The short version
- Typical range: £50 – £500
- Biggest single factor: condition — see the table below
- Category: Jewellery & Watches
- Cost to sell on WishThrift: nothing, at any price
What a used vintage watch is worth by condition
Condition does more to the price than anything else. These figures are worked from the top of the range for vintage watchs, so treat them as a starting point and adjust for the specifics of yours.
| Condition | Typical price | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| New with Tags | £500 | Unused, tags or seals intact |
| Like New | £425 | Barely used, no visible wear |
| Good | £325 | Light signs of use, complete and working |
| Fair | £225 | Heavily used, or a described fault or missing part |
| For Parts | £125 | Not working or incomplete, sold as seen |
These are the five grades WishThrift listings use, and sellers set the grade themselves — see what each condition grade means. Figures are shown in pounds as a reference point. On WishThrift prices display in your own currency, and sellers set their own asking price.
What raises the value of a vintage watch
- Original dial, hands and crown rather than replacements
- Recognised movements with servicing still available
- Original bracelet or period-correct strap
- Box, papers and service records
What lowers it
- Redialled or refinished dials, which sharply reduce collector value
- Over-polished cases with softened edges and lost chamfers
- Replacement parts on watches valued for originality
- Non-running movements needing full service
How to work out what yours is worth
- Photograph the dial straight on under even light
- Check the case edges are still crisp rather than rounded
- Note the movement number and any service history
Once you have those three answers you can place your own vintage watch on the table above with reasonable confidence. If it sits between two rows, price it toward the lower one — items priced honestly sell faster than items priced hopefully.
Ready to sell it? Listing on WishThrift is free, there is no commission, and you keep the full amount you agree with the buyer — see how selling works or create a free account.
Frequently asked questions
Does polishing a vintage watch reduce its value?
Often significantly. Over-polishing softens the case lines that collectors value, and it cannot be undone. Leave it as it is.
What is a redial and why does it matter?
A dial that has been repainted. It is much cheaper than an original and collectors discount heavily for it, so disclose it if you know.
Should I service a vintage watch before selling?
Usually not. A service is expensive and buyers often prefer to use their own watchmaker. Describe how it runs instead.
More value guides: jewellery & watches guides · all value guides · browse live jewellery & watches listings.