Do Watches Increase in Value?

The simple answer is yes - watches can increase in value over time, with some selling for thousands more than the original price only a few years after purchase. This can be due to the brand’s famous history, the rarity of the watch and the general condition of the piece.  

Which Watch Brands Increase in Value?

As mentioned, not all watches increase in value, such as those found in a jewellery shop or department store. It’s typically only luxury watches from top brands such as Omega, Rolex or TAG Heuer that tend to see an increase in their worth. 

The most common watch brands that increase in value are:

1. Omega
2. Rolex
3. Breitling
4. TAG Heuer

1. Omega

Omega is the timeless watch brand favoured by James Bond with many potential investment pieces - such as the Seamaster & Speedmaster - all at a favourable price compared to many of the competitors.

Omega watches tend to increase in value over time for a number of reasons. 

Firstly, Omega has a reputation for producing limited edition watches, which can be highly coveted by collectors and drive up demand for these rare timepieces. They also have a long history of producing high quality watches that are known for their reliability and precision. As a result, Omega timepieces are often viewed as a symbol of luxury and status, driving up their demand and contributing to their value. 

Omega also has a strong heritage in the world of professional sports and exploration, with many of its watches being used by athletes, pilots, and astronauts. This association with high-performance activities adds to the brand's desirability and can make its watches more attractive to collectors and watch enthusiasts.

OMEGA Seamaster Olympic Timekeeper Limited Edition 39.5mm Master Chronometer

The Omega Seamaster Olympic Games Collection is inspired by the Rings of the Olympic Games and features a stainless steel case and a black, micro-perforated leather strap. The domed black and white dial includes sporty hands, a date window and an easy-to-read minute track, as well as a black pulse reader that enables the wearer to calculate their pulse beats-per-minute.

Inside, the timepiece  is driven by the Master Chronometer calibre 8800. Only 2,032 versions of this model have been created, with the Limited Edition number engraved on the side of the case.

2. Rolex

As one of the most well-known and respected watch brands in the world, it is no surprise that Rolex timepieces are also the most sought after. 

But why are they so desired and what influences their value increase? 

Well, Rolex has a long history of producing high-quality timepieces that are known for their precision, durability, and luxury appeal. Also, their strong brand presence is often associated with success, power, and prestige, so this, combined with the company's commitment to excellence and its long history, has helped to make Rolex one of the most recognizable, desired and valued brands in the world. 

Rolex also has a strong resale market, with many of its watches retaining their value or appreciating over time. This can make Rolex watches a good investment for collectors and enthusiasts looking to purchase a watch that will hold its value or increase in value over time.

There are a wide variety of Rolex watches that hold their value over time such as the Rolex Submariner - a modern classic and one of the most popular models made by the famous Swiss watchmaker. Additional Rolex investment pieces that have consistently retained their value in recent years include the Day-Date, GMT-Master II, Daytona & Sky Dweller. 

ROLEX Explorer 36mm Stainless Steel Automatic Watch

This Explorer carries an iconic design loved by watch enthusiasts all over the world.

With a peerless stainless steel construction, stark black dial and reliable automatic mechanism, this superb timepiece is perfect as either a daily beater or a prominent piece in a larger watch collection.

 

3. Breitling 

Breitling timepieces are famous for their exquisite and innovative design, and due to their strong heritage in the world of aviation, they are known for producing watches that are specifically designed for pilots and aviation professionals.

This connection with high-performance activities, as well as being considered to be incredibly durable and long-lasting, can help them retain their value over time. Some Breitling watches that hold their value well include the Navitimer, Colt & Chronomat. 

4. Tag Heuer

For over 150 years, Tag Heuer have been creating timepieces with performance and precision at the forefront of their brand. With a strong history in the world of sports, they are known for producing quality watches that are specifically designed for athletes and sports enthusiasts. 

If you’re looking to purchase a Tag Heuer watch with the aim of it holding value or appreciating, we recommend you start your search with the classic Monaco and Carrera models. 

TAG HEUER Grand Prix de Monaco Limited Edition 39mm Automatic Chronograph

 This TAG Heuer Monaco is a 1,000 pieces limited-edition, celebrating a partnership with the GPHM (Grand Prix Historique de Monaco). This piece stands out even more from the crowd with an exclusive red sunray dial, the iconic square box from the Monaco collection, and the in-house Heuer 02 movement with a 80 hour power reserve, visible from the sapphire case back.

 

And there you have it! 4 of the most common brands which hold their value best/ increase in value over time. 

That being said, If you are considering purchasing any watch (including those mentioned above) as an investment, make sure you do your research and consider factors such as the watch's condition, rarity, and demand in the market before making a purchase.

We are WatchObsession, your favourite watch strap store since 2010. Shop our luxury watches, watch straps and watch tools and accessories on our website and become #WObsessed. 

Written by Kate, for Watch Obsession.