Top 15 Best Luxury Watches to Pawn in 2024

January 5, 2021

 

A luxury watch is more than just a stylish and sophisticated status symbol. Their craftsmanship, rarity, and eternal appeal mean that the right piece can hold and increase in value. For luxury watch owners who need an injection of capital, pawning or loaning a timepiece can be a great idea. 

The luxury watch market is a $50 billion industry. Market analysis from Boston Consulting Group shows that the power of the resale market for premium timepieces is strong, with the prices of Rolex, Patek Phillpe, and Audemars Piguet outworking the S&P500 in recent years. 

 

 

In this article, we’ll answer an important question for any luxury watch owners who need cash: what are the top watch brands you can loan against?

 

The advantages of loading against your luxury watch

 

Before we share our list of the best watches to pawn, it’s important to consider the main differences between loaning against and selling a luxury timepiece. Both methods are viable when you need to generate cash, but the implications of your decision are quite different.

 

1. Instant finance

Selling a watch online or by consignment can take time. If you need instant finance and you have one of the best watches to loan against, the process is quick and easy.

 

2. Low fees

Consignment shops can take up to 50% of the value of an item, which can turn into an eye-watering sum for the top watch brands you can pawn. While loaning against a luxury watch carries fees for storage and interest, it pales in comparison to the fees involved in selling a watch.

What’s more, some of the best watches to pawn are timepieces that increase in value. These watches can reduce the impact on the interest you pay on your loan.

 

3. Retain ownership

We all have cashflow problems from time to time. However, when your situation improves, you might want your luxury watch back, especially if it has sentimental value. Pawning your timepiece gives you that flexibility.

 

4. Security

There are many channels to go through if you want to sell a watch. Many of them carry an unacceptable level of risk. Loaning against your watch can offer you the security and safety you need.

So, what are the best watches to pawn in 2024?

 

1. Rolex – an obvious entry on our best watches to pawn in 2024 list

Rolex’s iconic status means it is generally a safe bet, a top best watch to pawn or invest in 2024 and beyond, for achieving and maintaining an excellent value.

Valuation of Your Rolex Timepiece

The value of your Rolex at pawn shops can vary dramatically depending on a wide range of different features. One of the elements that can affect the price the most is the history of a particular piece.

For example, does the Rolex have a connection to numerous celebrities? Has it been featured in a plethora of films? The most iconic Rolex watch is perhaps the Submariner worn by 007 in Ian Fleming’s James Bond films. A Daytona Rolex owned by Paul Newman, for example, sold for more than £15 million at auction, while a typical Rolex Daytona sells for around £11k.

The borrowing level of your Rolex timepiece will be also affected by its rarity. If it is a current model, limited edition, or discontinued this can be either a benefit or detriment to the value of your Rolex.

As too will the watch’s condition. Has it been restored and given replacement parts? Does it have any blemishes, dents, or scratches which have affected its overall quality?

Based on this information, it’s easy to see how the overall background and uniqueness of a particular watch can alter the Rolex price when visiting a pawnshop. While a complete appraisal is needed to know the borrowing value of your Rolex timepiece, most pawnbrokers provide initial quotations based on photographs and details provided about your specific watch.

Access to paperwork, invoices, and proof of ownership/provenance provide pawnbrokers with further information to ensure the price for your Rolex is fair, well-calculated, and can fit in with your loan needs.

Evaluations will also be made on your Rolex watch value, by determining its age. Just because your Rolex watch is old does not necessarily determine its financing value. The age must be assessed in conjunction with other important factors including its condition and scarcity.

How much you pawn your Rolex depends on the overall valuation, and it may also depend on the amount you need. Because of this enormous variability, professional pawnbrokers cannot give you a quote for your Rolex without a face-to-face valuation.

