Which Watch Brands Are Worth the Investment?

If you’re looking to buy a watch, you’ll want to know which of the big-name brands are worth the investment. There’s no denying that watches are a modern status symbol, indicating not only your personal style but also your social status. Certain watch brands, therefore, retain their value well over time, and some watches can even grow in value. A branded watch represents a significant investment for most people, so you should always be sure to do your research beforehand to ensure that the make and model you choose will hold onto its value.

Rolex

The Rolex brand has grown from what was a high-quality but affordable watch for professionals back in the 1960s to the true luxury watch icon of today.

Though Rolex watches have always been well-made, initially their focus was primarily on creating hard-wearing watches that were built to last, rather than luxury timepieces. However, after placements in Hollywood films, such as many of the James Bond movies during the 60s and 70s, along with some highly visible sponsorships, things started to change for Rolex and the brand soon became synonymous with luxury.

With long wait lists for newer models, second-hand and vintage Rolex watches retain their value well and pre-owned Rolex watches are much sought after.

OMEGA

Probably the second most well-known and sought-after watch brand after Rolex is OMEGA. This luxury watch company is based in Switzerland, which is widely considered the centre of the watch-making industry and has been around a few decades longer than Rolex.

OMEGA watches are known for their quality, accuracy and luxury and the OMEGA Seamaster has been worn by James Bond in every film since the mid-90s. The quartz version of the Seamaster has now been discontinued, which means if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one, it will soon be a collector’s item and a fantastic investment for the future.

Cartier

Cartier was a world-renowned jeweller long before it became a luxury watch brand, however, since then Cartier has produced many popular watch collections, including their famous Tank series.

Famous for creating bejewelled watches in precious metals, Cartier has also been keen to show that they’re not just in it for the bling and are serious about watchmaking skills.

Cartier watches are more affordable than many other luxury brands although still a significant investment for most people. They may not have quite the social esteem of a Rolex, but Cartier watches do still hold their value, particularly those that include gold and diamonds in their design.

TAG Heuer

Like many luxury watch brands, TAG Heuer is based in Switzerland. TAG Heuer has long been a watchmaker that is associated with sports thanks to its many sponsorship deals across a range of different sports, such as football and Formula One racing.

TAG Heuer watches all have luxury features, even those with a lower price tag, including sapphire crystals and anti-glare coating. For a truly award-winning TAG Heuer watch, however, you will need to make a significant investment. The good news is that like most luxury watch brands, TAG Heuer timepieces do hold their value well, particularly their iconic Monaco watches, along with some of their vintage watches, especially those that were designed and created under the Heuer brand before they merged with TAG.