Investment in Rare Timepieces

Time machines or clocks have been considered valuable since historical times. 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 Hodinkee founder Benjamin Clymer bought for $18,000 has gained more than 100 per cent to $75,000, and Omega Speedmaster was sold for more than five times the original cost at auctions. 

Most such watches were owned and showcased by celebrities or are known for their great historical value. The Paul Newman watches were priced at $9,000 in 1992; 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 colour pieces for fancy occasions; sometimes, such fancy time machines are expensive compared to formal ones. 

• Those in 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 rare collectables have always been highly valuable. 

• Modern technologically advanced timepieces come with extra options like a stopwatch, calendar, and timer. 

• It can be mechanical or quartz. 

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

• They can be worn and have eternal value. 

Earlier, it wasn't easy 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. 

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

The growing affluent middle-class population in China, 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. 

Investing in rare luxury pieces is advised to get a top brand and get an evaluation by consultants at top auction houses. Some websites provide information about registering for the latest deals and remaining informed about upcoming auctions. 

The limited-edition watches of Rolex, Bell Andross, Zenith, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and others 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 time or decline depending on buyers' interest. The price fluctuates; once the price declines, the hype around the price fades.