The Critical Role of Maintenance in Luxury Watch Investment
In the thriving secondary market for watches, where many models command prices significantly higher than their retail value, investors are drawn to the potential returns of luxury timepieces. However, experts caution against underestimating the ongoing costs associated with maintaining these investments to ensure value retention over time.
1. Maintenance Costs: It’s estimated that the cost of regular maintenance for a simple-function luxury watch could reach approximately $8,000 over 30 years. This figure underscores the fact that investing in high-end watches is not a one-off expense. Maintenance prices and services vary across different brand service centers, requiring investors’ attention.
2. Keeping Watches in Prime Condition: For a watch to maintain its value and possibly fetch a high resale price in the future, regular cleaning is essential. Assuming a maintenance frequency of once every three years at an average cost of $660 per service, the total maintenance investment over three decades can be substantial.
3. Importance of Professional Servicing: Brands like Cartier stress the necessity of servicing to clean the movement and adjust the viscosity of lubricants. Omega notes that regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance, depending on the watch model, climate, and wearer’s habits.
Service typically includes replacing waterproof components, testing timekeeping accuracy and power consumption, cleaning the movement, and caring for the watch’s appearance. For luxury watches, it’s advisable to use the brand’s authorized service centers to prolong the watch’s lifespan and functionality.
4. Special Considerations: Quartz watches require timely battery replacements every 2 to 3 years, while water-resistant models should undergo annual waterproofing tests—a process that only takes a few minutes.
The official recommendation for luxury watches is maintenance every 3 to 5 years, though costs can vary widely.
In conclusion, while luxury watches can be an attractive investment, potential buyers should not overlook the significance of regular maintenance to protect and potentially enhance their investment’s value. Ensuring your timepiece receives the care it deserves is as crucial as the initial purchase.
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