Question 1

What is a vintage watch?

Accepted Answer

A vintage watch is any watch that is at least two decades old. A model number can usually be found on a watch's movement for identification purposes, and date marks on the back of a watch can usually tell you if it is vintage. Vintage timepieces have made a comeback for serious collectors as well as casual enthusiasts all over the world. Find a collection of vintage watches on 1stDibs today.

Question 2

What is the most sought-after vintage watch?

Accepted Answer

There is no single most sought-after vintage watch. Trends in collecting do vary over time, but some watches have reached an iconic status and tend to remain popular among collectors year after year. Examples of such watches include the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513, the Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 105.003, the TAG Heuer Monaco Ref. 1133B, Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 96, Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref. 5402, the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921, the Longines 13ZN Chronograph, the Zenith El Primero Ref. A384, the Tudor Submariner Ref. 7928, the Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806, the IWC Big Pilot Ref. 5002, the Cartier Tank Louis Cartier, the Breguet Type XX, the Universal Genève Polerouter, the Seiko 6139 "Pogue," the Hamilton Ventura and the Omega Seamaster 300 Ref. 165.014. Shop a diverse assortment of vintage watches on 1stDibs.

Question 3

How old is my vintage watch?

Accepted Answer

To determine how old your vintage watch is, first do some research using trusted online resources. Start by looking at the back of your watch to see if there are any numbers, such as serial or model numbers. Cross-referencing these numbers with online reference guides can often give you a rough idea of when a watch was produced. If you can't find any type of identifying number, you can learn more about the maker to find out when it crafted similar watches or have a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert assist you with the dating process. Shop a wide range of watches on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is a vintage-style watch?

Accepted Answer

A vintage-style watch is a contemporary timepiece with a design that draws inspiration from watches produced in previous eras. To be considered a vintage watch rather than a vintage-style watch, a timepiece must be at least 20 years old. Antique watches are at least 100 years old. Explore a wide variety of vintage watches on 1stDibs.

Question 5

How can you tell if a watch is vintage?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to determine if a watch is vintage is to look for a date on the back. If the date is more than 20 years old, the timepiece would be considered vintage. If a watch lacks a date, a certified appraiser has the knowledge and experience needed to determine its age. Find a variety of watches on 1stDibs.

Question 6

Is there gold in vintage watches?

Accepted Answer

The gold content of a vintage watch will depend on the make and model of the watch. Gold is a popular choice for luxury watches due to its finish and yellow-golden hue that can be achieved through gold or gold-plated bands. Shop a wide selection of expertly vetted vintage watches on 1stDibs.

Question 7

How do I wind a vintage Omega watch?

Accepted Answer

Wind a vintage Omega watch by twisting the crown at the side in a clockwise direction. Stop winding once you feel the movement of the crown stop. Browse a range of authenticated vintage and contemporary Omega watches from top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

How do I identify my vintage Omega watch?

Accepted Answer

To identify your vintage Omega watch, first find its serial number. Those made before 1944 have seven-digit numbers; from 1944 on, the numbers have eight digits. On vintage models, the serial number is engraved on the inside of the case back.You can cross-reference this number online to find out what model your watch is. Explore a wide variety of Omega watches on 1stDibs.

Question 9

How can you tell if an Elgin watch is vintage?

Accepted Answer

All Elgin watches are at least vintage, if not antiques. In the 1960s, the Elgin National Watch Company discontinued its watch production, and by the 1980s, the Elgin brand was phased out completely by the company it had previously merged with. Since any timepiece between 20 and 99 years old is vintage, many Elgin watches fall under that category. Any Elgin watch that is 100 years old or older is antique. You can identify an antique Elgin watch using the serial number, which you'll find inside the movement. By cross-referencing the serial number found on your timepiece to information published on trusted online resources, you can identify its year of production. If your watch doesn't have a serial number, it was likely produced in the 18th century, making it an antique. If you'd like assistance with dating your watch, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a variety of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.

Question 10

How do you date a vintage LeCoultre watch?

Accepted Answer

To date a vintage LeCoultre watch, the best approach is to use the serial number. You can cross-reference the number on your timepiece to information published on trusted online resources to determine its year of production. The serial number appears on the watch's movement, so it's necessary to remove the case back to examine it. If you're unfamiliar with how to do this safely, you may wish to have an authorized repair person open your watch. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Jaeger-LeCoultre watches.

