Guide

What to check before buying a vintage watch

Buying a vintage watch is fun, but it is easy to overpay for problems you cannot see in a photo. Use this checklist before you buy, wherever you buy.

1. Is the dial original?

The dial is the face of the watch and the biggest factor in its value. Original dials age evenly; redials often show thick or blurry printing, wrong fonts or markers that do not match the hands. Ask for close-up photos in daylight.

2. Do the hands, crown and crystal fit?

Replacement parts are normal on a watch of this age, but they should be correct for the model and described openly. A seller who lists every replaced part is a good sign.

3. How has the case been treated?

Heavy polishing rounds off edges and thins the lugs. Look at the case from the side: sharp, defined lines are a plus. Small marks from decades of wear are part of the charm.

4. Does the movement match the reference?

Each reference was produced with specific calibres. A movement that does not belong in the case points to a “marriage” of parts. A reputable seller shows the movement or states the calibre.

5. When was it last serviced?

Ask when the watch was serviced, by whom, and how accurately it runs. A recent service avoids an unexpected repair bill of a few hundred euros shortly after your purchase.

6. What about water?

Treat any vintage watch as not water resistant, even if the dial says otherwise. Gaskets age, and older cases were never designed for today’s standards.

7. Warranty and returns

Buy from a seller who offers a warranty and a return period. It is the clearest sign that they stand behind the condition they describe.

How AV Watches handles this

Every watch we sell is serviced, tested and regulated to within 20 seconds a day in all positions, with a condition report, a 1-year warranty, free insured shipping within the EU and 14 days to return. Questions about a specific watch? Ask us on WhatsApp and we will send extra photos or a video.

Also read: How to buy a vintage Omega Seamaster · Browse vintage Omega · FAQ