If you appreciate superb engineering and stylish designs, collecting vintage watches could be the perfect hobby for you. For anyone who decides to get into this specialised field, there is one word that should always be at the forefront of your mind, and that is “appreciation”. The actual price of an antique timepiece is not as important as the appreciation value, and with that in mind, here are some essential things that every budding watch collector should know.
The Maker – Like anything else, certain brands are more appealing than others, and if you are just starting out, stick to the well-known brands, at least until you get some experience under your belt. There are reputable online dealers, and if you check the selection available at KalmarAntiques.com.au, you will see all the major watch manufacturers that have produced some stunning timepieces over the years. Rolex, Seiko, Omega and Longines are all well-known brands and between them have created many attractive watches that highlight the trends at the time.
Do Some Research – Taking up any hobby requires a degree of research, and when you consider the aim of the game is to make profitable investments, mistakes can be very costly. Don’t expect any quick returns, and of the idea of making a rapid profit excites you, perhaps you should consider buying and selling used cars, as the appreciation in a vintage watch takes a few years to arrive.
Ideally, you should forge a connection with a trusted dealer, who would be happy to point you in the right direction when searching for information. An established dealer isn’t interested in misguiding their clients and once they know you are new to the game, they can recommend a few online resources to help educate you regarding this niche market.
Take your Time – When you consider that a vintage watch with any real value would cost at least $5,000, it isn’t a good idea to rush in with cash in hand. As an example, read a detailed guide on starting a watch collection, which everyone who is thinking of collecting should read. If you happen to know someone with experience, it is always a good idea to discuss your plans with a person who has a level of personal experience with such a thing, and you should receive some valuable advice that will ensure you don’t make any expensive mistakes. As a general rule, avoid buying anything if there is even the slightest doubt, and try to temper your optimism when viewing pieces, as you need to look at things from a business angle, rather than personal preference.
The Internet is always a good source of information, and there are many websites where you can learn more about this niche hobby, and with reputable online suppliers, you can avoid the auctions, at least until you have some solid experience under your belt. Of course, there are no hard and fast rules to tell you whether a particular watch will increase in value, which does add a touch of mystery and intrigue to the proceedings, and like anything new, take your time and familiarise yourself with some of the basics before purchasing.
