Not every luxury watch is equally valuable in terms of retaining value. Brands rise and fall, and knowing where the impact is central is everything.
Let’s demystify it step by step so that you’re able to make smarter decisions - and perhaps score a stunning piece in the process.
Top Brands for Investment
Now let’s focus in on the heavy hitters. However, these brands have a wide-ranging track record for holding, and frequently growing, their value. Each has its own special strengths and deserves to be considered.
Rolex
Why Rolex?
Rolex is virtually synonymous with luxury watches - for good reason. The brand is at the top of both retail and secondary markets. Known for its quality, precision and timelessness, it’s a no-brainer for investors.
Key Models to Watch
Submariner: A classic diver's watch that is eternally stylish. It’s durable, adaptable, and always sells.
Daytona: Known for its chronograph function and celebrity cameos (hello, Paul Newman!, the Daytona is an icon.
GMT-Master II: Ideal for travel, with its dual-time zone functionality. The version with "Pepsi" bezel is particularly sought after.

Shop Chronograph Watches
Price Trends
It is 2025, and Rolex prices keep on rising. Gold versions are up as much as 14%, while stainless steel models are up about 3%. So, for instance, the white gold Daytona, for example, is currently listed at around $38,100 instead of $35,000. Not a bad wait for a couple of years.
Bottom Line
If you want something foolproof, you can’t go wrong with Rolex. It’s like purchasing real estate in prime real estate - it just about always pays dividends.
Patek Philippe
Why Patek Philippe?
Just think of Patek Philippe as the Rolls-Royce of watches. These pieces are exclusive with limited production runs and handcrafted quality. Collectors covet them and the resale prices are sky-high.
Key Models to Watch
Nautilus: This watch blends elegance with sportiness and is a luxury sports watch. Its integrated bracelet design is something anyone can instantly recognize.
Calatrava: Known for its minimalist aesthetic, the Calatrava embodies understated luxury at its finest.

Shop Automatic Watches
Price Trends
Used Patek Philippe watches have gone up approximately 33.59% over the past five years. That’s a growth that dwarfs traditional investments.
Bottom Line
Patek Philippe isn’t inexpensive, but if you’re wirding down to long-term value, it’s worth every penny.
Audemars Piguet
Why Audemars Piguet?
Everything about Audemars Piguet focuses on newness and bold design. The brand’s dedication to surmounting new heights has fostered a devoted fan base - and inflated resale prices.
Key Model to Watch
Royal Oak: The most iconic luxury sports watch is probably the Royal Oak with its octagonal bezel and visible screws. It’s audacious, unique and immensely collectible.

Shop Leather Band Watches
Price Trends
Second-hand Audemars Piguet has increased by around 64.85% over five years. Others, such as the Royal Oak Offshore, have appreciated twofold in value.
Bottom Line
If you know you want a statement piece with investment quality, AP is your best bet.
Cartier
Why Cartier?
While it’s not a brand that receives as much hype as Rolex or Patek Philippe, Cartier is quietly establishing a prominent presence on the secondary market. Its timeless designs are appealing to both sexes, expanding its target market.
Key Models to Watch
Tank: The Tank is a design masterpiece, and it was introduced in 1917. With its rectangular case and clean lines, it’s a perennial favorite.
Santos: This pixie of a watch, named after aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, combines functionality with flair.

Shop Casual Watches
Price Trends
Cartier pre-owned watches perform at about +39.06% growth over a five-year period. Classic models such as the Tank still prove especially resilient.
Bottom Line
Cartier balances refinement and affordability compared to other luxury brands. For those new to watch investing, start here.
Omega
Why Omega?
Omega manages to bridge the gap between prestige and affordability. Although it doesn’t fetch the same premiums as Rolex or Patek Philippe, it still punches its weight where investment is concerned.
Key Models to Watch
Speedmaster Professional (“Moonwatch”): The first watch worn on the moon has a legendary status.
Seamaster: Made like a tank and just as fashionable, the Seamaster is a classic kept alive by James Bond.
Price Trends
Omega watches of six months or more showed five-year appreciation of around 27.81%. Limited editions (such as those connected to Bond films) tend to do even better.
Bottom Line
Omega is ideal for collectors seeking iconics without the blow to the bank.
Richard Mille
Why Richard Mille?
A Richard Mille watch is as exclusive the watch gets. They cater to ultra-high-net-worth individuals, with jaw-dropping designs and cutting-edge materials. On the secondary market, such timepieces can change hands for many times their list prices.
Key Insight
It’s more difficult to find data on price trends for Richard Mille, as it produces far fewer watches. But anecdotal evidence points to these watches consistently exceeding expectations.
Bottom Line
If you’re ready to drop serious coin, Richard Mille has unrivaled bragging rights - and possibly huge returns.
Where to Begin When It Comes to Watch Investing
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry. So here’s a succinct roadmap to follow:
1. Create a Budget - Figure out how much you’d like to spend. Again, entry-level luxury watches begin at about $5,000, and prices for the higher-end can reach into the hundreds of thousands.
2. Research - Study the brands, read about the models, and note any market trends There are some good resources on websites like Chrono24 and Hodinkee.
3. Purchase from Authorized Sellers - Although authorized dealers and reputable resellers differ, authenticity is a must with either option.
4. Diversify Your Portfolio - Pair classic models with under-the-radar gems. Balance risk and reward.
5. Be Patient - Luxury timepieces are like fine wine; they get better with time. Nevermind and hold on to them for a few years to get the biggest gains.
Final Thoughts
Investing in luxury
watches is not for everyone. It takes time, investigation, and careful observation.
But if you do it right, it can pay off hugely - and leave you with something beautiful to wear in the meantime.