I own an Omega Seamaster service watch which my uncle was awarded at his retirement in 1961. When my uncle passed away, my father inherited it. When he passed away, I inherited it. I cherish wearing it every day and know that in the future, it will be my son’s turn to own the watch.
That Omega Constellation Pie Pan is probably the best reason to buy vintage. It’s absolutely gorgeous yet looks like it was made yesterday. Well bought Teddy!
As a 61 year old man, I remember many of those watches when I was a kid and first got interested in mechanical watches. I love vintage watches and have bought a few in the past.
Im 31 and I just started a few years ago to grow a fascination for men's accessories, also watches and signet rings and so on, it's just so fulfilling!
I'm 68,my first watch was a Breitlmg Navitimer Cosmanaute 24 hour Dial watch with AOPA logo circa1967 It was not a collectible,It was a Tool! I was 11 years old and wanted to be a pilot when I grew up!
My rules for buying vintage ( used ) watches: 1. NEVER buy a used watch online UNLESS you can clearly see the movement. ( If the seller is too lazy to open the watch case and photo the movement, they are too lazy to sell you a good watch. ) This goes double for watches from India! 2. ALWAYS do your research. You should have a current copy of the "Complete Price Guide to Watches ". The internet is replete with good information concerning watch brands. Do not believe everything you read. 3. DO NOT buy vintage unless you are willing to spend more money on servicing the watch; expect the vintage watch to need it! Buy the proper tools, oils, and take the time to learn how to PROPERLY disassemble, clean, demagnetize, lube, regulate, and reassemble your watch. You will find, like I did, that it is rewarding! ( If you do not have what it takes, you will need money to have someone else do it!) I recommend learning on fairly cheap pocket watches; as they are larger. If the seller claims the vintage watch has been serviced, ask where and by whom. 4. LEARN how a watch actually works; get to know the names of all the parts and what they do. Your watch ignorance will, most assuredly, cost you money! 5. KNOW what to expect from certain brands and certain models. A German made Helbros will most likely have a P.U.W. movement installed. ( If you find a FHF 96 movement, something is not right. ) A Rolex Daytona can have a Rolex or ZENITH movement! ( If you find an Adolph Schild chronograph, you have a problem! ) 6. NEVER trust Archie Luxury unless he's smiling!
ohh yor gonna fix you watches, i guees thas why are so many poeple selling taht crap, they oil "fix" but at the end they cant have 2 seconds a day with stAability, but watch has its own will Go fuk yourself idioT!!!
I bought a vintage omega de ville from the 1970s a week ago. I love it so much, I could never afford a new omega but vintage allowed me to make my dream of owning an omega a reality.
I’m looking for my first vintage watch. Kinda fallen in love with 50s to early 60s Omega Seamaster. Their is just something about them that sets them apart from watches today... Class.
Omega Enthusiast has a website and RUclips channel. He's very knowledgeable and has a lot of nice Omega's for sale. I'm with you on those Omegas, even the 30's and 40's.
I got pulled into the market because of the sizing. The modern watch industry is finally offering small watches again but vintage watches provide such a better price point. Also the first watch I fell in love with was a vintage watch, a 60s JLC Memovox. But vintage watches aren't for everyone. Two topics not discussed are parts availability and build quality. I've taken off my vintage 60s diver and shoved in my pocket during a rainstorm. And for good reason.
My aunt and uncle both always wore a Omega geneve dynamic. It was gorgeous, I always admired it, I loved the unique shape of it. MANY years later, I seen a Omega geneve dynamic in a jewellers windows. It was a 1976 model, on bracelet, with (bruised)box, no manual, with only one service paper. I took the plunge and I have never looked back. I wear it with pride on days out with family knowing everyone else I pass is wearing a lump of soon to be obsolete plastic, whilst the watch on my wrist is 40+ years old and can easily go round for round with anyone I meet. That's the difference with vintage. The minute you find the one that makes you go, WOW! That's it.
I do not have anything against vintage watches, but I like the idea that the new watch I wear will someday be the vintage watch of my grandchildren. That you are the one eventually making it a vintage watch.
I like that idea too. My thought, if my vintage piece form the 40s is still ticking, my vintage 60s and 70s pieces will be ticking in 30 years too. Also my collection is made up of half contemporary pieces too.
Ultra thin quartz watches from the 70s are great. Omega, Cartier and others offer some terrific bargains from that era. I have old and new watches but my two favourites are the oldest and cheapest: a thin squarish Seamaster quartz on a Jubilee bracelet, and a Seiko Bellmatic (a mechanical watch with a friggin alarm complication!).
I love my vintage watches and I've been recently adding to my collection of vintage watches , and yes before I make a purchase I Always look at the movement and look for the serial number , than I take the particular brand of watch and search for a decoder to make 100% sure that the watch is authentic , these days you can never be too careful there is a bunch of fakes out there you have to be smart and not afraid to ask questions especially if you are going to spend a lot of money , do your research I stick with the brands that I know and trust , Omegas , Longines , Le Coultre, Mido, are my favorites vintage brands they are well respected in the watch industry Best regards and God bless
Vintage watches are fantastic to add to a watch collection consisting of newer watches. I have two favorites of great sentimental value, a 1965 Tudor Submariner 7928 and my father’s 60’s Omega 565 caliber Deville. A vintage watch I’m restoring currently is a 1967 Girard Perregaux 32a caliber 39 jewel Gyromatic Chronometer which only 667 were made in Chronometer version. An example of an excellent way to afford an excellent timepiece is this watch as they can be found at low cost, serviced and on your wrist for a few hundred dollars for a movement that is as good as any made in the 60’s. New modern watches are beautiful and with great technology, although not everyone can afford them. Great video Teddy!
I have inherited my dad's Omega Deville Seamaster 1967. It was in a state of disuse for over a decade, and it was only last month that I decided to get it repaired. Well, I have got it back last week, and it's been on my wrist ever since. And the crazy thing is I keep looking at it quite often, it's cloudburst beauty, simplicity and elegance are what keeps me fascinated.
Christian from Theo & Harris mentioned sizing and Mohammed Ali with the same picture. I love that you also support Christian achieve his dream Teddy! Also, I love the 30-32mm size for my small wrists and vintage watches have a lot of great options in that size.
I'm obsessed with vintage watches. I think all collectors have their brands. I personally collect Eterna Matic, Vulcain, Elgin, Gruen Curvex/ veri-thin, Hamilton and obscure short lived swiss brands in Automatic. Time only watches are now my favorite because I have found that when a watch face is uncomplicated, the number markers, movement and hands are the icing on the cake when they are well done.
I agree with all your points. Some other cons is that you of course shouldn't take vintage watches into water, that if you're a lume freak you can't expect vintage watches to glow and that if you're gonna do some hard work it's best to leave a vintage piece off the wrist - but these may not necessarily be cons as long as you know what you're getting yourself into. Radium dials can of course be a major hassle - I'm personally very vary of those and that would be a dealbreaker for me. I love vintage watches and their sense of history and character is intoxicating - some vintage grails of mine would be a Doxa Sub, 116710 Coke GMT Master, and some kind of Heuer Autavia... there's too many to choose from and dream about!
Getting into vintages has been great for me. Even those that are not of famous brands but I do enjoy how they age like bourbons and whiskeys. Although at the same time my friends around me don't really support the idea or not fond of them, I do love them myself still.
