September 2024 Watch Market Report
Market Overview:
In the past year, the luxury watch market has undergone a remarkable transformation, experiencing a downturn that has brought prices to their lowest levels since before the COVID-19 pandemic. This decline is capturing the interest of collectors, investors, and enthusiasts who are navigating a landscape of increased inventory and reduced demand.
The pandemic brought about a surprising boom for the luxury watch industry, fueled by excess disposable income and a shift in consumer priorities—less spending on travel and entertainment, and more interest in investment-grade collectibles. However, as the world begins to return to normalcy, spending habits are reverting as consumers allocate more funds toward experiences and essential items, leaving luxury watches on the back burner.
The chart below released by WatchChart shows an overview of the month-by-month of the overall market index and big three brand indexes this year.
Stating both the overall market and Rolex indexes are at their lowest levels in over three and a half years
Market Instability and Its Impact:
In addition to inflation, fluctuations in the stock market have added to the uncertainty surrounding luxury goods. Investors often pull back from luxury purchases during economic turbulence, seeking stability in safer investments. This hesitancy among potential buyers has contributed to a dip in demand for luxury watches, further exacerbating the downward pressure on prices.
Increased Availability from Dealers and Sellers
The past year has seen a significant increase in the number of luxury watches for sale. Authorised dealers now hold larger inventories, while many private sellers are motivated to sell their collections, either to respond to economic challenges or to take advantage of past market highs. This surge in supply has dramatically changed the buying landscape.
The Secondary Market Boom
The secondary market for pre-owned watches has exploded, leading to a surplus of listings. This influx of available watches has created a buyer’s market, resulting in lower prices for many models that were once in high demand. Buyers now have the opportunity to explore a wider selection of luxury watches at more attractive price points.
The Advantages of Buying Now
Taking Advantage of Lower Prices
For those interested in entering the luxury watch market or expanding their collections, this downturn offers a unique chance to acquire high-quality pieces at significantly reduced prices. The combination of oversupply and declining demand means that savvy buyers can find remarkable deals, especially if they take the time to research and compare options.
Long-Term Investment Potential
While the luxury watch market may be currently struggling, history shows that many iconic timepieces tend to appreciate in value over the long term. For those looking to invest, focusing on classic models from reputable brands can yield significant returns once the market stabilises and begins to recover.
Recent News:
Watches of Switzerland Poised for a Comeback After a Challenging Year:
Over the past year, Watches of Switzerland has navigated significant market fluctuations, with its share price ranging between 324p and 728p. Currently at 387.81p, the stock has recovered by 20% from its May low, although it remains below its 2022 levels, mainly due to a broader slowdown in the luxury sector.
Despite these difficulties, the company is optimistic about meeting its 2025 goals, driven by a stabilised UK market. A key part of its strategy is expanding its presence in the US, with plans to grow its showroom network globally. By 2028, Watches of Switzerland aims to more than double its sales to £3 billion, a significant increase from £1.5 billion in 2023.
The company's stock took a hit last year after Rolex announced its acquisition of competitor Bucherer, raising investor concerns about how this could affect Watches of Switzerland’s supply of luxury watches, particularly from Rolex.
Adding to this, the luxury retail sector has faced challenges as consumers have shifted spending from high-end goods to travel and experiences.
Looking ahead, Watches of Switzerland is focused on growth in the US and Europe, with substantial investments planned for both its physical stores and online presence. While there is optimism about the company's future, much depends on its ability to execute these growth plans and maintain investor confidence.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Racing Green Limited Edition:
Tribute to British Racing Green: The new Monaco edition is inspired by British motorsport livery, featuring iconic British racing green, symbolising England’s motorsport history.
Design Features:
Silver sunray brushed dial with "green opaline" subdials.
Light green Super-Luminova on the hour track and yellow accents on the chronograph hand and baton marker at 12 o’clock.
Date window at six o’clock, and polished silvered hour markers.
Case and Build:
39mm grade-2 titanium case, fully sandblasted.
Sapphire crystal and caseback.
47.4mm lug-to-lug, 14.35mm thickness, water-resistant to 100 metres.
Crown on the left side, paying homage to the 1969 original.
Green calfskin strap with perforations and titanium deployant buckle.
Movement: TAG Heuer Calibre 11, based on Sellita SW-300 with a Dubois-Depraz chronograph module. It has a 40-hour power reserve.
Limited Edition: Only 1,000 pieces, with "One of 1000" engraved on the caseback. Priced at $9,300.
Reviewer Opinion: The colour combination of green and yellow is praised, with the watch described as fun yet subtle. While expensive, the Monaco’s design and history are appealing, especially to fans of the iconic case shape and British racing legacy.
The luxury watch market is currently experiencing a unique opportunity for buyers, with prices at their lowest since before the pandemic and an abundance of inventory available. This downturn allows enthusiasts and collectors to snag high-quality timepieces, particularly iconic models with long-term investment potential. Brands like Watches of Switzerland are optimistic about future growth, despite recent challenges, while limited editions like the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Racing Green offer both exclusivity and a nod to motorsport heritage. Now is the ideal time to invest in a luxury watch that embodies style, craftsmanship, and lasting value.
Links: https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/intro-tag-heuer-monaco-chronograph-racing-green-limited-edition
https://www.luxewatches.co.uk/are-volatile-times-over-for-watches-of-switzerland/
https://watchcharts.com/watches/price_index - watch charts - market update
https://www.watchtime.com/ ?? any articles
https://monochrome-watches.com/ ?? any articles
https://www.fratellowatches.com/#gref ?? Any articles
https://www.jamesedition.com/watches more articles here
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