Question 11

How do I identify a vintage Hamilton watch?

Accepted Answer

To identify a vintage Hamilton watch, grab a magnifying glass and look for its model number, serial number and case number. Most timepieces produced by Hamilton will display one, two or all three of these numbers. The model and case numbers generally appear on the back of the case, and you can usually find the serial number on the lugs. You can enter these numbers into the search tool on the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors's official website to learn about your watch's age, style name and other characteristics. If you have any difficulty, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer can help you. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of vintage Hamilton watches.

Question 12

How do you identify a vintage Omega watch?

Accepted Answer

To identify a vintage Omega watch, first find its serial number. On most vintage timepieces, this number appears on the inside of the caseback. By cross-referencing the number with the information provided by trusted online resources, you can learn what model your watch is and discover other details like its ownership history. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of vintage Omega watches.

Question 13

How can I tell if my Seiko watch is vintage?

Accepted Answer

Seiko watches include a few different identifying marks. Before 1970, serial numbers were seven digits, and limited-edition models had a piece number. Modern Seiko watches have a six-digit serial number, which includes the manufacturing date. You can also shop expertly vetted vintage Seiko watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Are old vintage watches worth anything?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some old vintage watches are worth something. There is often a market for vintage pieces from well-known watchmakers, such as Patek Philippe, Omega, Rolex, TAG Heuer, Audemars Piguet, Longines and Breitling. Generally, the maker, type, materials, age and condition will largely determine the potential value of a vintage timepiece. If you'd like to find out how much your watch may be worth, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer. Explore a variety of vintage watches on 1stDibs.

Question 15

How can I tell if my vintage Omega watch is real?

Accepted Answer

You can check if your vintage Omega watch is the real deal by cross-referencing the serial number stamped on the watch. The serial number is seven to eight digits long, and if it doesn’t match the company’s database, this is a serious red flag that can indicate that the piece is fake. You can also shop expertly vetted vintage Omega watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 16

Are vintage Cartier watches a good investment?

Accepted Answer

Many watch lovers believe that vintage Cartier watches are a good investment. French luxury house Cartier is undeniably one of the best-known and internationally revered jewelers in the world. One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch — one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. (Previously, many people only used pocket watches.) Louis Cartier designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to check the time more easily while flying. Cartier’s other famous timepieces include the Tank watch, inspired by the linear forms of World War I military tanks, and the so-called mystery clocks. Invented by watchmaker and magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin and later crafted exclusively for Cartier in the house’s workshop by watchmaker Maurice Couët, the mystery clocks were so named because the integration of glass dials on which the clocks’ hands would seemingly float as well as structures that are hidden away within the base give the illusion that they operate without machinery. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Cartier watches is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Cartier watches and other watches on 1stDibs.

Question 17

How can I tell if a vintage Cartier watch is real?

Accepted Answer

To authenticate a vintage Cartier watch, remove the case back and you’ll see the brand name inscribed. “CARTIER” is located at the seven o’clock or ten o’clock markers and “SWISS MADE” under the six o’clock marker on genuine watches. Counterfeiters often omit these details or even spell the brand name wrong. Cartier watches have a substantial weight due to the high quality materials used to craft the timepiece, and a lightweight watch could be an indication that your piece is a fake. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of genuine Cartier timepieces from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 18

How can you tell if a vintage Gucci watch is real?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a vintage Gucci watch is real, look for a serial number on the back of the case and/or on the original box if you have it. Then, contact Gucci customer service by phone for assistance with authentication. If you are unable to find a serial number, the best approach is likely to take the timepiece to a knowledgeable appraiser who can authenticate the item. Find a range of Gucci watches on 1stDibs.

Question 19

How do I take the back off a vintage Omega watch?

Accepted Answer

Unless you have training in jewelry repair, you should not take the back off a vintage Omega watch on your own. Opening the timepieces requires a specially designed tool available only to jewelers authorized to service Omega watches. Shop a selection of Omega watches on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What is the best vintage Omega watch to buy?

