Glossary · Collecting
Patina
Surface change accumulated through age, handling and environmental exposure.
Explanation
Patina is the surface change an object acquires with age: mellowed gilding, toned silver, faded lume, darkened radium paint. Collectors increasingly value honest patina over refinished surfaces, because it is evidence of age and history that cannot be faked convincingly. Conservation aims to preserve patina while stabilising active deterioration such as rust.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Patina”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Wristwatch
Habring 2 X Massena Lab Erwin "Massena Lab"
“Case displays light natural patina across the bronze surface”
Wristwatch
Vintage Rodania 9ct Gold Wristwatch
“Cream dial exhibits scattered surface patina and age-related mottling.”
Clock
Vincenti & Cie French mantel clock
“Surfaces exhibit visible patina, rubbing, and tarnish consistent with age.”
Pocket watch
International Watch Co. White Gold Openface Pocket Watch
“Hours are marked by applied Breguet-style Arabic numerals displaying visible surface patina.”
Wristwatch
Croton Nivada Grenchen Aquamatic Caliber ETA 1256 Wristwatch
“This vintage Croton Nivada Grenchen Aquamatic wristwatch is dated by the seller to the 1950s. The source reports that it is powered by a 17-jewel Swiss automatic movement, calib…”
Pocket watch
Sir John Bennett Ltd Full Hunter Gold Pocket Watch
“Dark patina or tarnishing visible along the bottom exterior edge of the case near the hinge.”