7 Timeless Pre-Owned Watches That Never Go Out of Style

ARTICLE DATE 05/29/2024

In the world of horology, the allure of preowned watches stems from their affordability and charm. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a fashionista simply seeking your next statement piece, preowned watches offer a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and style.

Are you in the market for a preowned watch? Do you want your watch to stand out amongst the rest? With so many options, it can be difficult to narrow down a timepiece that speaks to you. That’s why, for those with a taste for luxury, we’ve curated a special list that explores seven timeless preowned watches that not only withstand the test of time but also add an enduring sense of style to any collection.

To determine which watches stood the test of time, we examined their horological history, as well as their enduring presence in the world of fashion in style. Here are our picks. 

1. Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is a recognized icon among dive watches. With its robust design and unparalleled precision, the Submariner has been a favorite throughout the watch enthusiast community for decades. Opting for a preowned Submariner not only adds a touch of vintage authenticity but also allows you to acquire a piece of horological history at a fraction of the cost of a new one. We call that a win-win!

Rolex Submariner
Rolex Submariner James Bond

2. Omega Speedmaster Professional

Sometimes owning a preowned watch means owning a piece of history. Known as the "Moonwatch," the Omega Speedmaster Professional has left an indelible mark on the watchmaking landscape. Worn during NASA's Apollo missions, this timepiece has a legacy that few watches can match as the first watch worn in space. Introduced in 1957, the iconic Omega Speedmaster reference 2915 was one of the first watches to carry a tachymeter within the bezel itself. A preowned Speedmaster not only captures the spirit of space exploration but also brings a sense of nostalgia and adventure to your wrist.

Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch

3. Patek Philippe Calatrava

Have you been looking for a piece of art that you can wear around your wrist? For those with a taste for elegance, the Patek Philippe Calatrava is the epitome of understated beauty. This dress watch, with its clean lines and simple aesthetics, exudes sophistication. Acquiring a preowned Calatrava allows you to indulge in the craftsmanship of one of the most prestigious watchmakers in the world while making a tasteful statement.

Patek Philippe Calatrava
Patek Philippe Calatrava

4. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

If you are seeking a watch with a bit more masculine energy, read this. Designed by the legendary Gerald Genta, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak revolutionized the concept of luxury sports watches. Its octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet have become iconic features for any wrist to bear. Opting for a preowned Royal Oak not only showcases your appreciation for avant-garde design but also offers a more accessible entry point into stylish watches.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

5. IWC Portugieser

The IWC Portugieser is a testament to the brand's commitment to precision and craftsmanship. With its distinctive dial layout and classic design, this watch effortlessly blends vintage charm with modern sophistication. Choosing a preowned Portugieser allows you to embrace the timeless appeal of this collection while enjoying a reliable timepiece. This watch can go with any outfit or era of style – the only thing missing is you.

IWC Portugieser IW500712 Stainless Steel Silver dial 42.3mm Automatic watch
IWC Portugieser IW500712 Stainless Steel

6. Cartier Tank

You can’t go wrong with a Cartier Tank – a watch that has graced the wrists of style icons and celebrities for over a century. Its rectangular, slender case and signature Roman numerals make it instantly recognizable. This watch is a great pick for those with small wrists or for those who want to keep things simple. Investing in a preowned Cartier Tank not only adds a touch of old-world glamour to your collection but also reflects a commitment to enduring style and sophistication.

Cartier Tank Francaise
Cartier Tank Francaise

7. Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is a horological marvel, featuring a reversible case that protects the dial while offering a blank canvas for personalized engravings. This Art Deco-inspired timepiece has maintained its appeal since the 1930s and continues to be a favorite among those with a taste for uniqueness. Opting for a preowned Reverso allows you to own a piece of design history while enjoying the versatility and elegance of this iconic watch.

Jaeger LeCoultre Quantième
Jaeger LeCoultre Quantième

Buying a Timeless Pre-Owned Watch

Preowned watches open up a realm of possibilities for collectors and casual stylists alike. Whether you seek a dive watch with a rich heritage or a dress watch exuding timeless elegance, the preowned market offers a diverse array of options at a more reasonable price point.

By choosing a preowned timepiece, you not only make a sustainable choice but also embark on a journey through the annals of horological history, adding enduring charm to your wrist. When buying a timeless preowned watch, we suggest doing business with a reputable source that can validate the watch for authenticity. You should also thoroughly inspect the watch yourself for any broken pieces or imperfections.

If you are not sure how to get started with shopping for your preowned watch, reach out to Gray and Sons. Trusted for 40 years for our top-of-the-line used and pre-owned Rolex wristwatches, Gray and Sons is here for you when you want to buy, trade and sell a preowned watch. We have competitive prices and all of our watches come with an exclusive 2-year warranty. Contact Gray and Sons to invest in a preowned watch today.

Gray and Sons is a Proudly Unauthorized Independent Rolex dealer dealing in pre-owned, used and unused Rolex watches, buying, selling and repairing Rolex since 1980.

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