Vintage needs knowledge! You have to research about the brands history - their movements and styles. This is for me the most interesting part in this hobby. I discovered for me a forgotten but very important German brand - Bifora. The first German inhouse movement 1928 - the first German automatic movement 1951 a Chronometer certified watch in the 1960 = 120Unima. So lots of things to discover for still very affordable prices...
I own only 1 vintage watch. It is an Omega Automatic gold plated that was presented to my Dad in 1973 for 25 years of service. I have the original box and documentation. This watch sat in the box for decades. I recently took it out and it still works. 48 years old and it still functions. I wore it for 2 days and it kept perfect time. Next step is to have it serviced. Not certain where to take it or send it if need be.
I 150% love vintage watches. My watch collection is currently just over 200. I love vintage Rado watches. Not the most expensive brand out there, but they are Swiss made, with Swiss parts, not cheap imported parts, and there is so many models to collect. That's what I love about Rado's. I currently have 39 Rado's, almost a dozen his & hers Omega's and 5 Tudors too. You are right, to buy them at retail, there is no way I could afford them. And my prize watch, is a Hublot Big Bang. It was not working when I bought it, the person selling it was a son selling off his dads old collectibles, including several watches. He did not know anything about it. But the price was reasonable, so I took the chance. It wasn't a huge amount of money, but enough that, if I sent it for repair to Hublot, and it turned out to be a fake, I'd not get it back. Luckily it was authentic & for a couple hundred more, the watch was sent back looking brand new!!! Vintage watches are definitely an excellent investment! Great video too Teddy!!! CHEERS!
Yes, I love Rado and Seiko from the 70s. Just serviced a Rado Serbia with ETA 2783. Beautiful finish even on the smallest hidden screw. And Lord Matics special are very good watches I love.
I just bought myself the Hamilton Khaki 38 mm, and I love it. A week later I walked by the shop it came from and there was the same Murph in the window display. I still love the watch because of the movie and overall how good it looks, but most of the time owning a vintage watch is a one of a kind experience. You can't find those rolling out from the factories like modern pieces do. It spent decades to find itself on your wrist and be appriciated for it's damages, and history.
Not bad choices. My two brands that I totally fanboy over are Hamilton (pre-Swiss, meaning before 1969) and Poljot. Both very well made, underrated, historically important, and unique.
I like your videos. I have several vintage watches - as usual, my father was the pathfinder and collector and I followed enthusiastically - although for watches, I really did not get interested until a few years ago (at 91 he is still excited about them). In fact, I did not realize that the LeJour panda chronometer/7733 he gave me when I was commissioned as an Army officer in 1982 had anything special about it until I was dumb enough to break it a couple of years ago (I have a feeling fixing it will cost me). I have two Universal Geneve hand winds he gave me; one was a gift to him from his mother in 1943 - apparently an expensive watch for the day. I also have a Lord Elgin gold-filled tank from the 30s, a small art deco Waltham (a lady's watch I think); and an Elgin Deluxe sport watch from around 1950. The older ones are small by today's standards but those UG's at about 30mm are what our troops wore in WWII. The high cost of service and repair has always been the deterrent for me - I was lucky to find an older gentleman who had a watch repair business near me but he finally grew very old and had to retire; sadly he recently passed.
I have a dozen Omegas, all but the Speedmaster Professional from the 1950s or 1960s. One of them is a Seamaster that my grandfather got in 1952, complete with original box and receipt. I absolutely love them and wear them the majority of the time. I completely agree with you about the size of modern watches. The vintage 34-38mm size range is far more comfortable on my 7 1/4 inch wrist.
No 1 piece of advise. Agreed. Unless you are an expert buy from a watchmaker/dealer. I learned this lesson after my first 3 frankenwatches on eBay. Second thing that hasn't been mentioned. Vintage watches need care all the time. They will probably not be waterproof so thinking what you'll put on, what you'll be doing and what the weather will be like before you go out is a good idea. That was the prime reason I bought a new watch, a Duckworth. Looks a little vintage but you can do anything with it.
Love vintage watches. Inherited a Longines and a Wittenaur. Recently bought a 1950s Kirovskie crab watch from Russia. Also bought a Stirmanakie Poljot watch from the 1950s. These Russian watches are so Robust they are still running decades later. But I also bought a retro Sturmanskie Raketa military watch.
I bought my first vintage watch recently, a King Seiko and love everything about it. The look, the size (I have a pretty small wrist), the story behind. It's also pretty accurate at -3sec/day. I'm already hunting for the next one. Really can't see me buying some recent watches with so less value.
I found a vintage watch I like in Poland. It was restored and serviced with a 1 year warranty. I think I'm pulling the trigger on it. There is one of these in Italy but it cost about $100 more in excellent original condition but I'd rather let a collector or someone who cares more to have it. I'm still new to watch collecting and as a 19 year I'm happy with a restored watch and don't fear messing up an original not restored watch, I also save $100. Of course I'll try my best to care for the watch.
Teddy Baldassarre no problem and thank you for getting me into the hobby. I was wondering if you can make a video on buying watches from online private and online from dealer. Just general stuff like warning and what to look for. I don't know if you have a video on it but if you don't it would be helpful to me.
I like vintage watches, but I don't risk much on them. I have a vintage Omega from the 50's and a Hamilton from the early 70's, but each was around $1000, so if they ran into the problems you correctly identify here, not so much is lost on them. Having said that, I've had the Hamilton for 20 years. It looks and runs great, and was definitely worth it. I've had the Omega less than a year, and no regrets so far- looks and runs well. As others have commented on, trusted sellers is important. I got both from reputable jewelers who have established history working on old watches, not some dude selling them in an alley.
I bought some vintage watches in the past... returned most, sold back the remaining few... but I am receiving another vintage watch tomorrow evening haha. vintage watches are amazing and filled with rich history.
Learning from trial and error I guess haha. It is difficult to find a good vintage piece (at least for me) but as you said in this video, they have their own charm. I'm sure many collectors have at least one in their collection.
I just gave my wife a 1927 Bulova (solid 14k) USA made watch. Put it on a genuine croc blue deployant strap. Dial is in great shape (original). Had the watch serviced, keeping great time. For a dress watch, I wear an Omega 14k Constellation pie pan 1954. Bought both of these a yard sales for super cheap as part of a lot of supposed junk watches.
Never had any interest in vintage for me. I have this issue about wanting new and being the first to wear it. But I do enjoy the videos learning all about these great vintage pieces.
It's because of your videos that I've rediscovered my love for wrist watches. Thank you for that. I'm not well off enough for big dollar watches, but I do love what I have. Your videos are really educational and well edited. I'll be watching for as long as you make them.
I collect vintage Chinese mechanical watches and vintage Soviet mechanical watches. Maximum price paid is £30 unless its rare like my Kirovskie watch made in 1939 at the 1st Moscow watch factory. I paid £70 for that. The toughest and most reliable are Sea-gull 1980s watches with the beautifully decorated St5 movements. The same applies to the 1980s Raketa/Seconda watches with the tough and accurate 2609ha movements. I have a watchmender who is impressed by the 2609ha and the St5 movements and as I have lots we always have spare parts. I just bought a Junghans handwinder military for £30 and had it fixed for £20. It's only 33mm in size like my Omega 1954 gold watch that I inherited. Too small. The Sea-gulls and the Raketas are mostly 36mm and 37mm which is perfect for me. I love researching and passing my knowledge on to others. These vintage videos are the most interesting ones you make.
