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Finding the Right Watches for You
Records show that, in Europe, by the 16th century, it was high time for portable clock devices. Right now, perhaps you’re shopping for your own. If so, find a vast range of fashionable and functional antique, vintage and luxury watches on 1stDibs.
While wall-mounted time tellers and grandfather clocks were much more convenient than the sundials of ancient history, watches were becoming crucial for an increasingly connected society whose members learned that the latest advancements in technology meant they could carry devices that kept time to within a minute a day. Tragically, the first pocket watches — albeit an improvement on the accessories that preceded them, which dangled from a chain worn around the neck — didn’t help much as far as accuracy or portability. Focused on style over substance, the upper class frequently carried lavish pieces that ran hours behind.
Eventually, watches migrated from owners’ pockets to their wrists. In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.
Indeed, although exceedingly practical, the watches of today are far from bland. Bulgari’s iconic Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional watches. You’ll always know what time it is because you won’t be able to tear your eyes away from your new accessory.
Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.
When shopping for a watch, it’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.
Find exactly what you’re looking for in an unparalleled collection of antique, vintage and luxury watches on 1stDibs that includes Cartier watches, Rolex watches, Patek Philippe watches and more — we promise it will be worth your time.
- How long do Rotary watches last?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022How long Rotary watches last depends on a number of factors, including how well you care for and maintain them. Most Rotary timepieces come with lifetime warranties. However, professional service from a Rotary Service Center is necessary every 3 years to keep the warranty in effect. Shop a selection of Rotary watches on 1stDibs.
- Are gold watches real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Whether or not gold watches are real gold depends on the timepiece. Some gold watches simply have a gold-toned finish and contain no real gold. Others feature a thin layer of gold plating over top of other precious metals. Luxury watch makers often use 18-karat gold, an alloy that is 75 percent real gold and 25 percent other metals. Find a large selection of gold watches on 1stDibs.
- Are gold watches solid gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021It depends on the brand but a Rolex gold watch is made in solid gold, while other brands may use gold capping or gold plating.
- Do AP watches have gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023Yes, AP watches have gold. In fact, the Swiss luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet offers most of its timepieces in 18-karat yellow, white or rose gold. Some models feature other materials, such as ceramic or stainless steel. Find a wide range of Audemars Piguet watches from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.
- Are Omega watches gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023Whether Omega watches are gold depends on the timepiece. The luxury watchmaker does make pieces out of genuine rose, white and yellow gold, but also manufactures timepieces out of steel and other metals. Shop a collection of Omega watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024Yes, they make watches out of gold. However, pure gold is vulnerable to scratching, so most gold watches feature alloys, such as 14-karat or 18-karat gold. In addition to solid gold watches, you can find gold-filled timepieces. Made by binding a layer of gold alloy to a base metal, gold-filled watches are highly durable and often more accessibly priced. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of gold watches.
- Is my watch solid gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024Whether your watch is solid good or not will depend on its maker and model. Some watchmakers offer solid gold watches, but others are gold-filled. The difference is that a gold-filled watch consists of a base metal and has a thin layer of gold bonded to its outer surfaces. One way to potentially determine whether your watch is solid gold is to place a magnet near it. Gold-filled watches are often magnetic, while solid gold ones usually aren't. If you're still unsure about your timepiece's materials, consult a certified appraiser or experienced jeweler. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of gold watches.
- Is a gold watch worth it?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024Many watch lovers believe that a gold watch is worth it. Gold brings rich color and a touch of elegance to timepieces. The metal is also fairly resistant to scratches. Plus, gold often retains its value over time. However, watches made out of other materials, such as titanium, platinum and palladium, can also be durable and visually appealing. When choosing a watch material, consider how and where you'll wear your watch, your preferences and your budget. Shop a diverse assortment of gold watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023Yes, some Patek Philippe watches feature gold. The Swiss luxury watchmaker frequently works with white, yellow and rose gold for its alluring timepieces. Additionally, there are Patek Philippe watches made with platinum and combinations of precious metals. Explore a diverse assortment of Patek Philippe watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To see if your watch is made of gold, open the back and look for a karat mark like “14K” or “18K.” Consult the brand’s website or an expert jeweler to find out if the watch is gold plated, filled, or solid gold. Shop a collection of antique and contemporary gold watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is 18k gold watch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022An 18K gold watch is a timepiece made from gold precious metal of a specific purity. The term 18K means 18-karat, a precious metal that is 75 percent pure gold and 25 percent alloy. Shop a large collection of gold watches on 1stDibs.
- Are Bulova watches real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Bulova watches are made from real gold. Bulova makes gold watches that range from nine karat to 24 karat gold, with a select few watches being entirely solid gold. Always purchase Bulova watches from a reputable seller to ensure authenticity. Browse a large selection of authentic Bulova watches on 1stDibs.
- Are all Rolex watches real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Yes, Rolex watches are made of real gold. Rolex exclusively uses 18 carat gold, durable for everyday use. Rolex watches are also made in steel, silver, and platinum.
- Does Panerai make gold watches?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Panerai does indeed make gold watches. Depending on the style, the gold will be mixed with other alloys to create a certain look or to add durability to the gold itself. You can shop a collection of Panerai watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Opinions may vary as to which karat gold is the best for watches. However, many luxury makers opt for 18-karat gold. An alloy that is 75% pure gold, 18-karat gold is more durable than pure 24-karat and 22-karat gold alloys, allowing watches to resist wear and tear. At the same time, 18-karat gold offers more vibrant color than 14-karat and 10-karat alloys. Explore a collection of gold watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Whether gold-plated watches are valuable varies. Gold-plated watches generally contain very little gold, as they are primarily a base metal, to which a thin layer of gold alloy is applied as a finish. As a result, the timepieces typically don't have much value on the scrap market. However, a gold-plated watch may have value based on its age, maker, model, condition and other factors. A certified appraiser or experienced jeweler can help you determine how much your watch may be worth. Find a wide range of gold watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 15, 2024To tell if a watch is real gold, first examine the back of its case. Some makers add metal purity hallmarks, such as “18K” or “750,” to their gold watches, while others use unique codes or style numbers to provide information about their materials. By researching the markings on your watch using trusted online resources, you can often determine what metals it features. If you run into any difficulty, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable jeweler can help you. Shop a large collection of gold watches on 1stDibs.
- Are Geneva watches real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Yes, Geneva watches are real gold. They're made with 14-karat gold and are never gold-plated.
- Are Elgin watches real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertJune 10, 2024Whether or not Elgin watches are gold depends on the timepiece in question. The watchmaker designed a range of pocket watches and wristwatches made of 10-karat gold, 14-karat gold and 18-karat gold, while some of the company’s other accessories are gold-filled or gold-plated. (Gold-filled jewelry doesn’t have a lot of gold, but it has more gold than gold-plated jewelry.)
As vintage watches of all kinds are making a comeback — even watchmakers such as Patek Philippe, Breitling and Omega are reissuing mid-century models — Elgin watches are in high demand on the secondary market.
Find antique Elgin watches and other watches on 1stDibs.
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