What You Need to Know About Rare Watch Appraisals

History of Watches

Fine watches have a rich history and are often considered to be not just timepieces, but works of art. The most well-known fine watch brands include Rolex, Omega, Patek Philippe, and Cartier. These storied companies have been creating some of the most luxurious and highly sought-after watches for generations.

The history of these brands dates back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. Rolex was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis. The company initially focused on making high-quality pocket watches, but quickly shifted to producing wristwatches. Omega was also founded in the early 1900s, in 1848, by Louis Brandt. Patek Philippe was established in 1851 by Antoni Patek and Adrien Philippe. Cartier, on the other hand, was founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier.

These companies have been at the forefront of watchmaking, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible with their timepieces. They have been responsible for many innovations in the industry, such as the first waterproof wristwatch (Omega), the first wristwatch with a perpetual calendar and moon phase display (Patek Philippe), and the first wristwatch with a date function (Rolex).

Despite their incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail, fine watches are not immune to the passage of time. Over the years, they can become damaged, lose their luster, or simply become outdated. That is where the appraisal of fine watches comes in.

Why get an appraisal on your watch?

Watches are often valuable for a variety of reasons, such as their brand, the materials they are made of, and their rarity. As such, it is important to have them appraised in order to determine their value. This is especially important when it comes to understanding the value of a watch for insurance purposes. By having a professional appraiser assess a watch, an owner can ensure that they are properly insured in case of theft, loss, or damage.

Another reason to have a watch appraised is for resale purposes. When a watch is being sold, potential buyers will want to know its value in order to determine how much they are willing to pay for it. An appraisal can provide this information and help the seller get a fair price for their watch. In addition, an appraisal can also help identify any potential issues with a watch that may affect its value, such as damage or repairs that need to be made.

Appraisals are an important tool for understanding the value of a watch and ensuring that it is properly insured and valued for resale. By having a professional appraiser assess a watch, an owner can have peace of mind knowing that they have a clear understanding of its value. This can be especially important for watches that are rare or have sentimental value, as these can be difficult to replace.

How do I Find an Appraiser?

AppraiseItNow is a global team of appraisers that are qualified to produce USPAP-compliant appraisal reports for watches and clocks. Our trusted appraisers are licensed in all 50 states. We tailor our services to best suit your needs, and our appraisers are equipped to work with you through onsite or online appraisals.