 

2. Audemars Piguet – stylish watch investment option

Another worthy entry on our list of the Top 15 Best watches to pawn in 2024, Audemars Piguet combines style with exquisite technology, resulting in a failsafe investment piece. Older Audemars Piguet watch models are becoming increasingly desirable and demonstrate a notable ability to hold their worth at pawn shops. For example, in 2015 an extremely rare 18-carat gold perpetual calendar watch made in 1957 fetched 545,000 USD (£425,000) at auction, almost doubling the expected sale price.

Most pawnbrokers loan against a wide range of models and collections from Audemars Piguet including  Jules Audemars, Royal Oak, Code 11.59, Royal Oak Offshore, HAUTE JOAILLERIE, Royal Oak Concept, Millenary, and Classique.

3. Patek Philippe – probably one of the top 2 best watches brand to loan against in 2024

Over its long and prestigious history, Patek Philippe produced some of the most innovative luxury watches ever made, and sits alongside brands like Rolex in being one of the best watches brands to pawn, sell or invest in as of 2024 and beyond.

Most pawnbrokers will lend against quality examples of Patek Philippe watches for both ladies and gentlemen, such as those listed below:

• Annual Calendars
• Aquanaut
• Aquanaut Ladies
• Calatrava
• Calatrava Ladies
• Complications (Ladies)
• Golden Ellipse
• Gondolo
• Gondolo Ladies
• Grand Complications
• Nautilus
• Nautilus Ladies
• Older Models
• Perpetual Calendars
• Twenty-4 Collection
• World Times

Some of the most important criteria pawn shops look at when valuing your Patek timepiece include the make, model, condition and restoration, provenance, availability, age, and demand for the timepiece.

 

4. Breguet – a solid watch to release capital against

Swiss watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet began manufacturing his watches in Paris in 1775, and it wasn’t long before his innovative timepieces impressed influencers such as Queen Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI. Other champions of this iconic brand through time include Napoleon, Queen Victoria, and Winston Churchill.

The business remained in the family until the late nineteenth century, while today the production of the watches has moved to Switzerland. Without a doubt, Breguet watches have earned their place in history, not only for their attractive, distinctive appearance but also for their quality and innovative features.

Pawning Breguet watches is also a popular service at pawn shops – the brand boasts an impressive technological standard and unique touches, such as the “secret signature” that is engraved on the dial but only visible when looked at obliquely. Even if your Breguet doesn’t quite match the 102,500 Swiss francs (£80,000) a 1952 precursor to the Type XX fetched in 2018, you will be sure that the pawn value of your timepiece will benefit from the cachet this brand carries.

 

While the market may still underrate a Breguet watch, a luxury pawnbroker won’t. In particular, the Breguet 5157 or the Classique 5197 have steady interest, making them some of the best watches to loan against.

 

How pawnbrokers value your Breguet timepiece

 

1. Condition

Pristine watches kept in their original packaging will, of course, present in excellent condition but it is understandable that wearing such a beautiful timepiece can be irresistible. In this case, our pawnbroking experts will give a thorough and fair assessment of your Brequet watch, based on the outside appearance as well as the inner workings.

2. Age

As the story began in 1775, you may have a rare Breguet early piece with a high value at pawn shops. A Breguet Perpétuelle self-winding model sold at auction in May 2016 for £2.35 million, with a story to tell. In 1800 it was sold by Breguet to a general working for Napoleon, changing hands a number of times over the years until it was most recently bought by a Swiss museum for this breathtaking price.

3. Model

It stands to reason that certain rarer Breguet models or limited editions will be more desirable to pawn, and attract a higher loan value. The Breguet Tradition GMT Manual Wind 40mm, the Breguet Classique Chronograph, and the Breguet Classique Perpetual Calendar are all examples of particularly sought-after models that could fetch you a very high value.

4. Provenance

Evidence of the “provenance” or history of your Breguet watch will help our pawn shop experts more accurately assess its true value before lending against it. Having the original packaging, receipt, guarantee, and service history will help you achieve a good valuation for your cherished timepiece.

