Discover the Hidden Truths of Buying a Vintage Watch: A Guide to Avoiding Expensive Mistakes

What No One Tells You About Cheap Vintage Watches

Buying a cheap vintage watch can be a thrilling find, but beware – the thrills can quickly turn to frustrations. I should know, I’ve learned this the hard way. Most of the vintage timepieces I own were acquired from the depths of eBay, and while I love them, they all have their quirks. My Old Seiko word timer, for instance, no longer rotates, and my Omega Chronostop runs slower than the MTA’s schedule.

And then there’s my Seamaster, which decided to stop running and lost its crown and stem, leaving me searching high and low (or at least, in Portland, Maine) for its missing parts. It’s a hassle, to say the least. And I’m fortunate; some vintage watch owners have to wait months – or even years – to get their watches back from the watch repair center.

That’s not to say that all vintage watches are trouble. But be prepared for the unexpected. Watch service is, in a word, difficult. You may need to send your timepiece off to a trusted watchmaker, and even then, the process can take weeks. And if you’re not diligent, you might end up waiting months or even years to get your watch back.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying a vintage watch:

* Be prepared for mechanical quirks – some won’t be as reliable as others
* Research, research, research – understand what you’re getting into before making a purchase
* Find a trusted watchmaker – your watch’s health depends on it
* Be patient – watch service can take time, and it’s not always easy

So, if you’re fascinated by the world of vintage watches, do your homework, and be prepared for the unexpected. Your watch (and your sanity) will thank you.