How to Determine the Price of Your Vintage Watch

Do you have a vintage watch you badly want to sell? If you do, then it is important to know its value in the market so you don’t sell yourself short. It is important to recognize that there are two types of vintage watches: a revered item that tells a beautiful tale of engineering and a broken watch found in your grandfather’s attic. The truth may be somewhere in between.

Although the condition of a watch is definitely important in pricing, it does not tell the entire tale. Watches can be repaired. There are three basic elements that will significantly impact the market value of a vintage watch. These include workmanship, brand, and rarity. The law of supply and demand also figures into the equation. 

In general though, there are several rules that can help you appraise the value of a vintage watch accurately: 

Rule 1: If the watch comes with a gold case, immediately add $500 into the assessment. Sometimes the scrap value of the timepiece is the same as the watch value. But people prefer to keep it as a watch in anticipation of possible future price increase. If you have a Rolex watch or a Vacheron, the price of the watch would definitely be higher than its scrap value. 

Rule 2: Deduct $100 if your watch hasn’t been serviced recently. When you are going to sell watches, buyers assume that it is in running condition. Always clarify how well the timepiece has been maintained and list all damages. 

Rule 3: Condition is important but it is difficult to assess if you’re not an expert. Go to a specialist to determine how much repairs will cost. 

Rule 4: Vintage watches are not as unique as many people think. That’s why your vintage watch may not be worth as much as you’re hoping it is. On the other hand, it might be worth more than you ever imagined. Whatever the case, it is important to be sensible in analyzing the price of the timepiece. 

Rule 5: Men’s watches are generally worth more than ladies’. This is because men are more interested in mechanical movements. Women will pay more for design, stylishness, and luxury. Very few vintage watches have all the features they’re looking for. 

A timepiece is worth what buyers are willing to pay for it. If the economic conditions are bad today, it might be a better idea to postpone its sale. It might dramatically increase in value later on. However, if you think the market is ripe, then go ahead and sell your watch to a buyer who is willing to pay the maximum price for it.

 

 

How to Determine the Price of Your Vintage Watch