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Retro Watches With The Most Old-School Vibes

Do you remember when winding the watch on your wrist meant sweet nostalgia? If you miss wearing a classic timekeeper, buckle up for the ride! This article will take you down memory lane with a look at some of the best retro watches.

Whether it’s the brands from generations before or modern watches with that old-school aesthetic, I’ll introduce you to the watches that give off major throwback vibes.

So now strap yourself in and prepare for a tour through some of the coolest retro watches currently available. I’m talking about timeless designs made with excellent craftsmanship and innovation!

Questions You Should Ask Before Purchasing A Vintage Watch

Consult this checklist before you swipe your credit card.

If the watch and seller are genuine, the answers to the following seven questions should put you at ease about paying a reasonable fee.

On the other hand, if the watch or vendor cannot fulfill most or all of them, you should feel comfortable negotiating a lesser price or simply moving on to the next opportunity.

Keep these questions in mind whether you’re buying from us or someone else, online or in person.

Is The Watch Keeping Accurate Time?

Even a stopped old watch reveals the correct time twice a day, but wouldn’t it be great if yours kept accurate time all the time?

When purchasing a vintage watch, it may be impossible to have a watchmaker inspect it on a professional timing machine, so get out your smartphone and download Timegrapher.

This program detects the tick-tock sound made by mechanical timepieces when they are turned on.

The tick-tock, like the pulse of a human heart, can disclose a lot about the overall status of the watch, including how effectively it keeps time. If yours is not working, the app will notify you.

What’s The Story Behind It?

You’re attempting to discover the origins of your watch. Provenance raises other issues within questions.

First, who is the vendor? Is it a reputable dealer or shop? Is it an auctioneer? Is it a close friend? The answers should help you make an informed decision. You’ll walk away with an honest watch if you cultivate a relationship with an honest seller.

Second, how many times has it been owned? A watch with fewer owners is often more desired. Assume there has only been one owner, which suggests he or she purchased the watch brand new.

They’ll know whether the watch has been tampered with in any manner throughout the years. With several owners, you get a rather hazy picture of what this watch has gone through. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of.

Finally, who has previously owned it? Were any of the owners well-known? If you are seeking to acquire a watch owned by a certain actor and/or salad-dressing kingpin, this will drastically alter the value of the watch.

But if it’s just some random guy from a random place, it might not be as important. Again, this isn’t a deal breaker, but some collectors love to have a fantastic tale to go along with their antique Sub.

Was The Case Polished?

Before you spend your money on a vintage watch, you should investigate whether – and to what extent – the case has been polished.

The brilliant, dazzling watch in your sights could be a denuded husk of its former life, worn down after repeated polishings to resemble a smooth, featureless riverbed pebble.

Look for sharp lines and angles, as well as a lack of case scratches. If your watch is in good working order, it may not need to be polished.

Just keep in mind that a watch can only withstand so many polishes in its lifetime, and you don’t want to buy one that’s been polished to death.

Is It Necessary For Me To Have It Serviced?

Answering this question can be so tough that it is likely the single most challenging issue in acquiring vintage watches.

A watch may appear to be operating normally, but this may be due to chance, and by the time the watch begins to show visible signs of difficulty, you may have a significant problem on your hands. 

The difficulty is exacerbated by the fact that replacement components for many watches are either scarce or no longer accessible, which means that restoring your historic watch to the useable condition may be impossible or require paying a competent watchmaker to create a replacement part from scratch.

Watches are precision machines, and they, like any other machine, are not intended to run endlessly without maintenance. As a general rule, if you intend to use a vintage watch on a daily basis, you should consider the cost of having the watch maintained.

 If you only intend to use the watch rarely, this is obviously not a factor. Vintage watches with industrial-scale movements and other components are frequently a safer bet, as there is a greater pool of spare and replacement parts available.

Are All Of The Parts Authentic?

Prepare to analyze if you want to buy a vintage timepiece with all (or almost all) original parts. Examine whether the patina is genuine – or whether the marks and hands have been painted to match in order to provide a uniform appearance.

The occasional non-original part, like polishing, is not necessarily fatal. Previously, servicing a watch meant replacing parts to restore it to “like-new” condition.

This resulted in new service hands, dials, bezels, new bracelets, re-luming, and everything else. But you have a strong want to know.

Is The Bracelet Stretchy?

A little wiggle room is unavoidable. When the pins on a bracelet wear down, it expands, which is normal.

Drilled holes in the links enlarge, giving the pin additional room to move around and induce “play” in the bracelet. Some people want a little stretch in their bracelet, while others prefer it tight with little play. It comes down to personal preference.

However, make sure your end links aren’t bent or damaged in any way, as this can put your watch at risk of coming off your wrist at an inconvenient time. Fortunately, this is completely avoidable with a careful inspection. 

