What are the best watches that could be the best value retaining we buy in 2026?

 In 2026, the Rolex Daytona (particularly stainless steel models with ceramic bezels is still widely considered the best watch for high investment returns and liquidity. 

For reliable value retainment, collectors consistently favor the "Big Three" brands—Rolex,  Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet—which account for roughly 64% of all secondary market value.

Top Investment & Value Retention Models for 2026

The following models are projected to perform strongest in 2026 based on scarcity, brand authority, and secondary market demand: 

Rolex Daytona

Rolex Daytona 18ct Yellow Gold 116518LN HK$386,513.00

Known as the "highest ROI model," often trading significantly above retail due to years-long waitlists. 

Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref 7118/1200R-010 A 35.2mm rose gold diamond-set automatic wristwatch with date a women’s watch HK$1,504,000

Specifically the stainless steel references (e.g., 5711/1A or 5811); demand vastly outstrips supply, especially with 2026 marking the collection's 50th anniversary.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Steel models, especially 41mm references, maintain high price floors and intense collector interest. Well over the 1H 2025 to April Royal Oak price had been dropped 14% in my understanding and it is a good time to buy a good quality full set like new in the open market.

 

Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLNR Steel 40 mm HK$157,000

Popular configurations like the "Pepsi" (red/blue) and “Batman” (blue/black) are highly liquid "gold standards" for resale. 

Rolex Pepsi 116710BLRO 20198 MK I (Pink)

With the announcement of discontinuing of the Steel Pepsi 126710BLRO, price has increased to an level of $260,000 for an unused one. I think the discontinuing of Pepsi is due to the colour of Red to be made in the ceramic bezel, they cannot improve with a stable manufacturing process for a consistent Pantone Red on it, If you can find the first release Mark I of Pepsi 126710BLRO oyster bracelet in real full set! Keep it as the "Pink bezel" The MK1's bezel is more pinkish, almost a fresco of color, much more sought-after because it has created a patinated hue, it shall fetch a price of HK $500,000 after three to five years! 

Submariner

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner 41mm 124060 HK$107,000

Often cited as the "safest" investment due to its iconic status and minimal risk of significant depreciation.

Patek Philippe Aquanaut

Gaining traction among younger collectors, this model shows strong appreciation potential and high markups on the secondary market. 

 

Key Market Trends in 2026

• Shift to "Quiet Luxury": There is a growing focus on smaller case sizes (36–41mm) and understated elegance rather than oversized designs.
• Material Innovation: Beyond precious metals, status is increasingly tied to technical materials like polished titanium, recycled steel, and stone dials.
• "Holy Trinity" Alternatives: Brands like Cartier specially the Santos and Tank and Vacheron Chonstantin Overseas collection are emerging as high-performance alternatives for value retention

Investment Strategy Tips

1. Buy the Full Set: A watch missing its original box and papers can lose 10% to 20% of its resale value.
2. Condition is Critical: Unpolished cases with original factory lines often command a 25% premium over heavily polished examples.
3. Entry Points: For entry-level investment, consider the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch or a Tudor Black Bag both of which offer stable value at a more accessible price.

 Investment here means the best value keeping after the purchase. 

Paul Ip