The short answer? Yes, they can. Vintage Omega watches generally hold their value well, and in some cases, they even appreciate over time. Certain models have achieved legendary status, making them highly sought after by collectors. However, as with any luxury item, factors like model, rarity, condition, and market demand all influence how well a…Read more
Category: Collecting
Explore our articles on vintage watch collecting. This covers everything from identifying and researching watches to understanding movements, restoration, and building a meaningful collection.
A brief history of timekeeping and wristwatches
For many, a wristwatch is an essential daily accessory, something they cannot leave home without. Others see wristwatches as a stylish addition to an outfit, reserved for special occasions. For collectors, perhaps the most enduring appeal of owning a vintage watch is the knowledge that you own a particular piece of history. In an age…Read more
Omega Seamaster Cosmic, 1960s.
At Set Back in Time, we’ve always felt that Omega is a brand that is right up there with the Holy Trinity (Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, and Patek Philippe), but isn’t pretentious. It’s an accessible brand for many people, with good quality, reliable vintage timepieces that don’t break the bank. We also like the history…Read more
Helvetia “tropical dial” automatic wristwatch, 1950s
This watch was brought to the attention of the Set Back in Time group a few weeks ago. No one in the group was particularly interested in buying, but it did have a few characteristics that caught our attention and made for a lively discussion. First was the “tropical dial”, which tends to be a…Read more
The short history of the Omega Railmaster
The Omega Railmaster is a timepiece deeply rooted in the history of both watchmaking and the evolving needs of professionals who require exceptional precision. This story begins with a tragic event in 1891. A train collision in Ohio highlighted the importance of reliable timekeeping for the railroad industry. A train driver relying on a watch…Read more
Omega Genève gold-plated wristwatch, 1970
This gentleman’s Omega Genève gold-plated wristwatch was a Christmas gift for one of the lucky Set Back in Time group. The watch has a calibre 601 hand-winding movement, which is working nicely. The movement is fully signed, and it has the Omega serial number 30,845,753, dating it back to 1970. The Genève is not the…Read more
The history of vintage watch buckles
This may seem like a strange topic, “The history of vintage watch buckles” because, in the world of vintage watch collecting, it isn’t the component or feature of a watch that first comes to mind. However, in terms of overall originality and authenticity, it is the most likely part of vintage watch hardware to be…Read more
A collector’s guide to vintage dress watches
When it comes to building a vintage watch collection, there’s one type of timepiece that deserves a spot on everyone’s wrist, a vintage dress watch. While your everyday watch is the workhorse that gets you through most days, there are occasions that call for something a bit more refined. Think weddings, funerals, christenings, graduations or…Read more
Wyler Dynawind wristwatch, 1950s
Back in the summer of 2024, one of the Set Back in Time regulars shared an advertisement showing a cartoon image of a watch being dropped from the Space Needle in Seattle, USA. The image caught our attention, as did the name of the watch company, Wyler. It was a Swiss brand, but not a…Read more
Essential rules for wearing vintage watches for the modern gentleman
Vintage watches are more than timekeepers, they are a reflection of history and personal style. These classic timepieces hold a special charm and can accentuate any outfit. Wearing a vintage watch properly ensures you enjoy its beauty and longevity. This Set Back In Time post explains the essential rules for wearing men’s vintage watches and…Read more