Best Dress Watches for Men

Every well-dressed man needs a dapper dress watch to wear for formal occasions, like a wedding, black-tie business affair, or even a family funeral. There are plenty of options out there to choose from, but not all are equal in quality and craftsmanship. To help narrow your search, we’ve assembled a list of the best dress watches for men, from Rolex to Cartier and everything in between!

1. Rolex Cellini

The Cellini is quite a departure from the large, sturdy tool watches that Rolex is best known for. Instead, this dress watch has been dubbed the Tuxedo watch for its classic, sophisticated style that pairs flawlessly with a suit and tie. Crafted exclusively from 18k gold and fitted with a stitched alligator leather strap, the Cellini is the epitome of elegance and refinement. If you’re searching for a timepiece that demonstrates the rich, storied tradition of watchmaking, then the Rolex Cellini is the perfect dress watch for you.

2. Cartier Tank

The Cartier Tank is one of the most iconic dress watches of all time, recently celebrating its 100^th anniversary. Inspired by the French Renault tanks used in WWI, the Cartier Tank offers the ideal balance of style and simplicity. Some unique features of this watch include a distinctive rectangular case and classic Roman numeral dial. Though Cartier has reinterpreted the Tank for various re-releases, they’ve remained devoted to Louis Cartier’s original conception which earned the brand a loyal following of noteworthy figures. Legends like Andy Warhol, Frank Sinatra, and Princess Diana all famously sported Cartier Tanks in their time.

3. Omega De Ville

Omega is best known for their famed Seamaster and Speedmaster collections, but it’s the Omega De Ville that takes the cake as the manufacturer’s finest dress watch. The timepiece was once a part of a line of dress watches belonging to the Seamaster series, but was later launched as its own signature line. Like most Omega watches, the De Ville collection boasts a series of sub-collections including the Ladymatic, Hour Vision, Trésor, Prestige, and Tourbillon watches. Though each model offers something different, the Omega De Ville has a distinct, streamlined design that looks polished and pristine on the wrist, no matter what you’re wearing.

4. IWC Portofino

Modeled after the minimalistic style of a pocket watch, the IWC Portofino sets the standard for best dress watches. The Portofino is perfectly understated, so whether you prefer a laid back look, or something more elegant, this watch offers the best of both worlds. The watch’s dial is clean and uncluttered, with easy-to-read hour markers and thin hands for optimal timekeeping. Choose a lavish leather strap for black-tie occasions, or opt for a stainless steel mesh bracelet to give this classic timepiece a more modern, casual feel.

5. Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso

Impress any watch enthusiast by sporting a Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso, a cult classic in the world of luxury dress watches. The unique, rectangular design of the Reverso is unmistakable and sure to spark a few conversations. Since its unveiling in 1931, the Reverso has remained largely unchanged, a testament to the watch’s icon status. Paired with your best sports coat, this watch is as sleek and stylish as they come.

6. Patek Philippe Calatrava

The Calatrava is the quintessential round dress watch, produced by one of the most sought after watch brands in the world. Inspired by the Bauhaus art movement of 20^th century Germany, the Calatrava features little ornamentation, and emphasizes harmony between function and form. But, don’t let the modest design fool you, this watch is as luxurious as anything you’d expect from Patek Philippe. Each watch is meticulously crafted by hand, evidence of the brand’s longstanding commitment to superb craftsmanship.

7. Vacheron Constantin Patrimony

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Manufactured by one of the oldest watchmakers in the world, the Patrimony is a nod to times past, an embodiment of tradition and heritage. Though its origins are rooted in horological history, this watch is far from old-fashioned. The watch’s case is slender, the dial clean and simple, with hands that taper into a sharp, distinct point. What the Patrimony lacks in frills and complications, it makes up for in style. If you’re a sharply dressed dude who prefers pieces that are subtly stylish over something bold and ostentatious, look no further than the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony.

Shop Incredible Deals on Dress Watches in San Diego

Wondering where you can shop exclusive deals on the best dress watches from this list and more? The answer is Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers in San Diego! At our store, you’ll find a selection of sophisticated dress watches for every style and budget. Much of our inventory is pre-owned, which means we can offer our customers prices that they won’t find anywhere else in San Diego. Each of our pre-owned watches has been meticulously reconditioned to look and function as if it were new, so you’ll never notice a difference. Invest in something that will truly last a lifetime with a timeless dress watch from Leo’s!

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Unique Wedding Rings for Women

Traditional diamond wedding rings are without a doubt the most popular choice among contemporary brides-to-be. Though with endless options to choose from, some have opted for less conventional designs like colored gemstones, solid metals, delicate filigree, and vintage-inspired engravings. If you’re looking to add a touch of distinctiveness to your wedding ring, then you have to check out this list of our favorite unique wedding rings.