 

5. Breitling – another interesting pawning option in 2024

Known as the pilot’s watch of choice, Breitling has close links to the aviation industry and bears many advanced technological features, which makes it another great entry on our list of best watches to pawn.

A Navitimer model went for 27,500 USD (£21,000) in December 2018, reflecting the brand’s desirability and everlasting appeal. The Navitime is a classic Breitling watch that remains popular, while the Avenger and the Superocean are excellent diving watches with enduring interest. Finally, Top Time is a stunning dress watch that can generate capital because it’s become particularly popular in recent years, especially among younger collectors.

 

6. Cartier – the king of jewelers needs no introduction!

Considered one of the world’s top luxury brands, if you are fortunate enough to own a Cartier watch you are in possession of a valuable asset that can be used as collateral for a high-value loan.

Vintage Cartier watches always do well at auction, as do more contemporary models – in 2018 the hammer went down at 21,250 Swiss francs (£16,800) on a Cartier Tank mono-pusher chronograph that was one of only 100 made ten years previously.

Cartier is one of the top watch brands you can loan against because there is significant interest in many of their models. The Tank or Santos are perenially popular, but a Panthere or Ballon Bleu are other great options. A gold or platinum Pasha is a dark horse, but they can be a great option to take a loan against because of their committed following.

Ultimately, there are many iconic watch models in the Cartier portfolio, built up over the better part of two centuries. Some have been runaway success stories, while others have had little impact on the market. Today, some Cartier watches are more desirable than others at pawn shops, most notably the Santos, Tonneau, and Tank series. For example, the incarnation of the Santos is the Triple 100, released in 2008, is credited as the first-ever rotating-dial mechanism; while the Santos Dumont Skeleton watch has been known to sell for more than £40,000.

 

7. Chopard – some of the most exquisite timepieces to borrow against in 2024

Although well-established, this elegant brand is known for its contemporary but classic look, with some unique touches. The brand boasts some showstopping models, for example, the Imperiale Quartz 28 mm white gold ladies’ wristwatch, which is set with pavé diamonds and fashioned from 18-carat white gold.

 

How will pawn shops assess the value of your Chopard timepiece?

1. How old is your Chopard watch?

Like all collectibles, the age of your Chopard timepiece could increase its value due to exponential rarity. The very first Chopard pocket watches, such as the Luis Ulysses model, are over 150 years old. Anyone in possession of such a watch could expect to receive in the region of £1,500 to £6,000, depending on its condition. That’s not to say that modern Chopard watches don’t command a reasonable price tag either. Pre-owned Chopard Classic Racing model watches routinely fetch around £1,300 at auction, while the Mille Miglia model (a limited run of just 250) can command up to £7,500.

2. What condition is your Chopard watch in?

The condition of your Chopard watch is arguably the most important factor when it comes to pawning or selling it. A well-cared-for Chopard watch will retain more loan value than one that has seen its share of knocks, bumps, and scratches. Of course, functionality matters just as much as appearance. The better the overall condition, the higher the price tag and the better the loan you’ll receive for your Chopard at pawn shops.

3. Provenance

For pawnbrokers, lending against a Chopard watch becomes much easier if you can provide provenance. Your Chopard watch will be considered much more valuable if you provide documentation such as proof of purchase, service histories, and certificates of authenticity.

4. Type of model

Over the past 150 years, Chopard has manufactured a variety of different models over the years – some of which have been designed for practicality (like the Classic Racing model), and others that are part of a limited run (like the Mille Miglia 161889 series). Rarer models like the L.U.C XPS 1860 Edition are much more desirable, on account of the materials used in their manufacturing and the market scarcity of the model.

As an example of the value of a rare Chopard timepiece, in 2000, a 201-karat Chopard watch (known as the Chopard 201) sold for no less than £15.7 million. The piece in question featured pink, blue, and white diamonds on the face, with a further 163 white and yellow diamonds surrounding its bracelet. This colorful, glitzy, and regal timepiece is regarded as one of the most opulent luxury watches in history.