Teddy Baldassarre I think one other main thing about your channel that makes it great other than the quality of the content, is the transparency. Keep up the good work
Nice video again Teddy, I like your style, common sense combined with passion of watches, keep up cool ways! I have four vintage watches: manual winding Citizen Parawater, quartz Omega Constellation, Rado Electrosonic and Seiko 7005-2000A. They are all really special to me and really something else compared to new watches. They have that unique heart and soul!
I love them. Everything about them. Apart from the servicing costs. That’s the only thing that puts me off buying a lovely vintage timepiece. Kind of like vintage cars I suppose. Great content btw!:)
Teddy, your omega constellation from 1950s or early 60s Pie-pan version is what i purchased years ago. however , then there is no you tube watch information vlog etc... and i made mistake of knowingly (Not cheated) buying 1 that has the Dial refurbished and looks minty... however i have hard time reselling it due to the perceived value decline in such refurbished / remake dial . (and my version is also non pie pan) but looks exactly the same with auto bumper rotor. so lesson is , unless you really don't feel like resell, don't buy a vintage with remake refurbished dial .
I totally agree. I think a polished case and new glass might hurt you a bit in reselling, but collectors hate a redial and new hands more than anything haha.
Vintage watches are the green way to go. Hand wound low beat movements last and last. Lots of watches have hardly been worn. People used quartz watches instead and just put them in a drawer. 36mm is my favourite size. I have a 33mm Omega which is great for my lady friends to wear.
I have over 100 vintage mechanical watches mostly Swiss and American from 1860's till present. I have been enjoying videos where they are working on a watch like I have, fun!
I agree with others on the Connstellation, Teddy...timeless and just perfect in every respect. I personally own everything from about 5 Seiko's, a number of Wyler Incaflex-Dynawind, Rolex Submariner, just sold a nice Omega Seamaster-Bumper (1951), Vacheron-Constantine. But my everyday watches vary from quartz to even a recently purchased watch from China with a Seiko-clone automatic movement, which incidentally keep excellent time. It's a STEELDIVE GMT, a well executed copy of the Rolex Explorer ll GMT and in my opinion looks even better. There are some excellent "cheap" $100 watches starting to emerge with good automatic movements from China.
I agree with you on the size. I am a 6'2" giant and build like a football player and I still think those mammoth watches look rediculous on people. My watches are all either dress or vintage for that reason.
I have the orient from late 70s early 80 still runs have it service and of course like every piece of jewelry needs maintenance once in a while still runs fine .
I like vintage watches. I'm the guy who when watching a movie set in the 1950s or 60s will freeze frame when an interesting watch worn by one of the characters comes into view. I then go close to the TV screen to try and make out the watch brand.
Can you say a Vintage Day Date is a Investment? i thinking about the get one… but you pay 18-20k for a Watch without Box and Papers… idk if you can say just a smart investment or should i better get gold instead a watch
I'm a proud owner of a 1920's dual signature Tudor by Rolex Cal. 59 and a 30's Omega T17. Both are unique and owning an 80- & 90-year-old watch is amazing.
My wrist is on the large side for most vintage, but to your Ali comment, with the right outfit and the right occasion I think a smaller watch can be classic and classy. My current two favorites with lots of wrist time are my Fortis True Line and Longines Cosmo. Cheers Teddy, always great content!
Very good point. It also depends on the watch. I suppose I think dress pieces should all be between 34-40mm regardless of the size of your wrist since it fits the occasion. Thanks for watching as always, Paul.
if its old and neglegected it will cost you a small firtune, after that, 90 , it depends if its is hand winding, automatic, etc...cronograph... these last onee , cost a lot
Absolutely love vintage watches. They were made when a guy really needed a watch. Today, "luxury watches" are kind of phoney in many ways. All your points are great. I'm very experienced with vintage watches now, made a few small mistakes, but very knowledgeable now, can spot a redial from a mile away etc.
I do love vintage watches and have a few in my collection. Of course, as a Tissot fan, I have a couple of those, a Seastar Seven from the 60's and a Seastar quartz from the 70's. But also more obscure pieces like an Exita Sport from the 50's and a Vobis from the 40's. Even if I don't know the story of that particular piece I know it's there, and that in itself is cool to me
Not bad choices. My two brands that I totally fanboy over are Hamilton (pre-Swiss, meaning before 1969) and Poljot. Both very well made, underrated, historically important, and unique.
I just bought a doxa jumbo - timeless design, the classic dress watch. swiss made - for peanuts. I also bought a few 70s tv dial watches - for less than usd 100. Crazy prices for really stylish watches.
I just bought two vintage seikos from a dude selling them on his IG page, he also has a online shop, to be fair... Paid 350€ and I LOOOOOVE them. One of them is that "seiko natulis" bicolor, the other one is a square dial gold plated old man's watch, can't stop to wear them....
I found an Omega Ladymatic Seamaster in a thrift shop for less than $5. And it works, but is running fast, so I might get it serviced. It came on a stretch band that I didn't like. My question is should I spend the money on a vintage Omega band that I think was originally paired with this watch; I think it would be a 6019. I found a couple of these bands on eBay for $125. Should I put the money toward getting the watch serviced or get the band and just reset the watch when it gets too far ahead.
Research, research then research some more, then ask someone on a forum with the same watch before buying. A decent watch forum too, like watchuseek, SCWF, wrist sushi, electric watch forum for tuning fork watches, Rolex forum etc. That's my advice.
Vintage watches are dangerousssss for me, as someone who’s spent way too much money on vintage audio equipment, I’ve fallen in love with buying vintage things and it’s exciting but also terrifying for me to get into vintage watches
Most of us won't be buying a Patek or JLC. Could you provide a little more detail on finding service for more common three-hand watches from, say, Omega, Eterna, Certa, etc?
Fairly well on in my life I've discovered vintage watches; it's been an adventure. On (semi) retirement I decided a nice watch would be a pleasant way to celebrate. I looked, I disliked - and for one of the reasons you gave, size. I realised very quickly that my old cheap watches, my father's watch, my grandfather's, and so on, were all 'vintage' sized and knew I wanted a good example like that one too. And so I plunged into a new and confusing world. After a little under a year I have unearthed a lovely little dome dial, egg shell finish Constellation and from the year before my birth year. Alongside arcane discussion on various forums, you played your part in piquant my curiosity. So, thank you so much, Ted!
Another pro of vintage watches is that they are usually lighter. Not only did watches get bigger diameters over the years the materials they use such as the quartz crystals got denser.
Every time I buy a vintage watch, I assume the watch will need serviced. I can get a three-hand watch serviced at my watchmaker for about 50, bucks assuming it just needs a cleaning service. Always ask for a picture of the movement. Make sure it looks clean without discoloration or corrosion (which would indicate possible moisture intrusion). I’m especially enamored with vintage Longines and Wittnauer. Wittnauer, from the 1950s until the quartz crisis made some of the most beautiful watches ever made (they were under the ownership of Longines). Bulova owns Wittnauer now and they beat it to death. I have a Wittnauer All-Proof from the 30s that is awesome. It has a Swiss movement, the rest made by Wittnauer. Speaking of Wittnauers with Swiss movements, all Longines watches sold in the United States during that Wittnauer/Longines heaven-made match, were built in America by Wittnauer using Longines movements. I have a 1965 Longines Grand Prize gold-filled that my uncle received when he retired as police chief. It is one of the most beautiful watches I’ve ever seen. It has a Longines 342 caliber movement and the rest of the watch was made in America by Wittnauer. It has a stunning applied logo and applied indices. Longines has no record of these Wittnauer Longines. You can, however still can get a Certificate From the Archives document of its authenticity (they’re free). They won’t have any records of the watch’s serial number, but they do have records for the movement. Just provide Longines with the movement number and they will be able to tell you the caliber and when it was invoiced to Wittnauer. My Longines Grand Prize was invoiced in 1965. It was purchased by the police department for my uncle’s retirement in 1968.
