Vintage and Retro Watches In Demand

[paul]

This summer has seen a surge in the demand of vintage and retro watches and prices of some models have increased well above inflation despite the current doom and gloom of the economy.

In the UK more and more people are turning to owning a vintage watch as part of their attire, although research suggests that they are not using the watch on a regular basis but more as the perfect accessory for a special occasion, such as a wedding, important business meeting or to impress a first date, whilst at the same time owning various other brands of watches to fit with their needs and wardrobe or lifestyle.

The look and feel of a vintage watch is something that cannot be replicated, despite many manufacturers bringing in new lines of LED watches, that retro aura surrounding the watch just cannot be created.

There are also a growing band of especially younger males who prefer to own for example a 1970's Rolex as opposed to a brand new one.

[thecollector]

Yes, the price of vintage watches, especially the luxury named ones do seem to be on the up. Probably worth investing in some, even that Patek Philippe that sold for 3.7 million sold for double its estimate...I wonder how much that will be worth in 5 years time. Buying good vintage watches for investment purposes make sense. as it means you'd almost certainly get a better return than you would get from the bank in these times.

[fredswatch]

I know..when I see the prices of some of the models I bought over the years and now have in my collection I am well tempted to sell them...especially during these austere times with bills piling up and work going down, I think it will come to the stage where I have no choice but to sell...some of the prices I've seen for models I've got is unreal, I've got a vintage Automatic Omega Seamaster and paid less than £100 for it only 12 years ago on eBay, and the exact same model sold on eBay for £451 just a few weeks ago, you would never get that return from any bank, this is an extreme example as I guess I was lucky in the auction, but even so top whack for that watch was about £200 at that time, so its still more than doubled in value.

[riderwear45]

Yes, the price of vintage watches, including luxury called them seem to be increasing. You should probably invest in some up to Patek Philippe, which has sold 3.7 million have been sold twice the estimate ... I wonder what it's worth it for 5 years. The purchase of a good vintage watches for investment makes sense. because it means that almost certainly get a better result than you would get the bank at this time.

[thecollector]

A Rolex watch sold yesterday and broke the record for the highest price paid at auction for a Rolex - Was one of only 12 of that model ever made, its the only Rolex made with split second timing. - it went for $1.16 million US, think thats about 850 grand sterling !!

Imagine you bought that 50 years ago for 5 grand - now thats what I call a watch investment !!!

[watchesofmyfair]

Yes, the price of vintage watches is increased.

[swatch]

Is there a list somewhere that shows which watches are most desired of those watches? It would be nice to know what to look for at secondhand sales and whatnot. It sounds like quality watches can definitely be an excellent investment!

[iwearwatches]

It's been unbelievable to see the increase in value. Now I wish I had more of the higher end vintage watches, but I guess since I can't part with the ones I have, it wouldn't do me any good anyway.

[onthedot]

Who knew something as simple as a watch, could be a great investment later on! I think I might have to check my vintage watch collection and see if I have any that are selling at a high price. Now I have a better excuse on why I go to so many estate sales, when my husband asks.

[iwearwatches]

(03-09-2011 08:08 PM)onthedot Wrote:  Who knew something as simple as a watch, could be a great investment later on! I think I might have to check my vintage watch collection and see if I have any that are selling at a high price. Now I have a better excuse on why I go to so many estate sales, when my husband asks.

That's true! If my husband complains about me going to yet another sale, I will just tell him I am investing in our financial future.