There's more to watch collecting than just buying a nice timepiece. While it's fun to find that perfect piece, you also need to make sure you're buying something that will hold its value over the long term—and that's not always easy. The trick is knowing what makes a vintage watch worth investing in, and how to avoid mistakes along the way. In this guide, we'll cover everything from basic principles like condition and pricing down to specific tips on finding vintage watches online or at auction houses like Christie's and Sotheby's.

Forget Trends. Buy What You Like.

If you're going to invest in a vintage watch, it's important that you buy what you like--not what is popular or trendy at the moment. Don't worry about how much your friends will think of your new purchase or how long they'll keep their eyes on your wrist when they see it.

Buy the Best—Within Reason

• Buy the best you can afford.
• Buy the best that is in good condition.
• Buy the best that is in a style you like, as well as one that fits your lifestyle, such as dressy or casual.
• Buy the best that is in a size (or range) you like, whether it be large or small, thick or thin, etc. If possible, try to find something close to what you're used to wearing on your wrist so you don't have any trouble with comfort or fit issues down the road when wearing it regularly!

Condition Is Key—With Conditions

Condition is key. With that said, there are many different types of watches and each one has its own set of conditions that determine its value. For example, a vintage Rolex Submariner in mint condition will be worth much more than an older Seiko diver with similar features and functions. The same rule applies to vintage Patek Philippe chronographs and Panerais--you get the picture!

Despite their inflated price tags, vintage watches are still a great investment for the long term.

When it comes to vintage watches, you get what you pay for. The best way to find the best quality vintage watches is to know what you want and how much it's worth. This can be done by doing your research online or in person. If you are buying your watch from a private seller, make sure to ask questions about its history and condition before making any decisions on whether or not the price is right (and remember that if they don't have answers then they probably don't know what they're doing).

Once again, it's important that we emphasize: don't be afraid of haggling! You may think that because these timepieces are so expensive no one would bother negotiating over them; however, this isn't always true--especially if there are multiple buyers competing for one particular model/color combination at auction houses like Christie's & Sotheby’s.