William Barthman Blogs

Imagine if Odysseus had been in possession of a Black Bay 58 GMT… do you think it would have taken him as many years to get home to Ithaca? It’s a COSC and METAS-certified chronometer with a 24-hour bidirectional rotating bezel, so he could have employed celestial navigation and tracked longitude to stay on course, instead of just going with his gut and hoping for the best. Don’t get me wrong—he was purported to be a pretty clever guy, but obviously some mistakes were made. Marine Chronometer photo by Royal Museums Greenwich  The reason why I bring up this fictional example is to highlight the utility of chronometers and why they’ve only grown in prevalence since their invention in 1714. The marine chronometer came about in 1735 to provide sailors with more accurate measurement of longitude for improved navigation and safety. The 20th century gave rise to smaller, more advanced chronometers, which became very in-demand among explorers, researchers, armed forces, and collectors alike. From the 1920’s onward, chronometers used at sea would be set by radio time signals, which made updates during travel far easier. Unfortunately for some time after, daily rating was still necessary to calculate true GMT. Testing facility photo courtesy of TUDOR With the importance of chronometry at an all-time high, different countries created observatories to test their watches. Swiss timepieces go through a rigorous multi-day certification process by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres aka COSC to receive the chronometer label—some brands go even further with METAS certification to achieve master chronometer status. Not all of the watches created worked for a day-to-day basis, so competition has become more parallel to market needs. That being said, only about 3% of watches are able to pass testing. Stock image Gravity, temperature shifts, and friction are just some of the forces of nature that affect a watch’s ability to tell time accurately. Today, watchmakers utilize the highest quality internal components—alloys, silicone hairsprings, polished pivots, and free-sprung balances—to build exceptional movements that can withstand these forces. Needless to say, these are highly precise and reliable tools that exemplify the pinnacle of luxury craftsmanship. Although GPS systems have made chronometers relatively unnecessary as navigational tools, it is always good to have a reliable backup, and there is none better than the most accurate of timepieces. Below, we’ve hand-picked our favorite chronometers across a variety of brands and price points. Browse online and try-on in-store at William Barthman Jeweler.   Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT Tudor Monarch IWC Schaffhausen Portugieser Automatic Frederique Constant Highlife Automatic COSC All Breitling Collections (including Chronomat)

Photo courtesy of Chimento Goldsmithing has been a time-honored tradition in Italy for ages, dating back to Etruscan times in 700 BCE. Through contact with Near Eastern and Egyptian traders, early craftsmen in central Italy were inspired to create necklaces, bracelets, brooches, and other detailed pieces with elaborate ornamentation. Sculpting, granulation, and filigree were all techniques that the Etruscans honed which are still important in jewelry making today. The love of gold continued through the meteoric rise and fall of the Roman Empire, elevating it as a necessity of identity. Gold chains, signet rings, and mythological cameos became popular, as did stacking multiple pieces. The Renaissance pushed jewelry into the category of art, touting technical excellence and expanded creativity as artisans learned enameling, gemstone setting and more intricate chain making. Bold statement jewelry continued in popularity through the Baroque period. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Italian elegance became synonymous with luxury, and master jewelers have only improved their designs through assistance from technology. Fashion houses became notable producers of fine jewelry, though local artisans continue to maintain workshops across Italy and teach new generations, too. Photo source: Expedia Enter Vicenza—the 18K gold capital of the country. A UNESCO World Heritage site once under Venetian rule, it was home to the Guild of Goldsmiths, established in the early 14th century. Although the ~150 member organization no longer exists, its heritage lives on through Vicenza’s Jewellery Museum and annual trade exhibition Vicenzoro. How does it have a connection to William Barthman Jeweler all the way across the Atlantic? Through our brands. Today, we’re focusing on Chimento. Its original creative laboratory was founded by its namesake Adriano Chimento in 1964, and focused on product quality, craftsmanship, and construction to achieve long-term success. In the present, Adriano’s son Mario continues his legacy with a youthful, dynamic and modern system bolstered by strong relationships with collaborators and authorized dealers. No detail is overlooked in the creation process, and each collection is rooted in brand values. The modern luxury customer requires more than aesthetic satisfaction from their jewelry, so the brand prioritizes creating a “sensory experience” for everyday pleasure. The Chimento family and their artisans designed the Armillas, X-Tend and Stretch collections with flexible links or shapes to move smoothly with the body, fitting comfortably without pinching so they can be worn from morning to night. Every surface is polished perfectly, captivating both wearer and passersby. Innovation is at the forefront of Chimento’s contemporary strategy, along with sustainability and integrity. You can feel good about purchasing Chimento products because they utilize environmentally responsible production processes, source their raw materials from conflict-free countries exclusively, and are fueled by the talent of qualified Italian craftsworkers rather than dubious labor practices. It is inherent to Chimento to make designs that will stand the test of time, both in style and in quality. We’ve selected some of our favorite products ahead of the autumn season, and you can explore further in our Chimento product section: https://www.williambarthman.com/designers/chimento     Stretch Spring Bracelet in 18K White Gold with Diamond Ring X-Tend Ring in 18K Rose Gold with Diamonds Gircollo Chocolat Lariat Necklace in 18K Yellow Gold Brio Hoop Earrings in 18K Yellow Gold with Diamonds We welcome you to come into our William Barthman Jeweler locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn to try on our beautiful Chimento pieces with our expert sales professionals. We hope to see you soon, and thank you for reading!

