It’s a rare individual who stops at just one watch. That small piece of metal resting on your wrist has evolved beyond a simple timekeeping device into a form of jewelry, showcasing countless styles and designs. It’s just as intricate as the world of handbags and shoes for women 🥹. Regardless of your budget, there’s always a watch option available. Some celebrate life milestones with a new watch, while others embark on the thrilling hunt for vintage timepieces.
I wouldn’t call myself a hardcore watch aficionado who can dissect every gear and screw, but I’ll admit that going a day without a watch leaves me feeling quite “naked.”
Having spent some time exploring the vintage watch scene, I think it’s time to share my experiences and reflect on my journey with these little machines.
What Qualifies as a Vintage Watch?
The definition of a vintage watch can be quite vague and subjective 😀. Generally, a watch is considered vintage if it’s at least 20 to 30 years old, but it also depends on the brand and model. Some timepieces might be labeled vintage even if they’ve remained sealed in their original packaging for decades. Typically, a vintage watch is simply one that is no longer new when you acquire it.
Vintage Watches: Elegant and Wearable
Vintage watch designs tend to be elegant and understated, making them perfect companions for classic attire. This stands in stark contrast to the modern trend of oversized watch faces. For those with smaller wrists, like many Vietnamese and Asians, watches with diameters of 46-47mm can feel more like “bricks.”
Vintage watches often have slim profiles that provide a subtle accent on the wrist. This minimalism can be surprisingly versatile, allowing you to pair them effortlessly with a range of outfits, from casual to formal.
A Simple Strap Change Can Transform Everything
I find that the original straps on vintage watches can be less than appealing, often worn and tired-looking. Therefore, the first thing I do when I get a vintage watch is to swap out the strap. Honestly, an old watch with a fresh strap feels completely revitalized.
For strap replacements, I highly recommend Hoa Sa. Every watch I acquire goes there for a "wardrobe change."
For example, I picked up this Omega De Ville tank watch from a seller in Da Nang. It’s an old hand-wound mechanical watch, produced between 1972 and 1975. The previous owner was quite stocky, so the strap didn’t suit my style.
I replaced it with a sleek black lizard leather strap,
which works beautifully whether I’m in a t-shirt or a suit.
I also have an Oris 7474 tank watch from 2004, originally fitted with a metal strap.
Switching to a navy blue leather strap with white stitching made it look brand new and ready to wear!
Overwhelmed by choices in materials and colors, or just dazzled?
Discovering Surprising Bargains
While big names may not often go on sale, there are still plenty of good-quality, affordable Swiss watches out there. If you dig around in vintage watch groups and sites, you might stumble upon high-quality Swiss timepieces from brands that no longer exist. The price tag of "x" million dong feels reasonable when considering the craftsmanship involved.
A Great Opportunity to Gain Knowledge
If you’re on the hunt for iconic brands like Rolex and Omega, you’ll need to understand their history and the various generations of watches before making a purchase. The market is filled with counterfeits and modified watches, so knowledge becomes your best asset.
This understanding makes the journey far more exciting - not just for immediate purchases but for enriching conversations over coffee with friends. For instance, do you know what dial designs Omega used for the Seamaster line during different eras? Familiarity with these details can help you avoid "redialed" watches and keep your wallet intact.
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