Second hand watches

Spinnaker

Good legitimate sources in Ireland for high end vintage watches or used luxury watches ?

Wibbs

I used to collect watches until the money got too big for the ones I liked(Oh the bargains I missed:D ). I found that nearly all the watches on sale here in Ireland are vastly overpriced, or very common models hyped up to inflate their value. Pocket watches in particular are often advertised at frankly silly money. I've seen examples of very common, very low grade pocket watches that would struggle to get 50-100 euro at auction, regularly priced at the many 100's(sometimes more) of euros:eek: .

Wristwatches would be similar. A very basic mid 50s omega going for 1500 was one I saw recently. 300/400 euro would have been more like it. Condition wasn't exactly great either. I've also seen Tudors advertised as Rolex, which has some truth to it, but is misleading.

If you're looking for a particular type or brand, a bit of googling should help establish a value. Here's one dealer that has good quality stuff at genuine market prices http://finertimes.com/index.html

The trick with watches is research, research, research. The other thing is condition and originality is everything, if you want a good wearable timepiece and a good investment. Many people assume that an old watch will be inaccurate and dealers may tell you that's the nature of the beast, but that's only true if they are bad quality, or haven't been looked after. I have a 1916 Longines that loses or gains only seconds a day(a very early wristwatch). Any good quality vintage watch that loses or gains in the minutes range, is in need of repair and the price should reflect that accordingly.

The other thing to be aware of are the size of vintage wristwatches. They tend to be small by todays standards. If you favour a big watch, most pre 60's everyday watches are more like todays "ladies" watches in size(with a few notable and expensive exceptions). There are bargains to be had. 1950/60's(and later) watches tend to be cheaper than earlier models. As the supply is finite this will doubtless change. Less well known, but high quality makers are also worth a look. I would stay away from complications though. Things like chronographs and moonphases, while useful and nice, tend to be more expensive to buy and own as maintenance is more complicated.

I would say though, that if you favour the vintage mechanical, you will save a bundle when you compare them to their modern mechanical versions. They often have far higher quality movements as well. A lot of the new ones have mass produced ETA movements with some customisation for each brand(even some of the very expensive brands). The older ones usually sport movements that originated in house.

junkyard

I have about 20 vintage watches, a couple are Rolex, my grandfather left me his and that got me started. I also have a very old barograph and a hydrograph. I would think that the U.K. is a good hunting ground for this kind of stuff. As Wibbs said most of the stuff here is overpriced. Great hobby though I also have an old grandfather clock and numerous old clocks for repair which I've promised myself I'll fix someday.

old boy

madaboutwatches.co.uk i have dealt with him many times, no probs, plus all his stuff is serviced. ive 1or 2 for sale, let me know your requirements and i may be able to help

Wibbs

Yep I'd go along with old boy on those guys. Very good and reliable service(used them once). Again though, research is king. EG the Longines Czech pilot watch that madaboutwatches are selling at the minute has the wrong crown and hands. I reckon they aren't being dodgy though. You would want to be an anal gobsh!te like me to spot it .....:D . Even at that it's a very good price and a HUGE watch in the flesh(v Modern). Had one years ago, before I thinned the herd.

PS junkyard, any piccies? I'm a terrible watch slut.:D

Spinnaker

Thanks for the replies and links....

Just a beginner, certainly not an expert but watches can be awesome

I'm interested in vintage "sports" watches such as old Omegas. I've got an old Omega and Tissot.

I used to own a Omega seamaster for five years before it got stolen :-( I'm interested in replacing that at the right price.

I kind of like early American watches like Hamiltons (driving watches (?)) I used to come across Curvex brand watches with curves glass and bodies. Interesting.

I'm interested in building a small personal collection that maybe could be financed by some speculative trading (but that's not very important)

atsbury

Hey guys, im looking to purchase a vintage Omega watch. Ive been doing a small bit of research, and the one im looking for is a Seamaster Deville type style in auto. Or what would you guys recommend in that stye of watch? Any ideas on where i could get one here in ireland? Ive been looking at a few on fleabay, but im not sure what to do, me being a novice at buying vintage watches!! What should i look out for? Just to check for their authenticity?
Looking forward to hearing your opinions