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    Learn More About Vintage Watches

    Vintage watches can be from a variety of time periods, from the 17th and 18th centuries and sometimes earlier to more recent eras like the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. On Etsy, vintage items must be at least 20 years old, which means that even some watches from the very early 2000s could be considered vintage these days.

    Vintage watches come in a variety of styles and, at times, can serve more purposes than just keeping time. They might compliment a room’s décor, while sitting on an end table or mantel. Or consider using a vintage watch to add flare and style for a night out and about.


    As you browse the collections of vintage timepieces, these are some of the most common styles you’re likely to find:


    • Classic wristwatches are perfect for office, cocktails, or outdoor wear. These watch styles typically come with metal or leather bands and make for excellent everyday wear for anyone.
    • Diver’s watches are made with stainless steel and sapphire crystal glass to be water-, corrosion-, and pressure-resistant, typically used for timing dives. Most divers’ watches feature a bezel face that rotates counter-clockwise so divers are able to accurately calculate how much oxygen they have left. Some of the finer diver’s watches can withstand 100+ meters and feature a helium release valve to relieve pressure build-up within the watch face.
    • Pocket watches became popular around the same time that vests came into style for men, in the mid-to-late-1600s. These vintage men’s watches come in two styles, either with a hinged cover (sometimes called a hunter case) or with an open face. The latter is made with a heavier crystal for added durability. Before the security of vest pockets, pocket watches were worn around the neck, hence the staple chain strap for keeping your watch secure.
    • Railroad watches are similar in design to traditional pocket watches, but do not have a cover. They are also equipped with a dial for monitoring time with precision to ensure accuracy for train schedules during each train’s time on the tracks.

    Vintage watches are uniquely designed jewelry pieces that often become heirlooms when cared for properly.


    Be gentle. Although these classic timepieces are designed to last a lifetime, it’s still important to treat them with care to avoid scratching, dimpling, or breaking delicate chain links or other components. The older the watch the more fragile it's likely to be—despite already withstanding the test of time.


    Keep it clean. Watch faces and case backs can be cleaned with a soft cloth, at home, to keep dust and dirt from working their way into the movement. Every few years, your vintage watch may need new, clean lubricants added to keep gears running smoothly for years to come, and a local watch expert can generally offer this as part of a routine cleaning.


    Consider watch restoration options if your vintage watch face becomes faded, hands come loose or break, vintage crystal or cases crack, or winding mechanisms no longer function.