Watchmakers are urging owners of certain models, particularly from the late 70s and early 80s, to check their collection as some could be worth a small fortune
If you’ve been clinging onto that old timepiece collecting dust in your drawer, now could be the perfect moment to give it a second look. Whilst numerous classic luxury watches are renowned for retaining their worth, certain models are now silently capturing interest on the second-hand market.
Horologists are encouraging owners of particular models, especially those from the late 70s and early 80s, to examine their collections. Mark Baldwin, horologist at Watches2U, who boasts over 40 years of expertise in the timepiece industry, shared that some of these retro treasures could fetch quite a price today.
According to the specialist: “There are a few Casio models from the late 70s and early 80s that are collectable now.” Especially coveted are Casio timepieces featuring scientific calculators, which were introduced in the early 80s.
Whilst comparable contemporary models are still obtainable for around £60, the original vintage Casio models’ prices span from £400 to £800, depending on condition.
It’s not merely Casio watches that are rising in worth; other traditional brands like Sekonda, Timex, and Rotary are also experiencing a revival due to the increasing appeal of vintage styles.
British marque Smiths commands a devoted fanbase and is also witnessing some of its vintage models gradually rise in value.
These timepieces were frequently presented as long-service rewards, particularly in the railways, making them a sentimental piece of heritage for many enthusiasts.
That’s why the worth can vary dramatically depending on whether the watch bears an engraving. Mark revealed: “Smiths did some really nice, classic-looking watches. The gold ones tended to have a really high-quality case with a good weight to them.”
Timepieces in decent nick without engravings are presently fetching between £150 and £1,500, with the pricier end becoming increasingly frequent as appetite grows.
Mark outlined that the rising wave of nostalgia represents one of the primary forces driving up the worth of these retro treasures.
“There’s a certain nostalgia to all of the watches that are popular at the moment,” he said. “Maybe you remember a Casio from your childhood that you loved but couldn’t afford at the time, or you have recollections of your dad wearing a certain timepiece.”