Investment in Rare Timepieces

Time machine or clock is considered valuable since historical times where the vintage watches depict the historical significance of the era in which it was designed. The price of a 1982 Rolex Submariner increased from $10,000 in two years to $13,000. 

A 1970 Patek Philippe Nautilus that was bought by Hodinkee founder Benjamin Clymer for $18,000 has gained more than 100 percent to $75,000, and Omega Speedmaster was sold for price more than five times the original cost at auctions. 

Most such watches were owned and showcased by celebrities, or are known for the great historical value. The Paul Newman watches were priced at $9,000 in 1992, and in 2008, they went for $66,000.  

These items are uncorrelated to equity markets and sometimes, provide liquidity in conditions of equity loss. 

Such items are made for individual unique events of life - a sports watch cannot be worn at an official meeting or other events. 

• People search for different color pieces for fancy occasions and sometimes, such fancy time machines are expensive in comparison to formal ones. 

• Those into odd jobs may not want a sophisticated piece as it can get damaged while doing the work. 

• The growth of digital watches led to a decline in traditional ones but the rare collectibles have always been highly valuable. 

• The modern technologically advanced timepieces come with extra options like a stopwatch, calendar, a timer, etc. 

• It can be mechanical or quartz. 

• Some of the high-quality watches are useful and they get higher value with time. 

• They can be worn and have eternal value. 

Earlier it was difficult to find out about the rare designs but now the information about such items can be accessed online. 

Last year a short-term slowdown was seen globally where the luxury brands were forced to look for alternative new markets globally. 

The European luxury brands have started promoting high-end labels and a broad range of products in the emerging markets that are likely to get stronger and promote sales and profitability. 

The growing affluent middle-class population in China that is expected to double in the next ten years is forecast to grow faster and they are the new luxury buyers seeking unique items in the category.  

The emerging luxury markets in China are expected to outpace global markets. The markets have adopted sophisticated price harmonization and e-distribution methods to promote their products. 

To invest in luxury rare pieces, it is advised to get a top brand and get an evaluation by consultants at top auction houses. Some websites provide such information, where one can get registered to find out about the latest deals and remain informed about upcoming auctions. 

The limited-edition watches of Rolex, Bell Andross, Zenith, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and some other models are most desired. 

The limited-edition versions of some of the models are always in demand. Some expensive pieces are like stock market options where the values can gain anytime or decline subsequently depends on the interest of buyers. The price fluctuates where once the price decline, the hype around the price fades.