I've been into vintage Breitling's for about 25 years. Long enough when I could buy original 60's Navitimer's for around $250 off Ebay. You have to add another 0 to that figure for the same watch now. Being a big guy I prefer to wear watches in the 40-42mm range which are hard to find in the vintage market. I still buy smaller watches and have six or seven vintage Breitling's from the 1940's and 50's but I don't wear them. I also like to have an older watch to have some slight patina just to show it's old. Having some provenance is also attracting and I have some of those with history. The number one thing for the vintage market is knowing what you're looking at. I see way too many people buying fakes and franken watches not knowing any better. You have to educate yourself. The older the watch the harder it is to authenticate and fakers know that. You have to be careful out there. ;-)
My vintages don't need constant servicing if you keep on rotating watches and if you don't wear them while doing any hard activity. Also hand wound movements are far more robust than automatics since they use less parts.
I own over 50 vintage watches from 1877 to 1965, about 1/4 are pocket watches the rest wrist. Half are Hamilton and the remainder Swiss. Most are finished to a standard that now is only only found in watches over $20k. Best of all, many were purchased for less than $50, all for less than $500. They are beautiful, the old watch makers knew their craft. If one truly appreciates watches, vintage is the way to go
Sounds like a neat collection you have there. I myself managed to get together a small collection of watches, even though I'm as young as I am. I have a 1921 South Bend 18 crystal pocket watch, a modern BSA-issue watch (it's crap but there's lots of fond memories in it), a 1948 Hamilton 19 crystal that was given to me by my dad, a 1990s Hamilton Traveler that was also a gift from my dad, a early 1970s Poljot 17 crystal for export, and a 1964 Poljot 23 crystal with the famed 2209 movement for the home market.
I love vintage watches, however, I agree with Teddy. Keep it simple unless you're very knowledgeable. Mine are mostly Bulovas that were my father's and grandfather's so there is sentimental value there. I do own a few pocketwatchs that were my great grandfather's. None of these time pieces were very expensive when new except for a 1940's gold Bulova tank design and a gold Waltham pocket watch. The Bulova 21 (jewels) series from the 1950s into the early 1960s were fine automatic watches which can be easily serviced and are plentiful if you just want to stick your toe in the water.
Very good points, David. I think that toe dipping is probably the best for most people. For a couple hundred bucks you can have some fun in vintage. At that price I think every enthusiast should just give it a shot at one point in their life.
There are those sellers of vintage watches from India. They say either unbranded or refer to a specific, ie Seiko. The #'s are 95% and above and I bought the vintage (mechanical/automatic) watches, eyes open. Then again, they have been $20
Vintage watches are like classic cars and I believe they will increase in value. I currently have Longines and Omega purchased new, JLC and Girard Perregaux used vintage. When I need a dress watch, I wear the GP that just has such understated class and I only paid £250 for it in good working order.
your an idiot, your contradicting yourself. only paid £250 for it SO HOW THE HACK ARE THEY INCREASING VALUE??? YOU PAID 250 --AFTER SOME YEARS IT WILL STOP WORKING YOU WILL AHVE TO PAY ANOTHER 100 , OR SELL IT FOR 50
I love the vintage look. Despite the bits of rust, scratches and smudges the character is what makes it interesting. It's a funny thing though. Some vintage watches look like they should be chucked in the spare parts bin and others look better for it. I suppose it's all down to personal taste.
There are plenty of Swiss made Swiss movement watches that are not high end brands like Omega and Rolex. These watches can be picked up on ebay for between £20-£50 Rotary, Excalibur, Election, Jean Perret, Everite, Helvetia etc
I'm lucky. All of my vintage watches are family watches, so no worries about authenticity. The oldest is c.1892, the newest is c.1952 and includes both men's and women's pocket watches, a long service pocket watch and several men's and women's wristwatches. All in good order but for one.
Hi Teddy, I'm in to watch collection since the pandemic and I'm really glad you introduced me to Omega and Junghans automatic watches. My question is do you ship watches bought online on your website to the Philippines
I own an Omega Seamaster service watch which my uncle was awarded at his retirement in 1961. When my uncle passed away, my father inherited it. When he passed away, I inherited it. I cherish wearing it every day and know that in the future, it will be my son’s turn to own the watch.
Sounds nice
That Omega Constellation Pie Pan is probably the best reason to buy vintage. It’s absolutely gorgeous yet looks like it was made yesterday. Well bought Teddy!
I agree love 60’s small cases 34 to 38 best sizes
Now that I’ve been looking into watches and vintage for a good 6 months I agree I can’t believe I used to rock 42mm watches
I know ive never ever used big watches their clunky and ugly just not my size
Nope, too small. They look like a woman’s watch on my 7.5” wrist. 👎🏻
Jonathan it's mind programming little Case or big case just thought today's Lady watches Big cases
@@Illsamustachethe point is to appear small. Most watches are dress watches so why would you want a big ass case on your wrist wearing dress clothes?
As a 61 year old man, I remember many of those watches when I was a kid and first got interested in mechanical watches. I love vintage watches and have bought a few in the past.
That is amazing! I’m glad to pump a little nostalgia into your day.
Im 31 and I just started a few years ago to grow a fascination for men's accessories, also watches and signet rings and so on, it's just so fulfilling!
I'm 68,my first watch was a Breitlmg Navitimer Cosmanaute 24 hour Dial watch with AOPA logo circa1967 It was not a collectible,It was a Tool! I was 11 years old and wanted to be a pilot when I grew up!
My rules for buying vintage ( used ) watches:
1. NEVER buy a used watch online UNLESS you can clearly see the movement. ( If the seller is too lazy to open the watch case and photo the movement, they are too lazy to sell you a good watch. ) This goes double for watches from India!
2. ALWAYS do your research. You should have a current copy of the "Complete Price Guide to Watches ". The internet is replete with good information concerning watch brands. Do not believe everything you read.
3. DO NOT buy vintage unless you are willing to spend more money on servicing the watch; expect the vintage watch to need it!
Buy the proper tools, oils, and take the time to learn how to PROPERLY disassemble, clean, demagnetize, lube, regulate, and reassemble your watch. You will find, like I did, that it is rewarding! ( If you do not have what it takes, you will need money to have someone else do it!) I recommend learning on fairly cheap pocket watches; as they are larger. If the seller claims the vintage watch has been serviced, ask where and by whom.
4. LEARN how a watch actually works; get to know the names of all the parts and what they do. Your watch ignorance will, most assuredly, cost you money!
5. KNOW what to expect from certain brands and certain models. A German made Helbros will most likely have a P.U.W. movement installed. ( If you find a FHF 96 movement, something is not right. ) A Rolex Daytona can have a Rolex or ZENITH movement! ( If you find an Adolph Schild chronograph, you have a problem! )
6. NEVER trust Archie Luxury unless he's smiling!
Fantastic! Thanks for this comment!
Item 6. Fxck u .... 😂😂
I did not mention the Valjoux 72; sorry about that.
ohh yor gonna fix you watches, i guees thas why are so many poeple selling taht crap, they oil "fix" but at the end they cant have 2 seconds a day with stAability, but watch has its own will
Go fuk yourself idioT!!!
1ST RULE, SERVICE THE WATHC, DONT RUN A CAR WITH VERY OLD OIL.