Whether you appreciate the technical prowess of a manufacture, the display of status with a high demand piece, or the lasting value of a classic model, there are many reasons to love a timepiece, and further, build a luxury watch collection. Much like any other highly differentiated product, it is easy to become engrossed in collecting—after all, humans separate themselves from other species through self-expression and a search for meaning. Why Collect Luxury Watches? For some, collections find roots in family history; perhaps your grandfather was in the air force and passed down the watch he used for navigation, so you want to build a collection of pilot watches. You may also have received your first watch from your company for your 5th anniversary, and are considering building a collection to mark your future milestones. Whatever your reason, there’s no time like the present to delve into the world of watches. Confused about where to start? Let William Barthman be your guide through the different facets of watch collecting,— browse our website and come to one of our locations for a personalized shopping experience. Important things to consider when looking for models to build your array are: your personal style, brand and model heritage, technical specifications, and the investment value of the watch(es) in question.   The Ingenieur Automatic - IWC Schaffhausen The Lady Premier Automatic - Breitling The Vintage Rally Healey Chronograph - Frederique Constant How to Define Your Personal Watch Style There are three basic types of watches one can own: casual, sporty/performance, and formal/dress. By looking at the aesthetic and functional characteristics of a given watch, you can determine its type. For example, watches with a rubber strap tend to exist for sport purposes, whereas a leather strap may be either casual or formal, depending on the watch itself. Certain dial, bezel, or mechanical features also differentiate watches. A sales expert can point you in the right direction for your needs, so make sure to let them know the purpose of the watch when you meet. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, and if you simply like a watch, do not discount its potential for your collection. At the end of the day, personal style is subjective.   The Importance of Brand Heritage and History Many brand collections, and even specific pieces, have their own origin stories, such as the Rolex Oyster watch and its journey across the English Channel with Testimonee Mercedes Gleitze. Since watches can serve other functions than simply telling time and accessorizing a look, they have been integral to armed forces, athletes, heads of state, and other people of influence. Research your own role models and see what types of watches they favor for inspiration. By learning the stories of brands and watches, you open yourself up to the opportunity for connection with other collectors, and the potential ability to access rare pieces you may not have even considered. Technical Excellence For watch enthusiasts, model interest isn’t only “skin deep.” If you have an appreciation for unparalleled craftsmanship and technical prowess, look no further than a watch. Due to their size, watches require a skilled hand to assemble all of the parts that make them run smoothly and efficiently. Many watch brands manufacture their own parts and movements, so doing research and connecting with sales professionals and other collectors is the ideal way to find models that fit your criteria. Consider materials, accuracy, power reserve, and serviceability when determining superior watches. Do you prefer quartz or mechanical watches?   Watches as Long-Term Investment Pieces Watches may be beautiful or impressively functional, but not everyone seeks them out for these reasons alone. Practical buyers know that many watches hold value or even increase after purchase, depending on the market. If one is so inclined to create an assortment to pass down to future generations, the benefit of investing in watches is that they can have usability and personal importance, but retain value if preserved well. In this vein, the best investment watches should not only have a high-ticket value, but also be scarce in distribution, high in demand, and paragons of longevity, craftsmanship, and notoriety.   Resources for Collection Building A well-built watch collection balances passion with perspective. As previously mentioned, the key to building a great portfolio is research, as well as communication with professional or amateur brand experts. The benefit to working with authorized dealers is that they have a direct line to the brands, and are in the business of serving you and your interests. They are able to repair watches or replace parts when necessary, keep track of your collection, and may even buy pre-owned watches if you decide to sell. At William Barthman, it is our pleasure to make dreams come true, and we look forward to assisting in the creation of your dream collection.

