What was initially an eBay store for antique watches has transformed into a visionary shop set to open its doors in Fort Worth's Near Southside neighborhood on September 2.

The Watch Preserve will open at 1253 W. Magnolia Ave., taking over a storefront next to Grand Cru Wine Bar, where it will specialize in buying, selling, and repairing authentic vintage timepieces.

The company was founded by Nikolaus Libby, who has more than two decades of experience selling vintage items on Ebay. His journey collecting watches began at 15 years old, and Libby has been operating one of the largest online vintage watch shops on the site since 2006.

Libby's passion for his e-commerce business to inspired him to open the brick-and-mortar store in Fort Worth. They took over a space that Grand Cru previously used as offices.

"It's an ideal neighborhood, one of the few where people come to stroll and shop," Libby says.

Vintage watches are generally defined as "more than 25 years old." Not every vintage watch is rare and not every old watch is worth anything. But classic names like Rolex, Cartier, and Patek Philippe, often made of precious metals like gold and sterling silver, hold their value through the decades.

Libby says that between the internet and celebrities who've sought vintage watches out, there's been a massive surge of interest in and sales of vintage watches. Buying pieces can not only be a solid investment, but a vintage watch often comes with the dings and flaws that add personality.

His shop's mission is not just to be a haven for collectors and enthusiasts, but to develop a relationship within the local community, including pursuing collaborations with local artists to exhibit their creations in-house.

Watch collectors and appreciators can find their next treasured timepiece at The Watch Preserve at a fun opening party on September 2 from 12-8 pm, when they'll serve complimentary bites and drinks.