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Lesson 2 -- Value
12 Nov 2006
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| There are different categories of value of a watch: |
| Historical |
| Every watch has its history. Some watches represent the technology
of a period of time; some watches recorded an historical event
(e.g. Omega moonwatch); some watches remind you the past (e.g.
your birthday gift). Of course, if more people know its history,
more effects of the technology, more the value ! |
| Materials |
| It is obvious that a watch which is made of gold, platinum
and other expensive materials will cost you more. |
| Completeness |
| Besides of the watch, the box, the invoice, the tags (e.g.
Rolex) and other stuffs came with the watch affect the total
value. |
| Rarity |
| Rarer = $ |
| Quality |
| Number of jewels used: |
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Jewels can reduce the friction between the movement
parts; therefore, more jewels are used, the watch can
run smoother and longer.
Image: Seiko 7S26A - 21 Jewels - pink
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C.O.S.C.
certificed:
If a watch is C.O.S.C. certified, it has higher accuracy because
of using better parts.
Material of case:
Besides of the value of gold or platinum itself, these two
material can last for decades without damage by the nature;
therefore, most valuable old watches used gold or platinum
as material of the case and some parts of the movement.
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| Functions |
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More functions = more value !
Repeater, Chronography, Split second,Tourbillion, Perpetual
calendar, Moon phase, Scuba diving, G.M.T., Power reserve
indicator, Fly back, Retrograde, Multi-days, etc
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| Conditions |
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Dial:
Cracks, chips, and discolouration or fading of the dial reduce
the value; however, "re-write" or repair the dial
also reduce the historical value.
Case:
The covers should be screwed on properly to a tight fit, the
crystal should be clear.
Be careful of the gold or silver plating, there should not
have cracks or chips.
Movement:
Make sure all functions work properly !
Moreover, the movement should be all original pieces without
modifications by others. Any modifications from the original
should be documented. It should have no serious wear on the
parts.
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| Brand name |
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Brands with high auction price:
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Patek Philippe
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Vachron Constantin
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Audemars Piguet
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Breguet
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I.W.C.
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Piaget
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Cartier
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Jaeger Lecoultre
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Rolex
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| Reference: |
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Patek Philippe
Tachometer Scale Ref. 2499
Auction Price: US$ 880,000 (Sep 05)
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Rolex
Oyster Perpetual Ref.16520
Auction Price: US$ 13,000 (April 04)
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| Replica |
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There are many replicas or fakes in the market, especailly
in the Internet. Therefore, do not buy a watch from a stranger
without examination. Be careful of some old watches with very
good conditions.
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