https://www.williambarthman.com/designers/the-1884-collectionAt the corner of Maiden Lane and Broadway, you can find a few vestiges of history remaining of the birthplace of William Barthman Jeweler—a plaque erected in 1928 by the Maiden Lane Historical Society, and the most recent iteration of the Clock in the Sidewalk, our unique landmark cherished by locals and visitors alike. Despite moving two times (and opening a second door in Brooklyn,) William Barthman has continued to bring beauty and memories to New York City residents and visitors. To show our appreciation this holiday season, we launched our very own line of fine jewelry—the 1884 Collection by William Barthman. Inspired by the city we call home, each set in our Maison’s label is named for a location notable to our company, past and present. During our 140+ years, our master craftsmen have created clocks, charm bracelets, trophies, and even Yankee rings. We wanted to reconnect to those times and offer pieces that are economical, but don’t sacrifice on quality, since we know our clients are choosing to be more conservative with shopping recently. We guarantee that all diamonds and gemstones are rigorously graded by industry experts for quality assurance. Most pieces are available in 14K yellow, rose, or white gold, but if you do not see the color you want available, please inquire! From Maiden Lane to Broad Street and beyond, there’s no finer place to outfit yourself or your loved ones in gold and diamond treasures they’ll remember for years to come. Discover the collection online and in-store at our Manhattan location, and while you’re there, you can speak to our service team for any repair or custom design needs. You can preview some featured pieces below:   The Broad Street Flexi Bangles   The Broadway Stackable Rings    The Maiden Lane Diamonds by the Yard Necklace The Wall Street Skinny Hoop Earrings

Alongside diamonds, there are three precious gemstones that stand above the rest as most desirable: emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. Each has its own charm and significance in history, as well as its fair share of dramatic occurrences, but their collective magnetism is undeniable. We've shared some interesting facts about each stone below, as well as select jewelry pieces to add more sparkle to your collection.   Emeralds are a derivative of the mineral beryl and characterized by a luminous shade of green. Colombia is the largest producer of emeralds, as well as Zambia and Brazil, though there are other countries with mining sites; Egypt has been a source since ancient times, particularly from Cleopatra’s Mines. Emeralds have been found in Connecticut, Montana, Nevada, and North and South Carolina as far as the US. For a 55th wedding anniversary, emeralds are traditionally gifted.   Discover some of the world’s most significant emeralds at the following US museums: the Carolina Emperor at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh; the Chalk and Gachalá Emeralds at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC; and our very own Patricia Emerald at New York City’s American Museum of Natural History. Choose your own emerald— Laurenti Heart Pendant Damiani Margherita Stud Earrings   Derived from the mineral corundum, rubies are a coveted gemstone, especially in Asian countries. Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka are all producers of natural rubies, as well as Afghanistan, Mozambique, and a few other parts of Africa. American rubies are mined in Montana, North and South Carolina, and Wyoming. Celebrate a 40th wedding anniversary with a ruby-set gift.   Carved from the largest known ruby in the world, the Liberty Bell Ruby was stolen in November of 2011 from a foundation in a Delaware jewelry store and has never been recovered. Fortunately, there are other rubies you can visit in America—at the Smithsonian, the Rosser Reeves, Hixon and Carmen Lucia Rubies find their home; New York’s American Museum of Natural History boasts its own piece, the DeLong Ruby. Add a ruby to your collection— Chimento Lou Lou Pendant Laurenti Ruby and Diamond Ring   Sapphires come from the same family as rubies (corundum), and are usually found in close proximity. Prominent sapphire mining areas include Australia, India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Myanmar. Here in the US, sapphires are typically found in Montana. Sapphires are the traditional wedding gift for a 45th anniversary. Sapphires actually come in a variety of colors, but the blue sapphire is certainly the most well-known. Sapphires are especially relevant at William Barthman because sapphire crystals are used for many of our watches.   