I bought a vintage omega de ville from the 1970s a week ago. I love it so much, I could never afford a new omega but vintage allowed me to make my dream of owning an omega a reality.
I’m looking for my first vintage watch. Kinda fallen in love with 50s to early 60s Omega Seamaster. Their is just something about them that sets them apart from watches today... Class.
It's been two years. Did you find the right one?
Lukas Rønnov I’m still looking... maybe one day.
@@TheShaunsc Have you tried going to auctions, there's often a couple of cool vintages for cheap money
Omega Enthusiast has a website and RUclips channel. He's very knowledgeable and has a lot of nice Omega's for sale. I'm with you on those Omegas, even the 30's and 40's.
I got pulled into the market because of the sizing. The modern watch industry is finally offering small watches again but vintage watches provide such a better price point. Also the first watch I fell in love with was a vintage watch, a 60s JLC Memovox.
But vintage watches aren't for everyone. Two topics not discussed are parts availability and build quality. I've taken off my vintage 60s diver and shoved in my pocket during a rainstorm. And for good reason.
My aunt and uncle both always wore a Omega geneve dynamic. It was gorgeous, I always admired it, I loved the unique shape of it. MANY years later, I seen a Omega geneve dynamic in a jewellers windows. It was a 1976 model, on bracelet, with (bruised)box, no manual, with only one service paper. I took the plunge and I have never looked back. I wear it with pride on days out with family knowing everyone else I pass is wearing a lump of soon to be obsolete plastic, whilst the watch on my wrist is 40+ years old and can easily go round for round with anyone I meet. That's the difference with vintage. The minute you find the one that makes you go, WOW! That's it.
I do not have anything against vintage watches, but I like the idea that the new watch I wear will someday be the vintage watch of my grandchildren. That you are the one eventually making it a vintage watch.
I like that idea too. My thought, if my vintage piece form the 40s is still ticking, my vintage 60s and 70s pieces will be ticking in 30 years too. Also my collection is made up of half contemporary pieces too.
Vintage watches are my most favorite types ever because of their style.
Ultra thin quartz watches from the 70s are great. Omega, Cartier and others offer some terrific bargains from that era.
I have old and new watches but my two favourites are the oldest and cheapest: a thin squarish Seamaster quartz on a Jubilee bracelet, and a Seiko Bellmatic (a mechanical watch with a friggin alarm complication!).
I realize this is from 4 years ago, however, have you ever looked into the super slim Luch watches from Belarus?
They're gorgeous mechanicals.
I love my vintage watches and I've been recently adding to my collection of vintage watches , and yes before I make a purchase I Always look at the movement and look for the serial number , than I take the particular brand of watch and search for a decoder to make 100% sure that the watch is authentic , these days you can never be too careful there is a bunch of fakes out there you have to be smart and not afraid to ask questions especially if you are going to spend a lot of money , do your research I stick with the brands that I know and trust , Omegas , Longines , Le Coultre, Mido, are my favorites vintage brands they are well respected in the watch industry
Best regards and God bless
Johnny Hernandez im Jonathan Hernandez looks like we both love vintage watches hahahaha
Vintage watches are fantastic to add to a watch collection consisting of newer watches. I have two favorites of great sentimental value, a 1965 Tudor Submariner 7928 and my father’s 60’s Omega 565 caliber Deville. A vintage watch I’m restoring currently is a 1967 Girard Perregaux 32a caliber 39 jewel Gyromatic Chronometer which only 667 were made in Chronometer version. An example of an excellent way to afford an excellent timepiece is this watch as they can be found at low cost, serviced and on your wrist for a few hundred dollars for a movement that is as good as any made in the 60’s. New modern watches are beautiful and with great technology, although not everyone can afford them. Great video Teddy!
Oh man... you have my favorite vintage Tudor in that 7928. GP is also great for scoring deals in vintage. Very overlooked brand.
It’s a calculated risk! I love vintage, Ive cried both for joy and in regret, but I still love them.
Love my 60’s Omega Seamaster. Definitely agree with you 100% about value for money and not being able to afford new luxury pieces!
60s omega was an amazing time for the company. You could make the argument it was their best.
I have inherited my dad's Omega Deville Seamaster 1967. It was in a state of disuse for over a decade, and it was only last month that I decided to get it repaired. Well, I have got it back last week, and it's been on my wrist ever since. And the crazy thing is I keep looking at it quite often, it's cloudburst beauty, simplicity and elegance are what keeps me fascinated.
Christian from Theo & Harris mentioned sizing and Mohammed Ali with the same picture. I love that you also support Christian achieve his dream Teddy! Also, I love the 30-32mm size for my small wrists and vintage watches have a lot of great options in that size.
I wasn’t aware he mentioned that. Christian is a good dude who loves watches! Having him on the channel was a real treat.
I'm obsessed with vintage watches. I think all collectors have their brands. I personally collect Eterna Matic, Vulcain, Elgin, Gruen Curvex/ veri-thin, Hamilton and obscure short lived swiss brands in Automatic. Time only watches are now my favorite because I have found that when a watch face is uncomplicated, the number markers, movement and hands are the icing on the cake when they are well done.
Watches 46mm and above are too large (he says) No! Watches 41mm and above are too large.
I agree with all your points. Some other cons is that you of course shouldn't take vintage watches into water, that if you're a lume freak you can't expect vintage watches to glow and that if you're gonna do some hard work it's best to leave a vintage piece off the wrist - but these may not necessarily be cons as long as you know what you're getting yourself into. Radium dials can of course be a major hassle - I'm personally very vary of those and that would be a dealbreaker for me.
I love vintage watches and their sense of history and character is intoxicating - some vintage grails of mine would be a Doxa Sub, 116710 Coke GMT Master, and some kind of Heuer Autavia... there's too many to choose from and dream about!
Getting into vintages has been great for me. Even those that are not of famous brands but I do enjoy how they age like bourbons and whiskeys. Although at the same time my friends around me don't really support the idea or not fond of them, I do love them myself still.
Time for some new friends 😏 jk mine don’t care either but that’s fine.
We don't collect watches for others approval!
I love my vintage 14k gold Omega mechanical watch.
I'm thinking of buying a 14K gold Constellation. I love how simple yet good looking it is. Plus it's lighter than modern watches.
Vintage needs knowledge!
You have to research about the brands history - their movements and styles.
This is for me the most interesting part in this hobby.
I discovered for me a forgotten but very important German brand - Bifora.
The first German inhouse movement 1928 - the first German automatic movement 1951 a Chronometer certified watch in the 1960 = 120Unima.
So lots of things to discover for still very affordable prices...
Totally in to vintage, own about 20, wouldn’t be able to afford to have this many if they weren’t vintage, thanks Teddy!
I own only 1 vintage watch. It is an Omega Automatic gold plated that was presented to my Dad in 1973 for 25 years of service. I have the original box and documentation. This watch sat in the box for decades. I recently took it out and it still works. 48 years old and it still functions. I wore it for 2 days and it kept perfect time. Next step is to have it serviced. Not certain where to take it or send it if need be.
I 150% love vintage watches. My watch collection is currently just over 200. I love vintage Rado watches. Not the most expensive brand out there, but they are Swiss made, with Swiss parts, not cheap imported parts, and there is so many models to collect. That's what I love about Rado's. I currently have 39 Rado's, almost a dozen his & hers Omega's and 5 Tudors too. You are right, to buy them at retail, there is no way I could afford them. And my prize watch, is a Hublot Big Bang. It was not working when I bought it, the person selling it was a son selling off his dads old collectibles, including several watches. He did not know anything about it. But the price was reasonable, so I took the chance. It wasn't a huge amount of money, but enough that, if I sent it for repair to Hublot, and it turned out to be a fake, I'd not get it back. Luckily it was authentic & for a couple hundred more, the watch was sent back looking brand new!!!
