Best Vintage Watch Discoveries

TonyR · 2016-07-30T07:14:41Z

Explore vintage watch discoveries from WatchProSite collectors. TonyR shares his finds, including Omega, Patek, and Rolex, sparking a community discussion on hidden gems.

TonyR

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

27 replies3702 views4 photos

TonyR initiates a compelling discussion on vintage watch discoveries, sharing his personal experiences and recent acquisitions for his wife, including an Omega DeVille, a Patek Ellipse, and a Rolex. His post invites the community to share their own 'gems' and insights into the often unpredictable world of vintage watch collecting. This thread highlights the thrill of uncovering unique pieces and the shared passion for horological history.

I recently have had some bad luck buying vintage watches for myself and have a lot to learn within that sector of the watch market. It hasn't been all bad though for my wife, over the years I have able to acquire some fairly nice "authentic" pieces for her. Just wondering what others have discovered over the years, from what I've seen there are a lot of gems out there and some to still be uncovered!..........

Below is a 1970's/80's Omega DeVille in WG that I don't know much about. A 1960's Patek Ellipse in YG and a Rolex in WG that appears to be produced in the 1970's or 80's. I had Rolex service this watch about 5 years ago and was told that the diamond bracelet was custom, the watch was originally sold with a string type of strap. Who ever made the diamond bracelet did a great job, its much better looking than a piece of string!

Looking forward to your responses......

Tony

Key Points from the Discussion

The beauty of vintage watches lies in their unique designs, such as a diamond setting mimicking flower petals, which can be breathtakingly beautiful and evoke a sense of artistry.
A monochrome grey dial can be a highly sought-after feature, and the authenticity of an untouched vintage watch can sometimes be proven by subtle details like the background behind the logo.
Vintage Seiko models, like a '72 GS 5465-5020 or a '69 Seiko 6602-8040, and Omega references, such as a '49 ref 2576 chronometer cal 343 or a '60 ref 2943 cal 504, represent significant discoveries for collectors.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris 1965 is considered an ultimate grail piece, and receiving such a watch as a gift after a personal loss makes it an even more cherished discovery.
The Hamilton 'Otis' Reverso from 1938 is another example of a highly valued vintage acquisition, showcasing the diversity of desirable historical pieces.
Many forgotten gems exist in the vintage market; finding them requires patience and a keen eye, and some vintage bracelets are noted for their exceptional comfort.

The Discussion

piccolochimico (aka dsgalaxy1)

Jul 30, 2016

But there are many forgotten gems out there, it just takes times to find them. Those bracelete looks like to be extremely comfortable

amanico

Jul 30, 2016

Which has a very nice story... This Lecoultre Polaris 1965. After having been burglarized in 2011n a good friend gifted this one to me... Yes, you read well, gifted. Best, nicolas

TonyR

Jul 30, 2016

Both on that watch and your generous friend! The original Polaris is one of the ultimate grails from JLC. That is a beautiful example of one my friend. Tony

TonyR

Jul 30, 2016

And yes all three of those bracelets are comfortable according to her. Tony

Alkiro1

Jul 30, 2016

Well, from my side, I was really happy when I had the opportunity to buy an Hamilton "Otis" Reverso from 1938. Sorry for the poor quality of my picture taken some months ago. Best wishes Alkiro

COUNT DE MONET

Jul 30, 2016

A watch at the right time: a monochrome grey dialed watch was what I fancied for some time how can you proove an untouched watch best: the black background behind the logo lovely integral strap design

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