Notable sapphires on view in the US are the Logan Sapphire; the Stars of Asia, Artaban, and Bombay; the Bismarck Sapphire; and the James J. Hill Sapphire all housed at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC; and last but not least, the Star of India at our very own American Museum of Natural History. Shop sapphire pieces— Damiani Mimosa Ring Roberto Coin Navarra Earrings Have you decided which gemstone is to your taste? Since 1884, William Barthman Jeweler has provided the finest precious stone, diamond, and 18K gold pieces to delight new and devoted customers. We invite you to browse our expansive online collection, or come into one of our NYC locations for a more personalized shopping experience. Our expert team of sales professionals can answer any questions you have about cut, clarity, customization options, and more! We look forward to our next opportunity to serve you, and continue to shape the legacy of one of the oldest NYC retailers of our kind.

Once upon a time before mass manufacturing became widespread, products were meticulously handmade by skilled artisans and other trade professions. While the modern era has made many goods more accessible to everyone, it is undeniable that product quality suffered as a result. What’s more, most brick and mortar stores simply cannot stock every size and color variation, limiting one’s scope of choices. At William Barthman, we wholeheartedly believe in artisan talent and traditions such as goldsmithing and lapidary. For that reason, we only carry brands who prioritize hand making their pieces. Not only does this raise the standards of quality control, but ensures a more sustainable process due to a more limited supply quantity. While those factors certainly add to the allure of luxury goods, you as the buyer still lack control of many aesthetic details of your piece. That’s precisely where bespoke designing shines—from sketch to final product, you have a direct impact on the entire process. This is especially important for milestone gifts, such as engagement rings, wedding bands, or other items of high sentimental value. Before and After turning extra pearls from a necklace into trendy paperclip earrings We are lucky enough to have a truly excellent master jeweler, as well as a network of other designers, suppliers and jewelry professionals who can translate your wildest ideas into the perfect gift for any occasion. Here are 10 reasons to commission a custom design today: A unique statement—The personalization market is only growing in popularity, so help someone stand out with jewelry thoughtfully created just for them. More options—As with most ready-to-wear companies, products that are easily available are made to appeal to groups of clients, large or small. With a custom-designed piece, the wearer can break free of conventional choices and express their individuality. Meaningful designs—Much like the friendship bracelets we made for each other as children, custom-designed jewelry allows you to present something that’s tailored to the recipient’s personal style and your bond with them. Exclusivity—Due to the intricate nature and involvement of the custom design process, each piece requires individual attention and care, a rarity compared to mass-produced items. This elevates the value of the jewelry, and imbues the wearer with a sense of exclusivity. It is truly a one-of-a-kind luxury. Expert craftsmanship—Custom designs can be rather complicated to execute, and typically require an experienced hand to turn ideas into reality. Our master jeweler has been making dreams come true for over 30 years, so expect nothing but the highest level of skill and detail for any project you can imagine. Ethical and sustainable sourcing—By truncating the supply chain through which you receive your gift, you are more able to monitor that your jeweler follows ethical and sustainable sourcing practices. At William Barthman, we are committed to upholding the Kimberley Process, a zero tolerance policy against conflict or “blood” diamonds, and only work with suppliers who follow the same stringent compliances. Shared legacy—Create modern heirlooms to pass down through generations, knowing that high quality, handmade pieces are crafted with materials that can survive through several lifetimes. Not only that, but the pieces themselves hold their own history, giving them a special significance as their stories are shared. Memorable—Most of the time, custom-designed gifts are an unexpected and delightful surprise, so the receiver is sure to treasure the piece, as well as the emotions it evokes. This