If you are in love with the fine micro-engineering that is antique pocket watches, you certainly aren’t alone, as many people collect pocket watches. Combining your hobby with your investment portfolio is a great idea, and this article takes a look at the factors that affect value.
- Collectability – Some pocket watches are more collectible than others and this is down to individual taste. What might seem very collectible to you might not be on another collector’s wish list; spend your free time surfing the web, which will educate you about these amazing timepieces. Supply and demand come into play in the antique pocket watch market. Try to network when looking for new acquisitions, which gives you more of a selection to choose from.
- Rarity – As with any commodity, the rarer the model, the more expensive it is going to be. There are rare antique pocket watches for sale from a leading antique dealer, which is a great way to start your collection. You probably won’t be looking at very rare models at first, which is perfectly natural. As you gain more knowledge, you can start looking at rarer pocket watches. The most valuable pocket watches might not be on your wish list just yet, but there are many fine brands that are more affordable.
- Condition – Of course, the condition of a pocket watch does impact its value; if a pocket watch has been well-maintained, it will hold its value. Some collectors invest in watches that are in poor condition and pay to have them restored, which can result in a profit. Be very careful how you store pocket watches; keep them out of direct sunlight and store them in a dry place with no humidity.
- Storage – You can buy a stunning presentation case to display your collection while keeping individual watches in small felt pouches or single boxes for wristwatches. The internet offers a wealth of valuable resources on properly storing antique and vintage watches, an indispensable element of any watch collection. The watches should be cleaned regularly and great care should be taken when doing so.
- Paperwork – Luxury vintage watches should come with the complete paperwork and the original box. There should be records of all work carried out on the timepiece, and acquiring a pocket watch with zero paperwork is never a good idea. When you have a watch serviced, make sure the technician fills in the paperwork to show the details of the work carried out.
There is one person you should forge a relationship with, namely a reputable antique dealer who deals in antique and vintage luxury watches. When you are ready to make an acquisition, tell the antique dealer what you are looking for and he can start looking; of course, the antique dealer has a fine collection of antique and vintage watches, all at fair prices.
Top Brands
The best brands of pocket watches include:
- Hamilton railroad pocket watch
- Tissot
- Stuhrling
- Omega
- Patek Philippe
- Cartier
- Jacob & Co
- Gotham
Of course, there are many more pocket watches; you can spend some time searching the Internet, looking for new names and when you are ready to make an acquisition, contact a reputable antique dealer.
With this article, you have gained insight into pocket watches and hopefully, you will be successful in creating a stunning collection.
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