Are Vintage Watches Worth It? Cost, Value and Care, Explained

Vintage watches are trending, and with good reason. These timepieces are timelessly elegant, with intricate features that turn a time-telling device into a fashion statement. Lately, the vintage watch trend is growing, which might have you wondering if you should invest in one of these pieces. In this article, we’ll explore the cost, value, and care of these fashionable watches so you can decide if this trend is for you. 

What are Vintage Watches?

How do we categorize a vintage watch? In terms of jewelry and watches, the term “vintage” applies to pieces that are between 20-100 years old, compared to antique jewelry and watches which are over 100 years old. There are plenty of places you can find vintage watches, including online resale sites and estate sales. Many vintage watches are sought after because of their old styles which are no longer made or because of their technical artistry. 

The Cost of Vintage Watches

The cost of a vintage watch will vary due to a number of factors. The brand and model is a big component of the price variance — there are many watch brands that are considered luxury, which are big investments, and many vintage watches from these brands are no longer made. This will contribute to the overall price of the watch. Rarity and historical significance will also play a role in the expense. If the watch you’re looking at buying is one of a kind, it will likely cost much more. Also, the condition and originality of the watch will impact its cost. If the watch is in excellent condition, it may cost a bit more, but if it’s in need of some repair or TLC, you might be looking at a discount. 

Compared to new watches with their updated features, a vintage watch might cost less, but that’s not always necessarily the case. A rare vintage watch from a coveted brand in excellent condition may cost even more than some of its newer counterparts. It all depends on what you’re looking for from a timepiece. 

The Value Proposition of Vintage Watches

Next, let's take a look at the value of vintage watches. As with many older pieces of jewelry, vintage watches can be an excellent investment opportunity. They offer several aspects of value that make them attractive to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Investment potential

One of the primary draws of vintage watches is their investment potential. Many vintage timepieces have shown steady appreciation over time, particularly those from renowned brands or limited editions. The value of these watches is driven by various factors, including rarity, condition, brand prestige, and historical significance. As these watches become scarcer over time, their value often increases, making them a potentially lucrative investment for those who choose wisely.

Emotional and aesthetic value

Beyond their monetary value, vintage watches offer significant emotional and aesthetic appeal. These timepieces often feature unique designs and intricate craftsmanship that are no longer produced in modern watches. The attention to detail and the artistry involved in creating these pieces can be truly breathtaking, making them objects of beauty as well as functional timekeeping devices. Moreover, each vintage watch carries with it a piece of history. Whether it's a watch that was worn during a significant historical event or simply a model that epitomizes the style of a particular era, these timepieces tell a story. This historical significance adds depth to their appeal, making them not just accessories, but conversation pieces and tangible links to the past.

Exclusivity and individuality

Lastly, vintage watches offer a sense of exclusivity and individuality that is hard to match with modern timepieces. In a world where mass production is the norm, owning a vintage watch allows you to stand out from the crowd. These watches are often unique or produced in limited numbers, giving the wearer a sense of owning something truly special. This exclusivity, combined with the wide variety of styles available in vintage watches, allows individuals to express their personal style in a way that feels authentic and distinctive.

In essence, the value of a vintage watch extends far beyond its ability to tell time. It's an investment, a piece of art, a fragment of history, and a personal statement all rolled into one. While the initial cost may be significant, the multifaceted value that a vintage watch provides can make it a worthwhile acquisition for many enthusiasts.

Care and Maintenance of Vintage Watches

Care and maintenance of any watch will always be important, but with vintage watches, it’s even more important. Caring for your watch will preserve its value and prevent any issues from arising. Each vintage watch will come with its own unique set of characteristics and potential issues — some common issues with vintage watches are:

• Moisture damage: Older watches often lack modern water resistance, making them susceptible to moisture intrusion.
• Worn parts: Gears, springs, and other components can wear out over time, affecting accuracy and functionality.
• Lubrication breakdown: Old lubricants can dry out or become sticky, causing increased friction and wear.
• Crystal scratches or cracks: Acrylic crystals are prone to scratching and can become cloudy over time.

With any of these issues, a good watch specialist can give you a hand. For the best maintenance, be sure to find a reliable vintage watch specialist. Look for a local place with excellent reviews — or get in touch with our team for a mail-in service without any hassle. 

Not sure how to care for your vintage watch? We’ve got you covered. Here are some tried and true tips:

• Regular servicing: Take your watch to a professional for regular servicing, typically every 3-5 years or as recommended by the specialist.

• Proper storage: Store your vintage watch in a cool, dry place when not in use. Consider using a watch winder for automatic watches to keep them running smoothly.

• Good wearing habits: Be sure to take off your watch before doing any activities that could put it at risk. For example, always take off your watch before hopping in the pool or shower to avoid moisture damage, and leave it inside when you go out to do your gardening to prevent any dirt infiltration. 

Pros and Cons of Buying Vintage Watches

With all this in mind, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of buying vintage watches:

Advantages

• Unique style and character: Vintage watches often have distinctive designs that set them apart from modern timepieces.
• Potential for value appreciation: As discussed earlier, some vintage watches can increase in value over time.
• Owning a piece of horological history: Vintage watches allow you to own and wear a piece of watchmaking history.

Disadvantages

• Potential for hidden issues or repairs: Older watches may have unseen problems that can be costly to fix.
• Limited water resistance and durability: Vintage watches often lack the robust water resistance and shock protection of modern watches.
• Difficulty in finding original parts: Replacement parts for vintage watches can be scarce and expensive.

Tips for Buying Vintage Watches

Considering buying a vintage watch? Here are a few tips to guide you through the process. First, be sure to conduct thorough research before beginning your search. Be familiar with the brands, the functions, and the styles of different vintage watches available to understand what you’re looking for. You’ll also need to do some research on the sellers you look into — be sure to find reviews or even ask for recommendations from friends and family. You can look into estate sales, auctions, private sellers, or online second-hand retail shops. 

Next, be aware of authenticity in your shopping experience. Ask about the original dial of the watch, and take a look at its serial number to ensure its authenticity. You can also ask for documentation — either the original receipt or an appraisal document. These will help you to be sure you’re paying for the real thing and not an imitation. 

Have you found a vintage watch you’re interested in buying? Be sure to get it carefully inspected and cleaned before wearing it. Our team at Quick Jewelry Repairs have years of experience handling vintage watches, and we can make sure to give it the proper maintenance it needs before you show it off.