makes a truly unforgettable gifting experience! Special occasions—Commemorate important dates such as birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones with a gift that fits the moment. Every little detail matters, whether it’s using their birthstone or a having a personal message engraved on the pieces. Support small and/or local businesses—Since 1884, William Barthman has been a family-owned NYC mainstay for luxury jewelry, timepieces and fine gifts. Although we now have two locations and a new family at the helm, we are still fully committed to serving the greater New York community. Before, During and After a pendant was converted to a unique ring If you or someone you know is considering custom jewelry design, we invite you to book a free consultation with our service department to kickstart the process. Following the initial discussion, our team will present next steps, including what will be handled internally, or if specialized materials need to be sourced. Additionally, many of our existing brands offer the ability to special order or modification options. If you find something in store or on our website that you would love in a different metal or with an alternative stone, please inquire with one of knowledgeable sales professionals for further information. Custom designing is just one of the many services we are able to offer clients. Visit our jewelry and watch repair pages to discover how we can help maintain your existing pieces. We look forward to your next visit!

Although you should show your dearest ones you love them all throughout the year, Valentine’s Day is one of the easiest holidays to express romantic, platonic, and self-love in tangible form. With that in mind, we handpicked some exquisite watches and jewelry for our beloved clientele to spread the love this February and throughout the year, including special milestone gifts. First off, let’s discuss current Valentine’s Day trends… in the fashion world, maximalism and personalization are having a resurgence, which means that we’re seeing some of that reflected in the accessories category. Vibrant colored gemstones, statement rings, opulent wrap watches, and initial pendants are great gifts to help the wearer show off their personality and add excitement to any outfit. For an even more heartfelt gift, we offer engraving and personalization services for a unique touch. Perhaps you like to give something more classic and timeless, like elevated staple pieces that anyone can wear forever? We have recommendations for those too! From diamond tennis bracelets and classic gold or steel watches, to modern gold chains and sleek bezel settings, understated can still be luxury. Vintage lovers will enjoy the resurgence of pearls (though they’ve been reimagined for 2025,) as well as leather-banded watches that can be passed down through generations. GIFTS UNDER 1K   GIFTS UNDER 2K   GIFTS UNDER 5K   GIFTS UNDER 10K   Our dedicated team of sales experts is available to answer queries regarding availability, sizing, and special order needs, so don’t hesitate to call, email or stop into one of our store locations for personalized assistance. Since 1884, William Barthman Jeweler has served esteemed clientele of the greater New York City area with excellence and devotion. 

Welcome to a world where the art of giving meets the essence of luxury – the finest gifts become portals to a year destined for splendor.   As the old year gracefully waltzes into the arms of time, we find ourselves standing at the threshold of new beginnings. Let us weave a symphony of opulence and extravagance with Frederique Constants Classic Quartz Women’s Watch and Healey Stainless Steel Automatic with Green face and Leather strap. Adorned with the promise of untold stories and dreams yet to unfold are the tapestries of moments that is the New Year. Mementos of Accutron's Yellow Gold Retro Legacy and Silver White Dial Stainless Steel Automatic Watch stamps the untold tales with new beginnings.   In this realm of sophistication, we unveil a curated collection of lavish treasures that beckon to be shared in the radiant glow of a fresh chapter in your new year. With affluence and opulence, embrace the spirit of resolute luxury with Roberto Coin’s Yellow Gold Malachite Pendant and Chimento’s Yellow Gold Supreme Ring. Then embark on a journey of indulgence with Pasquale Bruni’s 18k Rose Gold Petit Joli and Damaini’s Abbraccio Ceramic and Rose Gold Ring. Each gift becomes a whispered ode to elegance, a celebration of refined taste, and a token of affection wrapped with the sparkle of possibility the new year brings. Happy New Year!  

