Last Updated on April 26, 2025 by Jason
It’s important for potential buyers of vintage wristwatches to understand both the rewards and the demands of owning a classic vintage watch. Very few vintage watch dealers will try to address this because they would risk losing business. However, we aren’t dealers. We are collectors and want to share the benefits and the limitations of vintage watches. That way, those new to collecting vintage watches can make an informed decision about whether such a collectible watch will meet their needs and expectations. In this post, we will look at the pros and cons of owning a vintage watch.
Vintage vs modern wristwatches
Right from the start, it’s important to realise that vintage and modern wristwatches, while related, are distinctly different. Over the years, we’ve found that comparing them to classic and modern cars makes this clear to buyers. A current model car offers reliability, economy, comfort, and requires minimal upkeep, while a classic car, even one from the 1950s or 60s in pristine condition, will often be unreliable, costly to service, less fuel-efficient, and limited in performance compared to modern standards. Similarly, vintage watches are like classic cars. No vintage wristwatch, regardless of make or model, will match the reliability of a modern timepiece.
Today’s standards of timekeeping have advanced dramatically, and even the finest examples from the 1960s and ‘70s, be it Rolex, Omega, or any other prestigious brand, cannot rival the accuracy achieved by today’s mass-produced, battery-powered watches, some of which can be found for less than twenty pounds in a high street store.
Commitment
Most vintage watch dealers prefer not to discuss it, but the fact is that owning a vintage watch requires more commitment than owning a modern one. Just as a classic car owner needs a skilled mechanic for routine adjustments, a vintage watch owner will need the attention of an experienced watchmaker from time to time. In nearly every case, this maintenance is minor, quick, and affordable, but it may mean going without your watch for a few days, which can be inconvenient if it’s your only watch. This is a very good reason why you should probably own more than one vintage watch! At least, that is my excuse.
Another aspect to consider is that vintage luxury watches weren’t designed with the technical features we now consider standard. Before the 1940s, shock protection was minimal, if present at all. Similarly, waterproofing was rudimentary, and it’s essential that a vintage wristwatch isn’t exposed to water or even high humidity today. While there was often some attempt to provide magnetic protection, it was very basic and nowhere near as advanced as modern equivalents. Materials have changed as well, modern watches are much more durable and reliable. In short, those buying a vintage wristwatch with the expectation of daily, reliable use will likely be disappointed. Such a buyer would be better served by purchasing a brand-new watch, which would be more dependable and trouble-free for regular use.
Fashion watches
One of the downsides to new watch ownership is the lack of character in many contemporary models. Much of this is due to the prevalence of “fashion watches” in the market. Generally, quartz-powered they offer more bling than style. While these watches are undoubtedly excellent timekeepers, they tend to have a uniform appearance and a certain sameness that’s miles away from the rarity and charm of vintage models. Many vintage watches are so unique that they may be among the last remaining examples of their kind. In most cases, you’re unlikely to encounter another person wearing the exact same model, making it possible to go through life without ever seeing your watch’s identical twin.
Vintage wristwatches, like their automotive counterparts, are brimming with character and history. They serve as wonderful conversation pieces and often attract compliments at social gatherings, much like a 1950s Austin Healey 100/6 does when parked in a public space. However, it’s worth remembering that vintage watches, like classic cars, will never measure up to the precision, dependability, or consistent performance of the latest models available in today’s jewellery stores. If you’re drawn to antique furniture with rich patinas, first-edition books, British motorcycles, or travel trunks from the interwar years, you’ll likely find vintage watches appealing. However, if these kinds of items aren’t to your taste and you prefer pristine, minimalist, fully functional possessions, a vintage watch may leave you disappointed.
Practical approach
The practical approach that many collectors adopt is to own a mix of both vintage and modern watches. A classic car enthusiast might treasure a collection of vintage vehicles, bringing them out for special events like historic track days, while relying on a modern, practical car for everyday use. Likewise, it wouldn’t be recommended to have a vintage wristwatch for someone looking to own only a single timepiece. However, for those who already own modern watches, collecting vintage models can be both satisfying and, as many discover, very addictive.
Ultimately, deciding between a modern and vintage watch depends on the buyer’s personality and lifestyle. For those seeking a daily driver with unerring accuracy and durability, a contemporary model will likely be the best choice. However, for those who are passionate about history, artistry, and the charm of a unique item, vintage watches offer an unparalleled appeal. Just as a classic car turns heads and captures imaginations, a vintage watch carries an authenticity that’s hard to find in modern designs.
Wasting assets
The value of vintage Swiss wristwatches has surged since the early 1990s, partly driven by their status as “wasting assets” under UK tax law. According to HM Revenue & Customs, wasting assets are items with a lifespan of fifty years or less, which depreciate over time and thus escape Capital Gains Tax when sold, provided they haven’t been used in business. Despite vintage watches’ longevity, their mechanical nature places them in this category, creating a unique investment opportunity.
This tax exemption, extended to other collectibles like classic cars, antique firearms, and mechanical toys, has significantly boosted interest in these items. Consequently, prestigious auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s have held specialized sales featuring such assets. Unlike bank account interest or property investments, profits from vintage watches are tax-free, making them a favourable choice for investors seeking luxury items with potential financial benefits.
Dealers, including those in vintage wristwatches, have observed an increasing number of buyers interested in the tax-free investment potential of these timepieces. While not financial advisors, these dealers often inform buyers about this advantage and encourage them to consult professional advisors for personalized advice. For further clarity, HMRC’s guidelines on wasting assets, particularly Notice CG76904 regarding clocks and watches, provide relevant insights. Investing in vintage wristwatches combines the appeal of acquiring historic luxury items with potential financial benefits, leveraging a tax advantage unique to the UK market.
Summary
If you’re considering a vintage watch, remember that you’re not just buying a timepiece, you’re investing in a piece of history. The quirks and challenges of maintaining it are part of what makes it special. For those already captivated by the charm of the past, there’s a joy in knowing that each vintage watch is one of a kind, a companion from another time that resonates with your own unique style and appreciation for the extraordinary. It’s a rewarding hobby that, while demanding, offers collectors a special connection to the craftsmanship, culture, and stories of the past.
Leave a Reply