HAIL HOMAGE

-by Neil D'Costa

Mention ‘homage’ and you ignite a hot topic of debate and discussion that could be a catalyst for angst in true, blue-blooded, horological aficionados who, in their hallowed mental processes, relegate homages (like replicas) to just shameless copies from manufacturers who ‘steal’ others’ designs and hard work!

Before passing any snap judgements, one must understand the difference between replicas (or fakes) and homages (or tributes) and how they measure up to luxury watches. The following table enumerates some important points of comparison that should form the basis for the most suitable buying decision for oneself.

Some may argue that luxury watches are an investment, but in most cases, the added cost of routine maintenance puts you in the red. It is also a known fact that retail prices have nose-dived in a couple of years post-release and purpose-driven buyers have lost big time! So, unless you are really in ‘the know’ which is quite similar to predicting movement of the stock-market, don’t venture into that territory. 

With so much of money on the line for every luxury wristwatch not to forget provisioning for periodic servicing and the omnipotent threat of costly repairs, they pose a huge impediment in building up a collection.

Many yearn for a luxury watch. And realizing that dream could be elusive chiefly due to the high price tag, or being unable to ever justify to oneself to part with that huge sum of money on a single watch, even if one had the means. Many may find the idea of saving up for years or using EMIs impractical.

That’s where homage watches come in! With a big bang! They have literally opened the floodgates to owning and wearing legal reproductions of almost all the popular luxury watch models. Most importantly, they are available at a small fraction of the price of a luxury watch! The proverbial shot in the arm for any collection!

Unlike replicas which are deceitfully pretentious, homages hold no such aspirations. They do however, offer immense satisfaction through their craftsmanship, build quality and attention to detail. Over the years, homages from leading brands have improved in quality in leaps and bounds.

Good quality homages today offer 316L surgical grade stainless steel cases, quartz, meca-quartz or automatic movements from internationally reputed manufacturers who also use the same movements in their own watches, Swiss lume, sapphire crystals, ceramic bezel inserts, genuine leather belts or stainless steel bracelets, with an impeccable finish.

Over the years, homage manufacturers have honed their skills and a few of them produce improved versions of their products which if analyzed without bias, are truly amazing! An added advantage for a buyer is the availability of options in the event of more than one manufacturer offering the same homage. One can easily pitch the options against each other to see if they tick the right boxes, inspect them with an eagle eye for attention to detail and evaluate the overall package before buying.

Surely, homages are the answer to many folks’ prayers! The best way forward to own a representation of horological history on their wrists. What more could a watch enthusiast ask for than to wear something that looks attractive, works well, will last for a very long time and most of all, never evoke self-reproach?

Check out our wide range of homage watches from some of the most popular manufacturers in China, synonymous with high quality materials and movements. Our website provides descriptive listings to ease decision making.

We can also be reached on Whatsapp (+91-9354242740) or through call support, or at our email (contact@dream-watches.com) for any clarifications. Sign up with your email address, to stay updated on our latest collections, exclusive offers, and special releases.