Luxury Watches to Invest in 2025

Little by little, what was once just a minority hobby began to be considered with the same seriousness as any other investment. The surprising returns began to attract more money and, in a short time, investing in luxury watches is becoming a global trend.
This trend has experienced enormous growth in recent years, with the appearance of countless websites dedicated to watches, specialized magazines, and YouTube channels.
Let’s get the hang of how to enter the horology world to diversify your investments and what brands to pay attention to.
Best High-End Watches to Consider in 2025
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is a top-shelf iconic watch that has won the hearts of many collectors. It was launched in 1972 and has been one of the most recognizable watches ever since. The unique construction and design of the Royal Oak have made it a highly sought-after watch with significant value. While the original bracelet is iconic, many collectors also seek Audemars Piguet rubber bands and leather straps to customize their timepiece’s look.
Rolex Daytona
The Rolex Daytona is a timeless classic and is one of the most sought-after watches by collectors. The gear features the chronograph complication and three sub-dials to serve as its best when on the wearer’s wrist. Since its launch in 1963, the Daytona has been the watch of choice for many racing drivers and motorsports enthusiasts. The value of the Daytona has steadily increased over the years and is expected to continue to rise.
Patek Philippe Nautilus
The Patek Philippe Nautilus is another highly-rated high-end watch. It was released in 1976 and has been a hit ever since. The unique design of the Nautilus has made it one of the most iconic watches of all time. The demand for the Nautilus is high, and prices keep going up.
Vacheron Constantin Overseas
The Vacheron Constantin Overseas is one of the most sophisticated watches on the market. The Swiss luxury brand is known for its precision and elegant design. The Overseas is a very versatile watch and is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-end timepiece that can be worn on any occasion.
Breguet Classique
The Breguet Classique is a highly respected watch in the collector community. It is known for its elegant and refined design and for its high quality and precision. The value of the Classique has risen solidly in recent years and is expected to continue to rise.
Factors That Influence The Value Of A Watch
Brand: Some watch brands are known for their craftsmanship, precision, and heritage, which gives them a higher brand value. Brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin are considered particularly valued by collectors.
Model: Within a brand, some models are more sought after than others. Iconic models on the like of the Rolex Daytona, the Patek Philippe Nautilus, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, and the Vacheron Constantin Overseas, tend to appreciate over time due to their popularity and constant demand.
Condition of the watch: A timepiece in top-notch condition, with its original box and all papers, will always be valued more than one that is damaged or has been modified. Regular maintenance as well as attention to detail are essential to ensure a watch remains in its best possible condition.
Rarity: Watches produced in limited runs or those that were manufactured over a short period of time tend to have a higher value. For example, limited edition watches, or vintage models that are no longer in production can be extremely valuable.
Sentimental value: A watch with sentimental value, such as an heirloom watch or a watch with special meaning, can be invaluable to its owner. Even if it doesn’t have a high market value, its sentimental value makes it unique and cherished.
What Are The Main Criteria For Determining The Value Of A Luxury Watch For Collectors?
The value of a luxury watch for collectors depends on several factors:
Make and model: More prestigious brands and models with history or unique features tend to have a higher value.
Condition: A watch in perfect condition, with no signs of wear, is more valuable than one with scratches or damage.
Rarity: Limited edition or limited production watches have a higher value than more common models.
Accessories: The presence of the original box, warranty papers, and other accessories increases the value of the watch.
History: A watch with a special history, such as one that belonged to a notable figure, will have greater value.
In general, a luxury watch with a combination of these factors, especially brand, condition, and rarity, will have a higher value.
Why Invest in Luxury Watches?
Investing in luxury watches is seen as an alternative to protect assets in times of economic uncertainty. The current global instability has led investors to seek assets that offer solid returns in times of uncertainty. Luxury watches, with their limited supply and high demand, stand out for their exclusivity and value.
According to Fortune Business Insights, the luxury watch market will be worth $48.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $134.53 billion by 2032 at a compound annual growth rate of 12.17%.
When investing in luxury watches, it is crucial to consider rarity, condition, and market trends. Brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet are highly valued for their limited editions, which maintain their impeccable condition and follow the latest trends.
The initial investment range for luxury watches is typically between $5,000 and $20,000 per piece, allowing for models from brands known for their value retention. Higher-end investments can exceed $50,000, especially for rare or limited-edition pieces. To maximize returns, the typical investment horizon is between 5 and 10 years, allowing for market trends to favor the appreciation of the watches.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-end watch can be an exciting and profitable investment, but it is important to understand that there are risks associated with it. The watches mentioned above are some of the best high-end watches to invest in. When considering any investment, do your research and fully understand the market and the risks involved.