, but three different birthstones: turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite. These glittering gemstones range from the oldest on Earth (zircon), to one of the first mined and used in jewelry (turquoise), to one of the most freshly discovered (tanzanite). All the December birthstones are available in a variety of shades ranging from blue to violet, so you’re sure to find something to entice your loved one. Here are some fascinating details about these dazzling December birthstones to help you decide!

Turquoise

Revered since ancient times, turquoise is known for its distinct color, which ranges from bright robin’s egg to pastel blue to a bluish green. Turquoise might lack the sparkle and clarity of transparent colored gemstones, but what it lacks in brilliance, it makes up for in soul-satisfying color. The December birthstone has been highly regarded for thousands of years by cultures like the Native Americans, Aztecs, and the ancient Egyptians.

Throughout its history, people have attributed special powers to turquoise. Turquoise is thought to offer safety from misfortune and ward off ill will. Turquoise is also thought to protect its wearer from harm while bringing good luck and longevity. In lighter shades, turquoise energy is believed to promote inner harmony and tranquility. Darker, richer tones are alleged to counter intolerance and allow us to adapt to new ideas and environments.

The word turquoise means “stone from Turkey” since the gemstone was brought from Turkey to Western Europe. Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, which makes it ideal for carving unique pieces of jewelry. If you know a December baby who loves bold, statement accessories, they are sure to love turquoise jewelry.

No matter what kind of turquoise jewelry you decide to gift your December loved one, it’s important to they know to take special care of it. High temperatures can damage its surface or cause discoloration. Exposure to chemicals, cosmetics, and even the natural oils in skin can alter its color. Turquoise should always be cleaned with warm soapy water, never in steam or ultrasonic cleaners.

Blue Zircon

Zircon is the oldest natural mineral on Earth, dating back 4.4 billion years. Zircon can be found in a myriad of colors, including blue, brown, green, orange, yellow, red, and even clear. Heat treatment is commonly used to intensify these beautiful colors. During the Middle Ages, people believed zircon could stimulate sound sleep, ward off evil, and deliver prosperity and wisdom.

Today, zircon is considered a grounding stone that heightens confidence and compassion. With this gemstone, you have plenty of beautiful color options. While blue zircon is a common December birthstone, you can certainly purchase other colors to match your December-born loved one’s favorite hue. That way, you know you’re buying a can’t-miss gift!

As with turquoise, zircon requires special care. Zircon tends to be brittle, so it’s best worn and stored in a manner that avoids hard rubbing against other materials. Since most zircon is heat treated, there’s a possibility it may revert to its original color if exposed to high heat and bright light for prolonged periods of time. Warm, soapy water is best for cleaning zircon. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should not be used for this December birthstone.

Tanzanite

Unlike most gemstones that have been beloved for centuries, tanzanite’s history is relatively modern. Discovered in 1967, tanzanite is an exquisite blue-to-purple variety of the mineral zoisite and can only be found in a single region of the world. This gorgeous blue December birthstone was names after its exclusive origin in Tanzania. Tiffany & Co. was the first company to market blue zoisite as tanzanite, and the name seems to have stuck.

Tanzanite has become one of the most popular blue gemstones, second only to sapphire. The captivating color of tanzanite ranges from lush blue to vibrant violet to deep, rich purple. Tanzanite is a very unusual gemstone. One of the most alluring aspects of tanzanite is its pleochroic quality. This means tanzanite can reveal different colors when viewed from various directions. Between its exotic color and scarce supple, tanzanite is treasured by many and makes an excellent December birthstone gift.

While tanzanite can be worn in all kinds of jewelry, proper discretion should still be taken against rough wearing or hard blows. Tanzanite is stable under normal wearing conditions – it’s resistant to the effects of heat, light, and common chemicals. However, it should still not be overly exposed. Warm, soapy water is the best way to clean tanzanite. It is not recommended for ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

No matter which December birthstone you think is best suited for your loved-one, they are sure to feel simply stunning wearing jewelry with such significance and symbolism. We’re bound to have what you’re looking for in our luxurious collection. Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers on San Diego Avenue and explore our stunning turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite offerings!

5 Gifts for the Special Man in Your Life

2023-12-012023-12-13 by Rylee Kahan

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun! It’s time to share the joy of the season with loved ones and take part in your favorite holiday traditions. With only a few weeks left to find the best gifts, you may be feeling slightly stressed out. In addition to shopping for family and friends, you’re probably feeling the pressure to find something perfect for your special someone. But no need to sweat it, we’ve got you covered! We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 Christmas gifts for him that he’d be thrilled to find under the tree!

New Men's Tissot Watch

Searching for a sleek gift to surprise your man? A Tissot watch like this one is the epitome of style with a black dial, stainless steel case, brown leather strap, and sleek silver markers, you can be sure that he’ll always be on time!

Vintage Louis Vuitton Laptop Bag

Before traveling home for the holidays, surprise your sweetheart with a Louis Vuitton laptop bag! The must-have travel accessory is lightweight and luxurious, so he can travel with style and ease. Constructed of brown leather, this piece of luggage has an ultra-masculine look and feel.

Vintage Tiffany & Co. Cufflinks

If your man enjoys luxurious accessories, these Tiffany & Co. cufflinks are a great add-on to any outfit. Cufflinks make the perfect gift that he can wear for a lifetime, and even pass on to his own children. Each time he wears them, he’ll be reminded of your thoughtful gift giving.

Vintage Gucci Wallet

Is your stylish stud a sucker for designer gifts? Then he’ll love to unwrap this vintage Gucci wallet for Christmas! Boasting Gucci’s iconic red and greens stitched stripes, a gold stitched bee, and “GG” monogram pattern, this wallet oozes style and sophistication. Whether he’s rocking his best business suit, or sweatpants and a tee, this is one accessory he can carry with confidence!

Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner "Hulk"

Looking to splurge on your man this holiday season? Spoil him with a gift he’ll never expect like this pre-owned Rolex Submariner with a unique green bezel and dial. This pricey timepiece is well worth the money, and the watch of choice for many world travelers. With a durable stainless steel construction, Oyster bracelet, and green bezel and dial, this watch has earned its superhero inspired name, the “Hulk.”

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Find these Christmas gifts and many more for the special someone in your life today at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! We have a vast selection including vintage designer jewelry & handbags, new watches, pre-owned watches, engagement rings, vintage jewelry, lab-grown diamond jewelry, Hearts On Fire, and more.