Great Lakes Watch Top 10 Must-Have Watches for Every Collector in 2024

 

 

You may think collecting luxury watches was a thing of the past but did you know that the global watch industry was worth USD 48.10 billion in 2023? As horology reaches new heights over time so does the size of the market. Tastes change, preferences change, and with it changes the prices of luxury watches. What worked in the early 2000s may not be in demand now. 

If you are thinking of getting into the luxury watch market as a collector then there are many brands that you should know of. The industry leaders like Rolex, Omega, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Phillipe will always remain steady, however, over the years we have seen a few brands like Seiko, Rado, and Tissot grab a decent chunk of the market. 

So if you are building a collection for yourself, here are some of the best luxury brands to keep in mind. Today, we bring you our choice of the top 10 must-have watches to keep in mind for 2024. 

The Evolution of Watch Collecting in 2024

Collecting luxury watches was a big thing back in the day when most things were analog. It is a hobby that not only defined status but appreciated the fine craft of watchmaking. It all started with the first pocket watch back in the 19th century. It was a technological marvel to have a device so small in your pocket that could accurately tell time.

Watch trends in 2024 have seen a surge in many young individuals looking into the luxury watch market as their first watch. Since the launch of the smartwatch, the industry has taken a big hit, it is stronger than ever now with many types of technological innovations. Almost everyone who wears a smartwatch now keeps a luxury watch reserved for special occasions. 

Newer designs do not attract people like they did back in the day. So over the last couple of years, we can see many manufacturers going back to their roots and reviving their classics with a modern touch. Manufacturers are also taking a step toward sustainable production practices that resonate well with the youth. The evolution of watch collecting has seen many fluctuations but as of 2024, we are seeing a rise again.

Criteria for Selecting a Must-Have Watch in 2024

When choosing a watch in 2024, there are a few watch-collecting criteria that you need to keep in mind.

Brand Legacy

The biggest criterion to follow is the brand legacy a watch brings with it. A luxury watch brand that has been in the market for a long time is the watch you need to consider. This is because a watch that is brand new will have a touch of heritage in it which will drive its value. 

Design and Craftsmanship

A luxury watch can be made from standard materials like stainless steel and be regarded highly popular in the world of horology. Watches that incorporate fancier materials like titanium, gold, or stronger steel are highly sought after by collectors. Other than that a complicated watch such as those that include a Tourbillon or Moon Phase is valued more in the eyes of collectors. 

Investment Value

Investment value is another criterion that you need to account for.  Unless you want to buy and hold a watch forever, you have to take into account how much it can be worth in the future. If a watch shows a trend of appreciating with time, you should stick to collecting those. So when collecting a watch you should be able to foresee its future demand and value if flipping for a profit is your end goal.

Rarity and Exclusivity

The value of a watch is determined by how exclusive it is. Rare watches often have a higher chance of rising in value rather than a relatively mass-produced one. Since most luxury watches are handbuilt, the craftsmanship that goes into them is regarded very highly. When you own a rare piece, it not only makes your portfolio strong but helps you stand out in the market for pre-owned watches. 

Personal Style and Preferences

Historical value and market trend aside, a collectible watch must complement your style. As a collector, you must see how your watch collection says something about you. Only then will you be able to distinguish between a watch you need over a watch that you must have at any cost.

Top 10 Must-Have Watches for Collectors in 2024

Rolex

From the Rolex line-up, there are two models that you have to keep your eye on. They are usually the ones that are the most popular and go up in value. 

Rolex Datejust 

The original Rolex Datejust was launched to commemorate Rolex's 40th anniversary. Since then it has been a hall of fame in the world of horology. Although it is now almost a little under 80 years old in 2024, most of the design elements remained the same. This says a lot about why the Datejust is a must-have for your collection. Newer models retain the design ethos with modern technology which means it will not go out of style. 

Key Features of the Rolex Datejust:

• Date Function with Cyclops Lens: This was first introduced in 1953 and magnifies the date window on the dial. 
• Variety of Dials: Available in a multitude of colors, materials, and styles including options set with diamonds or featuring a sunray finish​.
• Material: There is a choice of premium materials like stainless steel, yellow gold, and Rolesor. You can even find special edition gem bezels and dials.
• Movement: New models come with the reliable Caliber 3235 self-winding mechanical movement with a Chronergy escapement​.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 

If there is an ultimate Rolex to get, it is the Oyster Perpetual. It is the hero model in the Rolex portfolio which is simple and elegant. It was introduced in 1931 and pioneered waterproofing in wristwatches. It got the Oyster name from this case itself. The "Perpetual" came from the self-winding movement inside it. 

