Business Chief ME+AFRICA Magazine November 2023 | Page 148

LUXURY WATCHES HAVE EXPLODED IN VALUE SI IT IS ALMOST IMPOSSIB A LUXURY SPORTS WAT ROLEX , AUDEMARS PIGU PATEK PHILIPPE WITHO EXTENSIVE PURCHASE

Rustin Yasavolian CEO , Masina Diamonds The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
So should these in-demand watches be seen as a credible alternative investment for the speculator as well as the specialist ?
“ Our collectors are led by their passion firstly ,” says Nair . “ Clients tend to collect pieces because they have an interest in the subject – in this instance , horology . We curate collections for clients and as part of that process , we advise them on what to buy and sell depending on their tastes and where we see the market headed . Clients see a return on investment if they have been advised right or have followed their gut feel .”
Although the market has cooled , there are still sound investments to be made , and while not everyone will have the “ gut feel ” that Nair mentions , there are some simple guidelines that can steer potential buyers , and collectors , in the right direction .
“ Every client ’ s collecting journey is different ,” says Nair . “ In general , they are all looking for collectible timepieces that will stand the test of time – watches that represent the finest watchmaking skills as well as being in the best condition possible ( especially if it ’ s a vintage timepiece ).
“ Some clients are also attracted to watches with provenance – timepieces that belonged to celebrities or historical figures such as Andy Warhol , Steve McQueen , King Farouk , etc .”
Interestingly , BCG ’ s report also highlights Gen Z and younger millennial buyers who say they intend to spend more on luxury watches .
148 November 2023