How a Timepiece Collection Turned Into ATX Watches Luxury Boutique
Experts for One-of-a-Kind Watches at Every Price Point
Horology — the study and measurement of time, including the art of making clocks and watches — is complicated. It requires a high level of technical skill, expertise, and encompasses a wide range of fields, from physics to mathematics to history and art.
ATX Watches wants to show you that selecting the perfect timepiece is nothing like horology.
The family-owned shop makes its vast inventory of watches available to try before purchasing, and each product comes with a one-year warranty.
It works with customers on a case-by-case basis to accommodate all circumstances, including one-of-a-kind repairs, buying, trade-ins, and more.
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A Watch Expert Is Born
Born and raised in Moscow, owner Vlad Zavadsky moved to Austin in 1993 to work for IBM. An engineer by trade, he began collecting watches 25 years ago, when his then-fiancée insisted that he replace his car collection.
“Before we got married, she said, ‘No more cars, get a different hobby,’” Zavadsky tells TRIBEZA. “She thought cars were too big, leak oil, require paperwork, and cost too much money.”
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“She was right that watches don’t leak oil and require less paperwork,” continues Zavadsky. “But they definitely cost a lot more money. She was not prepared for that.”
Despite the costs, Zavadsky developed a passion for collecting mechanical watches. He loved how unique each one was. Before he knew it, he was spending his extra money on men’s and women’s watches.
His wife, once again, played a critical role in the evolution of his watch business. She pointed out that he owned around 100 expensive women’s watches — none of which he’d ever wear — and suggested he open his own shop.
Zavadsky took action. He purchased the shop two years ago, left his 9-to-5 engineering job, and hasn’t looked back.
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Classic Experiences, Classic Timepieces
When you walk into the shop located off West 35th Street, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
A few cowboys (later revealed as regulars who seldom make purchases) are sidled up to the front counter, chatting with a young man behind it. The walls are adorned with striking art and clocks, giving the shop a museum-like quality.
Zavadsky runs the store along with his 18-year-old son Alexander and a recent University of Texas grad named Michel. They don’t have specific positions; they run the shop as equals. The three of them are the only ones who buy and sell things to and from the shop.
ATX Watches buys and sells timepieces at a variety of price points, ranging from $200 up to $20,000. Because it focuses on pre-owned inventory rather than specific lines, it features a wide variety of brands compared to other shops.
The shop’s inventory even includes artwork and swords. Zavadsky believes that customers should have visually appealing items to admire or interact with while they wait for assistance or repairs.
If you’re in the market to buy, sell, or repair a watch, or if you’re simply interested in browsing, head over to ATX Watches for a truly timeless experience.