8. IWC – luxury watches that command good loan offers at the moment

Perhaps lesser known than some other high-profile brands, the IWC does not, however, disappoint with its collections of luxury watches, mainly associated with sport and adventure.

 

While some timepieces depreciate as soon as they leave the store, IWC luxury watches tend to retain their value at pawn shops. Limited edition pieces, such as the IWC Siderale Scafusia – regarded as one of the most complex watches of all time – can command up to £585,000 at auction and pawn stores. Other notable IWC watches you can loan against include the classic IWC Grande Complication (£90,000), the IWC Tourbillon Destriero (£94,000), and the IWC Portuguese Tourbillon Squelette (£149,000).

Similarly, the Portugieser’s clean dial and unusually large face is reminiscent of the 1930s, and is considered an iconic model. Because they were initially made only in small numbers and still today (at the time of this writing in 2024) conjure up a feeling of exclusivity, the Portugieser remains highly desirable and another of our best IWC watches to pawn against.

Finally, age plays an important part in valuing your IWC watch for a loan. The law of entropy dictates that, over time, certain models become damaged or lost. This increases their scarcity, and also their value. Some IWC watches have history attached to them – for example, the IWC WWW wristwatch was manufactured for use by the British Army in the Second World War, and these models can fetch hundreds of thousands when sold or pawned, particularly if they were worn during battle.

 

9. Jaeger-LeCoultre

Another fine Swiss brand, Jaeger-LeCoultre is renowned for some unusual and highly technical methods of embellishing their classic watches. In “snow-setting”, diamonds are painstakingly placed on the watch to create the look of shimmering snowflakes as they appear in nature. This attention to detail is reflected in the prices this brand fetches at auction: in 2011 a QP Staybrite sold for 70,000 euros (£62,500).

Jaeger-LeCoultre has been creating fine timepieces since 1833. It is highly revered for the quality and refinement of its fine watches and is in high demand at pawn shops. By 1844, the company had developed the most precise measuring instrument of the age – the millionomètre – cementing the reputation of Jaeger-LeCoultre as masters of accuracy, as well as style. The firm’s most popular, long-running models include the Reverso (a classic flip-watch), the Memovox (one of the first alarm watches), Master Compressor (designed for sportspersons), and the Master Ultra Thin (a luxury dress watch).

How much can you finance your Jaeger LeCoultre watch for?

1. Condition

To command a decent price at pawn shops, a luxury Jaeger LeCoultre watch needs to be in good condition – aesthetically and mechanically. The ability of a watch to keep accurate time can affect its price just as much as scratches and dents – however, if the watch is repairable its value won’t be affected too drastically.

2. How much do Jaeger-LeCoultre watches sell for at auction?

The most expensive Jaeger-LeCoultre luxury watch – the Joaillerie 101 Manchette – is priceless. This stunning watch was gifted to HRH Queen Elizabeth II to mark her 60th year as monarch. At an auction, bids on popular models like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso regularly open between £2,750 and £3,000.

3. Provenance matters

Before applying for a loan on your Jaeger-LeCoultre watch, it helps to have supporting documentation to hand. Certificates of authenticity, proof of purchase, and documents detailing any repairs will all help an appraiser to more accurately assess the value of your Jaeger LeCoultre watch before signing the loan contract. In most cases, provenance will also help increase the amount of funds you could access against the value of your watch.

4. Age and history

It’s only natural that over time, some watches get lost, misplaced, or broken beyond repair. As time goes on, it stands to reason that the rarity of certain Jaeger LeCoultre watch models will increase, thereby raising their worth at pawn shops and auction houses. Jaeger LeCoultre watches with significant historical significance can also command higher values. For example, a World War II issue Jaeger-LeCoultre GSTP Military Issue Pocket Watch will generally command higher prices than standard GSTP models from the same period.

