Watches
Vintage & Luxury
Watches Auction
Mechanical and vintage timepieces from private collections, assessed for originality of dial, hands, case, and movement before entering the catalogue.
Categories
Timepieces we offer
at auction
Vintage Watches
Pre-Quartz · Mechanical · Military
Pre-quartz mechanical watches from the 1920s through 1970s. Military, dress, and sport references from Swiss and European makers. Originality of dial and hands is assessed and stated in full.
Luxury Watches
Rolex · Patek Philippe · Audemars Piguet
Collector-grade examples from recognised makers. Reference numbers, production periods, and service history are documented where available. This category is currently open for consignment.
Our Process
What originality means
in every listing
Dial & Hands
Original or
described honestly
Original dials and hands are noted as such. Refinished, replaced, or tropical dials are described honestly, we do not present a modified watch as all-original.
Case
Condition and
polishing noted
Case condition, sharpness of lugs, and any polishing are documented. Caseback engravings and hallmarks are noted.
Movement
Service history
where known
Service history is included where available. We do not make movement assessments beyond what is visible, undisclosed service is noted as such.
For Sellers
Consign your
timepiece
We accept vintage mechanical watches and collector-grade luxury timepieces from private collections. Originality is assessed honestly. Free preliminary review. No upfront fees.
FAQ
Common questions
What types of watches do you sell at auction?
HeritageBids offers pre-quartz mechanical watches from the 1920s through 1970s, and collector-grade luxury timepieces from recognised makers. All lots are assessed for originality of dial, hands, case, and movement before entering the catalogue. Quartz watches and modern production references are not accepted.
How important is originality for auction value?
Originality is the primary driver of value in the vintage watch market. An original, unpolished case with matching dial and hands commands a substantial premium over a serviced or refinished example. We state originality or lack of it plainly in every catalogue entry, bidders can make informed decisions.
Do you accept watches without box and papers?
Yes. The majority of vintage watches offered at auction do not come with original box and papers. Their absence is noted in the catalogue entry. Where box and papers are present, this is stated and may affect the estimate accordingly.
What is the buyer's premium on watches?
HeritageBids charges a flat 15% buyer’s premium on the hammer price, with no online surcharges or processing fees.
How do I consign a watch?
Submit clear photographs, dial, case, caseback, crown, and any engravings, along with the reference number if known, through the consignment form at heritagebids.com/consign. No professional photography is required at this stage. A specialist will respond within 5 business days.