Watch Identifier
How much is my watch worth?
A watch is worth what the same reference in the same condition has recently sold for. So valuing one comes down to three jobs: identify the exact reference, grade the condition honestly, and find comparable sales.
Start with the reference, not the brand
Two watches from the same brand that look alike can differ in price several times over because of the reference, the dial variant or the production year. Until you know the reference you are guessing. It is usually on the caseback, between the lugs, or on the papers.
What moves the price
- Condition. Scratches on the case matter less than a damaged or refinished dial.
- Originality. Replaced hands, dials or bezels reduce value on collectable pieces, and so does heavy polishing.
- Box and papers. A full set sells faster and for more.
- Service history. A recent service by a qualified watchmaker reassures buyers.
- Demand. Prices follow the market, so a figure from three years ago may be stale.
Use sold prices, not asking prices
Listings show what sellers hope for. Completed auction results and sold listings show what buyers paid. Expect a dealer's offer to sit below those figures, since the dealer needs a margin, and an insurance appraisal to sit above them, since it reflects replacement cost.
When to pay for an appraisal
If an estimate suggests the watch is valuable, or you need a figure for insurance or an estate, get a written appraisal from a qualified professional who has handled the watch. An app estimate is a starting point, not a substitute.
Do it with Watch Identifier
- Photograph the dial and caseback in Watch Identifier.
- Check the estimated market value. It is tied to the reference, and shown as a range when the exact reference isn't certain.
- Save the watch to your collection to see it counted in your running total.
Free to identify one watch a day on iPhone and iPad.
Identifications and valuations are AI-generated estimates for informational purposes only. Watch Identifier is not a professional appraisal or an authentication service.