The Shanghai Watch (上海表) is one of China’s most iconic and historic watch brands, symbolizing the country’s horological heritage. Founded in 1955 by the Shanghai Watch Factory, it gained fame for producing China’s first domestically made watch, the A581, in 1958, marking a milestone in Chinese industrial history. During the 1960s–1980s, Shanghai watches were highly prized as symbols of national pride and craftsmanship, often gifted as prestigious items. Classic models include the A581, featuring a 17-jewel movement and retro design, and the SS1 movement watches of the 1960s–1970s, known for their reliability. Modern reissues, like the A581, blend nostalgia with updated mechanics. Vintage models are celebrated for their simple, elegant dials with Chinese characters and hand-wound movements, while modern versions may include automatic movements and sapphire crystals. The brand embodies China’s mid-century industrial progress and remains a collector’s favorite. The original factory closed in the 1990s, but the brand was revived in the 2000s, with limited quantities produced today for vintage enthusiasts and patriotic collectors. Prices range from affordable (under $200) to higher-end reissues or rare vintage pieces. Shanghai watches are valued for their historical importance, unique aesthetics, and affordability compared to Swiss or Japanese vintage watches. They can be purchased online via platforms like Taobao, JD.com, or eBay, or in specialty shops in China. Would you like details on a specific model or era?