Question 1

What is the history of the Universal Genève watch?

Accepted Answer

The history of the Universal Genève watch dates back to 1894, when Numa-Emile Descombes and Ulysse George founded the Universal Genève company in Le Locle, Switzerland. At that time, it was called Universal Watch. During its early years, Universal Watch crafted movements and components for other companies. Then, it unveiled its first chronograph watch in 1917. Over the years that followed, the company introduced a number of successful collections, including the Compur in 1934, the Uni-Compax in 1936 and the Simple Calendar in 1943. Universal Genève also created the first anti-magnetic watch, a timepiece capable of keeping time accurately even when worn during expeditions to the North Pole. During the quartz crisis of the 1970s and ’80s, Universal Genève's sales slumped. It attempted to relaunch in 1994, 2005 and 2019 with modest success. Private investment firms Partners Group and CVC Capital Partners purchased the company with the intention of returning it to its roots of producing luxury, complex chronograph watches. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Universal Genève watches.

Question 2

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 3

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 4

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 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 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 8

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 9

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 10

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 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 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 13

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 14

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 15

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 16

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.

Question 17

Are vintage Cartier watches a good investment?

Accepted Answer

Many watch lovers believe that vintage Cartier watches are a good investment. French luxury house Cartier is undeniably one of the best-known and internationally revered jewelers in the world. One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch — one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. (Previously, many people only used pocket watches.) Louis Cartier designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to check the time more easily while flying. Cartier’s other famous timepieces include the Tank watch, inspired by the linear forms of World War I military tanks, and the so-called mystery clocks. Invented by watchmaker and magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin and later crafted exclusively for Cartier in the house’s workshop by watchmaker Maurice Couët, the mystery clocks were so named because the integration of glass dials on which the clocks’ hands would seemingly float as well as structures that are hidden away within the base give the illusion that they operate without machinery. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Cartier watches is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Cartier watches and other watches on 1stDibs.

Question 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Universal Watch Vintage

1940s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Lady's Rose Gold Wristwatch Retailed by Tiffany & Co circa 1940s

1930s Swiss Art Deco Universal Watch Vintage

Universal 18 Karat Two-Tone Covered Lid Ladies Watch Handmade

1970s Contemporary Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Swiss Mechanical 18k Gold & Diamond Watch

1970s Swiss Modernist Universal Watch Vintage

Modernist Gold Watch, Universal Geneve

Mid-20th Century Universal Watch Vintage

Tiffany & Co. Rose Gold Universal Genève Midcentury Wristwatch

1960s Swiss Retro Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Gold Filled Tank Watch Automatic

1950s Swiss Modern Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Stainless Steel Doctors Pulsation Chronograph Manual Watch

20th Century Artisan Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Genève Tri Compax Chronograph Ref 222100, Rare Collectors Watch

20th Century Swiss Artisan Universal Watch Vintage

18kt Yellow Gold MINI Universal Geneve Compur Chronograph Watch, Extremy Rare

1940s Swiss Art Deco Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve 18Kt. Rose Gold Art Deco Ladies Watch circa 1940's

1960s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Tiffany & Co. Men's Universal Stainless Steel Polerouter Wristwatch

1940s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Men's Stainless Steel Hand-Winding Watch w/ Leather Band #263

1950s Swiss Modern Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Gold $20 Liberty Men's Hand-Winding Watch with Leather Band

1940s Swiss Art Deco Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve 18Kt Pink Gold Art Deco Ladies Watch Hand Made from 1940's

1950s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Vintage Universal Geneve 18k Pink Gold Wristwatch

1940s European Retro Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Retro Diamond Sapphire Gold Wristwatch 1940S

Mid-20th Century Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Stainless Steel Uni Compax Chronograph circa 1940s

20th Century Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Vintage Tri-Compax Calendar Rose Gold 12268

1950s European Universal Watch Vintage

Stainless Steel Universal Geneve Compax Chronograph, Circa 1950's

20th Century Universal Watch Vintage

Ladies Wristwatch, Universal Genève, 18 Karat Gold with Diamonds

1950s Swiss Art Deco Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve 18Kt Solid Gold Engine Turned Original Dial 1950's

1950s Swiss Retro Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Genève Pink Gold Uni-Compax wristwatch Ref 124103, circa 1950s

20th Century Universal Watch Vintage

Vintage Universal Geneve Stainless Steel Men's Watch

1960s Swiss Modern Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Pink Gold Bumper Automatic Watch

20th Century Swiss Artisan Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Genève Jumbo Uni Compax Chronograph Wrist Watch

1970s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Geneve 14k Gold Fancy Nugget Design Bracelet Swiss Watch

20th Century Swiss Retro Universal Watch Vintage

Yellow Gold 18 Carats Green Leather Universal Geneve Watches

20th Century Swiss Artisan Universal Watch Vintage

Berthoud / Universal Genève Uni Compax Chronograph Wrist Watch, Rare Collectors

Mid-20th Century Universal Watch Vintage

Tiffany & Co. Universal Genève Ladies 18 Karat Yellow Gold Watch and Band

Mid-20th Century Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Tiffany & Co. Universal Geneve Mid Century Rose Gold Wristwatch

Late 20th Century Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Geneve Ladies yellow Gold Diamond Baguette Bezel Quartz Wristwatch

Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Universal Watch Vintage

Zenith Stainless Steel Chronograph Original Dial Manual Wristwatch, circa 1940s

1970s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Women's Watch 18kt Gold and Natural Diamonds "Universal Geneve" Manual Winding

1950s Swiss Other Universal Watch Vintage

Omega Jumbo Triple Date Moonphase Cosmic Vintage Watch 1952

1950s Swiss Other Universal Watch Vintage

Omega Jumbo Oversize 18kt 39mm Calatrava "Honeycomb Dial” Vintage Watch 1951

Mid-20th Century Universal Watch Vintage

Cartier Yellow Gold Universal Geneve Mid Century Ladies Wristwatch

1950s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Universal Genève Vintage Watch Bracelet

1940s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Vintage Universal Geneve Stainless Steel Watch, 1940s

1950s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage

Vintage Universal Geneve Stainless Steel Watch, 1956

1940s Swiss Universal Watch Vintage