Everything you need to know about investing your money in time(pieces) 

Words - Taj Hayer 

Photography - Nicholas Andrews

Shot on location at Watchfinder, Royal Exchange London

When it comes to vintage watches, we are almost spoilt for choice. Rolex, Omega, Jaeger LeCoultre and Patek Philippe are all creating watches today but there is something special about investing in a pre-owned piece. If you are really looking to buy a piece of history, here is everything that you need to know. 

AGE

Firstly, there is no real timeframe in terms of what makes a watch a vintage piece. As a general rule of thumb, the fact that it has been pre-owned and is no longer in production, or has been superseded by a newer model would make it appropriate. Look at the Rolex Daytona 6265 as the perfect example. 

CHARACTERISTICS

Again, there is no list of characteristics that define a vintage watch or a watch that makes it a fantastic investment. Modern technology means that the older the watch is, the less robust it is likely to be. Brands have become much better at combining functionality with a vintage look, but for a real vintage look, maybe look at dress watches which are hard to replicate and are not so focused on the technical elements. For superb guidance at details like dial enamelling and the compound used on the batons and hands speak to the experts at Watchfinder. 

BRANDS

This is where the fun begins. Usually dictated by budget, use and style, this is totally down to you. Certain brands are incredibly highly regarded in the world of watches and some of their previous timepieces are iconic in their status. For Rolex, Datyonas from the Sixties onwards deserve special mention. The Patek Philippe Nautilus model is a Holy Grail of watches. However, brands such as Omega, Cartier and Audemars Piguet are all highly respected. Watchfinder are specialists in dealing with pre-owned watches and is home to all of these watches and many more. Check out the Vintage Watches section of the website or head into any of the ten stores to speak to one of the experts. 

QUALITY

This is where you may be disappointed. There is simply no way that a vintage watch or say, over thirty years, can perform in the same way as a timepiece crafted today. Of course, Watchfinder are experts in servicing and caring for watches. Every watch that is brought and sold via Watchfinder undergoes a strict and rigorous screening process for authenticity to ensure that it meets the highest standards before sale and before it is given a 12 month warranty. Typical signs of ageing include scuffs on the dial or bracelet. Condition drives value so the older the watch and the better the condition, the higher the price. If you are looking to wear (as opposed to sell) the investment, you will want to make sure that the bracelet does not have too much stretch and that the clasp stays secure. 

Explore further at Watchfinder.