An Unthinkable Act of Terror In the chronicles of time, the mid-October air would typically have been imbued with anticipation at William Barthman Jeweler, a venerable establishment preparing for the impending holiday season. Yet, fate had conspired to rewrite the script of our existence. Instead of festive arrangements and cheerful dispositions, we found ourselves engulfed in a tempest of turmoil, grappling with the aftermath of an unthinkable act of terror. The heart of our predicament lay but a block away from the World Trade Center, now a haunting emblem of devastation known as "Ground Zero." This was a defining moment, unlike any other in that locations 117-year journey through history. Doors shuttered since the harrowing events of September 11th, a span longer than any in memory. Plans to resurrect their cherished establishment were etched in uncertainty, slated for an early December 2001 return. In the interim, our front window had metamorphosed into an impromptu shrine, a testament to those who had tragically perished. Skilled hands worked tirelessly to resurrect the ornate wood interior, while we, unscathed physically, grappled with the shadows cast by this unfathomable tragedy. Our service manager at the time, bore witness to this sorrowful chapter, her words resounding with heartache, “If you go to the ninth floor…you could see out into the mess... the fiery inferno that was still burning for months... it was a hallowed ground, a mass grave site. ” - Connie Swierkowski   Another Bombing? On that fateful September morning, the echoes of history rang loud on our ears. A colossal boom reverberated, akin to the haunting memory of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Panic rippled through the air as the building quaked, and debris danced in chaotic whirlwinds. The inferno raged in sight, a gaping wound in the city's heart. In the midst of this chaos, the store's valiant staff mobilized with unyielding resolve, preserving our treasures within the sanctuary of the stores safe. As the second plane struck the South Tower, the building trembled once more. Tragedy struck again as the towers crumbled, shattering the store's windows, a poignant contrast to the days of old when only a wayward horse had breached its defenses. In the aftermath, the store bore the scars of its true ordeal. Layers of ash and soot blanketed the floor, obscuring all in an eerie cloud. Looters, seizing the opportunity amidst the chaos, breached the sanctuary, leaving with trifles in hand. Watches, a digital camera, and a diamond tester vanished into the abyss and we marveled at the audacity of these thieves, as the presence of police and National Guardsmen loomed nearby. We sought refuge in an upper gallery, a realm devoid of electricity and communication. It was a bleak existence, where every breath was a struggle, a painful reminder of the tumultuous times. Fears loomed large as reports hinted at the impending collapse of the 54-story One Liberty Plaza, a stone's throw from their haven. In those anxious days, we grappled with the specter of our store crumbling with the mighty tower. The reports ultimately proved false, yet One Liberty Plaza remained a somber sentinel. Despite the trials endured, the store found no respite from its insurance providers, leaving the burden of rebuilding to gallant souls. Vendors showed a glimmer of understanding, their compassion shining through in a darkened hour.   We Will Endure In the end, we clung tenaciously to our place in history, unwavering in our commitment. Through two world wars and the unforgiving Great Depression, our store had stood as a stalwart jewel in the financial district's crown. To abandon our post would be to sever the ties that bound us to generations past, a legacy that would not be forsaken. Our hearts go out to everyone who was affected by this tragic event. While our original store remains in the hearts of our people, the William Barthman Spirit at 20 Broad Street, the center of the financial district, will always endure. We have survived the Spanish American War, World War I, the Great Depression, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, the Bombing of the World Trade Center and the attack on the World Trade Center. We've been jewelers to the financial district since 1884, and we will continue to serve our community well into the future. Thank you for listening to our story. Listen to the full recount of our service manager’s remembrance of that day. Click on the YouTube link below. A 9-11 Remembrance https://youtu.be/F0jYGzd6foQ?si=_IQYNiF1P9OHsbiW