If you’re in the market for a pocket watch, either as a collector, someone who just wants to own an alternative to the common wristwatch of the day or as a gift for someone special, you need to know that there is a plethora of options out there. From inexpensive modern day replicas and themed pocket watches to the vintage and antiques pieces from the past, there is much to consider.

Many people set out in their quest to buy a pocket watch without knowing much about them. Much can be learned from asking questions and doing research. One of the common questions is about the antique pocket watch versus the vintage. I often hear these terms being used interchangeably and many ask, well, is there a difference. The short answer: YES.

Antique is a word meaning something has been made during a era long gone and the item is valued for it’s age, above and among other things. Antique brings to mind the days of Early America: change, growth, innovation. For the most part, these would be the days of the late 18th century, the 19th century and the early 1900s. Railroad watches, such as those made by Waltham or the Hamilton pocket watch, are excellent examples of the antique pocket watch.

Loosely used, the word vintage simply refers to a time of origin, as in “wine vintage.” However, when it comes to collectible items, such as the pocket watch, vintage has a more specific meaning. A vintage pocket watch is older, but not olde enough to be considered antique. It is somewhat valued for its age, however, the style and design, such as the art deco pocket watch, will have much to do with its value as well. A pocket watch labeled vintage is most likely one that was produce between 1920 and 1979, although some 1980′s pocket watches are quickly rising to the vintage category, as we get further away from the era.