Watch terminology and values

[GoldenBear]

What constitutes a vintage or classic Rolex? I have a 1991 SS Sub that is in excellent condition. I'm not sure it would be considered a classic, but who am I to say. Where would I be able to determine a fair price (assuming I wanted to trade or sell it). I don't want to be taken by a dealer, even an AD. Thanks.

[RT]

Originally Posted by GoldenBear

What constitutes a vintage or classic Rolex? I have a 1991 SS Sub that is in excellent condition. I'm not sure it would be considered a classic, but who am I to say. Where would I be able to determine a fair price (assuming I wanted to trade or sell it). I don't want to be taken by a dealer, even an AD. Thanks.

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Please see my answer in "Quick question about Rolex Datejust" posting. I think it was yesterday or the day before.

[Goldeneye]

The answer to this question is not easy and with many opinions. Most feel that vintage starts when something turns 25...tell that to a 25 year old! As far as what is a classic Rolex, that is entirely up to each individual. Some may feel that a diamond encrusted Day Date is a classic, others, a Military issued Submariner. They are all classics, some more than others, depends on who it is.

[mike]

Yeah, this isn't easy to answer.

Vintage means different things to different people.
To a collector it might be the 25 year old rule, matt tritium dial, a movement no longer made, or an acryllic crystal.
Some feel the transitionals should be considered vintage, other purists feel the sapphire crystal of some transitionals eliminate them.

I think a vintage can be considered a classic, but perhaps not the other way around. As an example, a COMEX Sub might not be a vintage piece, but it heritage make it the classic tool watch IMO.

In determining value, all other things being equal, condition is king.

[Welshwatchman]

I would say the term "classic" could apply to a brand new 14060M, 116610 etc.

Not sure at what age the "vintage" label kicks in. I think it's fairly arbitrary.

To me 1940 > would be vintage.

[GoldenBear]

Thanks, all. I thought the Ebay route may be a good way to value it. As the old saying goes "it's only worth what someone else is willing to pay for it".

[RT]

Originally Posted by GoldenBear

Thanks, all. I thought the Ebay route may be a good way to value it. As the old saying goes "it's only worth what someone else is willing to pay for it".

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Exactly..... Dealers will be the very last place that I would go, for they have rent to pay, overhead, staff, profit margin and other expenses.