Vintage watches are definitely an excellent investment! Great video too Teddy!!!
CHEERS!
Yes, I love Rado and Seiko from the 70s. Just serviced a Rado Serbia with ETA 2783. Beautiful finish even on the smallest hidden screw. And Lord Matics special are very good watches I love.
I just bought myself the Hamilton Khaki 38 mm, and I love it.
A week later I walked by the shop it came from and there was the same Murph in the window display. I still love the watch because of the movie and overall how good it looks, but most of the time owning a vintage watch is a one of a kind experience. You can't find those rolling out from the factories like modern pieces do. It spent decades to find itself on your wrist and be appriciated for it's damages, and history.
The holy grail decades in watches are the 50’s and 60’s my favourites are Zenith’s, Cyma’s and Certina’s 😉
Not bad choices. My two brands that I totally fanboy over are Hamilton (pre-Swiss, meaning before 1969) and Poljot. Both very well made, underrated, historically important, and unique.
I like your videos. I have several vintage watches - as usual, my father was the pathfinder and collector and I followed enthusiastically - although for watches, I really did not get interested until a few years ago (at 91 he is still excited about them). In fact, I did not realize that the LeJour panda chronometer/7733 he gave me when I was commissioned as an Army officer in 1982 had anything special about it until I was dumb enough to break it a couple of years ago (I have a feeling fixing it will cost me). I have two Universal Geneve hand winds he gave me; one was a gift to him from his mother in 1943 - apparently an expensive watch for the day. I also have a Lord Elgin gold-filled tank from the 30s, a small art deco Waltham (a lady's watch I think); and an Elgin Deluxe sport watch from around 1950. The older ones are small by today's standards but those UG's at about 30mm are what our troops wore in WWII. The high cost of service and repair has always been the deterrent for me - I was lucky to find an older gentleman who had a watch repair business near me but he finally grew very old and had to retire; sadly he recently passed.
I have a dozen Omegas, all but the Speedmaster Professional from the 1950s or 1960s. One of them is a Seamaster that my grandfather got in 1952, complete with original box and receipt. I absolutely love them and wear them the majority of the time. I completely agree with you about the size of modern watches. The vintage 34-38mm size range is far more comfortable on my 7 1/4 inch wrist.
No 1 piece of advise. Agreed. Unless you are an expert buy from a watchmaker/dealer. I learned this lesson after my first 3 frankenwatches on eBay. Second thing that hasn't been mentioned. Vintage watches need care all the time. They will probably not be waterproof so thinking what you'll put on, what you'll be doing and what the weather will be like before you go out is a good idea. That was the prime reason I bought a new watch, a Duckworth. Looks a little vintage but you can do anything with it.
Love vintage watches.
Inherited a Longines and a Wittenaur. Recently bought a 1950s Kirovskie crab watch from Russia. Also bought a Stirmanakie Poljot watch from the 1950s. These Russian watches are so Robust they are still running decades later.
But I also bought a retro Sturmanskie Raketa military watch.
I bought my first vintage watch recently, a King Seiko and love everything about it. The look, the size (I have a pretty small wrist), the story behind. It's also pretty accurate at -3sec/day. I'm already hunting for the next one. Really can't see me buying some recent watches with so less value.
I am looking at king seikos right now as well. I love them!
Good hunt! The hunting part is also a lot of fun!
I really like watches from the 70's, which I completely restore myself. My favorite brands from that era are rado and Seiko.
I found a vintage watch I like in Poland. It was restored and serviced with a 1 year warranty. I think I'm pulling the trigger on it. There is one of these in Italy but it cost about $100 more in excellent original condition but I'd rather let a collector or someone who cares more to have it. I'm still new to watch collecting and as a 19 year I'm happy with a restored watch and don't fear messing up an original not restored watch, I also save $100. Of course I'll try my best to care for the watch.
That’s awesome, Miguel. Thanks for sharing!
Teddy Baldassarre no problem and thank you for getting me into the hobby. I was wondering if you can make a video on buying watches from online private and online from dealer. Just general stuff like warning and what to look for. I don't know if you have a video on it but if you don't it would be helpful to me.
I like vintage watches, but I don't risk much on them. I have a vintage Omega from the 50's and a Hamilton from the early 70's, but each was around $1000, so if they ran into the problems you correctly identify here, not so much is lost on them. Having said that, I've had the Hamilton for 20 years. It looks and runs great, and was definitely worth it. I've had the Omega less than a year, and no regrets so far- looks and runs well. As others have commented on, trusted sellers is important. I got both from reputable jewelers who have established history working on old watches, not some dude selling them in an alley.
Haha never buy anything from a dude in alley, let alone a vintage watch.
I bought some vintage watches in the past... returned most, sold back the remaining few... but I am receiving another vintage watch tomorrow evening haha. vintage watches are amazing and filled with rich history.
Hahahaha I didn’t think that was going to be your point based on that first sentence.
Learning from trial and error I guess haha. It is difficult to find a good vintage piece (at least for me) but as you said in this video, they have their own charm. I'm sure many collectors have at least one in their collection.
I just gave my wife a 1927 Bulova (solid 14k) USA made watch. Put it on a genuine croc blue deployant strap. Dial is in great shape (original). Had the watch serviced, keeping great time. For a dress watch, I wear an Omega 14k Constellation pie pan 1954. Bought both of these a yard sales for super cheap as part of a lot of supposed junk watches.
Never had any interest in vintage for me. I have this issue about wanting new and being the first to wear it. But I do enjoy the videos learning all about these great vintage pieces.
I respect that man. I like the fact that they are banged up a bit. I think it adds to them. But appreciate you tuning in regardless.
It's because of your videos that I've rediscovered my love for wrist watches. Thank you for that. I'm not well off enough for big dollar watches, but I do love what I have. Your videos are really educational and well edited. I'll be watching for as long as you make them.
I collect vintage Chinese mechanical watches and vintage Soviet mechanical watches.
Maximum price paid is £30 unless its rare like my Kirovskie watch made in 1939 at the 1st Moscow watch factory. I paid £70 for that. The toughest and most reliable are Sea-gull 1980s watches with the beautifully decorated St5 movements.
The same applies to the 1980s Raketa/Seconda watches with the tough and accurate 2609ha movements.
I have a watchmender who is impressed by the 2609ha and the St5 movements and as I have lots we always have spare parts.
I just bought a Junghans handwinder military for £30 and had it fixed for £20. It's only 33mm in size like my Omega 1954 gold watch that I inherited. Too small.
The Sea-gulls and the Raketas are mostly 36mm and 37mm which is perfect for me.
I love researching and passing my knowledge on to others.
These vintage videos are the most interesting ones you make.
Franken vintage watches are pretty cool; I have two of them and they work just fine, had them for many years.
Very well done Teddy, Very professional, I myself have several vintage Watches including a Seiko 6139 I have owned for Forty Years,
You should primarily focus on making these watch videos. They’re your best content
I think that’s what I’m going to do. I will release style content on another channel, but I want to focus on watches now.