10. Panerai

This classic Italian watchmaker has long been associated with the military, divers, and all-round adventurers, while the limited watches editions that Panerai produces keep their value high, and scarcity is always one reason why this watch made it on our “best watches to pawn in 2024” list.

A Luminor Submersible 1950 Bronzo sold for 187,500 Hong Kong dollars (£18,614) in November 2018, its distinctive bronze case reminiscent of underwater adventure.

Panerai is one of the top watch brands you can pawn if you have some of the following models:  PAM 111 or 312, Radiomir, or the Submersible, a relatively new but increasingly popular Penerai watch.

11. Richard Mille

Closely associated with iconic sporting events and stars, Richard Mille watches even use high-tech, ultra-durable material usually associated with aerospace in their designs, taking this brand to another level, while futuristic designs make them instantly recognizable.

Some criteria for assessing the loan value of your RM timepiece at pawnshops

1. The condition of your watch – self explanatory

2. History

Do you have the exact RM timepiece worn by a member of a sporting or sailing team, or by a particularly influential person? If you can prove it, this can greatly enhance the desirability and value of your Richard Mille watch. Richard Mille sponsors a lot of sportspersons, so if your timepiece has been previously worn or signed by a notable athlete, this could increase its loan value at pawn shops. Limited edition items like the RM056 could also fetch large amounts at auction, based on their rarity.

3. The Model

Do make a note of the exact model of your Richard Mille timepiece before you speak to pawnbrokers, as the value for particular models fluctuates greatly depending on their availability, and how desirable they are in the market today. For example, the RM 005 can be obtained for as little as £35,000. However, if you have the RM Felipe Massa edition, that could raise the borrowing value greatly. In contrast, the RM 027 sells regularly for upwards of £400,000.

4. Paperwork

If you have all the original paperwork, including proof of purchase, service documentation, and the certificate of authenticity, bring this along to your appraisal as it could affect the value of the financing offered on your Richard Mile watch.

 

12. Urwerk

Taking design to a futuristic level, Urwerk watches are the epitome of the unexpected.

A brand created in 1997, these watches are constantly evolving with innovative and surprising new features – rotating complications to indicate the time and numerals projected through optical fibre.

Despite being a relatively new brand, Urwerk watches have excellent resale value for their quirky appeal. Rare early prototypes are particularly sought-after, for example, and UR-102 Nightwatch fetched $17,500 (£13,600) at auction in June 2017. The UR-102 isn’t the only model that can hold its value. Owners of the UR-100, UR-110, or the sleek UR-T8 can all find success on the market. Indeed, Urwerk is fast becoming one of the top watch brands you can pawn because of its exclusivity and stunning craftsmanship.

 

13. Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin has been making watches since 1755, and so this long-established brand is rightly considered one of the best classics to pawn, invest in, or sell in 2024.

Some of the other best watches to loan against in the Vacheron Constantin collection are the popular sports line, the Overseas, or the vintage-inspired Historiques series.  By contrast, Métiers d’Art series are some of Vacheron Constantin’s most elegant, ornate, and sought-after pieces, with no shortage of buyers. 

Finally, age can play an important part in the valuation of your Vacheron Constantin timepiece. For example, a 1950’s Vacheron Constantin Patrimony can open at auction for £15,000. However, limited-edition models like the Vacheron Constantin Hand Wind Watch 82761 can command prices of over £700,000. While age can increase the value of your Vacheron Constantin watch at pawn shops, so too can its decadence and rarity.

Other examples of rare Vacheron watches include the 260th-anniversary edition released in 2015, the Reference 57260. In 2005 a Reference 57260 owned by King Fouad I of Egypt fetched a stunning $2.77 million (£2.15 million), giving an indication of how highly this brand is regarded.

