[header] How to buy antiques [title] Know your terms. [step] Learn the difference between a true antique, near antique, vintage, and collectable before you start searching for antiques. [substeps] True antique is a collectable at least a century old, according to the majority of antique dealers. 
This is based on tradition and the customs laws of various countries, though some societies define it as anytime before 1930. True antiques are considered desirable because of their age, beauty, rarity, condition, or personal connection.