Laurent Martinez of Laurent Fine Watches. Contributed photo
After an accomplished career in the energy industry, European native and long-time resident of Greenwich, Laurent Martinez, is following his passion for fine vintage watches.
After having spent over three decades studying and collecting historically important timepieces, Laurent has launched his company Laurent Fine Watches and accompanying website, laurentfinewatches.com
The move from hobby to business venture underlines his commitment to horology.
To source the pieces for his collection, Laurent travels to Europe regularly in search of special timepieces with historically significant stories.
While the history of horology spans over two centuries, Laurent is particularly fond of vintage watches from the 1930’s, 1940’s, 1950’s, and 1960’s—which is clearly reflected in the watches he offers for sale.
In addition to buying watches during his travels, Laurent also buys and consigns vintage and contemporary watches from people looking to sell their timepieces.
Laurent’s love for luxury watches began at a young age in Paris where he spent time in an auction house counting the city’s leading auctioneer as his mentor. Commenting on the experience, Laurent said, “That experience opened my eyes to an extraordinary world and instilled in me a profound appreciation of beauty, exceptional craftsmanship, and technical mastery. Among all the luxury products I was privileged to encounter, it was the watches that really resonated with me.”
Not just a passive collector but Laurent Martinez is an expert in his field. His memberships include:
◦ The NAWCC — National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors
◦ The AWCI — American Watchmakers – Clockmakers Institute
◦ The IWJG — International Watch & Jewelry Guild
◦ The ASA — American Society of Appraisers
While Laurent runs the day-to-day operations of Laurent Fine Watches, he also counts on the expertise of two other men – Adam Harris and Daniele Del Vecchio. Adam is the developer and instructor of the Luxury or Lie? ‘How to Spot a Fake Watch course offered by the NAWCC, and Daniele is an experienced and knowledgeable certified Omega watchmaker.
Laurent Fine Watches is the passion project of Laurent Martinez, along-time watch collector and vintage watch aficionado. His company offers a curated collection of fine watches for sale, with a special emphasis on those from the 1930’s, 1940’s, 1950’s, and 1960’s. For more information please visit www.laurentfinewatches.com
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