Have you ever come across an old leather jacket, a classic car, or a wooden table that clearly has a story — but you weren’t sure whether it was vintage or antique? You’re not alone. Most people use both words… but they don’t mean the same thing. And understanding the difference can help you spot hidden treasures and bid smarter in any auction.
Even though most of the items in our auctions are modern, there’s always that unexpected vintage piece or charming antique waiting to be found. Let’s break it all down.
What Does “Vintage” Mean?
Merriam-Webster defines vintage as something high-quality from the past or characteristic of its era. In practical terms: Vintage items are 50–100 years old. Examples:
- A real leather jacket from the 1940s
- A watch from the 1970s
- A mid-century lamp
Vintage items still feel usable, wearable, collectible — with tons of character. They’re old… but in the cool, “I’ve lived a life” way.
What Makes Something an Antique?
Dictionary.com describes antique as something from the past, not modern, and generally 100+ years old. Antique = 100 years old or older. These items usually carry:
- Higher craftsmanship
- Greater historical significance
- More delicate materials
- Higher collector value
Think of Victorian jewelry, 19th-century furniture, or early 1900s automobiles. These aren’t just objects — they’re pieces of history.
The Key Differences (With Clear Examples)
Classic Cars
- Antique car: 50+ years old
- Classic / Vintage car: 25–50 years old
The Antique Automobile Club of America and DMV guidelines also consider these distinctions for registration and license plates. Quick way to find out: Take the current year and subtract the car’s manufacturing year.
Furniture
- Vintage: 50–100 years
- Antique: 100+ years
- Retro (a subcategory of vintage): 1950s–1980s
Examples:
- A 1970s dining chair → Retro
- A 1960s cabinet → Vintage
- A 1910 wardrobe → Antique
Ready to Discover Your Next Vintage or Antique Treasure?
Even though most of our auction items are modern, every auction hides a few vintage gems or true antiques — the kind of finds collectors love to brag about. Browse our current auctions and see what unique pieces are waiting for you.
