But what exactly makes a watch "vintage"? Why do old watches fascinate so many, and when should you choose vintage over new? Why do people buy them and what to consider before making a purchase. We present six good reasons to buy a vintage watch, along with a few words of caution. Whether you're a first-time collector or a seasoned collector, this guide will help you understand why a vintage watch is not just a timepiece, but a statement piece.
What is considered a "vintage" watch?
Sometimes it is difficult to determine exactly what is vintage and what is not. Depending on the model and brand, it can be any watch, usually over 30 years old or older. A vintage wristwatch is typically used and is no longer manufactured or sold new in watch stores. There are exceptions, of course, for example, the classic Digi-Casio has been in production for decades and is still available new, although older pieces may already be vintage due to their age.
(Omega's Constellation models are both top quality and stylish)
it's easy to walk into a watch store and buy a new watch. But what if you want a watch with a story? A watch that's new to you, but has a life behind it? Vintage watches offer just that: unique pieces with history, style, and quality design.
Today, the vintage watch market is booming. There is more variety available than ever before, both online and in the vintge watch stores. Sales are constantly growing, and the selection includes stunning and rare models for both novice enthusiasts and experienced collectors.
(The design of the 70s is recognizably bold, here is an example of a Citizen chronograph)
1.
The prices of new watches are constantly rising, but you can find high-quality and stylish watches at reasonable prices in the vintage market.
The prices of new, high-quality watches have skyrocketed. Well-known brands like Rolex or Omega can cost several thousand, even tens of thousands of euros. In addition, the availability of new models is often limited, and there are long queues for them.
In the vintage watch market, you can find great watches at a much more reasonable price. While collectibles can be expensive, there are plenty of beautiful and functional watches available at reasonable prices.
If you want a new watch, you might need a lot of money.
Fashion brand watches are also extremely expensive considering how cheap they are to make. People buy them for the looks and brand recognition, but there is no reason why a cheap quartz watch should cost so much. That is why the resale value of fashion brand watches is only a fraction of the purchase price.
(The design theme continues in even the smallest details, as an example Ulysse Nardin)
At the same time, the vintage watch market offers many quality options that don't require you to invest a fortune. Buying a vintage wristwatch can give you a style-conscious look, save you money, and get a watch with a quality mechanism that has history and tradition.
(the restrained use of accent colors keeps the complex-looking chrono dial still readable and stylish)
2.
Most vintage watches look really good and have a timeless elegance that goes with a variety of outfits.
Vintage watches are simply stunning objects. Vintage watches have a simple elegance and harmony that you don't always find in modern watches. In the past, there was an emphasis on design and a consistent style down to the smallest details.
A watch is often a man's only "jewelry" and an important part of his identity.
(Classic and symmetrical design was stylish 60 years ago and still is)
The popularity of many vintage watches is based on the simple beauty of the design. Many watches were designed in a time when people dressed more classically and the manufacturing of products was carefully considered. If we compare this to today, casual dressing is much more common. The design of new watches is modern and sports smartwatches and heart rate monitors are used, which quickly become outdated. A vintage watch takes your outfit to a new level and brings a touch of unique personality and tradition.
The simple aesthetics make vintage watches extremely versatile: they are suitable for both everyday life and celebrations, and add elegance to an outfit without drawing too much attention.
(Vintage IWC may go unnoticed by the uninitiated because of the old logo on the dial)
3.
Practical size. Many vintage watches are smaller, making them more comfortable to wear and suitable for both men and women.
Many modern watches are massive, measuring up to 44mm in diameter and larger. This can make them heavy and awkward to wear, especially on a narrower wrist. A huge watch is heavy on the wrist, may look good with a casual outfit, but it will be awkward to wear with a classic style.
(Despite its modern appearance, the Omega Speedmaster "Skywalker" will be vintage in just a couple of years.)
Vintage watches are often smaller and more slender, typically 34–38 mm in diameter. They fit most wrists better and are lighter and more comfortable to wear every day. When needed, a compact vintage watch can easily be tucked under a sleeve and may not attract the attention of pickpocket thieves as easily as a modern watch.
A positive problem may be that your partner may be excited to wear your vintage watches.
Diameters of 36–38 mm look really good on most wrists. If you are large and have thick wrist, finding a suitable vintage watch can take some time as there are fewer options available.
(A watch doesn't always have to be round. Vintage comes in many forms.)
4.
A vintage wristwatch is a piece of history that you can carry with you every day. Every vintage watch has its own story.
Perhaps one of the biggest reasons to buy an old wristwatch is the story. Every vintage watch has a past. Perhaps the watch was worn by an important person at some important moment, passed down from generation to generation, or was part of an era that no longer exists.
(A vintage watch can be really special and personal, like this GP and Atlantic)
A vintage wristwatch brings character and uniqueness that you can't get from a new watch straight from the factory. An old watch is not just an object, it's a piece of history and a breath of the past.
(A collector's collection can include both new and old wristwatches)
5.
Collecting watches is growing in popularity. Vintage watches are fascinating objects with an interesting history.
Vintage wristwatches are fascinating in terms of technology and design, while also being useful objects. There are many ways to enjoy collecting watches. Some people collect all the variations of a particular model, others are fascinated by the technology of different mechanisms, and others only pick up special models or use one color as the common thread of the theme.
The collector's background and other interests influence what is collected.
(A collection of three watches might look like this.)
Watches were designed for many uses, so it is common for many collectors to have at least a dress watch, a diver's watch, and a chronograph in their collection. The collecting hobby allows you to meet a lot of nice like-minded people, as the hobby is often very social.
(It's crazy that watches from the 1980s and some watches from the 1990s are vintage!)
6.
A vintage wristwatch as an investment? Certain watch models can increase in value over time. Their rarity and good condition make them sought-after collectors' items.
Certain vintage watches can also be an excellent investment. Vintage watches from prestigious brands and their rare models can increase in value significantly over time. Just like any rare collectible that is no longer manufactured, it becomes sought after by collectors.
Like classic cars or a rare bottle of wine, a well-preserved and maintained vintage wristwatch can be a highly sought-after collector's item.
Even if investment isn't your primary reason for buying a watch, it's nice to know that your watch's value will remain or even increase over time. Some collectors who are very knowledgeable about vintage watches invest in their collections knowing that they will generate a profit for years to come.
(A really stylish Zenith Victorius, but still unique look.)
While an old watch can be a stylish and interesting choice, it may not be for everyone. Buying and owning a new watch also has its advantages. It's worth giving vintage a chance, you never know ;)
(Sometimes we forget that Seiko is an old brand. Alongside your modern everyday Seiko, you can buy vintage watches from the same brand)
The pros and cons of vintage watches
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Cons:
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A vintage wristwatch can be a great purchase. Whether it's to perfect your own style, collection, or simply to appreciate timeless aesthetics, a vintage watch offers the opportunity to explore a bygone era, own a tangible piece of history, and stand out from the crowd.
Have you ever purchased a vintage wristwatch? Or are you considering buying one? We'd love to hear about your experiences!