Best Watches to Invest In: Our Top 5 Picks
So you’re thinking about investing in luxury watches? That’s a savvy decision.
Luxury watches provide a full suite of benefits for investors, offering high potential returns and excellent diversification capabilities.
Indeed, watches are more than just a timeless accessory. They can be a valuable asset in your investment portfolio. Of course, you can’t just invest in any timepiece. Some brands and models show much greater potential for returns. Which ones?
That’s what we set out to find out. Read on and explore the best watches for investment.
|
⌚In a hurry? Here’s a quick look into our top picks for the best watches to invest in: #1 Rolex Daytona. An iconic timepiece known for its strong resale value and timeless appeal. Its limited availability and high demand make it a solid investment. #2 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Famous for its distinctive design and luxury status, the Royal Oak continues to appreciate in value. Its unique octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet are highly sought after by collectors. #3 Rolex Submariner. A classic dive watch that has consistently held its value over the years. Its enduring popularity and robust build make it a reliable investment piece. #4 Patek Philippe Nautilus. One of the most coveted watches in the world, with a strong track record of price appreciation. Its rarity and prestige make it a top investment choice. #5 Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch. Famous for its association with the Apollo moon missions, Speedster Moonwatch is a historically significant and collectible watch. It offers a combination of heritage and value appreciation. |
How to find the best watches for investment
When it comes to finding the right watch for your investment, there are several key points to keep in mind:
-
Focus on top brands. The best way to start is to focus on luxury brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Omega, known for their high resale value. Look for limited editions and iconic models such as the Rolex Submariner or Omega Speedmaster, as they tend to appreciate over time.
-
Understand market trends. Stay informed about market trends, including the growing popularity of vintage watches and specific modern styles or complications. A good practice is to follow auction results from houses like Christie’s and Sotheby’s. These can give insights into which watches are currently in demand.
-
Prioritise rarity & condition. Rarity and condition are crucial for value appreciation. Watches with low production numbers or unique features are often more valuable. Additionally, always ensure the watch is in excellent condition, with original parts and minimal wear.
-
Consult experts & engage with the community. Engage with reputable dealers, collectors, and online communities to gain insights into investment opportunities. These experts can provide valuable advice and help you avoid common pitfalls.
-
Always verify the authenticity. When buying from the secondary market, always check for authenticity by ensuring the watch comes with original documentation, including a box, papers, and certificates. Verify the service history if possible, as regular maintenance by authorised centres can enhance value.
So yes, although not as complex as some other alternative investments, like art, for instance, investing in watches still requires some due diligence when searching for the best timepieces to buy. And that leads us to the main part of our guide…
Best watches to buy for investment in 2024
The luxury watch market is full of investment-worthy timepieces. When getting started, however, the best way is to focus on the most famous brands and models, such as:
#1 Rolex Daytona
The Rolex Daytona is a legendary watch. Celebrated for its association with motorsport and its sleek, timeless design, the Daytona has consistently been one of the most sought-after watches in the world.
Its scarcity only adds to its allure, making it a prime candidate for investment, offering enduring appeal and always high market demand. It’s a must-have for any watch investor who wants to build a solid portfolio.
Key information for investors:
-
Price range: $6,000 - $240,000
-
Popular model: Rolex Daytona 126500
#2 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is often considered a masterpiece in the world of luxury watches. With its groundbreaking design, featuring the iconic octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet, the Royal Oak revolutionised luxury sports watches.
Its status as a symbol of elegance and innovation has kept it in high demand among collectors. In 2024, the Royal Oak remains a top pick for those looking to invest in a watch that blends heritage with modernity, offering both aesthetic and financial rewards.
Key information for investors:
-
Price range: $7,000 – $340,000
-
Popular model: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 26331ST
#3 Rolex Submariner
Another Rolex on our list is the famous Submariner. Originally designed as a tool watch for divers, the Submariner has transcended its utilitarian roots to become a true icon of style and precision.
Its robust construction and timeless design ensure it never goes out of fashion, while its historical significance adds to its investment potential. For anyone looking to invest in a watch that combines reliability with a track record of value appreciation, the Submariner is a must-have.
Key information for investors:
-
Price range: $8,000 - $131,000
-
Popular model: Rolex Submariner 124060
#4 Patek Philippe Nautilus
When it comes to luxury watches, the Patek Philippe Nautilus stands in a league of its own. Known for its distinctive porthole-inspired design and exceptional craftsmanship, the Nautilus is one of the most coveted watches in the world.
Its rarity and the prestige of the Patek Philippe brand make it a powerful investment piece. As demand continues to outstrip supply, the value of the Nautilus only seems to climb, making it a stellar addition to any serious collector's portfolio.
Key information for investors:
-
Price range: $28,000 - $573,000
-
Popular model: Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A
#5 Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch isn’t just a timepiece; it’s a piece of history. Famously worn by astronauts during the Apollo moon missions, the Speedmaster has earned its place as a symbol of exploration and human achievement.
Its storied past, combined with its timeless design, makes it a highly collectible watch with enduring appeal. For investors, the Speedmaster Moonwatch offers a unique blend of heritage, style, and potential for value growth, making it an exceptional choice for this year and beyond.
Key information for investors:
-
Price range: $600 - $37,000
-
Popular model: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch 310.30.42.50.01.002
Wrapping Up
And that would be it! These are some of the best watch models to help you get into the watch investing game and maximise your chances of harvesting some nice returns.
The problem here, however, is that finding the right watch is one thing. Another is buying it, which, as you can see from the provided price ranges, isn’t the cheapest feat. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to get around the price barrier and still leverage the potential benefits of watch investments. Its name? Splint Invest.
By joining our watch investment fund, you’ll be able to start your watch investing journey for as low as €50! Even better, there’s no need to physically store and maintain your watch. You don’t even have to bother researching and buying your timepieces. That’s on us.
So, what are you waiting for? Get into the watch investing game with Splint Invest. Create your free account today and explore the endless possibilities of alternative investments!
References