Hollow links are especially prone to get compromised after extended wear, therefore ensure that each pin is tightly inserted into its drilled hole and that the bracelet cannot twist. Consider replacing it if it is possible.

Solid end links and solid bracelet links are less prone to stretching, but they should still be examined and even stress-tested by pulling on the bracelet and attaching it to your wrist. The watch should be worn so that the caseback makes total contact with your skin. The watch may sit incorrectly if an end link is bent.

Can You Put Your Trust In The Seller?

“Buy the vendor, not the watch,” as the saying goes, is truthful, useful, and well worth remembering.

Unless you’re an expert in the transaction, you must trust the seller to give you a quality product at a reasonable price (with a small difference between what you’re paying and what the watch is truly worth).

The risk of being upside-down in a deal due to any (or several) of the issues listed above boils down to the seller’s honesty. Ask all of your questions, double-check the answers, and, whenever possible, request references (preferably those posted publicly).

Yes, the procedure might be lengthy. You might even pass up a few fantastic deals along the road.

However, you will actually educate yourself on the specifics of your desired watch. This process will quickly become second nature, and you’ll dramatically reduce your chances of being taken advantage of.

Why You Should Buy A Vintage Watch

We believe there are three primary reasons to purchase a vintage watch:

Vintage Watches May Be Less Expensive Than Modern Ones

Buying an antique watch might be a fantastic option to invest in a luxury brand at a lesser cost. Every year, many luxury watch brands raise the pricing of their new watches.

Because vintage timepieces are not advertised by watch brands, pricing is determined by client demand. You can find vintage versions of the watch you desire for a lot cheaper than the current retail price if you look around.

There are certain outliers, such as extremely rare vintage watches that command a significant premium over their modern counterparts.

Vintage Watches Are Less Common And Are One-Of-A-Kind

Vintage watches outnumber modern watches because they were manufactured throughout many decades by a diverse range of brands.

Many watch brands no longer exist. When you buy a vintage watch, you might often find something that not many other people are wearing.

Collectors value some of these watches, thus they are more expensive. Others can be a low-cost solution to get a watch design you enjoy.

Vintage Watches Are Smaller

If you have a tiny wrist, an antique timepiece can be an excellent option to explore. Because watch sizes have been driven by fashion over the last decades, modern timepieces are often larger than vintage watches.

The diameter of a modern men’s watch ranges from 38mm to 45mm. The diameter of an antique watch will be between 33mm and 38mm.

If you find that modern timepieces are too big for your wrist (as many people do), put on a smaller vintage watch to see if it feels more comfortable.

Timelessly Stylish Retro Watches Every Collector Must Own

They say that the past is always present, and the growing popularity of retro watches is proof of that. Vintage-inspired and retro watches have become increasingly popular over the years. These iconic, one-of-a-kind and nostalgic timepieces each tell a narrative of their own.

Nothing beats owning a piece of history, and investing in retro watches is a great way to do it.

We’ve compiled a list of models that have lasted the test of time to help you select one that best suits your taste and budget. Check out if any of these vintage watches pique your interest.

There are various types of retro timepieces, such as military, the ’80s, and so on. Not to mention that they are available at various pricing points.

Here are a few recommended retro timepieces for every style and budget to help you select. Also, keep in mind that some of these models are reissues of vintage timepieces, while others are improved copies of the original.

Timex Q

Timex Q is a classic retro watch that every collector must own. It’s a timelessly stylish piece with a vintage feel, created specifically to be treasured and cherished for a lifetime.

The design of this wristwatch is both minimalistic and sophisticated, featuring an elegant case reminiscent of the mid-twentieth-century designs.

Not only does the Timex Q look good, but it also boasts excellent movement and durability. Its stainless steel construction and waterproof capabilities make it great for everyday use.

With its intricate detail and luxurious design, owning the Timex Q is sure to give any watch collector something special to treasure forever.

Casio F-91W

One classic and timelessly stylish retro watch that every collector must own is the Casio F-91W. This digital quartz watch from Casio is loved for its sleek black design, as well as its durable construction.

The faces are also customizable, with a timer, stopwatch, and alarm functions to choose from. This watch has been popular since its release in 1991, which makes it perfect for collectors looking for vintage style watches.

It has a long battery life of seven years and features an acrylic bezel. Its lightweight construction only adds 45g to your wrist. The illuminated LCD face displays hours, minutes, seconds and date accurately.

Timex T-80 x PAC-MAN

Timex T-80 x PAC-MAN is one of the must-own watches for every collector of timelessly stylish retro watches. This watch embodies a classic design with its soft silicone strap, round stainless steel case, and traditional gold markers on the face.

It also features a vivid color scheme reminiscent of the iconic 1980’s video game, PAC-MAN, creating an eye-catching timepiece suitable for any collector.

