Question 1

Are Bremont watches British?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Bremont watches are British. The watchmaker opened in 2002 and began handcrafting pilot's watches in the United Kingdom. Nick and Giles English founded the company and serve as its designers. On 1stDibs, you can find a range of Bremont watches.

Question 2

What are the oldest British watch companies?

Accepted Answer

Here are some of the oldest British watch companies: Founded in 1846, the Fears Watch Company of Bristol operated continuously until the 1970s, when the quartz crisis led to financial difficulties. The founder's great-great-great grandson relaunched the brand in 2016. Other British brands with long histories include Smiths Watches, established in 1851, and the Rochester Watch Company, which opened in 1900. Shop a wide range of watches on 1stDibs.

Question 3

What is a vintage watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

What is a vintage-style watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

How can you tell if a watch is vintage?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

Is there gold in vintage watches?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

What is the most sought-after vintage watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 8

How old is my vintage watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

How do I identify a vintage Hamilton watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 10

How can I tell if my Seiko watch is vintage?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

How do you identify a vintage Omega watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 12

How do you date a vintage LeCoultre watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 13

How do I wind a vintage Omega watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

How do I identify my vintage Omega watch?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 15

How can you tell if an Elgin watch is vintage?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

What is the best vintage Omega watch to buy?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 18

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 20

Are old vintage watches worth anything?

Accepted Answer

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

Vintage British Watches

1960s British Vintage British Watches

Smith's Empire

1940s European Vintage British Watches

Record 'Dirty Dozen' British Military Watch

1990s European Vintage British Watches

Seiko Generation 2 - 7T27-7A20 1997 British Military Issued Watch

1940s European Vintage British Watches

Timor WWW – Dirty Dozen British Military Watch – WW2 Era – Relumed – 36mm

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage British Watches

Frodsham Steel Cased Watch from 1940's with Original Dial British Made

1940s Swiss Vintage British Watches

1940's Rolex WWII British Military Vintage Antique Mens 52mm Pocket Watch - Nick

1940s Swiss Vintage British Watches

Timor ATP British Military

1990s European Vintage British Watches

Seiko Generation 2 – 7T27-7A20 British Military unmarked

1990s European Vintage British Watches

Seiko Generation 2 – 7T27-7A20 British Military 1995

1990s European Vintage British Watches

Seiko Generation 2 – 7T27-7A20 British Military 1994

1970s European Vintage British Watches

CWC 6BB Chronograph Military-Issued RAF Watch

Mid-20th Century Swiss Modernist Vintage British Watches

Lemania Stainless Steel Military Single Button Chronograph Manual Watch

1940s Swiss Vintage British Watches

1941 ROLEX OYSTER NEPTUNE Vintage "Boys" Size WWII Military Style Watch

1970s Swiss Modern Vintage British Watches

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

1930s English Art Deco Vintage British Watches

J.W Benson White Gold-Filled Watch circa 1930's with Kiln Fired Enamel Dial

Mid-20th Century Swiss Modernist Vintage British Watches

Tudor by Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster with Original Patinated Dial, circa 1960's

1990s Modern Vintage British Watches

Peter GardnerThe Watchers, Pen and Ink Drawing, 20th Century British School, Signed 1990, 1990

Late 20th Century French Baroque Vintage British Watches

Rare Vintage Cartier circa 1980 18k Gold and Lacquer “Royking” Lighter & Case

Mid-20th Century French Baroque Vintage British Watches

Rare Find Cartier “Royking” “Circa 1970” 18k Gold & Cream Lacquer With Case

1980s Swiss Art Deco Vintage British Watches

Dunhill Rare Royking Lighter, 18k Gold Plating & Enamel Inlay In Original Case

1940s Swiss Vintage British Watches

Ulysse Nardin. A Silver British Military Keyless Lever Deck Watch C1940

20th Century Vintage British Watches

Ulysse Nardin British Military Issue Deck Watch Vintage Silver White Enamel Dial

20th Century Swiss Vintage British Watches

International Watch Company Gold Open Face Pocket Watch C1920s

1970s Swiss Vintage British Watches

Cortebert CWC Stainless Steel British Airforce Chronograph Wristwatch, 1978

1970s Swiss Vintage British Watches

Hamilton SS British G.S. Stainless Steel, circa 1970s

1950s Swiss Vintage British Watches

9 Karat Gold Vintage 1950s Manual winding Bernex Swiss Watch

1970s Swiss Vintage British Watches

Hamilton Stainless Steel Tropical Military Wristwatch

20th Century Vintage British Watches

Rare Rolex Day-Date Yellow Gold Qaboos Dial Bark Finish 1807

1970s American Vintage British Watches

"Spy Who Loved Me" the Film Poster, 1977

1970s British Vintage British Watches

"The Spy Who Loved Me" Film Poster, 1977

1960s British Vintage British Watches

Smith's Astral

1940s European Vintage British Watches

Record 'Dirty Dozen' British Military Watch

20th Century European Art Deco Vintage British Watches

British Swan Platinum Diamond Enamel Pocket Watch

1980s Swiss Baroque Vintage British Watches

Vintage and Very Rare Roy King 18k and Enamel Cigarette Lighter

1980s Swiss Baroque Vintage British Watches

A Vintage and very rare Roy King 18k and enamel cigarette lighter

1940s European Vintage British Watches

Buren WWW British Military 'Dirty Dozen' Watch c1945

1990s Japanese Vintage British Watches

Seiko Generation 2 - 7T27-7A20 British Military Issued Watch

1990s Japanese Vintage British Watches

Seiko Generation 2 - 7T27-7A20 British Military Issued Watch

1990s Japanese Vintage British Watches

Seiko Generation 2 - 7T27-7A20 British Military Issued Watch

1990s Vintage British Watches

Peter Gardner
The Watchers, Pen and Ink Drawing, 20th Century British School, Signed 1990, 1990