In the world of investment options, one may often overlook the possibility of investing in luxury watches. Yet, in the case of the Rolex GMT-Master II, it has outshone gold and stocks to claim the title of the most lucrative investment of the three.
The appeal of high-end watch brands, including Rolex, lies in their ability to hold substantial value and provide a good return on investment. Consequently, many individuals are turning to new and pre-owned luxury watches as a means of investment.
However, with so many options available, it can take time to determine which watches are worth your time and money. Fear not, for this is a guide to the best luxury investment watches of 2023.
Investment is a serious matter, and we understand the importance of making informed decisions. Thus, we invite you to peruse this article to ensure your investment in luxury watches is fruitful.
Four Best Luxury Investment Watches of 2023
1. Rolex GMT-Master II, Ref. 16710
Rolex has reigned the luxury watch industry for decades, and the GMT-Master II is one of its most coveted models produced from the late 1980s to the mid-2000s. The GMT-Master II came out in 1982 as the successor of the GMT-Master, and the GMT-Master II 16710 arrived in 2016.
The watch features a 40mm stainless steel case, a rotatable 24-hour bezel (Coke, Pepsi & All-Black), Mercedes hands, a GMT hand, a quick-set hour hand, and a date window at 3 o’clock. The presence of luminova markers ensures easy readability in low-light conditions.
Thoughts: Regarding investment watches, Rolex stands out as a brand with significant market value. This value is attributed to various factors such as demand, scarcity, rich history, specifications, innovation, design, and more.
Specifically, the GMT-Master II Ref. 16710 is an excellent long-term investment watch option due to its inherent value. If you are a Rolex owner, you may be curious about determining its resale value. Rest assured, you can expect your Rolex to hold a satisfying worth.
2. IWC Ingenieur SL ‘Jumbo, Ref. 1832
Introduced in 1976, the IWC Ingenieur SL Jumbo secures the third spot in the famous Gerald Genta’s trilogy of sports wristwatches. After designing the Royal Oak octagonal and the Nautilus square, Gerald designed the ‘Ingenieur’ in a round shape.
The IWC Ingenieur SL ‘Jumbo’ Ref. 1832 has a 40mm tonneau-shaped round stainless steel case, an integrated steel bracelet, and a grey/black dial with a pattern resembling the graph papers used by the engineers and a date window at 3 o’clock.
Thoughts: The IWC Ingenieur SL’ Jumbo Ref. 1832 is a unique watch with an illustrious history. While it’s true that the Ingenieur is less popular than its siblings (Royal Oak & Nautilus), it is all set to make a hitting comeback in 2023, with investment watch prices gradually rising.
3. Cartier Santos, Ref. W2SA0006
The Cartier Santos had a dramatic debut in 1904 after Alberto Santos-Dumont asked his friend Louis Cartier (Cartier’s founder) to create a functional pilot’s wristwatch. The Cartier Santos boasts a highly recognizable design with a 39.8mm stainless steel case, a symmetrical square bezel of 18ct yellow gold, and exposed screws.
The watch includes a clean white dial with black Roman numerals, a rail-track scale, blued sword-shaped hands, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a steel bracelet with yellow-gold exposed screws.
Thoughts: The story and legacy of Cartier ensure that the watches hold a substantial value in the market. The Cartier Santos is an in-demand timepiece; its price will likely increase, making it an investment watch to consider.
4. Patek Philippe Chronograph, Ref. 5172G
Fortunately, the prices of Patek Philippe watches are finally coming down, and in 2023, they seem like a lucrative investment option. Patek Philippe is widely popular with buyers for their unconventional design, and the Ref. 5172G is greatly celebrated among watch enthusiasts, for it is firmly rooted in the past with a modern feel.
The watch features a 41mm case made of 18ct white gold and is equipped with circular guilloched pushers. The blue dial is decorated with contrasting white gold applied Arabic numerals and hands.
The sapphire crystal case back gives a great view of the stunning movement inside, which looks just as fascinating as the front of the watch. And finally, the watch is delivered on a matching blue leather strap.
Thoughts: Prices for the Patek Ref. 5172G chronograph has risen gradually over the years, with it the buyers’ demand. So you can expect the watch to secure a good value when you sell them.
