Should I trade this for a '95 Air-King?

[vintagewaferthin]

I have this vintage Lemania chronograph, that I am thinking about trading for a 1995 Rolex Airking(black dial). What do you guys think, should I do it? I keep going back and forth with the idea, which is quite frustrating. :bang head:

Central Watch in NYC appraised the watch at $3,500, and the Air-King is priced in that range. My other question is this: is there even a remote possibility they will let me trade this for a Rolex?

[breitlings]

tis a beauty but I would think you would have to add a bit of money. I would just add a Rolex if possible.

[vintagewaferthin]

Originally Posted by breitlings

tis a beauty but I would think you would have to add a bit of money. I would just add a Rolex if possible.

Thats what I was thinking, just wait and add the Rolex without dropping the chrono.

If I did try and trade it, how much money do you think I would have to add? Was hoping for a clean, no money down trade, but that probably won't happen..

[ct.matt]

I have seen Air Kings for as low as 1500 (head only). They seem to be selling for around 2K. I wouldn't do it. Just put some money aside for a few months and buy one if you're after an Air King.

[77T]

The appraisal is usually set for insurance coverage replacement value. Trade-in's require discounting so the shop can make a profit.
So, even if they could get $3500 for yours, the trade value would be 2000-2300.
There is very low demand for your watch in US because few collectors seek it. The Lemania chronograph movement is in several brands, but their own watches seldom with are seen. I've not seen any for sale here in past few years. On Chrono24 similar ones go for much less than that appraisal.
All in, you'll prolly get an offer of 1000-1200 and you will be asked to add 1000-1200 cash to get the Air-King.

[joe100]

A 14000 reference AK is $2500 tops and that's with box and papers

[kromdom]

do it.

[vintagewaferthin]

Originally Posted by 77T

The appraisal is usually set for insurance coverage replacement value. Trade-in's require discounting so the shop can make a profit.
So, even if they could get $3500 for yours, the trade value would be 2000-2300.
There is very low demand for your watch in US because few collectors seek it. The Lemania chronograph movement is in several brands, but their own watches seldom with are seen. I've not seen any for sale here in past few years. On Chrono24 similar ones go for much less than that appraisal.
All in, you'll prolly get an offer of 1000-1200 and you will be asked to add 1000-1200 cash to get the Air-King.

Hadn't really fought about that. Makes sense though.

[vintagewaferthin]

*thought

[joli160]

I would keep the Lemania, beautiful watch