An increasing number of discerning watch collectors are now purchasing a luxury timepiece as a financial investment. However, many are finding it rather tricky to pick one out that has any serious earning potential. Clearly there are many factors at play here and we always suggest to undertake further research to understand the market value and trends of a watch.
There is also another question to ask yourself, do you actually like the look and feel of the watch? Making a decision based on market value alone surely defeats the purpose of owning a luxury watch in the first place. Don’t forget that these pieces are there to be enjoyed!
Three pillars of value
To help us find out more we asked the experts at Chronoexpert.com for their top five luxury watch buys that have the best possible chance of rising in value over time. The company says brand heritage and recognition, the exclusivity and availability of the collectiom and demand in the market for the watch are the key factors behind their top five suggestions.
1. Rolex Submariner
One of the most iconic diver’s watches ever made, the Rolex Submariner is the ultimate luxury watch investment. Rolex is by far the most recognisable name in luxury watch brands, and Submariner is the sought-after model that can be worn every day and complement every style. Watch collectors, sports stars, and Hollywood heavy-hitters alike are in love with the Rolex Submariner. Of course, everyone’s favorite spy 007 James Bond himself wore the big crown version of model 6538 in the film Dr. No.
2. Tudor Black Bay
Rolex’s more-affordable counterpart, Tudor released the Heritage Black Bay collection of diver’s watches to bring luxury to the mass market. With in-house movements and classic styling, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay line makes a solid investment-quality luxury watch due to the increasing popularity of the brand around the world. When choosing a specific watch, stick to the classic styles that have stood the test of time.
3. Omega Seamaster
The Omega Seamaster collection of dive watches are very popular with celebrities, heads of state, and even royalty. Associated with a certain famous spy doesn’t hurt the brand appeal either, with Pierce Brosnan’s 007 sporting the watch in the movie GoldenEye in 1995. Keep an eye out for the 40th-anniversary release of the Omega Seamaster 300 M, a special edition that collectors love to see.
4. Breitling Navitimer
Beloved for 65 years, Breitling Navitimer is a chronograph legend with deep ties to aviation heritage. In 1961, Mercury astronaut Scott Carpenter approached Breitling with the idea of a 24-hour dial instead of the usual 12-hour installed on the watch. This love affair between Breitling Navitimer and the aerospace and aviation industry continues, and the collector’s market is active for the collection as well.
5. TAG Heuer Carrera
This may be a slightly odd suggestion, but there are a number of great reasons for choosing TAG Heuer’s Carrera collection as a luxury watch buy that will increase in value over time. The TAG Heuer Carrera is a racing-inspired line that has been updated by the brand every decade since 1963. Such a key part of the TAG Heuer range is not going anywhere, and collectors and enthusiasts are always on the lookout for a great Carrera as a sporty yet fashionable choice.
Looking for some final tips for investing in luxury watches? “Remember that your luxury watch buy has risks and rewards,” explained a watch expert from Chronoexpert.com. “Gains in value will most likely be small, so choose a watch that you want to wear as well as invest in; that way you will still own something beautiful and useful even if the market is not in your favour.”
They added: “Choose carefully and research upcoming trends before you buy, and you just may find yourself with a watch that has appreciated in value as an investment.”
Chronoexpert.com has one of the largest selections of pre-owned luxury watches across the world, with an expert team ready to assist. Check out their reviews from happy customers on Trust Pilot who have benefited from their expertise and friendly approach.
