Uhrinstinkt Magazine
A lucky person remembers their grandfather’s inherited wristwatch. It turns out to be a coveted Rolex, for which collectors pay six-figure sums in euros. Bull’s eye! The marginal note in the daily newspaper stokes curiosity: What is my watch worth? It would be nice to have a DIY checklist to set the price in stone. Unfortunately, there is no such thing. But with a few tips, you can realistically estimate the value of your watch. If you like quick results, you can consult reputable experts who, for example, evaluate the good piece free of charge when selling watches to Uhrinstinkt.
Impeccable or deplorable? Condition, documents and watch care
It debuted in 1955, played a role in the 007 action flick “Goldfinger” in 1964, and is everlastingly chic with its red and blue outfit. For years, it felt great to wear the Rolex GMT-Master II aka Pepsi. Now it no longer fits the self-image. Cries of jubilation are provoked by the nimble Internet search, where one stumbles across almost six-figure retail prices. Determined, the jeweler is asked: What is my Rolex worth? His sobering offer remains in the four-digit range, but is not outrageous, but fair.
Overlooked during the online foray was the fact that the high-priced models are brand new, made entirely of white gold, and upgraded with a meteorite dial. Stainless steel, on the other hand, characterizes the private Rolex, whose numerous scratches testify to the former love of the sporty classic. Revision was waived for nearly two decades, while original box and papers were lost. These deficiencies in documentation, care and preservation leave the expert no choice but to determine a low watch value. This is just as true for a GMT-Master II as it is for a Tudor Black Bay, although both classic watches are classified as stable in value.
Complicated masterpiece or simple piece of jewelry?
It’s fascinating how complex wristwatches are. Even the simplest fashion accessory has at least 60 parts, and no one would ever ask the question: What is my watch worth? About 140 parts are mechanical quality watches, which do without additional functions. If various complications are added, there are hundreds of individual parts and a great deal of know-how behind them.
The level of complexity does not have to increase the watch value, but it often does. This is shown by a look at the Tag Heuer Carrera line, which is inspired by motorsports. The more discreet models focus on the essentials with automatic movement, date display and center seconds. The recommended retail price for a sporty and expressive Tag Heuer Carrera with a sophisticated chronograph movement is more than twice as high. Comparable are the price differences with link to complexity at other luxury brands like Tudor.
Standard model or rarity?
World-famous Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime with reference 6300A-010, its concept with two dials and 20 complications was inspired by a limited edition of seven pieces, launched in 2014 in pink gold. The 2019 reversible watch presented itself in stainless steel and as a unique piece, which made it fetch more than 31 million Swiss francs at a charity auction. The sensation in watch history raises the question: What is my watch worth if it is a special model?
Breitling has been producing the Superocean since the 1950s. The traditional brand is currently giving the distinctive diver’s watch a modern interpretation with two Heritage B01 chronographs. Both feature the same technical setting with a Breitling manufacture caliber and a rich green dial. The difference: the version with reference number UB01622A1L1S1 and 18-karat red gold accents is limited to 500 pieces. According to the recommended retail price, the special model is one notch cheaper than the version with reference MB01621A1L1S. It forgoes gold details in favor of the sporty Black Steel case, but is limited to 250 pieces.
Compared to other brand new Breitling Superocean diving watches, the special editions are about 30 percent more expensive at the manufacturer. When the models are out of stock, the watch value can increase again significantly. At the same time, the limitation does not guarantee the metamorphosis into a coveted collector’s item. With their unusual creations, even experienced watch designers sometimes miss the mark, turning the supposed bestseller into a slow seller.
Simple, noble or rare? Zoom on the material
Sporty and elegant ladies have enjoyed wearing Omega Constellation quartz watches for decades. Those who prefer simplicity opt for a timeless design with a 35 mm case that remains true to stainless steel throughout and dispenses with decor. Style desires can be realized for a moderate price, while the investment quickly increases tenfold for more glamorous versions. That’s simply what the material expenses speak for, when Omega makes the ladies’ watch out of 18-karat red gold and brings sparkling diamonds into play.
The same applies if you’re interested in the Royal Oak from Audemars Piguet. With stainless steel models, the premium brand emphasizes the sportiness of the octagonal watch legend that has been inspiring people since 1972. Audemars Piguet puts the luxurious touch in the spotlight with interpretations that ennoble high-carat gold and precious stones.
As expected, you have to dig deeper into your pocket for a splendid outfit when you buy a new watch. Precious metals and diamonds, however, do not necessarily increase the value if you later want to sell your used watch. You can experience the surprise, for example, when you ask yourself: What is my Rolex worth? The brand has always skillfully played with the contrast of high-level watchmaking and casual materials. In the 1970s, it partly equipped the Submariner with sports bracelets that quickly wore out. The material weaknesses prompted official bracelet replacements during factory revisions. However, collectors’ hearts beat for the rare examples with the original bracelet, which once seemed inferior. Today, it is a price-increasing factor when having the watch value determined.
Serious expertise – best price barometer, especially for vintage watches
The asymmetrical case of the Vacheron Constantin appeared eccentric when it was introduced in 1972, in keeping with the name of the collection. If a vintage specimen is indeed from the debut year, the detail is significant to the question: what is my watch worth? It opens the doors for an enthusiast’s price, provided the condition is good and authentic. Laymen can only make a vague statement about this. They quickly overlook if a bracelet or hands have been improperly replaced. Such changes would mean that the Vacheron Constantin is no longer in its original condition and is worth less.
Does it all sound interesting, but complicated? Then a professional expertise will help. For example, it is free of charge and without obligation at Uhrinstinkt’s watch purchase. This is how you get a reliable assessment of whether you want to sell your used watch. Because the correct question is always: What is my watch worth to ME? If the offers fall far short of your expectations, you should not part with your beloved accessory.
