What Makes A Watch Collectible?


Collectible Watches.jpgHere at Cuttings we always have a fantastic selection of luxury watches in our current stock, for anyone who may be looking to invest for the first time or to build on their collection. But what is it that makes a watch collectible? And why do they make such good collectibles?

The Appeal of Luxury Watches

There are a number of reasons why people want to invest in watches. It is a luxury personal item that can be enjoyed for years and they often hold their value or indeed appreciate over time. It just seems more worthwhile to invest in something that can be used, and that also doesn’t take up a lot of space when it isn’t being used.

Collecting watches became popular in the 1950s and 1960s, when men would own different watches for different occasions; a dress watch for the evening, a sports watch for the daytime, a watch for playing golf, and another for formal events. It was not uncommon for men of status to own more than three watches which they wore on a regular basis.

5 Things Collectors Look For In a Watch

So what exactly is it that makes a watch valuable to a collector? Here are 5 interesting facts worth considering:

1. Make and Model

The make of the watch is perhaps the most important factor to consider when it comes to investing, with Rolex and Patek Philipe right at the top of the list, not forgetting other respected names such as Cartier, Omega, Breitling and Audemars Piguet to name but a few.

The model is also important: a limited edition model, for example, will be rarer and therefore more desirable for a collector. Other models may have some historical significance which adds gravitas to the watch, such as the Rolex Cosmograph exotic dial, ref 6239 or the ‘Paul Newman Daytona’ as it is widely known.

2. Condition

The condition of the watch is extremely important. If it has physical or functional defects, for example rust in the movement due to water damage, it is an indication that the watch hasn’t been well looked after, and therefore it will have depreciated in value.

3. Metal

A vital component to a luxury watch is the quality of the metal it is made from, whether it’s platinum, 18 carat gold or high grade stainless steel.

4. Original Factory Warranties and Guarantees

Complete original papers immediately make a watch more valuable as they prove the watch’s authenticity and provenance.

5. Functionality

All watches tell the time of day; some display the date, some display the day of the week and others display the chronograph function, which enables the watch to work like a stopwatch. Your watch may even display a moonphase complication, which illustrates the lunar phases throughout the month. These complications add intrinsic value to a watch as they are very difficult to manufacture, thus adding its value and appeal to a collector.

Want to find out more? Come and see us here at Cuttings! Visit us in our shops in Margate or Ramsgate and one of our experts will be happy to answer any of your questions.

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