Key Features of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual

• Design: The Oyster Perpetual stays true to its heritage with the iconic Oyster case. It is a great everyday watch to have in any collection. 
• Movement: It has the high-performance caliber 3230 self-winding mechanical movement known for precision and reliability. It is famous for its Chronergy escapement and a shock-resistant blue Parachrom hairspring. 
• Aesthetics: You can pick up an Oyster Perpetual in a range of dial colors from stainless steel, gold, or Rose Gold. Most of them will have a Chromalight display great for nighttime visibility.
• Wearability: Coming in with different bracelet options, the Oyster Perpetual is designed with comfort in mind. It secures itself with an Oysterclasp and the Easylink comfort extension link

OMEGA

OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M 

Another big name in the luxury watch market is OMEGA. They are famous for their Speedmaster and Seamaster models. The OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M in particular is what we will be looking at today. In the world of diver watches, there is no bigger name than the Seasmaster. It was first launched in 1993 and has since been a staple for watch collections. 

Key Features of the OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M:

• Materials and Construction: The Seamaster comes in a variety of materials like stainless steel, 18K gold, and ceramic. 
• Design: Being a diver watch the Seamaster features a special waved dial similar to waves in the ocean. There are standard color options like black, blue, and green dials too. A diving bezel and a helium escape valve come standard in this model.
• Movement: Most Seasmasters come with the OMEGA's Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibers. They are certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) which guarantees the best service and performance.
• Versatility: You have the option to customize your Seasmaster with various bands like metal bracelet, rubber strap, or NATO strap 

OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra 

Another variant of the Seamaster series is the Aqua Terra line which first launched in 2002. It brought all the greats from the original Seamaster but with its unique touch of elegance. It is a more casual version for those who love the heritage of the original series but want a more subdued classic look. 

Key Features of the OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra:

• Materials and Design: The Aqua Terra line comes in material options like stainless steel cases with options for black varnished lacquer dials. They have a signature "teak" pattern on the dial inspired by wooden decks of luxury yachts. 
• Movement: They come with OMEGA's Master Chronometer calibers known for their reliability.
• Water Resistance: They are water resistance up to 150 meters
• Variety: The Aqua Terra models are available in various sizes including 41mm, 38mm, and 34mm. They also come with a range of strap options, metal, NATO fabric, leather, and rubber.
• Special Editions: Like many other OMEGA watches the Aqua Terra has special editions like the much loved Worldtimer Small Seconds, Worldtimer, and Ultralight models. 

Panerai 

Panerai was founded in 1860 by Giovanni Panerai. It started life as a simple watch workshop but eventually transitioned into making watches from the Royal Italian Navy. Seeing great success they introduced several models including the Radomir, Luminor, and Submersible with new models still being released. 

Panerai Luminor

The Panerai Luminor is steeped in history with its classic big and bold design. The Lumior series is a watch to have if you are a fan of military watches. It started from a tritium-based luminous substance that Panerai patented in the 1940s. 

Key Features of The Panerai Luminor

• Crown-Protection: It has a unique design element with the crown-protection bridge which adds to its water resistance. 
• Dial: Patented luminous dial great for viewing in the dark. conditions.
• Case: If big watches are your thing, then the large cushion-shaped cases and smooth bezels will be of your liking. They come in automatic or manual wind models with water resistance up to 300 meters.
• Design Variations: Available in different complications, including GMTs, chronographs, and models with power reserve indicators.
• Bracelets: They can come in various bracelet options like stainless steel, titanium, leather, rubber, and fabric NATO straps.

Panerai Submersible

This is the Panerai version of a diver watch named the Submersible. It is a great option to add to your collection if you are into aquatic sports and require great water resistance.

Key Features of the Panerai Submersible:

• Water Resistance: They are water-resistant up to 300 meters and designed for professional diving.
• Rotating Bezel: You get a rotating bezel marked for tracking diving times.
• Dial: The dials are different from the other models and have broad sword-shaped hands with luminous tips.
• Materials: It is available in different materials like steel, and titanium, and materials like Carbotech and BMG-TECH.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe 

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe is another watch to stay on the lookout for its heritage as a dive watch. The first one came out in the 1950s and has been a pioneer in the Diver series of watches. Newer models have improved durability through their ceramic technology that splashes over to the case and bracelet.

Key Features of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe:

• Water Resistance: The Fifty Fathoms is a professional diver watch with water resistance up to 300 meters. 
• Rotating Bezel: They come standard with a rotating bezel that moves only counterclockwise. This is especially there for accuracy. 
• Luminous Markings: The watch dial and bezels come with luminous markings for underwater visibility
• Robust Materials: You get materials options like stainless steel or titanium and sometimes ceramics. 
• Sapphire Crystal: This is a special feature of these watches. The dial is covered with a sapphire crystal that is both scratch-resistant and anti-glare. 

TUDOR Black Bay 

The Black Bay is a flagship model from the TUDOR lineup that is another entry-level luxury watch to consider for your collection. It was first introduced in 2012 and has been loved for including design features from TUDOR's vintage submariner models with modern tech. Although the standard models hold value, the special models like the Black Bay 58 are known to appreciate.

Key Features of the TUDOR Black Bay:

• Design: This line is worth picking up because it pays homage to their vintage dive watches from the mid-20th century. They have unique "snowflake" hands that were first launched in the 1969 model. It also comes in a variety of dial colors. 
• Materials: They are made from high-quality materials like stainless steel, bronze, and gold.
• Build: The watches come with robust water resistance, making them suitable for diving and other water activities.
• Movement: Most models come with the in-house Caliber MT5602 movement.