The Timex T-80 x PAC-MAN offers advanced quartz movement technology that ensures accurate tracking as well as an easy to use date/time window display on a bright LCD screen.

For anyone looking to add some vintage flair to their collection of wristwatches, the Timex T-80 x PAC-MAN is a perfect choice.

Bulova Computron

If you’re a watch collector, then the Bulova Computron is an absolute must-have! This timelessly stylish retro watch features classic lines and a modern design.

It was originally released in 1977 and used LED technology to display the time. The Computron is both rugged and stylish, perfect for the vintage-loving collector.

The Computron has a digital face with easy-to-read numbers, as well as adjustable settings for different times zones. With scratch-resistant plated steel casing, this watch is sure to stand the test of time.

Its quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping that won’t let you down when you need it most.

Longines Heritage Military

One of the timelessly stylish and collectible retro watches must-own is the Longines Heritage Military.

This elegant timepiece has a classic appeal, yet its modern design updates it for modern times. Its stainless steel case and black dial are both eye-catching and versatile, meaning it can go from day to night with ease.

The brown calfskin leather strap adds to the vintage feel and in combination with its golden details, creates a unique and beautiful watch.

Its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass guarantees that your timepiece will never lose its vintage appeal.

Seiko TV Watch

The Seiko TV Watch is a must-have for any retro watch collector. This classic timepiece was released in 1982 and instantly became an icon of the era.

It features oversized buttons, an LCD screen along with a sound chip to give you sound effects – from the opening notes of ‘Chariots of Fire’ to a barking dog or chirping birds!

This stylish watch also has an alarm and calendar functions. It was revolutionary for its time, and still looks great today!

Tissot Visodate Seastar Seven

The Tissot Visodate Seastar Seven is a timelessly stylish men’s watch that every collector must own.

It features an elegant polished stainless steel case and black leather straps, with white hour markers on the dial.

The watch also has a stainless steel bezel and a unique dome-shaped crystal that gives it an extra touch of sophistication.

The movement is Swiss quartz powered by a Caliber1256 battery, making it accurate and reliable. With its classic design and vintage feel, it’s sure to become one of your favorite timepieces.

Zodiac Sea Wolf

A must-have for any collection of vintage watches is the iconic Zodiac Sea Wolf. This midcentury dive watch was designed to be durable and stylish, with a sleek, modern look that has held up over time.

Its famous “Jumping Hour” feature allows it to keep remarkable accuracy even in deep waters. With a stainless steel case and band, this watch makes a statement about timeless style.

It’s also water resistant up to 200 meters, so you don’t have to worry if you take it swimming or underwater diving. For vintage watchers, the Zodiac Sea Wolf is a showstopper that never goes out of fashion!

Seiko 6139-6005

The Seiko 6139-6005 is a timelessly stylish retro watch every collector must own. This Seiko model was one of the first ever automatic chronograph watches and is highly sought-after by watch lovers around the world.

It boasts a stainless steel case with a two-tone black and silver finish, an inner rotating bezel, 40 minutes subdial, and a day/date window. With its sleek design and classic appeal, this vintage watch will elevate any collection. Other features include:

A quartz movement featuring a manual winding function and alarm feature. Anti-reflective crystal glass for scratch resistance. Water resistant up to 30 meters (100 feet). Original seahorse back casing

Casio CA53W-1

The Casio CA53W-1 is an absolute classic for every watch collector. It was made in 1980s, but its design remains timeless.

The simplistic style blends with any outfit and adds a touch of vintage chic to your overall look. Its dual time display will make sure you can always tell the time in two places at once!

Other features include stopwatch, alarm and LED backlight, ensuring it’s a practical piece as well as stylish one.

Plus, its classic black and silver design won’t go out of style anytime soon. So if you’re looking to invest in something special – the Casio CA53W-1 is the perfect choice.

Final Thoughts

There are numerous reasons why these vintage watches have withstood the test of time. Some are renowned for their historical significance, while others are known for their ageless designs.

Whatever type of collector you are, there are bound to be a few throwback watches that appeal to you, whether Flieger or dive timepieces.

When you’re in the market for a vintage watch, there are a few final thoughts to keep in mind. If possible, try to buy a new-old-stock watch, as these are watches that have never been used before and still have the original tags attached.

Make sure to check the quality of the material and condition of the watch carefully and get any needed repairs done by a professional horologist or trained technician.

With some research and shopping around, you can find retro watches with old-school vibes that will bring back memories of bygone days!

Frequently Asked Questions 

Should you invest in a vintage watch?

It’s crucial to keep in mind that historical watches may not be as trustworthy as modern watches. They may not be as watertight, may be more fragile, and will require different maintenance.