Teddy Baldassarre I think one other main thing about your channel that makes it great other than the quality of the content, is the transparency. Keep up the good work
Im planning to buy vintage 1974 rolex oyster perpetual date 1550 34mm is that a good watch to collect?
Nice video again Teddy, I like your style, common sense combined with passion of watches, keep up cool ways! I have four vintage watches: manual winding Citizen Parawater, quartz Omega Constellation, Rado Electrosonic and Seiko 7005-2000A. They are all really special to me and really something else compared to new watches. They have that unique heart and soul!
Rado! That’s a brand I need to do some more mentioning of. I am so glad you’re enjoying the content, my friend. The support means a lot.
I bought a vintage ‘60s Patek on EBay and paid to have it authenticated and appraised. Totally worth it.
Vintage watches can be very rewarding if you know what Ur doing. Craftsmanship and prestige of luxury watches at a relatively lower price
Totally agree Chrome.
I love them. Everything about them. Apart from the servicing costs. That’s the only thing that puts me off buying a lovely vintage timepiece. Kind of like vintage cars I suppose. Great content btw!:)
Teddy, your omega constellation from 1950s or early 60s Pie-pan version is what i purchased years ago. however , then there is no you tube watch information vlog etc... and i made mistake of knowingly (Not cheated) buying 1 that has the Dial refurbished and looks minty... however i have hard time reselling it due to the perceived value decline in such refurbished / remake dial . (and my version is also non pie pan) but looks exactly the same with auto bumper rotor. so lesson is , unless you really don't feel like resell, don't buy a vintage with remake refurbished dial .
I totally agree. I think a polished case and new glass might hurt you a bit in reselling, but collectors hate a redial and new hands more than anything haha.
vintage is awesome...just thinking about all the hopes and dreams and meetings a 80 year old watch has is badass
I have a Bulova automatic from 1946 . It runs and looks great . I wear it all the time . Classic .
i use a lot my Bovet.
You use your hand alot ??.. Im sure you do..
Vintage watches are the green way to go. Hand wound low beat movements last and last.
Lots of watches have hardly been worn. People used quartz watches instead and just put them in a drawer.
36mm is my favourite size.
I have a 33mm Omega which is great for my lady friends to wear.
I have over 100 vintage mechanical watches mostly Swiss and American from 1860's till present. I have been enjoying videos
where they are working on a watch like I have, fun!
I agree with others on the Connstellation, Teddy...timeless and just perfect in every respect. I personally own everything from about 5 Seiko's, a number of Wyler Incaflex-Dynawind, Rolex Submariner, just sold a nice Omega Seamaster-Bumper (1951), Vacheron-Constantine.
But my everyday watches vary from quartz to even a recently purchased watch from China with a Seiko-clone automatic movement, which incidentally keep excellent time. It's a STEELDIVE GMT, a well executed copy of the Rolex Explorer ll GMT and in my opinion looks even better. There are some excellent "cheap" $100 watches starting to emerge with good automatic movements from China.
I agree with you on the size. I am a 6'2" giant and build like a football player and I still think those mammoth watches look rediculous on people. My watches are all either dress or vintage for that reason.
I have the orient from late 70s early 80 still runs have it service and of course like every piece of jewelry needs maintenance once in a while still runs fine .
I like vintage watches. I'm the guy who when watching a movie set in the 1950s or 60s will freeze frame when an interesting watch worn by one of the characters comes into view. I then go close to the TV screen to try and make out the watch brand.
That's a great idea, I never thought of doing that.
I love the sizing as well , 34 to 38 and the dials , I have a Gübelin IPSO MATIC, and was hoping you could share some light on the watches they made
Can you say a Vintage Day Date is a Investment? i thinking about the get one… but you pay 18-20k for a Watch without Box and Papers… idk if you can say just a smart investment or should i better get gold instead a watch
I'm a proud owner of a 1920's dual signature Tudor by Rolex Cal. 59 and a 30's Omega T17. Both are unique and owning an 80- & 90-year-old watch is amazing.
I love vintage even when they don't work ( not that I'd wear one that doesn't work), it's all about the look.
I wear ones that don't work because they look beautiful
My wrist is on the large side for most vintage, but to your Ali comment, with the right outfit and the right occasion I think a smaller watch can be classic and classy. My current two favorites with lots of wrist time are my Fortis True Line and Longines Cosmo. Cheers Teddy, always great content!
Very good point. It also depends on the watch. I suppose I think dress pieces should all be between 34-40mm regardless of the size of your wrist since it fits the occasion. Thanks for watching as always, Paul.
Oh - I got an 8" wrist but wear down to 30mm and think my sweet spot is between 34 and 38mm
I keep hearing people say "my wrist is too big for vintage." Question: what do you think people with big wrists wore in the sixties?
@@Jaccayumitty pocket watches 😂
How much will it cost and I often do I need to service an Omega watch from 1949?
if its old and neglegected it will cost you a small firtune, after that, 90 , it depends if its is hand winding, automatic, etc...cronograph... these last onee , cost a lot
Absolutely love vintage watches. They were made when a guy really needed a watch. Today, "luxury watches" are kind of phoney in many ways. All your points are great. I'm very experienced with vintage watches now, made a few small mistakes, but very knowledgeable now, can spot a redial from a mile away etc.
I do love vintage watches and have a few in my collection. Of course, as a Tissot fan, I have a couple of those, a Seastar Seven from the 60's and a Seastar quartz from the 70's. But also more obscure pieces like an Exita Sport from the 50's and a Vobis from the 40's. Even if I don't know the story of that particular piece I know it's there, and that in itself is cool to me
Not bad choices. My two brands that I totally fanboy over are Hamilton (pre-Swiss, meaning before 1969) and Poljot. Both very well made, underrated, historically important, and unique.
I love vintage watches. I just purchased a 14Kt Gold Men's Hamilton Model 637 to add to my collection.
I just bought a doxa jumbo - timeless design, the classic dress watch. swiss made - for peanuts. I also bought a few 70s tv dial watches - for less than usd 100. Crazy prices for really stylish watches.
I found a vintage omega in a thrift store watch grab bag :)
Bad Brad Lucky!
What thrift store are you going to seeing watch grab bags?
@@GPMoneyMoves it was a salvation army
My Wife gifted me a very early, very minty, Seiko blue pogue, that she found in a jewelry jar from the salvation army.
Huge fan of vintage watches. I currently collect early Seamasters, Bumpers, and others. Taotl vintage Omega Junkie.
I just bought two vintage seikos from a dude selling them on his IG page, he also has a online shop, to be fair... Paid 350€ and I LOOOOOVE them. One of them is that "seiko natulis" bicolor, the other one is a square dial gold plated old man's watch, can't stop to wear them....
I found an Omega Ladymatic Seamaster in a thrift shop for less than $5. And it works, but is running fast, so I might get it serviced. It came on a stretch band that I didn't like. My question is should I spend the money on a vintage Omega band that I think was originally paired with this watch; I think it would be a 6019. I found a couple of these bands on eBay for $125. Should I put the money toward getting the watch serviced or get the band and just reset the watch when it gets too far ahead.
Research, research then research some more, then ask someone on a forum with the same watch before buying. A decent watch forum too, like watchuseek, SCWF, wrist sushi, electric watch forum for tuning fork watches, Rolex forum etc. That's my advice.
Watch forums are very helpful. Especially when dealing with obscure vintage pieces.
Vintage watches are dangerousssss for me, as someone who’s spent way too much money on vintage audio equipment, I’ve fallen in love with buying vintage things and it’s exciting but also terrifying for me to get into vintage watches
It’s hard to find dealers that deal with vintage luxury watches plus most I see need service. Where do you typically shop for vintage watches?