Gemstone Wedding Rings

Do you love incorporating color into your everyday outfits? What better way to do so than with a colored gemstone wedding ring? Sapphires always make a great choice for wedding and engagement rings, as they’re the ideal gemstone to withstand daily wear. Their hardness makes them one of the most durable and scratch resistant gems available, plus they come in a range of heavenly hues like yellow, pink, and brilliant shades of blue. If you prefer something more personalized, choose a gemstone that’s significant to you and your partner, like the gem that corresponds with the month you met. This will be a sweet reminder for you and your loved one each time you wear your wedding ring.

Nature-inspired Wedding Rings

If you and your loved one feel most at home in the great outdoors, consider incorporating this passion into your wedding ring. Nature-inspired wedding rings have become a popular trend that appears to be here to stay. These wedding rings often feature incredible details that depict familiar motifs like twisted vines, swirling leaves, and delicate feathers. You’ll feel like you’re wearing a work of art on your left finger with an earthly-inspired wedding ring that captures your appreciation and enthusiasm for the natural world.

Vintage Wedding Rings

When shopping for the perfect wedding ring, things can start to look a little similar. Jewelry stores generally carry the most current trends because they know that’s what most shoppers are looking for. However, when you shop with a local jeweler like Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers in San Diego, you’ll discover an entirely separate selection of vintage wedding rings from every decade imaginable. Vintage wedding rings offer something truly unique, as they give us a glimpse into history. Jewelry from previous eras has proven itself to withstand the tests of time, so each new generation can enjoy the old-world artistry of the past. Not to mention, when you choose a vintage wedding ring, you can feel confident that you have something one-of-a-kind that can’t just be bought at any jewelry store.

Stackable Wedding Rings

Why settle for one wedding ring when you could wear several instead? Stackable wedding rings are one of the hottest trends of the moment, especially for brides who love a little extra sparkle. There aren’t many rules when it comes to styling stackable rings, but we do recommend choosing one consistent element. For example, if you’re mixing metals and gemstones, consider choosing rings that are all the same width. Or if you’d like to wear bands of varying widths, stay consistent with the type of metal. Not only is ring stacking fun and trendy, it’s also one way to add something special to your engagement ring without breaking the bank. Because diamonds are valued by carat weight, the smaller diamonds featured in wedding rings cost less, but offer just the right amount of added sparkle to emphasize your engagement ring without distracting from it.

Crown Wedding Rings

Every bride-to-be wants to feel like royalty on her wedding day, but what if you could incorporate such aristocratic elements into your everyday style? Crown wedding rings resemble the headdresses worn by noble kings and queens, fulfilling the popular childhood fantasy that many young ladies have of someday becoming a princess. These regal rings are undoubtedly beautiful, but bear in mind that such detailed designs command attention and can tend to take away from an elaborate engagement ring. Crown wedding rings are best balanced by a modest engagement ring, like a sophisticated solitaire.

Wide Wedding Rings

Some ladies like to wear their wedding ring and engagement ring interchangeably. This is a simple and convenient way to switch up your look so it never feels repetitive. If you like the idea of your wedding band being a standalone piece, consider wearing a wide wedding ring that offers maximum sparkle and radiance. Wide wedding rings tend to feature unique and unusual details, like diamonds of varying shapes and sizes, beading, and meticulous milgraining.

Uncover Unique Wedding Rings in San Diego

Before you settle on a wedding ring that’s just like the rest, come to Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers and explore our selection of alluring, unconventional wedding rings. We offer different styles of wedding rings for every taste and budget, from gorgeous gemstones to sleek stackable bands, and much more! Can’t seem to find your dream wedding ring no matter how hard you look? At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we offer custom ring design to bring your creative visions to life. We can create custom wedding ring sets for you and your partner, so the two of you never have to worry whether you match. Don’t waste time shopping only the standard styles at a big-box jewelry store- come to Leo’s instead. You’ll notice a difference in both our service and selection!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/06/unique-wedding-rings-for-women/

Should You Get a Custom-Designed Engagement Ring?

Having trouble finding an engagement ring that you truly love? No matter where you look, you just can’t seem to find one that fits your style perfectly? If that’s the case, custom designing your engagement ring might be the best option.

If you need someone to design your custom engagement ring in San Diego, look no further than Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. Schedule your appointment with our Master Jewelers and they will turn your vision into reality with unmatched skill and attention to detail.

Keep reading to find out why you should get a custom-designed engagement ring and where to get one!

Why should you custom design your engagement ring?

While it might be easier to simply pick out a ring you like from a store, it’s unlikely that you will find one that seems like it was made just for you. This is because nobody in the world can match your unique vision perfectly. And that is just one of the reasons why you should get a custom engagement ring – read on for more!

