Factors that affect a wristwatch’s value include:
BRAND
Undoubtedly, one of the elements that affects a watch’s worth is its maker. If all other factors are equal—case style, metal, features, type, etc.—a Patek Philippe wristwatch from Geneva, Switzerland, would be the most well-known and sought-after watch worldwide. Not necessarily in order of importance, other significant brand names include A. Lange & Sohne, Audemars Piguet, Baume & Mercier, Blancpain, Breguet, Breitling, Bvlgari, Cartier, Chopard, Concord, Chronoswiss, Corum, Ebel, F.P. Journe, France Muller, Gerald Genta, Girard-Perregaux, Glashutte, Hublot, Jaeger-
Of course, there are many other high-quality brands, but for those looking for the best watches in the world, these producers are at the top. Values are always determined by how much a person is ready to spend. Collectors and other people who appreciate exquisite craftsmanship are prepared to spend more than a million dollars for the most expensive luxury wristwatch for these fine watches.
STYLE:
Which modern style is selected at any particular moment is determined by public appeal, fads, and fashion.
Even men’s watches like the Rolex Daytona, Datejust, Submariner, and Yacht-Master are being worn by women in bigger watch styles. Both the enormous Cartier Tank Americaine and the Cartier Ballon Bleu are quite well-liked right now. Ladies who adore flash and glamour choose diamond timepieces, such as the Piaget Protocole, the Patek Philippe Twenty-4, the Chopard Ice Cube, and the Chanel J-12. The Rolex Pearlmaster and the traditional ladies’ Rolex President are both perennial favourites.
The A. Lange &Sohne ref. 1815, the Patek Philippe ref. 3919, the Breitling Bentley and the Panerai Ferrari models are being worn by men. Rolex continues to be popular, especially the 2-tone, steel and gold, blue dial Rolex Submariner. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore in rose gold is also very sought-after.
UTILITY:
The fact that a wristwatch is utilitarian gives it an advantage over most other collectibles. The wrist watch tops the list of vintage treasures both for wearing pleasure and for long-term investment because of this one element. A watch that cost a lot when new will always be valuable. “Garbage” of a commercial calibre will always be junk.
THE CASE:
Case Metal: Some antique watches are only worth what the case metal is intrinsically worth. Numerous metals and materials, such as platinum, 9-10-14-18-22karat gold, silver, gold-filled metal, gold plating, nickel, stainless steel, plastic, and ceramic, have been employed over the years for casings. The platinum Patek Philippe watch is one of the most sought-after modern watches available today.
Case Markings: At the factory, a lot of classic wristwatches by jewellers and watchmakers like Patek Philippe, Cartier, Rolex, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Tiffany, and Hamilton were cased, packed, and timed. These timepieces are far more valuable in their original marked cases than they are in unmarked cases. All wrist watch manufacturers offered movements ONLY, with dials marked to the buyer’s requirements, at some point, sometimes for the duration of the company’s existence. These movements were then housed in either custom-made or stock cases provided by many American and European casemakers. These are referred to as “Contract Cases” at times.
Case Style: The value of a watch depends in part on the design of its case, whether it is a modern or historical timepiece. The historic item stands out from the others because to its hinged lugs, curved cases, enamel cases, and “Art Deco” design cases, which raises its worth to collectors. According to current fashion trends, the modern piece’s style and shape are taken into account while determining its pricing.
CONDITION:
When determining a watch’s price, keep in mind the following:
Dial: The dial is it original? Most wristwatch dials are made of metal. Does it need to be refinished if it is made of metal? Is the dial warped or scuffed? Are there any markings that are broken or missing? The hands—are they harmed? Is there a hue difference? The dial gains value as the watch gains value.
Case: Take note of the degree of wear. Is the casing, if made of gold, bent, dented, or has the gold worn through? Has anybody ever bent, broken, or replaced the lugs? The spring-bar holes—are they worn? Initials or other inscriptions typically reduce the watch’s value and appeal.
Bracelet: Check the bracelet’s length before purchasing a watch that has one permanently connected. Certain kinds, especially mesh-type bracelets, cost a lot to shorten and considerably more to lengthen. Leather strap bands deteriorate with use, but can typically be replaced. A generic strap will be far cheaper than a strap that was manufactured in a factory. Does it have a deployant clasp or a tang buckle?
Crown: When a watch was marked, like a Patek or a Rolex, the original crown was crucial.
Movement: The price of the watch depends on the movement, including whether it is original or not, whether it is in excellent working order, and if it is complete and free of poor repairs. There should be no rust, corrosion, or scratches on the surface.
Of course, there are a number of additional aspects of pricing modern and vintage wristwatch that will be covered in subsequent articles. In general, a collector or investor who wants to buy a watch and has the funds will pay another collector or dealer who is aware of the watch’s value.
Joe DeMesy, the owner of DeMesy Fine Watches and a well-known authority on Patek Philippe and Rolex watches, has coauthored many pricing guides that have proven to be the go-to resources for both dealers and collectors.