Investing in Watches: Which Brands Appreciate in Value?
Luxury watches are more than just stylish accessories—they can also be solid investment assets. While some watches depreciate the moment they leave the store, others appreciate significantly over time. If you’re looking to invest in timepieces that hold or increase in value, here’s a guide to the best watch brands for long-term gains.
1. Rolex – The King of Resale Value
Rolex dominates the secondary market and is one of the safest investments in the watch world. Models like the Submariner, Daytona, and GMT-Master II consistently appreciate due to limited production and high demand.
Why Rolex Holds Value:
✔ Timeless designs and brand prestige
✔ Limited supply and long waitlists
✔ High collector interest and resale demand
💎 Related Read: How Much is a Rolex Worth?
2. Patek Philippe – The Collector’s Dream
Patek Philippe watches, especially the Nautilus and Grand Complications series, are among the most sought-after luxury timepieces. Their hand-crafted, low-production models make them valuable assets that continue to rise in worth.
Notable Models for Investment:
✔ Patek Philippe Nautilus – Huge appreciation over the last decade
✔ Patek Philippe Grand Complications – Rare and highly collectible
💎 More on Patek: Patek Philippe Nautilus Replica
3. Audemars Piguet – The Iconic Luxury Sports Watch
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is a prime example of a watch that holds and even increases in value. Designed by Gérald Genta, its unique octagonal case and integrated bracelet make it an instant classic.
Why the Royal Oak is a Smart Investment:
✔ Recognizable, timeless design
✔ High resale demand and limited production
✔ Strong appreciation over the past 10+ years
💎 Check This Out: Ultimate Guide to Buying a Bust Down Rolex
4. Omega – Affordable Investments with Strong Resale Value
Omega is a mid-range luxury brand that offers great investment potential, particularly with the Speedmaster (Moonwatch) and Seamaster models. These watches have strong historical ties (NASA, James Bond) and continue to hold their value well.
Best Omega Models for Investment:
✔ Speedmaster Moonwatch – Official NASA-certified, with strong historical significance
✔ Seamaster Diver 300M – Classic James Bond watch, popular among divers and collectors
5. Cartier – The Dress Watch That Appreciates
Cartier isn’t just about jewelry—the Cartier Santos and Cartier Tank are two watches that maintain strong resale value. Their timeless design and association with celebrities and royalty make them highly desirable in the collector’s market.
💎 More Rolex Insights: Day-Date Rolex Overview
6. Vacheron Constantin – A Heritage Brand on the Rise
As part of the “Holy Trinity” of watchmaking (alongside Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet), Vacheron Constantin Overseas is becoming a rising star in the investment space. With a history spanning over 250 years, the brand’s limited-production timepieces make for smart investments.
Why Vacheron Constantin is a Good Investment:
✔ Less mainstream than Rolex or Patek, creating exclusivity
✔ High-end finishing and craftsmanship
✔ Strong auction results in recent years
7. Tudor – The Affordable Rolex Alternative
As a Rolex-owned brand, Tudor watches are becoming increasingly popular for collectors looking for high-quality, affordable alternatives to Rolex. The Tudor Black Bay and Pelagos models, in particular, hold strong value.
Why Tudor Holds Value:
✔ Backed by Rolex’s reputation and quality control
✔ More budget-friendly but still offers strong resale potential
✔ Vintage Tudor models are rising in price
8. Hublot – A Modern Investment Pick
Hublot’s Big Bang and Classic Fusion models don’t have the same long-term historical value as Rolex or Patek, but they still hold strong resale value due to limited-edition collaborations and bold designs.
Best Hublot Investment Models:
✔ Big Bang Limited Editions – Celebrity collabs increase collectibility
✔ Classic Fusion – Sleek design and strong demand among younger collectors
Final Thoughts: Which Brand is the Best Investment?
The best watch brands for investment depend on your budget and risk tolerance. If you’re looking for a safe investment, Rolex and Patek Philippe are the most reliable choices. If you want an underrated gem, consider Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, or Tudor.
💎 Explore More Luxury Watch Guides Here: The Watch Goat
