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New Watches Guides
New Watches
Welcome to the New Watches collection at H.E. Phillips Ltd. Based in our historic Totnes showroom at 19 Fore Street, we have been a trusted destination for horological excellence since August 2000. We specialise in sourcing timepieces that offer the perfect balance of mechanical innovation and timeless design.
Our selection of new watches features everything from high-precision automatic movements to dependable, contemporary quartz models. Every timepiece is hand-selected for its quality, ensuring our customers in Totnes and across Devon receive a watch that serves as both a reliable tool and a sophisticated accessory.
H.E. Phillips Expert Verdict
"In our 25 years of serving the Totnes community, we have found that the best watch is the one that fits your lifestyle. For durability, we recommend a stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal. For the enthusiast, there is no substitute for the sweep of a high-quality automatic movement. We invite you into our shop to experience the weight and craftsmanship of these pieces firsthand." — The H.E. Phillips Team
Related Collections: Looking for a piece with history? Browse our Vintage & Second Hand Watches. Maintain your collection at our Jewellery Care & Maintenance hub.
Understanding Watch Movements
| Movement Type | Mechanism | Best For | Care Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic | Self-winding via wrist movement | Daily luxury & Enthusiasts | Service every 3-5 years |
| Quartz | Battery-powered precision | Ultimate accuracy & Reliability | Battery change every 2-3 years |
| Mechanical | Manual crown winding | Classic dress & Heritage styles | Daily winding required |
Expert Watch Advice & Frequently Asked Questions
Buying & Selection Advice
Where is the best place to buy a new luxury watch in Totnes?
H.E. Phillips Ltd at 19 Fore Street is the leading independent watch specialist in Totnes. Since 2000, we have provided a curated range of new timepieces backed by local expertise and full warranties.
Should I choose a leather strap or a metal bracelet?
Leather straps offer a formal, classic aesthetic. Metal bracelets are highly durable and water-resistant, making them ideal for a sportier, everyday look. We stock both at our Totnes showroom.
How do I choose a watch for a graduation or retirement gift?
A fine watch is a traditional milestone gift. For a gift that lasts, look for timeless styles like a silver-dial dress watch or a robust automatic with a sapphire crystal.
What is the best watch case size for my wrist?
The best way to tell is to try them on. Generally, 36mm to 40mm is the sweet spot for most wrists, but our team can help you find the perfect proportions in-store.
Are new luxury watches a good investment?
Fine watches are crafted for longevity. While primarily bought for enjoyment, high-quality timepieces from reputable brands retain their value significantly better than mass-market options.
Do you sell both men’s and women’s watches in Totnes?
Yes, H.E. Phillips Ltd stocks a diverse range of new timepieces for both men and women, ranging from delicate jewellery-inspired designs to professional chronographs.
Technical & Material Education
What is an automatic watch movement?
An automatic movement is self-winding and powered by the natural kinetic energy of your wrist. It is highly valued for its mechanical artistry and requires no battery.
What are the benefits of a sapphire crystal watch face?
Sapphire crystal is the gold standard for luxury watches. It is virtually scratch-proof, second only to diamond in hardness, ensuring the watch face remains clear for years.
What does water resistance actually mean for a watch?
Water resistance ratings indicate the pressure a watch can handle. 5ATM is suitable for splashes; 10ATM or higher is recommended for swimming. We can advise on the specific rating of any piece in our shop.
What is a chronograph watch?
A chronograph is a watch with a built-in stopwatch function, indicated by sub-dials on the face. It combines technical functionality with a sporty, professional aesthetic.
Why are Swiss watch movements considered the best?
Swiss movements are world-renowned for their precision, heritage, and strict manufacturing standards, ensuring long-term reliability and accuracy.
What is a power reserve in a mechanical watch?
The power reserve is how long a mechanical watch will run when not being worn. Most modern automatic watches offer between 38 and 80 hours of reserve power.
How accurate is a quartz watch compared to an automatic?
Quartz watches are battery-powered and incredibly accurate, typically losing only a few seconds per month. Automatic watches are mechanical and may vary by a few seconds per day.
Care, Servicing & Local Support
Do new watches from H.E. Phillips Ltd come with a warranty?
Yes, all new watches sold in our Totnes boutique come with a full manufacturer’s warranty, protecting your investment against mechanical defects.
Where can I get a watch battery changed in Totnes?
Visit us at 19 Fore Street. We offer a professional in-store battery replacement service for quartz watches to keep your timepiece running perfectly.
Can you adjust a watch bracelet to fit my wrist in the shop?
Absolutely. We provide a complimentary bracelet sizing service with every new watch purchase at H.E. Phillips Ltd to ensure a perfect fit before you leave.
How often should a mechanical watch be serviced?
To ensure peak performance and longevity, we recommend a professional service every 3 to 5 years. This includes cleaning, lubrication, and pressure testing.
What should I do if my watch stops working?
Bring it to our experts at H.E. Phillips Ltd. Whether it’s a battery issue or a mechanical fault, we can diagnose the problem and advise on the best repair path.
Can I trade in my old watch for a new one at your shop?
We do offer part-exchange evaluations. Bring your current timepiece into our Totnes showroom for a valuation against a new watch from our collection.
Are you open on Saturdays for watch viewings?
Yes, H.E. Phillips Ltd is open Monday to Saturday, 09:00 – 16:30. We invite you to browse our full collection in person at your convenience.
What makes H.E. Phillips Ltd different from online retailers?
We provide a physical presence in Totnes with over 25 years of local accountability. You get expert advice, the ability to try on the piece, and reliable after-sales care.