Share your vision and let our professionals do the rest

The true charm of custom designing your engagement ring lies in the fact that you don’t have to rely on anyone else’s artistic vision but your own. No matter what unique style you come up with, an experienced jeweler will bring your ideas to fruition and present you with a ring that is truly one of a kind, just like you and your partner.    

Celebrate your unique relationship

Since no couple is the same, getting a custom engagement ring may be the ideal way to express the uniqueness of your relationship. The best thing is, you and your significant other can work together to come up with a design you both love and would be proud to show off as a symbol of your relationship.   

You can add personalized touches

What often makes a piece of jewelry truly unique is adding sentimental and personalized details, such as the date of your first kiss engraved on the inside of the ring band or adding your birthstone or the gemstone your grandmother wore when she was young and in love. The possibilities are endless!     

Get something special no matter your budget

Many people seem to think that custom designing an engagement ring would cost significantly more than an already crafted one from the store. On the contrary, experienced jewelers will help you design a truly special ring without compromising on quality, no matter your price range.  

Where can I order a custom engagement ring?

So, where can you get your custom engagement ring? How can you tell a jeweler will be able to design your ring exactly the way you imagined it? Finding a ring designer who can appreciate and understand your vision and create a ring you’ll adore isn’t always easy.

To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of questions you should ask when choosing a jeweler:    

• Will the jeweler listen to your ideas? A respected jeweler will respect your preferences and do everything in their power to bring your unique vision to life, without pushing their own agenda.  
• Is the jeweler reputable? When choosing a jeweler, you need to do your research well. Ask around and browse the web to find a jeweler who has been in the business for a long time and has great references.
• Are they knowledgeable? When you enter a respected jewelry store, the staff should be able to answer any questions you might have with professionalism and ease and employ their vast knowledge and experience to help you get the ring you envisioned.      
• Can the jeweler provide diamond certification? If you’re looking for someone to design a diamond engagement ring, make sure to find a jeweler who can provide you with a GIA certificate that proves the quality and value of the diamond.

Get your perfect custom engagement ring in San Diego

Searching for the foremost fine jewelers in San Diego County? We’re just around the corner! Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers and share your vision with our wonderful in-house masters who’ll carefully listen to all of your ideas to create the ring of your dreams.

Not only that but you can also browse our unrivaled collection of stunning engagement rings. We boast a vast array of different stones, cuts, and settings, so you’re sure to find a style your significant other would cherish for a lifetime. Stop by our store today!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/06/should-you-custom-design-engagement-ring-where-order/

How Can I Design My Own Engagement Ring?

Finding the perfect engagement ring can be a daunting task. While there are millions of stunning rings you can choose from, it’s unlikely that you’ll find one that truly speaks to your soul. If you want to ensure your ring fits your personality perfectly, you should consider designing your own engagement ring.  

If you’re wondering where you can order a custom engagement ring, we know just the place! Stop by our jewelry store and consult our in-house Master Jewelers renowned for designing the finest custom engagement rings in San Diego. They will employ the utmost skill and expertise to create an engagement ring that is nothing short of perfection.     

What should I consider when getting a custom engagement ring?

Whether you’re choosing a ring for the love of your life or you’re deciding on the design together, you need to come up with a style that is as unique as your relationship. Here’s some advice to help you along the way:

• Get inspired: browse the Internet for ring inspiration and prepare some pictures of the rings you like to show to the jeweler.
• Choose your jeweler carefully: the jeweler you choose can make or break your custom ring design, so you should make sure you take your time to select the one whose work you truly admire.  
• Choose the material: do you prefer yellow, rose or white gold? Silver? Or a mix of metals? Selecting your favorite metal is usually one of the first steps in custom ring design.
• Find your perfect stone: while diamonds are a classic choice, you can also go with your birthstone or a stunning sapphire or amethyst. Just make sure you choose something that speaks to your style.
• Select the cut: from the round brilliant to the princess, marquise, heart and pear cuts, finding the ideal cut can make any stone sparkle like the most expensive diamond.
• Pick a setting: similarly, the setting of your ring can transform the overall look of your ring: bezel, channel, pavé, three-stone… There’s a myriad of options to choose from.
• Be patient: it can take six weeks or more for your jeweler to bring your engagement ring design to life, so it’s best that you start early.

How long does it take to get a custom engagement ring?

There’s so much that goes into designing and creating a custom engagement ring. The process consists of a number of individual steps which can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks to complete.

During your first appointment with the jeweler, you’ll get to show them the ring styles you like and discuss your desired metal, stone, cut and setting. The jeweler will then show you some ring designs that may fit your description. While it’s certainly possible to decide on the final design during the initial appointment, most people stop by the jeweler a couple of times to refine the design and ensure everything looks perfect before it comes time to create.

