The top luxury watch brands that hold their value are those with some kind of X-Factor. That can be hard to define but think of watches that are harder to find (think Rolex waiting lists that are tougher to make than a SpaceX ticket) or have cultural cache like Drake’s Richard Mille or Justin Bieber’s Audemars Piguet.
1. Rolex
As the most well-known watch brand in the world, Rolex watches are a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts. The company has maintained its reputation as a blue-chip luxury brand since its foundation more than 100 years ago.
Rolex’s reputation as a luxury byword is partly due to its consistent quality, which has been proven year after year. The company also maintains its reputation by refusing to jump on the quartz-watch bandwagon, staying away from online sales, and making judicious choices about new technology.
In addition, some of Rolex’s watches have historical significance, which can increase their value. Additionally, the company produces a limited number of watches yearly, which makes its products more exclusive. This exclusivity drives up the price of some Rolex watches. Generally, steel Rolex watches tend to increase in value more than other models.
2. Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe watches exemplify the art and science of mechanical engineering. The company’s commitment to innovation and artistry transcends the functional to create mechanical marvels that evoke emotions, tell stories, and connect generations. Each tick of a Patek Philippe watch resonates with the legacy of artisans who have devoted their expertise to every detail.
The brand’s commitment to quality has made its watches a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Rare and limited-edition watches frequently fetch staggering prices at auction houses, where spirited bidding wars underscore their significance as sought-after artifacts. And unlike most investments, a Patek Philippe watch can be worn to black-tie events and other special occasions – allowing the wearer to enjoy their investment while also gaining appreciation for the unique craftsmanship and design of the timepiece. This makes it a great option for those who prefer to be hands-on with their investments.
3. IWC Schaffhausen
IWC Schaffhausen is a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts due to its unique value proposition. The brand is known for its quality and craftsmanship, but it also has a strong reputation for innovation and technology.
The brand was founded in 1868 by Florentine Ariosto Jones, an American engineer who traveled to Switzerland to combine American industrial production techniques with Swiss watchmaking prowess. The brand’s early success was aided by the efficiency of US-made machinery and the Rhine River’s ability to provide hydroelectric power for the factory.
IWC is renowned for its technical ingenuity and precision. Its flagship lines include the Portugieser, Ingenieur, and Da Vinci watches. The brand also offers high complications, which are horological features that go beyond telling time. Examples include a chronograph and perpetual calendar. In addition, the company is committed to sustainable production and responsible sourcing practices.
4. Hublot
Hublot is a Swiss watchmaker that produces jaw-dropping men’s timepieces with contemporary materials like rubber and their own unique “Magic Gold” alloy. Their Big Bang and Classic Fusion collections combine a range of exotic metals, glass, ceramics, and other materials with contemporary designs that have earned the brand considerable traction in the luxury market.
Despite their relatively young history (founded in 1980), Hublot has already established themselves as an innovative and modern watchmaker. They’re a frequent collaborator with parallel industries such as art and fashion, working with top artists like Takashi Murakami to produce special edition watches with a contemporary flair.
Hublot is a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts because of their mesmerizing designs and patented materials. Browse the available preowned Hublot watches for sale on our website to learn more about this remarkable Swiss brand.
5. Jaeger-LeCoultre
Jaeger-LeCoultre has been a key player in watchmaking innovation since 1833. Today, the brand has over 1,240 different calibres and over 400 patents to its name. This makes it a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts.
The company also produces its own cases and dials, so each component of a Jaeger-LeCoultre timepiece is designed in-house. This means that the brand can produce watches with complex movements and a range of case sizes and styles, making it suitable for any occasion.
Investing in a luxury watch is an excellent way to increase your wealth, but it’s important to spend within your means. Don’t buy more than you can afford, and always purchase a used watch from a reputable dealer. This will ensure that you get the best possible price when it comes time to sell. In addition, it’s best to buy a watch that you enjoy wearing, rather than just investing in it for the resale value.
6. Omega
As a leading watchmaker, Omega is known for its iconic models that hold their value very well on the luxury market. This is mostly due to the fact that their watches are largely made from precious metals, which naturally drive their resale prices up.
Additionally, their Seamaster series is popular because of its appearances in major films such as the James Bond franchise. Furthermore, the Speedmaster Professional was even flown aboard NASA’s Apollo 11 mission.
Of course, all these facts make Omega a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts. Unlike mass produced or smart watches, Omega’s timeless designs are bound to stay in style for years to come. Just keep in mind that limited editions might not be a good option when investing in a new Omega since these tend to depreciate faster on the secondhand market.
7. Tudor
Tudor was once a brand that was seen as the poor man’s Rolex but with smart product development and clear branding, it has shed that image. Their latest releases like the Tudor Black Bay GMT are heavily inspired by Rolex models from the past and are a hit among collectors and enthusiasts.
The Tudor brand is a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts thanks to their innovative novelties and bold designs that have many admirers. However, the company needs to work on expanding its reach and introducing its message to younger generations, which can be challenging in the luxury industry. The company can use digital marketing to achieve this goal and make itself more visible in the future. Get in touch with our media experts to learn more about how we can help your business grow.
8. Audemars Piguet
The Audemars Piguet brand is known for their complex designs and craftsmanship, making them a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts. Founded in 1875, the company is located in the Vallee de Joux region of Switzerland. The company has a long history of innovation, including their first minute repeater wristwatch in 1892 and the world’s thinnest pocket watch in 1925.
The brand has a strong presence in the collector’s market, thanks to its celebrity endorsements and focus on traditional watchmaking techniques. Additionally, their plain watches often have a higher resale value than customized pieces and offer a more classic appeal.
The Royal Oak collection is the face of the company, and was designed by Gerald Genta in 1972. The design was considered unorthodox at the time, but the watch has gained a cult following since its debut.
9. Cartier
Cartier has what the French call “légitimité.” That means that it’s a watch brand with lots of clout. They have heaps of reputation, a solid history, and plenty of important people who wear their watches.
Whether it’s the sleek, modern Drive de Cartier or the pilot inspired Santos Dumont, Cartier designs are trendsetting and their products are coveted worldwide. They also have high resale values.
The brand has a rich heritage that dates back to 1847, and their founder Louis-Francois Cartier is credited with making wristwatches cool in 1911 when he designed a watch for his friend Alberto Santos-Dumont’s airplane. Today, Cartier is owned by the Swiss Richemont Group and still makes watches with a strong legacy. It’s no wonder that they are considered a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts. The classic Cartier Tank is one of their most iconic watches.
10. Patek Philippe
The brand’s dedication to artisanal craftsmanship and an eye for elegance make it a valuable investment for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Even its simplest watches are meticulously handmade and profusely decorated with logos, watch jewels, patterns and precious materials. It takes up to 9 months for the company to manufacture its smallest model, which makes Patek Philippe an investment worth considering.
The company has a strong focus on tradition and innovation and isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. In fact, they’re renowned for their masterful inventions – including a keyless winding system that revolutionized timekeeping in 1845 and a perpetual calendar mechanism that garnered global acclaim in 1889.
Additionally, the Patek Philippe brand is known for its resale value – and rightfully so. Patek Philippe is one of only three luxury brands (with Rolex and Audemars Piguet) to have a resale value higher than the purchase price, which demonstrates the brand’s true luxury experience.
