How to Determine the Value of an Estate Watch

Are you looking for a watch? How do know an estate watch's value?  With the growing trend of wearing wrist watches again, many are looking at estate, vintage or antique watches. If you’re looking to find out how much a watch is worth, there are a number of factors that go into evaluating it. Here’s an overview of what makes a watch valuable.

Condition of the watch.

The condition of the watch is extremely important in appraising its value. A watch will be worth much more if all of the parts and movement are original. There should be no changes to the face of the watch. Any scratches, dents, chips, or rust will obviously lower its value.

Inside of the watch.

What a watch looks like on the outside is only part of the evaluation. The watch appraiser will look inside to see the internal movement of the watch and to make sure it’s working or can work, and if the mechanism parts are original.  Also important is the number of jewels used in the mechanism. Generally the greater the amount of jewels, the better the movement.

The manufacturer and brand.

If a watch is by a famous or rare name brand, or from a well-known manufacturer, it’ll usually command a higher price. Within the watch should also be serial or model numbers to confirm its authenticity.

Its design and composition.

Craftsmanship and design matters. Intricate designs, enameled or hand painted designs, and inlays of precious stones will make your watch extremely valuable. An antique or vintage watch in solid gold or platinum, especially with an original band in good condition, will greatly increase the worth of the watch. If the watch is truly gold, it will be stamped 14k, 18k or 750 (the European designation, meaning 75 percent gold).

Gizmos and gadgets.

Watches that have unusual displays such as moon phases, timers, stop mechanisms, and/or show month date and day are of interest to collectors and will raise the value of the watch.

The watch’s age.

Although the quality of the watch’s condition is usually more important, the age or historical value of the watch is also a consideration.

Consumer demand.

Finally, a less scientific factor influencing a watch’s value is whether or not it is in demand. If a watch is in demand, it will fetch a higher price.

Before you buy.

If you’re interested in buying an estate, vintage or antique watch take note of any logo, markings, serial or model numbers as well as metal stamps indicated on the watch.

Then, do some research online to find a reputable jeweler with a specialty in fine watches and ensure it comes with an accurate appraisal. If you're in doubt, get an appraisal by a professional jeweler who specializes in watches who will provide you with the most accurate estimate of what your watch is worth.

If you're looking to buy an estate, vintage or antique watch, shop with confidence at Adina’s Ebay store where you can rely on the experts at Adina. You'll find fine a vast selection of fine watches at true wholesale prices and deliver a buying experience that’s above your expectations.

What to Know Before Buying a Rolex

In this month’s blog, we examine luxury watches, specifically Rolexes. Here’s what to know and think about before buying one, according to clockmaker.com.

1. Be honest—can you afford it?

Before actually buying a Rolex, the most important thing is to be honest with yourself if you can afford it. Will the watch be an asset or a liability? Do some research: there are various versions of Rolexes out there, with an official, brand new Rolex being the most expensive.

Are you willing to buy new? Does it have to be 100% authentic? Assess you financial situation carefully and honestly, and choose your watch accordingly.

2. Make sure the dealer is legit.  

Even a pre-owned Rolex is an expensive item. It is absolutely essential that you buy your Rolex from a knowledgeable dealer, a dealer you know you can trust.

Every year, people are scammed out of millions of dollars thinking they are buying “the real thing,” when in fact it’s a cheap knock off.

That is why it is important to buy a new or used Rolex watch from a knowledgeable and reputable dealer, preferably in a brick and mortar store you can visit in person.

A new Rolex can be purchased from an authorized Rolex dealer or it can be obtained from an independent, unauthorized watch dealer selling new, near-new, pre-owned, or vintage Rolex watches.

If your objective is to purchase a new, current model Rolex and to save on the price, or if you are looking for a specific model no longer available from an authorized dealer, then buying from an independent watch dealer is probably your best option.

To find an authorized Rolex dealer in your area, visit rolex.com for dealers in your area.

3. Make sure it’s a real Rolex.

In the past, fake Rolex watches were so poorly made that it was usually easy to distinguish the fake from the genuine item.

Today, counterfeit Rolexes can be almost impossible to distinguish from the world-renowned Swiss masterpiece. Online auction houses and individual Internet sellers commonly offer very convincing copies.

If you want a genuine Rolex, make it clear to the dealer that you are interested in seeing and buying only a 100% genuine, unaltered Rolex watch—including the watch band.

Ask the dealer:

Do you offer an unconditional money back guarantee that the watch is a completely genuine, authentic, unaltered Swiss made Rolex?

Will you also off an unconditional guarantee that the bracelet does not contain any non-Rolex parts?

4. Confirm that it’s in good working order.

Before you buy, make sure the watch is working properly, and has been serviced by an authorized Rolex service center, or reputable and experienced independent watchmaker known to specialize in high-end watches.

Ask the dealer:

Do you offer a full, written, timekeeping and water resistance guarantee with your watch for one full year?

5. Get the model and serial number.

Make sure you get and check the model and serial number of the Rolex before buying. The dealer should give you the opportunity to take the bracelet off and check the numbers located between the lugs.

The serial number is usually located next to the “6 O’clock” point of the dial and can tell you the approximate age of the watch. The reference number is located next to the “12 O’clock” point of the dial and is engraved with the phrase “ORIGINAL ROLEX DESIGN” and a 4-5 digit number under it.

This number must match the model. Note that some better fakes may have serial numbers, but they are generally acid etched in and not engraved. If the watch does have a serial number but it looks poorly engraved or barely etched then do not buy it! In 2005, Rolex started engraving the case’s serial number in the inside edge of the case at the “6 O’clock” position, under the crystal and below the bezel.

6. Take your time deciding.

Whether you are buying a new or pre-owned Rolex, choose carefully and don’t allow yourself to be rushed into buying. Do your research, and if necessary, ask the dealer to hold the watch for you for a day or two while you consider buying it.

Trust your instinct: if the deal sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Make sure you are 100% satisfied with the watch and the purchase—this is an heirloom item that should last your lifetime and be handed down to the next generation.

Finally, once you buy, insure it and enjoy it!