However, we at GiftWonk believe they can be a terrific method to purchase an unusual watch from a reputable company. If you do your homework, you can acquire a great watch for a reasonable price and be fairly assured that no one else will be wearing it.

How old should a watch be to be called vintage?

The definition of a vintage watch varies significantly, although it is often regarded to be anything 25-30 years old or older.

What distinguishes a valuable wristwatch?

There are numerous aspects that influence the value of an antique timepiece. Age, material, condition, manufacturer, and provenance are the most important.

It is impossible to rank these criteria in order of importance because what defines the value of a watch is a mystery blend of all of these aspects.

Collectible timepieces are similar to collectible artwork. There is no hard and fast rule for determining what makes a thing valuable. It’s all in the collector’s sight. However, all valuable vintage timepieces must meet some basic requirements in the following areas.

Age

If your old watch is old enough to be classified as an antique or vintage, it may be valuable to collectors. A watch must have been created more than 100 years ago to be considered antique. The definition of vintage is more difficult to define.

Some collectors believe that anything older than 20 years is vintage, while others believe that a watch must have been manufactured before 1960 to be called vintage.

If the watch you have is no longer available for purchase new from retailers, it’s worth attempting to determine its age.

How do you tell how old a watch is? Many, but not all, antique wristwatches have serial numbers that can be used to identify their age (as well as the manufacturer).

Typically, the serial number can be located on the back of the watch. If your watch contains a serial number, you can match it to the year it was created using an online serial number reference table.

If your watch lacks a serial number, other factors such as movement style and construction can be used to estimate its age.

There is a wealth of watch information available online, and you may be able to research your way to an age estimate.

If not, you can always get your watch appraised by a specialist. Some jewelers, but not all, can provide appraisals. Another alternative is to use auction houses.

Material

The type and grade of material used to make a watch, as with all jewelry, affects its worth. Stainless steel, titanium, gold, silver, and a variety of other metals can be used to make watches.

They can also be made of nonmetallic materials such as ceramic. If you’re selling your watch for parts, the more valuable the material, the more valuable the watch.

However, this is not usually how vintage timepieces are sold. Old watches are valuable to collectors or trendy people who wish to wear them as a fashion statement for a variety of reasons.

For various reasons, certain watch models are deemed more valuable than others, and the material from which your watch is built is one component that defines which model you have.

The worth of the material does not necessarily convert directly to the value of the watch. A gold version of a watch, for example, may be less valued than a stainless steel version.

Condition

The higher the value, the cleaner the watch. Every flaw reduces the value of the clock. Unfortunately, engraving can be considered a defect.

An exception to this rule is if the engraving was commissioned by a celebrity and the watch comes with documentation to prove it. Even excessive polishing can lower the value of a wristwatch by reducing the crispness of the watch case’s edges.

And condition comprises not only appearance but also the functionality. Watches that work are more valuable than those that do not.

If you opt to have your watch appraised professionally, the appraiser will examine the timepiece and assign it a grade.

There are around ten different watch classes, ranging from mint plus (the best) to junk (the worst). It will be easy to determine the value of your watch once you know its grade.

Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be the single most important element in determining the value of an ancient watch. Certain brands simply have a higher value than others.

Rolex, Omega, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin are among the most valuable watch brands right now.

Provenance

What exactly is provenance? The provenance of a watch is its own history. Provenance is usually provided in the form of paperwork that accompanies the watch and serves as verification of the timepiece’s origin, authenticity, and history of owners.

Provenance can increase the value of a watch in a variety of ways. Simply being able to show it was created by the manufacturer you claim it was, and that it is made of the material you claim it is, is huge in terms of commanding the price you desire.

And, if your clock has had a notable owner, which will undoubtedly increase its worth, provenance will validate that.

What factors can preclude an older wristwatch from becoming valuable?

Old wristwatch

Wristwatches, like any collectible, are not all valued. The great majority of wristwatches lose value as they age. The following are some of the reasons why an ancient wristwatch may be worthless:

Not valuable brand

There are certainly numerous watch brands that were never extremely prestigious and still aren’t. Cheap timepieces do not have the high-quality parts and craftsmanship that high-value collectors require. However, don’t discount a brand simply because it isn’t a Rolex.

Vintage Timex, the brand best recognized for its low prices, has a thriving community of watch enthusiasts.

It’s in bad shape

A functional watch of any age, brand, or material may be worth something. A watch with little going for it other than the fact that it tells time is worthless if it doesn’t work.

Similarly, a cheap old working watch may have no value if it is so cracked, scratched, or otherwise ruined that no one would want to wear it.

It has been altered

Appearances can be deceiving. Even a seemingly valuable watch can be turned worthless, or at the very least significantly less desirable, if its inner workings have been altered. I

f you’re thinking of buying an antique watch, have it appraised beforehand. A watch must have all of its original parts to be worth the most money.