Whatever you collect and whether or not you plan to sell it, it is always good to know that the items in your collection are gaining in value. Whether it is a portfolio of properties or a book of stamps, it’s a wonderful feeling to know that they definitely weren’t a waste of money.

In order to actively invest in collections or items in the belief that they will in future be worth more takes a lot of skill and more than a little luck. There are those that manage to do a little research in the buying process, and reap huge rewards in the future.

Horology is an area in which investors, given that they follow the right steps, are sure to be able to sell their watches for a profit in future. As experts in luxury watch services such as Rolex watch repairs we thought we’d put together this handy 3 step guide that may just help you pick a future classic;


Limited edition

Limited edition is a term that is rather unceremoniously attached to almost anything nowadays (limited edition toilet rolls anyone?) but when it is attached to a luxury watch it could be a hint at something special. A watch that only ever had 10 models produced is inevitably going to be worth more in future than a watch that was produced by the thousand. Be careful to do your research into exactly how limited the run is. Something such as Bremont’s limited edition Norton watch comes in a series of only 200, has its own certificate and serial number, and is about as sound an investment as you can make in the watch world.


Quality of construction

It seems almost too simple to mention but quality really is key to collectability; anyone that has ever tried to sell a broken watch will know that it is not easy. Look for watches that are part of a series that has already proven to be tough and reliable. One tip that many collectors use is to only buy watches with metal straps, as they are less likely to become damaged or stained. Leather strapped watches are often slightly more in demand though, so we wouldn’t suggest you actively avoid them. As with all watch shopping it is worth paying plenty of attention to the movement fitted; movements such as a tourbillion will never be a mass produced item, and is a fairly solid investment.

Reference to classics

Modern watchmakers are very keen to reference their own history and to make re-issues of their past successes. You may see this as them plundering their own history, but this can be a great sign for a potential investor. A watch such as Omega’s incredible Seamaster Bullhead which references the classic 1969 watch is sure to be a future classic, and is almost certain to gain further value.

If you are looking for a watch as an investment then make sure that it has at least one of these factors about it; if you find one with all three then you will almost certainly regret letting it go. If you are already the proud owner of a burgeoning watch collection that is in need of a little upkeep, don’t hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to help.