 

14. A. Lange & Söhne

A. Lange & Söhne has a rich and deep heritage with the luxury watchmaker’s origins stretching back to 1845 in Saxony, Germany. This German company is unique in that it was originally established in 1845, ceased trading in 1948 after the establishment of the German Democratic Republic, but was resurrected in 1990 following German unification. Their reputation grew among the wealthy upper echelons and, in the second world war, were even commissioned to manufacture oversized wristwatches for the German airmen. However, defeat in 1945 led to the invasion of the Soviets and the nationalization of the successful watchmaker. Following the reunification of Germany in 1990, the watchmaker was restored to its original quality.

The company’s unique design, coupled with its enduring history, has built a distinctive name. These watches are designed in the unique Glashütte exterior design, which boasts a unique take on the Swiss style. Typically, most watches use quartz movements for their internal clock. However, A. Lange & Söhne developed their own unique mechanical movement for keeping the watch’s rhythm. Gold and platinum plating create a beautiful aesthetic, making these watches extremely desirable and suitable for use as investments or collateral.

Over the years, A. Lange & Söhne has created many different watches, each with an individual set of characteristics – most of them hold high value at pawn shops. From luxury wristwatches to older, bejeweled pocket watches, every piece of A. Lange & Söhne is a piece of craftsmanship. Therefore, when considering pawning your A. Lange & Söhne watch, the price may differ from seemingly identical pieces.

But to give you an idea of how much your A. Lange & Söhne watch might sell for and its potential loan value, in 2007 a 1904 pocket watch, crafted from 18K pink gold, sold at Christie’s auction house for $950,000 (£741,000). Another notable example was at the Phillips Geneva auction house in 2018, where an 1815 model sold for $852,525 (£665,000).

Ultimately, many A. Lange & Söhne watches hold their value well and fetch good prices in the secondary market. However, a Pour le Mérite, a Datagraph, or Zeitwerk are some of the best watches to loan against.

 

So…what determines the loan value on A. Lange & Söhne watches?

 

15. Omega

Omega has been a respected name in the watch sector for more than 160 years, gracing the wrists of world leaders, intrepid explorers, discerning celebrities, and anyone else who seeks cutting-edge design and reliable functioning.

It is a luxury watch brand that has risen to global fame, since its humble beginnings in a tiny workshop run by Louis Brandt in Switzerland in 1848. In 1885, the founder’s sons introduced the firm’s first mass-produced item, the Labrador. Experts believe the company’s reputation was first cemented by the launch of the 19-line Omega Caliber in 1894.

One of the brand’s most sought-after collections at pawn shops is the Omega Seamaster range. First launched in 1948, it is the luxury watch brand many diving enthusiasts use, though it also has universal fashion appeal.

Other Omega collections that are aspirational for anyone who values style and technical excellence in a luxury watch include Speedmaster, Constellation, De Ville, Dark Side of the Moon, Tesor, and Globemaster. These are luxury timepieces that have become the highlight of high-value auctions the world over and can be pawned for great prices.

Omega is the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games and has been for over 20 such events.

For example, a 2017 Omega Speedmaster Speedy Tuesday came up for auction at a UK auction house – Barnebys. It had an estimated purchase price of over $5,700.

An Omega watch belonging to Elvis Presley (gifted by his label to celebrate his milestone of selling 75 million records) sold for over $1.8m at an auction in Geneva.

However, it could well be that you are loathed to part with your own Omega luxury watch on a permanent basis, in which case by pawning your timepiece you will both release capital and maintain ownership. Moreover, applying for a loan against your Omega watch vs. selling your timepiece can be far more advantageous, particularly if your Omega wristwatch was a gift or was purchased in celebration of your own milestone achievement.

The Impact of the Ukraine War 

 

When Vladimir Putin launched his invasion into Ukrainian territory late in February of 2022, the world braced for a new disaster. The war has now proven to be a constant back and forth struggle between the two powers, and while the worst-case scenario has not yet reared its ugly head, the invasion still has negatively affected many industries.