Most of us won't be buying a Patek or JLC. Could you provide a little more detail on finding service for more common three-hand watches from, say, Omega, Eterna, Certa, etc?
Fairly well on in my life I've discovered vintage watches; it's been an adventure. On (semi) retirement I decided a nice watch would be a pleasant way to celebrate. I looked, I disliked - and for one of the reasons you gave, size. I realised very quickly that my old cheap watches, my father's watch, my grandfather's, and so on, were all 'vintage' sized and knew I wanted a good example like that one too. And so I plunged into a new and confusing world. After a little under a year I have unearthed a lovely little dome dial, egg shell finish Constellation and from the year before my birth year. Alongside arcane discussion on various forums, you played your part in piquant my curiosity. So, thank you so much, Ted!
Another pro of vintage watches is that they are usually lighter. Not only did watches get bigger diameters over the years the materials they use such as the quartz crystals got denser.
Every time I buy a vintage watch, I assume the watch will need serviced. I can get a three-hand watch serviced at my watchmaker for about 50, bucks assuming it just needs a cleaning service. Always ask for a picture of the movement. Make sure it looks clean without discoloration or corrosion (which would indicate possible moisture intrusion). I’m especially enamored with vintage Longines and Wittnauer. Wittnauer, from the 1950s until the quartz crisis made some of the most beautiful watches ever made (they were under the ownership of Longines). Bulova owns Wittnauer now and they beat it to death. I have a Wittnauer All-Proof from the 30s that is awesome. It has a Swiss movement, the rest made by Wittnauer. Speaking of Wittnauers with Swiss movements, all Longines watches sold in the United States during that Wittnauer/Longines heaven-made match, were built in America by Wittnauer using Longines movements. I have a 1965 Longines Grand Prize gold-filled that my uncle received when he retired as police chief. It is one of the most beautiful watches I’ve ever seen. It has a Longines 342 caliber movement and the rest of the watch was made in America by Wittnauer. It has a stunning applied logo and applied indices. Longines has no record of these Wittnauer Longines. You can, however still can get a Certificate From the Archives document of its authenticity (they’re free). They won’t have any records of the watch’s serial number, but they do have records for the movement. Just provide Longines with the movement number and they will be able to tell you the caliber and when it was invoiced to Wittnauer. My Longines Grand Prize was invoiced in 1965. It was purchased by the police department for my uncle’s retirement in 1968.
I just bought a omega Geneva made in 1973 for£310 on eBay .it was purchased for £51 by the first owner in Oldham ,it's gold plated and automatic.
Most of my watches are vintage, and antique. There is a watch for every occasion, and I love the history
I've been into vintage Breitling's for about 25 years. Long enough when I could buy original 60's Navitimer's for around $250 off Ebay. You have to add another 0 to that figure for the same watch now. Being a big guy I prefer to wear watches in the 40-42mm range which are hard to find in the vintage market. I still buy smaller watches and have six or seven vintage Breitling's from the 1940's and 50's but I don't wear them. I also like to have an older watch to have some slight patina just to show it's old. Having some provenance is also attracting and I have some of those with history. The number one thing for the vintage market is knowing what you're looking at. I see way too many people buying fakes and franken watches not knowing any better. You have to educate yourself. The older the watch the harder it is to authenticate and fakers know that. You have to be careful out there. ;-)
My vintages don't need constant servicing if you keep on rotating watches and if you don't wear them while doing any hard activity. Also hand wound movements are far more robust than automatics since they use less parts.
I own over 50 vintage watches from 1877 to 1965, about 1/4 are pocket watches the rest wrist. Half are Hamilton and the remainder Swiss. Most are finished to a standard that now is only only found in watches over $20k. Best of all, many were purchased for less than $50, all for less than $500. They are beautiful, the old watch makers knew their craft. If one truly appreciates watches, vintage is the way to go
Sounds like a neat collection you have there. I myself managed to get together a small collection of watches, even though I'm as young as I am. I have a 1921 South Bend 18 crystal pocket watch, a modern BSA-issue watch (it's crap but there's lots of fond memories in it), a 1948 Hamilton 19 crystal that was given to me by my dad, a 1990s Hamilton Traveler that was also a gift from my dad, a early 1970s Poljot 17 crystal for export, and a 1964 Poljot 23 crystal with the famed 2209 movement for the home market.
I love vintage watches, however, I agree with Teddy. Keep it simple unless you're very knowledgeable. Mine are mostly Bulovas that were my father's and grandfather's so there is sentimental value there. I do own a few pocketwatchs that were my great grandfather's. None of these time pieces were very expensive when new except for a 1940's gold Bulova tank design and a gold Waltham pocket watch. The Bulova 21 (jewels) series from the 1950s into the early 1960s were fine automatic watches which can be easily serviced and are plentiful if you just want to stick your toe in the water.
Very good points, David. I think that toe dipping is probably the best for most people. For a couple hundred bucks you can have some fun in vintage. At that price I think every enthusiast should just give it a shot at one point in their life.
I have three vintage pocket watches from Elgin ones from 1898,1922,1926 and I love them
i love a dionis pocket watch is amazing, ALTHOUGHT ITS NOT USEFULL FOR ANYTHING, JUTS KEEP THEM I SAVED IT FROM GOING TO TRASH.
There are those sellers of vintage watches from India. They say either unbranded or refer to a specific, ie Seiko. The #'s are 95% and above and I bought the vintage (mechanical/automatic) watches, eyes open. Then again, they have been $20
I see the 60s as the most popular decade when it comes to vintage also it's my favorite the way they look!
Vintage watches are like classic cars and I believe they will increase in value.
I currently have Longines and Omega purchased new, JLC and Girard Perregaux used vintage.
When I need a dress watch, I wear the GP that just has such understated class and I only paid £250 for it in good working order.
your an idiot, your contradicting yourself.
only paid £250 for it
SO HOW THE HACK ARE THEY INCREASING VALUE???
YOU PAID 250 --AFTER SOME YEARS IT WILL STOP WORKING YOU WILL AHVE TO PAY ANOTHER 100 , OR SELL IT FOR 50
Vintage watches are a big gamble which often goes expensively wrong.
I love the vintage look. Despite the bits of rust, scratches and smudges the character is what makes it interesting. It's a funny thing though. Some vintage watches look like they should be chucked in the spare parts bin and others look better for it. I suppose it's all down to personal taste.
There are plenty of Swiss made Swiss movement watches that are not high end brands like Omega and Rolex. These watches can be picked up on ebay for between £20-£50 Rotary, Excalibur, Election, Jean Perret, Everite, Helvetia etc
What do you think about vintage watches or time pieces reworked into a 3D printed case?
Vintage rolex bubble backs are awesome.and of course that omega constellation that yoh have.good for you for having it
I tell you had big difference in watch cleaning just paid 119.00 from one looks great .the other guy wanted 350.00. To service the same watch.
I'm lucky. All of my vintage watches are family watches, so no worries about authenticity. The oldest is c.1892, the newest is c.1952 and includes both men's and women's pocket watches, a long service pocket watch and several men's and women's wristwatches. All in good order but for one.
Love vintage watches and regret having sold or traded in several over the years...
Hi Teddy, I'm in to watch collection since the pandemic and I'm really glad you introduced me to Omega and Junghans automatic watches. My question is do you ship watches bought online on your website to the Philippines
Teddy does not list any vintage watch dealers in NYC? What are they? Thanks.