Best Watches to Collect for Investment
It’s no secret that watches are a pricey purchase. But the good news is that they can in fact, be a great investment. Like having stocks and shares or a property under your belt, in the future, some watches can yield you greater returns than what you initially paid for them. This all comes down to resale value. Certain watches become more valuable over time. So, if you were to sell one in the future, you can expect to get your money back, and then some.
Of course, not everyone buys a watch to resell it. Some people like to collect timepieces. Every watch has its own unique characteristics, features and story and due to this, one simply isn’t good enough for every outfit, occasion or event!
But even in collections, it’s nice to know your purchases are worth something and that over time, this will only increase.
With all this in mind, here are some of the best watches to collect or invest in…
Rolex Daytona
The first on our list is the Rolex Daytona. Any watch enthusiast must know the famous world record-holding story about this model of watch.
Back in 2017, a Rolex Daytona that was once owned by Paul Newman was sold at auction for a staggering $17.7m, which would have trumped the amount his wife paid for it when she bought it as a gift for the actor.
Of course, this particular watch was only afforded this value due its hollywood association, however, watch connoisseurs around the world would argue that all watches in the renown collection have benefited.
Today, it’s normal to see used models of the type of watch going for more than their original price.
Omega Seamaster Professional Diver 300
Another watch that has earned a spot on this list due to its big screen connection is the Omega Seamaster Professional Diver 300. This is the watch worn by James Bond in every movie since 1995’s Goldeneye.
By leveraging the image of James Bond, this model of watch has been able to improve its own, and today, enjoys a rich association to the character, which makes it desirable for collectors and fans of the film.
No matter what happens to the partnership in the future, these films have made a permanent stamp on popular culture, and consequently, the association and watch value will remain.
As evidence of the popularity of the watch, it is a regular feature on our best sellers list!
Furthermore, Omega have released a limited edition version of the watch to mark the 50th anniversary of the James Bond films. With fewer quantities available, these specific models are likely to hold their value as desirability will remain high. Proof of this, for now, used models of the watch are selling for around £7,000, which is the same amount as new.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is another great investment piece. This particular model is known as the “first watch on the moon”, which is where a lot of its value comes from.
Its rich history and heritage make it a key collectors piece that will always be desirable and sought after. For these reasons, the model of watch has experienced no major depreciations in value.
In fact, vintage models of the watch have been known to fetch above asking price at auction. For example, a 1959 edition has recently been sold for $40,000 while a gold model from the 1969 for $60,000.
Patek Philippe Nautilus
The Nautilus is one of the most sought after luxury sports watches in the world, making it a sensible investment option.
All Patek models are known to appreciate in value due to their desirable yet exclusive reputation. The brand currently holds the world record for most expensive watch ever auctioned, beating the benchmark set by Paul Newmans’s Rolx Daytona.
The one of Patek Philippe, named The Grandmaster Chime, fetched an incredible $31m in 2019.
While this particular model isn’t quite up to that value, it is one that regularly sends luxury collectors into a frenzy. In fact, for some specific versions of the Nautilus, retailers are recording a 10 year waiting list!
The original retail price for a new watch is around $30,000, whereas at resale, sellers could be looking to make between $60,000 - $70,000.
So, if you are able to get your hands on a piece, you’ll be in for a prosperous future!
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
Another well-known watch amongst investors and collectors is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. These watches are renowned for holding long term value, thanks to their high quality, beautiful craftsmanship and consequently, desirability.
Ironically, the original 1972 model was an attempt for the brand to pull itself out of the Great Depression. The large amounts buyers are willing to pay for such models certainly did just that, and then some.
The popularity and significance of these timepieces means it is unlikely they will depreciate in value over time. Vintage and special edition models have been known to go for six figure sums on some occasions.
So, there you have it. All you need to know about the best watches to invest in.
Whether you’re looking to grow your collection or increase your assets for greater future returns, you’re guaranteed to find a suitable timepiece in our selection. Discover luxury watches at Wallace Allan today.