The first industry that comes to mind affected by the Russo-Ukrainian war is likely the oil market, but, as of 2024, another that has suffered is the luxury watch market, specifically some of the best watches pawn potential. Not long after the invasion started, the Russians reportedly seized millions of dollars worth of luxury Audemars Piguet watches. 

This occurred after Switzerland parted from its traditional stance on neutrality to join other Western countries in imposing sanctions against Russia after the invasion of Ukraine. The government of Switzerland’s luxury export ban has been causing uncertainties for some businesses, but they remain firm in their stance and the ban has been held thus far.

Russian agents justified the raid by claiming that Audemars Piguet watches, which stand firm on our list of the best watches to pawn in 2024, violated local customs rules when imported to Russia. Watches from Audemars Piguet can cost more than 921,000 USD, making the raid a good financial strategy.

After the invasion of Ukraine, Audemars Piguet ceased its operations in Russia.

 

How do pawnbrokers assess the value of the best watches they loan against?

There’s no one single consideration that pawnbrokers refer to when deciding how much a pawned watch is worth. Pawnbrokers tend to take a wide variety of factors into account, specific to that time.

 

 

1. Market value

When you take a luxury watch to a pawnbroker, the first thing they’ll consider is its market value both currently, in 2023 but also beyond.

Although around 85% of people reclaim their pawned possession after they’ve paid a pawn loan off, a pawnbroker for fine watches needs to think about what happens if someone can’t afford to pay the loan back. The pawnbroker will then have to sell the asset in order to recoup the money lost.

Assessing the watch’s 2024 market value determines what timepieces could be sold for, if the pawn loan isn’t paid back. A pawnbroker will use a number of factors to work out market value, including tapping into their own industry knowledge and expertise, as well as referring to current 2024 watch price lists and similar items for sale at auction.

In some cases, if the luxury watch is rare or very unique, the pawnbroker may need to draft in expertise from a specialist to evaluate its market worth.

Bear in mind that the market value of your luxury watch won’t equal the amount you’ll be allowed to borrow from a pawnbroker. In most cases, a pawnbroker will only offer you around 60-70% of the actual value of your watch. Plus, there’s also the interest on top of the loan to consider.

2. Demand and supply

How much a pawnbroker will let you borrow against your luxury watch will also be influenced by demand and supply factors.

If the market is already saturated with this brand or model of watch, its value amount will be lower than a watch that is highly sought-after and in short supply. Thus, this kind of watch would not make the best brand to pawn against.

Demand and supply trends can change over time, so if you pawned the same watch a few years ago, bear in mind that its value may fluctuate if market variables have since changed.

3. Watch model

Pawn values will also be decided according to the specific brand and model of the watch.

More exclusive models will command higher values, especially those that are considered investment pieces or from limited edition stock. Brands such as Rolex are always in great demand from collectors, for example, and this makes it some of the best watches to pawn as of 2024.

4. Condition

Before deciding the loan value against your luxury watch, a pawnbroker will scrutinize it thoroughly to check its condition. Precision is vital in many luxury watches and any malfunction with the timekeeping or its components could impact its future saleability, therefore lowering the loan value.

In some cases, if the watch is highly sought-after, minor imperfections may not impact the loan value too much, especially if these can be repaired. Watches that have been cared for and stored properly will often command higher values than those that haven’t.

Pawnbrokers will also assess the watch’s authenticity before agreeing on a pawn arrangement, so relevant documentation may be required. If the watch is deemed to be fake, don’t expect a decent pawnbroker to do business with you.

5. Your personal situation

It’s not just the attributes of the watch that a pawnbroker will consider when deciding upon a value figure for your loan. They will also weigh up the likelihood of whether you will pay the loan off and redeem the watch, or whether they’ll end up having to sell it.

Pawnbrokers earn their living from the interest of the loan. They want to see customers pay the loan off and claim back their watches, rather than having to try and sell them themselves.

