How Do I Value My Watch?
When you have a valuable piece of jewelry, like a watch, you may not know exactly how much it’s worth. Some people may need to know what their timepiece is worth for insurance purposes, while others may want to sell their old watch to get something new and modern. Regardless of the reason for wanting to know how much your watch is worth, understanding the method for evaluating its value is key. Consider this list from Las Vegas Jewelry and Coin Buyers to help you answer the question, “How do I value my watch?”
Know the Model
Before you can sell your watch, one of the most helpful things to know about it to determine its true value is its model number. There are a couple of ways you can find your watch’s model number, including:
Use the Box and Papers
Finding the model number should be easy if you still have the original box and papers that your watch came with. The paperwork included with your watch should include the warranty information as well as a certification card or a bill of sale. These papers will probably contain your watch’s serial and model numbers, among other important information that you want to have on hand. Of course, not all watches still have their original packaging, so you may need to use another resource to help you determine the value of your timepiece if this is the case.
Watches that still have their original packaging are typically worth more, especially if it’s an older, vintage model. The older your watch, the less a dealer expects the original packaging to be present, but it will increase its value.
Use Online Resources
It’s possible to use the numbers or alpha-numerics from your watch to look up information about it online. This is called a reference number, and it can help you find watches similar to yours to lead you in the right direction when searching for the estimated value of your unique timepiece. Unfortunately, this is best for watches released before the internet became such a widely used tool, as older watches are harder to find online. Keep in mind that watches vary a great deal, so many factors can affect their value.
Use a Local Dealer
A local jewelry dealer can help you determine the model number of your watch if you’re having trouble finding it on your own. These professionals are capable and trained to find the details that make your watch stand out, whether it’s how it looks, how it’s made, or the designer who created it. Having a professional look at your watch and providing you with information about it that you may not know can be beneficial for those who have little information regarding their timepiece.
Know the Age
The age of your watch also plays a role in determining its worth. If you bought your watch brand-new, you’ll have no problem knowing how old it is, but this task may not be easy for those who received their watch as a family heirloom or got it as a gift. Sometimes, a watch will have a faded bezel, while others may have brown hands or hour markers. These things can sometimes make your watch more valuable. However, if its age has also caused it to lose its ability to function properly, it could detract from its value.
While having your watch serviced is a great idea for new watches, you need to be cautious when fixing an older watch, as this can sometimes take away from its value.
Evaluate the Condition
To ensure your watch maintains its value, consider regularly having it serviced by a professional. Dealers expect normal wear and tear, but if your watch is damaged to the point that its functionality is impaired, it will devalue the timepiece. When evaluating the condition of your watch, be objective. Ask yourself questions about its appearance and its ability to tell time, but try to avoid attaching any sentimentality the watch may have to you to its value. Look for dents, scratches, and any signs the watch may have previously been cleaned or refinished. These factors can determine your watch’s value.
Learn What Its Made Of
The material your watch is made of also plays a part in discovering what it might be worth. Timepieces are made of several metals, including:
- Stainless steel.
- Gold.
- Platinum.
- Titanium.
Ceramic is another material some watchmakers use to create their products. Gold and platinum timepieces are often the most valuable, whether you have a wristwatch or a pocket watch. If your watch has any gemstones adorning its facade or used in its inner workings, this may also increase its value. Most dealers, including Las Vegas Jewelry and Coin Buyers, will purchase any vintage watch made of gold or platinum.
Compare It To Similar Watches
If you have a newer timepiece, comparing it to similar watches is much easier than if you have a vintage watch. However, a comparison to similar watches can give you an idea of the value of your particular piece. Using your watch’s age, condition, and brand, you can search the internet for timepieces similar to your own, but keep in mind that each watch is unique. Having an expert look at your watch can help you get a more accurate estimate of its value. They may have insights about your watch that your untrained eye might miss.
Understanding the value of your wristwatch or pocket watch can help you get the best price if you decide to sell. You can count on the experts at Las Vegas Jewelry and Coin Buyers to give you an honest and accurate valuation of your timepiece. With a combined experience of over 100 years, our dealers have seen countless watches, coins, and other jewelry, giving them an edge over other dealers in the area. For a more in depth look at the types of watches we typically purchase, view our watch page. If you’re having trouble determining the value of your watch, bring it to us, and we’ll give you a free and fair estimate.
Image via Unsplash by Yash Parashar | Licensed by Unsplash