Conduct Your Research
Investing in luxury watches can be lucrative, but it comes with risks. As with any investment, it’s essential to do your due diligence and conduct thorough research before making any decisions. First and foremost, it’s crucial to establish your investment watch goals and budget.
Are you looking to invest in a single high-value timepiece or build a collection? What is your budget, and how much risk will you take? Once you have a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you can start researching specific watch brands and models.
One crucial factor to consider is brand reputation. Luxury watch brands with a long and prestigious history, such as Rolex and Patek Philippe, tend to hold their value well and may even appreciate over time. Research the brand’s history, the materials and craftsmanship used in their watches, and any notable collaborations or limited edition releases.
It’s also important to monitor current market trends and demand. Are certain brands or models experiencing a surge in popularity or demand? What factors are driving this trend, and is it likely to continue? Check out reputable online marketplaces and auction houses for the current prices and trends of investment watches.
Another critical consideration is the condition of the watch. Is it in good condition, damaged, worn, or torn? This can significantly impact the watch’s value and future resale potential. If buying a pre-owned watch, ask for detailed photos and a thorough description of imperfections.
Finally, it’s essential to consider the authenticity of the watch. Unfortunately, counterfeit luxury watches are a common problem, so purchasing your investment watch from a reputable dealer or seller is vital. Look for authentication certificates and ask for references or reviews from previous customers.
Ensuring Authenticity When Buying Luxury Watches
As you navigate the labyrinthine world of luxury watches, knowing where to turn for the real deal is essential. Counterfeit watches are rampant and often indistinguishable from the real thing, so you must be discerning when purchasing. Firstly, consider going straight to the source.
Many luxury watch brands have their boutiques and authorized dealers, which means you can be confident you’re getting the real deal. These boutiques and dealerships have a direct relationship with the brands they carry and are often given training and support to help them identify fakes. While you might pay a premium for buying from an authorized dealer, it’s worth knowing that you’re getting a genuine investment watch.
If you’d instead shop online, make sure you’re buying from a reputable source. Many online retailers specialize in luxury watches and have a record of providing authentic pieces. Look for retailers with a physical storefront and an online presence, as this suggests they have a genuine commitment to customer service and will stand behind their products.
Read customer reviews and ask for referrals from trusted friends or watch enthusiasts. When looking at a potential investment watch purchase, there are a few things to look for to ensure that the watch is authentic. Start by examining the packaging and paperwork. Luxury watches usually come in high-quality boxes and are accompanied by paperwork that includes a certificate of authenticity.
Ensure the packaging and paperwork match the brand and model of the watch. Next, examine the watch itself. Luxury watches are often handmade so imperfections will be unique to each piece. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as scratches or scuffs, as these can indicate that the watch has been worn before.
Check the logo and serial number to make sure they match the brand and model of the watch. Finally, if unsure, take the watch to an authorized dealer or watchmaker for inspection. They can examine the watch in detail and give you an expert opinion on its authenticity.
Risks & Drawbacks of Investing in Luxury Watches
Luxury watches are undoubtedly one of the most sought-after investments for the discerning collector. However, it is essential to note that, like any investment, there are potential risks and drawbacks to consider before committing to a purchase.
One such risk is the possibility of buying a counterfeit or fake luxury watch, which can be challenging to detect without proper expertise. Additionally, there is the potential for depreciation over time, as market trends and demand for specific brands and models can shift unpredictably.
Furthermore, investing in luxury watches requires a significant upfront cost, which may yield little returns in the short term, making it a long-term investment option for those with patience and a love for the craft.
While luxury watches can hold their value well and provide a sense of prestige and personal enjoyment, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and drawbacks before making a substantial investment.
Final Words
Luxury timepieces have proven to be an astute investment option, with esteemed brands like Rolex, IWC, Cartier, and Patek Philippe boasting significant worth and offering a handsome return on investment. These watches symbolize status and a prudent investment choice that can appreciate over time.
Among the finest luxury investment watches of 2023 are the Rolex GMT-Master II, IWC Ingenieur SL ‘Jumbo,’ Cartier Santos, and Patek Philippe Chronograph Ref. 5172G. Each of these horological gems features a distinctive design, a rich heritage, and a considerable market value.
Investing in luxury watches is a serious pursuit that demands due diligence. It is critical to conduct thorough research and comprehend the value of these timepieces before investing. Venturing into luxury investment watches can be lucrative with proper research and good fortune.