Accepted Answer

The best vintage Omega timepiece to buy is largely a matter of personal preference. The Seamaster and Speedmaster are two timeless options available in a variety of finishes and styles. No matter which watch you choose, only buy from a reputable dealer or online platform to ensure you receive an authentic timepiece. You'll find a collection of expertly vetted Omega watches on 1stDibs.

1971 Vintage Watch

1970s Swiss Modern 1971 Vintage Watch

Men's Rolex Oyster Perpetual Stainless Watch With Original Shantung Dial 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex Steve McQueen Explorer II #1655 Straight Hand Steel Automatic Watch, 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex GMT-Master Pepsi Red Blue Matte Dial 1675 Steel Automatic Watch, 1971

Late 20th Century Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Vintage 1971 Tudor Oyster Prince 25MM 7600/0 Stainless Steel Ladies Watch

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger LeCoultre PC107 Retro Bubble Wrist Watch Stainless

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger Lecoultre Pc-117 Retro Wrist Watch in Stainless

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger Lecoultre Pc-123 Retro Wrist Watch in Stainless

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Patek Philippe - Calatrava - 3445 - 1971 - 18KT Gold Automatic, with papers.

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger LeCoultre PC 115 Op-Art Wrist Watch in Stainless

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

VINTAGE Rolex RED Submariner 1680 Mark IV Stainless Steel Service Paper 1971

1970s Modern 1971 Vintage Watch

Genuine Rolex Watch. Mens ROLEX 5500 Air King Precision 34mm

1990s Swiss Tudor 1971 Vintage Watch

1991 Tudor (Rolex) Prince Oysterdate Vintage Mens Ref. 74000 Watch

1970s 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex Datejust 14k yellow gold Automatic Wristwatch Ref 1601

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Vintage Omega Deville Stainless Steel Watch, 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Vintage Omega Constellation 14 Karat Yellow Gold Filled Watch, 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Vintage Rolex Date Automatic Stainless Steel Watch with Grey Dial, 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex Thunderbird Datejust 14 Karat White Gold and Stainless Steel Watch, 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Vintage Omega Constellation 14 Karat Yellow Gold Filled Watch with Bracelet 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Omega Geneve Automatic Stainless Steel Ref 166.070, circa 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Heuer Stainless Steel Monaco Steve McQueen Chronograph Wristwatch, circa 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Omega Gold-Plated Stainless steel Cosmic Automatik Date wristwatch 1971

1960s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex lady's yellow gold Oyster Perpetual Florentine wristwatch Ref 6551

1970s Unknown 1971 Vintage Watch

1971 Steel Omega Flightmaster Automatic Chronograph Watch

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger Lecoultre Retro Wrist Watch in Stainless & Gold

1970s 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 Yellow Gold Original Blue Tropical Dial Watch, 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex Two-Tone Datejust Watch with Thunderbird Bezel from 1971 or 1972

1970s Swiss Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Patek Philippe 18 Karat Gold Automatic Winding Bracelet Dress Watch From 1971

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger LeCoultre PC110 Retro Wrist Watch Stainless Steel

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger Lecoultre Retro PC103 Squared Wrist Watch Stainless

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger LeCoultre PC105 Retro Round Wrist Watch in Stainles

1970s French Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Pierre Cardin 1971 by Jaeger Lecoultre PC-102 Retro Round Wrist Watch Stainless

1970s Swiss Retro 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex Stainless Steel Automatic Wristwatch, circa 1971

1970s Unknown 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust Automatic Wristwatch Ref 1603, 1971

1970s Swiss Modern 1971 Vintage Watch

1971 Rolex Tiffany & Co. Datejust Stainless 16220 Tapestry Dial

1970s Swiss Modern 1971 Vintage Watch

Omega Stainless Steel Speedmaster Professional Wristwatch circa 1971

1970s Unknown 1971 Vintage Watch

Vintage 1971 Rolex Yellow Gold Champagne Dial Precision Manual Wind Wristwatch

1970s Swiss Modernist 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex 18kt. Gold Man's President with Original Factory Black Dial from 1971

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Rolex Steel Datejust with Custom Pink Dial 1971 or 1972

1970s French 1971 Vintage Watch

PIERRE CARDIN LUCITE WATCH

1970s Swiss 1971 Vintage Watch

Salvador Dalí
Caring for a Surrealist Watch, from 1971 Memories of Surrealism, 1971