It created scarcely a ripple, but the Chilean photographer, Sergio Larrain Echeñique, recognised in his own country as the best photographer Chile ever produced, died on February 7th at the age of 80.

In the late 50s he travelled to London and photographed the city extensively, all sponsored by the British Council. His fascinating black and white photographs portray a London that has all but disappeared. The monuments are still in place, but the top hats, the once ubiquitous cigarette signs proclaiming ‘Players please’, the uniformed nannies, even the gloomy fogs, have long since evaporated from London’s streets.

Few people wear uniforms in Britain anymore. Even when you arrive at the airport it’s hard to tell the scruffy dress-as-you-feel immigration officials from normal passengers. Although in fairness, recently they have reverted to uniforms, not to look smart, but to look more officious.

In the words of MP Tom McNulty: ‘Key to this is the creation of highly visible staff at our borders, to deter people who have no right to be here.’ So very welcoming, just like the airport policemen in their bullet proof vests bearing 15 round MP5 sub machine guns.

But we can’t turn back the clock, much as it’s tempting with the elegant and stylish watches that were being produced in the 1950s.

The first port of call to find such treasures is, as always, Derek Dier’s marvellous collection at watchestobuy.com.

Tudor Oyster Royal

The case of this elegant watch from the 1950s is just 33mm in size, a full 10mm smaller than most modern watches, but the elegance and grace of the dial is unmistakeable. Tudor were bought by Rolex in 1936 and many of their watches mirrored each other including the Oyster.

Gruen Pan Am Verithin

The case of this Gruen Verithin watch is even smaller at 32mm. If you watch movies from the 1940s and 50s you will often see clips of actors referring to their Gruen watch, in smoky train stations and airports – mainly American it has to be said – in the midst of a time sensitive crisis. If you like this watch you’ll have to ask Derek if he can source another as this one is sold.

IWC Schaffhausen automatic

An exquisite IWC Schaffhausen automatic with gradually sloping 34.5mm dial. IWC movements are amongst the most respected in the world and this high-grade example is said to be in excellent condition. The black crocodile strap complements it perfectly.

May Sergio rest in peace and may Derek Dier send me one of his wonderful watches for reviewing purposes.