Once your ring design is finalized, it may take your jeweler about 4-5 weeks to custom make your engagement ring. From the manufacturing of the ring and setting of the diamond/gemstone all the way to the finishing touches, a quality custom ring creation process is neither easy nor quick.

Where to get a custom engagement ring?

Choosing the right engagement ring jeweler can be an overwhelming decision. With so many options to choose from, you probably don’t know where to start. Before you decide, make sure you take the following steps:

• Do your research carefully: ask around and browse the web thoroughly to find a quality jeweler whose style fits your tastes and can design the ring of your dreams.  
• Make sure your jeweler is reputable: check your jeweler’s credentials and certifications to make sure they are reliable and possess unmatched skills and expertise.
• Meet your jeweler before you decide: if you want to make absolutely sure you’re making the right choice, schedule a consultation and meet your jeweler in person before you take your pick.

The finest experts for custom engagement rings in San Diego

If you’re searching for the ideal place to purchase your custom engagement ring near Downtown San Diego, look no further than Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. Our skilled and experienced in-house designers will create the ring you’ve always wanted with unparalleled dedication and skill.

Schedule your consultation today and be one step closer to creating your perfect engagement ring design. What’s more, you might fall in love with one of the gorgeous designs we already have in our sizeable collection if you visit our luxurious showroom. Reach out to us today and let us make your dreams come true!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/06/consider-get-custom-engagement-ring-how-long-where/

Ring Appraisal: What You Need to Know

Purchasing a diamond ring is a once in a lifetime experience, filled with joy and excitement at the prospect of a lifetime of love and romance. But, making such a pricey purchase can feel overwhelming for some. What if the ring winds up lost, or worse, stolen? Thankfully, there are steps one can take to ensure peace of mind over their investment, starting with having the ring professionally appraised. While just a simple document, an appraisal will tell you all you need to know about your ring, and then some. If you’ve recently splurged on a sparkling diamond ring and are preparing to shop jewelry insurance, read everything you need to know about ring appraisal here!

What is a ring appraisal? 

A ring appraisal is a document that assesses your newly purchased diamond ring and gives it an assigned value. This valuation takes into consideration the diamond itself, the precious metals used, and other details like the ring’s setting. A common misconception about jewelry appraisals is that they provide you with an accurate resale value for your ring. The value determined by an appraisal is strictly meant to establish how much it would cost to replace the ring, which in turn helps insurance companies draft the best policy for you.

Why get your ring appraised? 

Unlike a diamond grading report, a ring appraisal includes all of the finite details about your ring that make it valuable. Not only does this information give you piece of mind knowing your ring’s value is near to what you originally paid for it, but it also helps when it comes time to shop jewelry insurance policies. An official appraisal ensures you’ll receive the full value of your investment should your ring end up lost or stolen. Ring insurance can be purchased as a standalone policy, or as an addition to your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.

Where can you get jewelry appraised?

Many jewelry stores offer appraisal services in-store, but there are also independent appraisers that operate solo. If you decide to go with an independent appraiser, be sure to choose carefully. Check that they have the necessary credentials to accurately evaluate your items. Ideally, someone with a background in gemology is most qualified to produce a proper assessment. If you’re having trouble finding a professional appraiser in your area, resources like The American Gem Society can direct you to the nearest location.

How does the appraisal work?

When possible, it’s best to have an appraisal performed right as you watch. This prevents any concern over your valuables being misplaced or switched, and protects the appraiser from fault. In some cases, though, this is just not an option.  If you must leave your ring with an appraiser, first make yourself familiar with the details of your diamond. Know it’s measurements, internal characteristics, and any other distinctions that set your diamond apart in the event you need to identify it.

What does ring appraisal cost?

Expect to pay a fee to have your valuables appraised. Based on your location and the expertise of the appraiser, this fee can range from around $50-$150. Most appraisers charge a flat rate or will simply charge by the piece. Fees tend to be based on an appraiser’s level of experience, so be cautious of shockingly low rates and avoid doing business with those who base their fee on a percentage of your ring’s appraisal value.

The most professional jewelry appraisal San Diego can trust

If you’re stuck searching for the best deals on diamond rings in San Diego, you’ve come to the right place! Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is San Diego’s #1 destination for all of your jewelry and watch needs. Not only do we boast a vast selection of beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces, we also offer jewelry and watch repair services at unbeatable prices. We even have a professional and experienced appraiser right here, in-house. Why go anywhere else when everything you need is here, in one convenient location? Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers today and see for yourself what true, quality service looks like!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/06/ring-appraisal-what-you-need-to-know/