LIVE24SEVEN // Fashion, Health & Beauty V INTAGE WATCHE S - F E L LOWS AUC T IONE E R S 5 Reasons to buy vintage


The wrist watch world’s new product season is in full swing with major trade fairs in both January and March


But there are a few good reasons as to why your next watch purchase might be better old than new. Ok, vintage watches might not be for everyone, leaving the security of manufacture warranties and latest high tech materials is not a step to be taken lightly but here is why you might take the plunge…


ORIGINALITY The Swiss watchmaking industry loves to trade on its past. Most brands’ flagship models were launched during the 1950s 60s or 70s, and have either continued in production ever since or have been re-released. Instead of a modern copy, why not choose to wear the original that started it all.


watches in 2017


RARITY Vintage watches by their nature are limited in number, even if that number is very large. Given the vast array of choice from the last 70 years or so, you can find yourself a watch that very few other people will have and that expresses your taste perfectly. Some watches are rare because they were once very expensive and so few were made, others were cheap and disposable meaning few will have survived, either way you can acquire something interesting.


HISTORY There is an undeniable thrill to being the first owner of a watch, the unboxing and wearing of a flawless piece at any price point is a great feeling. There is an equal although different satisfaction that comes from wearing a watch with history that bears its scratches and marks of use with pride. Watches that have been used by divers, explorers, military personnel and others have a certain aura about them which you cannot get from a new watch


VALUE FOR MONEY Buying vintage watches is a great way to access the most prestigious brands at affordable prices. Some of the most desirable watch models have changed little over the years making a 20 year old watch very little different from a 2017 one. Obviously 20% of the cost of the new one if VAT so if you add that to the inevitable depreciation over time, you could be saving a significant sum. If you are willing to browse away from the most recognisable model names or opt for a lesser brand which still used a good movement you can build an interesting collection for laughably little money.


INCREASING VALUE This may seem to contradict the previous point but if you have watched auction results over the past few years it is mostly vintage pieces that are breaking the records. Rare watches from the most desirable brands in great, original condition are always in demand and so unlike a new purchase they will only increase in value over time.


There is a lot of fun to be had at all levels of vintage watch collecting. For an ever-changing inventory of watches both vintage and modern along with friendly, helpful advice you should follow Fellows Auctioneers’ monthly specialist sales. Fellows offer more watches at auction than any other UK auction house so you are bound to find something to tempt you. www.fellows.co.uk


FELLOWS AUCTIONEERS HEAD OFFICE & SALEROOM: Augusta House, 19 Augusta Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, B18 6JA


T. 0121 212 2131 www.fellows.co.uk info@fellows.co.uk / 20


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