How to increase the value of your fine watch collection

 

Your luxury watch is much more than just a way to keep track of time. If it’s properly cared for and given the right attention, it could prove to be a profitable investment, whether by selling or pawning it . While it can’t be guaranteed that your watch will maintain or grow in value, by following the tips below you’ll ensure that you maximise the value of your luxury watch when the time comes to sell.

 

1. Keep your watch in top condition

 

You should aim to keep your watch in mint condition to ensure it holds its maximum value. Any imperfections, no matter how small, will reduce your watch’s value when you choose to sell.

Different brands and models of watches can withstand varying degrees of treatment. Several brands produce ranges of watches that are carefully constructed to offer extraordinary durability. The Rafael Nadal range, by Richard Milles, makes use of an Incabloc system that enables the jewel bearings to withstand shock impact through intricately designed sets of springs. Theoretically, this means you could wear your watch for even the most demanding physical activities.

However, to keep your watch in top condition, it’s a good idea to take your watch off for activities where it could be damaged and keep it in a safe and secure place when it’s not being worn. Use your common sense to avoid wearing your watch in situations where it could get wet. Contrary to what you might think, it’s also advisable to avoid polishing your luxury timepiece.

2. Never polish your watch

 

A common mistake that inexperienced owners make is to polish their watch. They think that polishing is a way to maintain the shine of their watch and protect it from everyday contact with sleeves, fingers, and the effects of humidity.

However, the effects of polishing can do more harm to your timepiece than good. Correctly cleaning a watch requires an ultrasonic bath and thorough degreasing on a material that cannot cause any scratches.

By polishing a luxury timepiece without carrying out the proper precautions, you can cause microscopic damage and scratches.

3. Sell your watch within 5 years

 

It’s very hard to predict the trends in value for different watches in the long-term. Some models are particularly sought after at auction, such as the Nautilus 2499.

While it may have been easy for experts to predict the groundbreaking Nautilus as a watch that would hold its value, that can’t be said of the Paul Newman Daytona. The Paul Newman was an unexpected success and is now always in demand when up for auction.

While it’s difficult to predict the value of a watch over a long period, it’s easier in the short term.

Sought after models will always maintain a reasonable resale value for their first five years, especially if you are smart in selecting the right model when your first make your purchase. Special editions of popular models, like the Spectre limited edition of the Omega Seamaster, offer the best opportunity for profit on investment in a luxury timepiece.

4. Make sure you keep all documentation

It can be a dangerous belief that supporting documents prove a watch’s authenticity. If a fake watch is constructed to a convincing standard, then it’s safe to say that the convincing paperwork could also be fake. However, luxury timepieces that are sold without supporting documentation always sell for a lower price than those that are sold with it.

So our watch expert watch pawnbrokers team it’s a good idea to ensure your registration card and all supporting paperwork is kept safe and in great condition.

5. Make sure your watch is regularly serviced

 

Regular maintenance is vital to ensure a watch holds its value. Luxury timepieces are designed and built by specialists with expertise in what they do. The same specialist knowledge is required to keep your watch in top condition, so keep your watch serviced regularly.

The recommended interval between services varies by manufacturer, with most brands suggesting a full service every 3 to 5 years. However, to maximise your watch’s value you should have it serviced every two years. If you own a submersible luxury watch, it should be serviced every year to ensure that it maintains its water resistance.

Think of your luxury timepiece as a miniature engine that powers tiny instruments in constant motion. To let the engine of your expensive luxury car go without service for 2 years is unthinkable, so why is it any different for your expensive luxury watch?

A service entails the moving elements of your watch being delicately taken apart and cleaned. All of the seals and any parts that show signs of wear are replaced before it is oiled and reassembled. Your watch is tested and regulated to ensure that it is in top condition and performing as well as it did when it was brand new.

Having your watch regularly serviced and revalued also offers insight into whether your model has appreciated in market value and if it’s a good time to sell.

 

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