Ah, vintage watches. The epitome of nostalgia, the embodiment of style, the symbol of timeless elegance. Who wouldn’t want to add a piece of history to their wrist? But beware, dear collector, for vintage watch collecting is not for the faint of heart. It’s a complex, often confusing, and sometimes costly hobby that requires a great deal of knowledge and patience.
So, let’s dive in and explore some of the common pitfalls that collectors face when hunting for vintage timepieces.
Overpaying for “Brand”:
Just because a watch has a fancy name on the dial, doesn’t mean it’s worth a fortune. In fact, some of the most popular brands are unsurprisingly also the most heavily faked. Do your research, compare prices, and don’t be afraid to haggle.
Neglecting Condition:
Vintage watches are, well, vintage. They’ve been around for decades, and the signs of wear and tear are bound to show. But don’t let a little patina fool you. A watch may look good from a distance, but upon closer inspection, there may be cracks in the crystal, rust on the movement, that quite literally eat away at the watch’s value. Don’t be afraid to ask for detailed photos, and inspect the watch thoroughly before making a purchase. Here are some signs that a vintage watch may be in poor condition, which may lower its value for collectors:
- Missing or damaged parts – A missing (or incorrect) crownCrown The knob on the outside of the watch that you typically use to either wind the mainspring or set the time [Learn More], broken crystal, or missing hands can all greatly affect the value of a vintage watch and usually indicate it is probably a good idea to stay away from that particular purchase.
- Poor Dial Condition – Dials with cracks, chips, or scratches, can reduce the value of a vintage watch. water damaged dials should also raise alarms.
- Poor Case Condition – Dents, scratches, and corrosion on the case can all reduce the value of a vintage watch, especially if it is noticeable. On the other hand, an overly polished case is just as bad, if not even worse. This brings us to the next point…
- Overhauls or Repairs – If a vintage watch has undergone extensive repairs or overhauls, it can reduce its value, as it may not be original or authentic.
- Rusty or Dirty Movements – A rusty or dirty movement can indicate neglect, which can greatly lower the value of a vintage watch.
- Incorrect Replacements – If a vintage watch has been fitted with incorrect parts, it can reduce its value, as it may not be original or authentic. This can be fixed by finding authentic parts afterwards, but some vintage watch parts also costs a pretty penny.
- Water Damage – If a vintage watch has been exposed to water, it can have caused significant damage to the movement and other parts.
These are some of the signs that a vintage watch may be in poor condition, which can reduce its value for collectors. However, the value of vintage watches can also depend on other factors, such as rarity, history, and brand reputation.
Ignoring Service History:
A vintage watch is like a classic car. It needs maintenance, repairs, and occasional tune-ups to keep it running smoothly. Make sure to ask about the watch’s service history before making a purchase. Has it been serviced recently? Does it need any repairs? Parts for vintage watches are not always easy to get and that is reflected in the price for such parts.
Overlooking the Details:
It’s the little things that count, especially when it comes to vintage watches. Make sure to check for missing or replaced parts, incorrect markings, or signs of restoration. These details may not seem important, but they can significantly affect the value of a vintage watch.
Fakes and Replicas:
Just like in any market, there are always a few bad apples trying to cash in on the vintage watch craze. Be wary of watches that seem too good to be true, because they probably are. Check box & papers and of course make sure to buy from a reputable dealer, and do your research before making a purchase.
Collecting vintage watches can be a rewarding and fulfilling hobby, but it requires a great deal of knowledge, patience, and a bit of luck. So, take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Remember, collecting vintage watches is not just about the time, it’s about the journey.
For more vintage watch collecting tips for beginner’s, make sure to check out our past talk with Pierre Biver.
A Beginner's Guide