Wristwatch by Lip, 1970s

Dealer description — Analog/Shift

We admit it, we do tend to get carried away pontificating about vintage watches. Whether it is the history of a particular piece or some oft-forgotten sidenote in the development of a particular case design or movement, there are numerous elements to vintage timepieces that make them so desirable. On the other hand, much like women, sometimes all it takes to get us excited about a particular timepiece are some killer looks. Case in point: This sexy as all-hell Lip Himalaya from the 1970s. Although the name Lip may be unfamiliar to you, the French brand has horological roots going back to 1867 and was the first manufacture to use phosphorescent material (radium) on the watch dials and hands to allow for visibility in low light conditions. They also had early forays into electric watches, though are probably best known for their striking mid-century modernist designs, incorporating vibrant color into asymmetrical cases. Dating from the 1970s, this particular wristwatch is just plain cool. Sized at an infinitely wearable 40mm, this manually-winding designer wristwatch features a colorful blue sunburst dial with minimalist printing, and a beautifully sloped inner bezel with luminescent hour markers. Simple bâton hands with warmly patinated luminescent inserts and a striking fluorescent orange sweep seconds hand rounds out this terrifically 70s aesthetic. But the cherry on top is the incredibly crisp circular case in near-mint condition with deep brushing and an ergonomically thoughtful curved case back design. This watch might not fit the archetype of most of the timepieces we offer here at analog/shift, but it is an absolute pillar of design, and will make someone who appreciates true style very, very happy!