What is a vintage watch?

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.

What do the small clocks on a watch mean?

What the small clocks on a watch mean will vary from timepiece to timepiece. Called sub-dials, they serve as tools for measuring and tracking things other than the current time. Some common types of sub-dials include chronograph stopwatches for tracking seconds and fractions of seconds, moon phase trackers, power reserve monitors, second time zone dials, speed calculators and distance trackers. Explore a wide range of watches on 1stDibs.

Is there gold in vintage watches?

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.

How can you tell if a watch is vintage?

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.

What is a vintage-style watch?

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.

What is the most sought-after vintage watch?

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.

How old is my vintage watch?

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.

How do you identify a vintage Omega watch?

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.

How can I tell if my Seiko watch is vintage?

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.

How do I identify a vintage Hamilton watch?

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.

How do you date a vintage LeCoultre watch?

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.

How can you tell if an Elgin watch is vintage?

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.

How do I identify my vintage Omega watch?

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.

How do I wind a vintage Omega watch?

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.

What is the best vintage Omega watch to buy?

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

How can I tell if my vintage Omega watch is real?

You can check if your vintage Omega watch is the real deal by cross-referencing the serial number stamped on the watch. The serial number is seven to eight digits long, and if it doesn’t match the company’s database, this is a serious red flag that can indicate that the piece is fake. You can also shop expertly vetted vintage Omega watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Are old vintage watches worth anything?

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.

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Small Vintage Watch For Sale on 1stDibs

On 1stDibs, you can find the most appropriate small vintage watch for your needs in our varied inventory. Frequently made of Gold, 18k Gold and 9k Gold, this item was constructed with great care. You can easily find a 17 antique edition and 1 modern creations to choose from as well. Making the right choice when shopping for a small vintage watch may mean carefully reviewing examples of this item dating from different eras — you can find an early iteration of this piece from the 20th Century and a newer version made as recently as the 21st Century, both of which have proven very popular over the years. There have been many well-made iterations of the classic small vintage watch over the years, but those made by Cartier, Hamilton and Jaeger-LeCoultre are often thought to be among the most beautiful. While most can agree that any small vintage watch from our collection can easily elevate most outfits, but the choice of a Diamond version from the 1 available is guaranteed to add a special touch to your ensemble. There aren’t many items for men if you’re seeking a small vintage watch, as most of the options available are for women and unisex.

How Much is a Small Vintage Watch?

Prices for a small vintage watch can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $188 and can go as high as $5,000, while this accessory, on average, fetches $1,912.

Finding the Right Wrist-watches for You

Antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches have captured the hearts and minds of all manner of watch collectors as well as the watchmakers themselves — it's time you found your own.

Certain vintage watches for men and iconic watch designs for women are sought after not only because of their graceful proportions or innovative materials but also because of the illustrious histories of the houses that created them, histories that they stylishly embody.

Bulgari’s legendary Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional wristwatches.

Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.

In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.

Are you shopping for a wristwatch? It’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.

Find antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches for sale on 1stDibs.

Questions About Small Vintage Watch

What is a vintage watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
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.
What do the small clocks on a watch mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
What the small clocks on a watch mean will vary from timepiece to timepiece. Called sub-dials, they serve as tools for measuring and tracking things other than the current time. Some common types of sub-dials include chronograph stopwatches for tracking seconds and fractions of seconds, moon phase trackers, power reserve monitors, second time zone dials, speed calculators and distance trackers. Explore a wide range of watches on 1stDibs.
Is there gold in vintage watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
How can you tell if a watch is vintage?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
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.
What is a vintage-style watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
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.
What is the most sought-after vintage watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
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.
How old is my vintage watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
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.
How do you identify a vintage Omega watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
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.
How can I tell if my Seiko watch is vintage?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
How do I identify a vintage Hamilton watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
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.
How do you date a vintage LeCoultre watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
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.
How can you tell if an Elgin watch is vintage?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
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.
How do I identify my vintage Omega watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
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.
How do I wind a vintage Omega watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What is the best vintage Omega watch to buy?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
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.
How can I tell if a vintage Cartier watch is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
How can you tell if a vintage Gucci watch is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
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.
How do I take the back off a vintage Omega watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
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.
How can I tell if my vintage Omega watch is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
You can check if your vintage Omega watch is the real deal by cross-referencing the serial number stamped on the watch. The serial number is seven to eight digits long, and if it doesn’t match the company’s database, this is a serious red flag that can indicate that the piece is fake. You can also shop expertly vetted vintage Omega watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Are old vintage watches worth anything?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2024
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.