Franck Muller Vanguard 

If big watches are your thing, the Vanguard series is something you can look into. The Franck Muller Vanguard collection is a bold and innovative design and has pioneered the Cintree Curvex case style. They are a relatively new brand compared to the industry giants but have managed to carve out a niche.

Key features of the Franck Muller Vanguard 

• Design Aesthetics: They are famous for their tonneau-shaped cases. They have a modern look that blends with a traditional design. You get bold numeral appliqués that uphold the vintage aesthetic
• Material and Build: They come in high-quality materials like titanium stainless steel and other precious metals. Some special editions also come in carbon which is light and far more durable than the usual steel.
• Strap Options: You get strap options like hand-sewn alligator leather or durable nylon. 
• Advanced Movements: What makes this watch series they are famous for using complex movements like a tourbillon.  They pioneered this among modern watchmakers. For this, they even built their reputation as a "Master of Complications." 
• Customizable Features: Some Vanguards also come with chronographs and skeletonized dials.

Hublot Big Bang

The Big Bang Series first launched in 2005 which brought a revolution in the industry. This series is famous for using a fusion of materials ceramic, carbon fiber, and even unusual ones like rubber. The materials used were aimed at attracting a younger demographic towards luxury watches. 

Key Features of the Hublot Big Bang:

• Unique Design: The Big Bang is famous for its porthole-shaped case that has a multi-layered structure. This opens the path to use combinations of materials, colors, and finishes. 
• Diverse Movements: This series is loved for using a wide range of movements. They come with chronographs, complex tourbillons, and minute repeaters. 
• Material: Since Hublot pioneered incorporating unique materials in the Big Bang series you will find different material choices like Magic Gold, Ceramic Magic Gold, titanium, and more.

Breitling Navitimer 

In the world of Aviation, a big name is Breitling with its Navitimer series of watches. It is a beloved pilot's watch that was first launched in 1952. The company was officially a supplier of watches for the Royal Air Force in 1936. This helped them develop the Chronomat model which was later refined with the Navitimer.

Key Features of the Breitling Navitimer

• Design and Functionality: The Navitimer is famous for having a slide rule bezel complication. This is useful for pilots who need to make critical calculations like fuel consumption, distance traveled, and so on. A standard in the layout is chronograph subdials.
• Historical Significance: This is a great watch as an investment because of the history it has in aviation. Additionally, Breitling is the official watch of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA).
• Solid Construction: Construction materials range from stainless steel to precious metals. 
• Customizable Straps: They also have a range of strap options like leather, stainless steel, and rubber.

How to Start Your Watch Collection in 2024

If you are a fairly new enthusiast and want to start a watch collection in 2024, here's what you need to know.

Initial Steps 

You need to first gather knowledge on the market and plan strategically. Set aside a budget that has to start your collection. You realize by now that this is not a market that you can work in with little capital. Some watches can also go for 6-digit numbers. Familiarize yourself with different brands and their histories to understand what appeals to the market. Watch blogs, brand websites, and horology forums are a great place to start.

Build a Diverse Collection: 

If you think you have enough knowledge of the market, start by building a collection that has a mix of both expensive and entry-level luxury watches. Keep a balance of dress watches, sports watches, and casual styles. 

Connect with Other Collectors

Networking is key in the luxury watch market. There is a low chance that you will find your next watch on Facebook Marketplace. When you know other collectors in the market you have a higher chance of finding rare watches for a low price. 

Watch Maintenance 

If you have added a few watches to your collection already, make sure you service them regularly. Make sure you store them in controlled environments as any wear and tear will affect the resale value. Additionally, you can also get your watches insured for greater peace of mind. 

Wrapping Up The Must-Have Watch List

If you are already a collector, you know that the watches we mentioned are just the tip of the iceberg. There are more watches to collect than one can dream of. If you are new to the scene, make sure you do your due diligence before jumping into the market. 

It is all about the right timing in the watch market. You need a lot of capital to start and have to be patient. You will rarely come across a watch that you can buy and flip right off the bat. Before diving into the market to explore collectible watches from other enthusiasts, that way you can make an informed decision about the world of horology.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a watch a must-have for collectors? 

A luxury watch that has historical significance, great craftsmanship, and legacy is usually highly sought after. A watch is very desirable if it has a special name tied to it. A watch with a good story is what makes a watch a must-have for collectors.

How do I know if a watch is a good investment? 

Research a watch's historical price trends, brand reputation, and scarcity in the market. The rare a watch the better it will be from an investment standpoint. Additionally, a watch that is in good condition and well-maintained is also considered a good investment.

Are modern watches as collectible as vintage ones?

Modern watches with unique designs, complications, and limited production runs can be as collectible as vintage ones. 

What should I consider when buying a watch in 2024?

When buying a watch in 2024, look into some of these aspects to future-proof your investment. First, check out technologically advanced models. You need to know where the market is at to decide your next move. Finally, always make sure any pre-owned watch you buy is authentic with service details and other documents. 

 

 

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Great Lakes Watch Top 10 Must-Have Watches for Every Collector in 2024