While luxury watches are a popular status symbol, the luxury watch market is one few people truly understand. It can be difficult to gauge the quality of a watch or a given brand when you know little about them. Even worse is the sheer number of knockoffs and fakes. On the other hand, a good luxury watch can last a lifetime or even be passed on as an heirloom. If you were thinking of entering the luxury watch market either for fashion, as a collector, or investor, here are 6 things you should be looking for.
The Mechanics
True luxury watches are mechanical watches, not quartz watches that run on a battery. The best luxury watches will last for centuries, which us why they could be considered potential heirlooms.
They are powered by a complex system of springs and cogs. These are typically assembled by hand by a master craftsman. The watch will need to be adjusted and repaired by such a craftsman, too. Yet it will last for years since parts can be replaced as necessary. Look for watches that have passed chronometry tests. This will prove the accuracy of their movement.
The Materials
Luxury watches are often found in stainless steel or gold, though metals like titanium have become popular of late. Titanium is lightweight and hypoallergenic, which is why it makes for such great watches. All of these metals will show minor wear and tear eventually, but will last a long time.
A few luxury watch companies are using ceramic since it is scratch resistant. You can also opt for a leather watchband, though it will need to be replaced periodically. True luxury watches will use premium leathers, whether it is calfskin or stingray.
The Brand
In real estate, they say the most important thing is the location. In luxury watches, the most important thing is arguably the brand. Choose one with provenance, a history, and reputation for quality. Swiss watchmakers have had this reputation for centuries and are usually a great bet and a winner with collectors.
On the other hand, you should always think twice about buying from a startup brand that swears it is a rival to the top brand names. Be very careful when you buy a luxury watch, especially if the price is lower than you’d expect. Protect yourself by buying from the brand’s boutique or an authorised distributor.
The Target Market
Watches are marketed for different people, and some were made for specific uses. Many of the classic watches we see today were actually made for racers. This is why tachometers have become synonymous with sports watches, for instance.
This will make a big difference in the aftermarket for the watch. Watches that are more niche might get attention from a specific type of buyer and guarantee that there will be an aftermarket for it.
You could also find bargains if you’re savvy, and turn a handsome profit if you play your cards right. For example, you could get the Rolex Milgauss watch loved by scientists at stores like CHRONEXT and get a great deal. You can pick based on condition, whether it’s pristine, slightly worn, or vintage. All of their pieces come with a warranty and a certificate of authenticity.
Knowing who the watch was made for will allow you to find rare pieces while making sure that you’ll be able to liquidate them if you ever wish to do so.
The Fit
Whatever you do, always make sure that you pick a watch with a band that fits your wrist. The watch’s face shouldn’t be too large for your arm either. Nor should the watch face be so small that it is difficult to read. Avoid watches that are so heavy that they’re uncomfortable to wear. Make sure the contours of the watch are comfortable. Style doesn’t matter if the case is cutting into your skin.
Finding a watch that fits your style can be challenging, however. So, you’ll want to choose a watch with a colour palette that reflects your preferred wardrobe. Whether that’s a shiny platinum watch or solid stainless-steel case depends on you.
The Built-In Features
All watches will tell you what time it is, but some watch owners want more. For example, it might also contain a perpetual calendar or report the phase of the moon. It may serve as a stopwatch or tell you what time it is in another corner of the world. Choose a watch that has features you’ll use and that others will appreciate. Depending on your lifestyle, being water-resistant is a point in favour of a given luxury watch.
Unlike many luxury items, luxury watches serve a practical purpose. The best watches are so good that your grandchildren will appreciate them as much as you do, so make sure you choose wisely.