Vintage Watches For Sale: Factors To Consider Before Buying One
It can be hard to look for a great vintage watch. It seems like every time an onlooker finds one that they really want, someone else buys it before they do. This proves that there are so many people out there searching for the perfect vintage watches for sale. But this doesn’t mean that finding an exceptional piece would be impossible. There are still plenty of ways to find that dream accessory that can be used and worn for decades.
By keeping tips in mind, it will be easy to find and buy a new favourite piece much quicker than ever before.
Originality
Something that’s discussed a lot when getting advice on vintage watches is ‘originality’ and the idea that the watch must be completely original and the same as when it was made 30+ years ago. For some people this is a really important factor, but what you must consider is that if the watch has been cared for and serviced regularly during its life, then of course it will have had parts replaced in the interest of keeping it working as it should.
On the flip side, a completely original watch may be one that has never seen a service centre. Having said that, signs of age on an original dial or bracelet or other parts that are visible can make vintage watches for sale more desirable.
Condition
Apart from a watch that may have historical importance, condition is still one of the most important factors that drive value. Vintage watches that have been carefully looked after and are complete with their original box and certificate are indisputable. That said, collectors are now also paying huge sums for uniquely discoloured or ‘tropical’ dial models that 20 years ago would have been impossible to sell.
Manufacturer and brand
Manufacturer and brand say a lot about a watch, and when the timepiece is vintage, it says even more. It may be that the company is steeped in history or has now ceased operations. Or that a particular model is rare due to being a limited edition, one of only a few made, or the first to introduce a particular specification, style, complication, or calibre. Most often it’s a combination of both.
Provenance
The origin of a watch (its history and provenance) may have a significant impact on the value and significance of a vintage timepiece. A never-worn watch with just one owner, for example, will be worth much more than a heavily worn watch that has been handled by numerous people. Furthermore, the tale of the owner, as is often the case with vintage watches, can amplify the watch's value.
Most timepieces with a distinguished and illustrious history are kept for personal and estate sales, top auction houses, and well-known stores. While flea market watches tend to be less expensive than those available elsewhere, they're also often found in more unsavory locales like automobile boot sales.
Dials
When it comes to vintage timepieces, there are several factors that must be considered. And one of the most apparent is the condition of their dials, especially because some dials did not age as well as others. Wristwatches used to have metal, porcelain, or enameled dials; and the methods and coverings used on the dials would determine how they looked over time. Porcelain or enamel dials that were baked into place usually did not age well, and due to exposure to sunlight, they would sometimes turn blackish-gray in color.
It is now more unusual to discard antique dials and recondition them with contemporary technology, though this was formerly quite popular, especially in the realm of horology. Sometimes these old dials are “creatively” designed without regard for the philology of the original watch—an operation that would make any modern vintage watch enthusiast cringe.
Alternatively, go online: there are a plethora of vintage new old stock dials available for purchase; all it takes is a little patience and chance.
If in the market for vintage watches for sale, research is key in finding one that fits one's needs and tastes. Look at different styles and brands before making a purchase or purchasing online. It would be necessary to think about how often it will get worn, what type of clothing would go well with it, and if it will match any other pieces in a collection. They are as valuable as jewellery. Remember to apply all the details above to make the hunt reassuring.
By keeping tips in mind, it will be easy to find and buy a new favourite piece much quicker than ever before.
Originality
Something that’s discussed a lot when getting advice on vintage watches is ‘originality’ and the idea that the watch must be completely original and the same as when it was made 30+ years ago. For some people this is a really important factor, but what you must consider is that if the watch has been cared for and serviced regularly during its life, then of course it will have had parts replaced in the interest of keeping it working as it should.
On the flip side, a completely original watch may be one that has never seen a service centre. Having said that, signs of age on an original dial or bracelet or other parts that are visible can make vintage watches for sale more desirable.
Condition
Apart from a watch that may have historical importance, condition is still one of the most important factors that drive value. Vintage watches that have been carefully looked after and are complete with their original box and certificate are indisputable. That said, collectors are now also paying huge sums for uniquely discoloured or ‘tropical’ dial models that 20 years ago would have been impossible to sell.
Manufacturer and brand
Manufacturer and brand say a lot about a watch, and when the timepiece is vintage, it says even more. It may be that the company is steeped in history or has now ceased operations. Or that a particular model is rare due to being a limited edition, one of only a few made, or the first to introduce a particular specification, style, complication, or calibre. Most often it’s a combination of both.
Provenance
The origin of a watch (its history and provenance) may have a significant impact on the value and significance of a vintage timepiece. A never-worn watch with just one owner, for example, will be worth much more than a heavily worn watch that has been handled by numerous people. Furthermore, the tale of the owner, as is often the case with vintage watches, can amplify the watch's value.
Most timepieces with a distinguished and illustrious history are kept for personal and estate sales, top auction houses, and well-known stores. While flea market watches tend to be less expensive than those available elsewhere, they're also often found in more unsavory locales like automobile boot sales.
Dials
When it comes to vintage timepieces, there are several factors that must be considered. And one of the most apparent is the condition of their dials, especially because some dials did not age as well as others. Wristwatches used to have metal, porcelain, or enameled dials; and the methods and coverings used on the dials would determine how they looked over time. Porcelain or enamel dials that were baked into place usually did not age well, and due to exposure to sunlight, they would sometimes turn blackish-gray in color.
It is now more unusual to discard antique dials and recondition them with contemporary technology, though this was formerly quite popular, especially in the realm of horology. Sometimes these old dials are “creatively” designed without regard for the philology of the original watch—an operation that would make any modern vintage watch enthusiast cringe.
Alternatively, go online: there are a plethora of vintage new old stock dials available for purchase; all it takes is a little patience and chance.
If in the market for vintage watches for sale, research is key in finding one that fits one's needs and tastes. Look at different styles and brands before making a purchase or purchasing online. It would be necessary to think about how often it will get worn, what type of clothing would go well with it, and if it will match any other pieces in a collection. They are as valuable as jewellery. Remember to apply all the details above to make the hunt reassuring.