Colour and Size trend for latest Watches

 Over the past decade, the watch industry has seen some fascinating trends emerge in terms of dial colors and watch sizes. From 2010 to 2016, blue-dialed Rolex watches were the dominant choice, with blue dials enjoying the highest demand across the brand's lineup. 

However, a significant shift occurred in 2019 when Patek Philippe introduced the highly coveted Tiffany Blue limited edition Nautilus in steel. This created a renewed hype around the Tiffany Blue aesthetic, and the same year, Rolex responded by introducing their own Tiffany Blue, as well as green, yellow, and pink variants of the Oyster Perpetual. These bold, eye-catching colorways were instantly popular, with the 41mm Tiffany Blue Oyster Perpetual commanding prices up to HK$500,000 on the secondary market, even though the prices have since stabilized to a more reasonable HK$130,000 level. 

While the Tiffany Blue craze captivated the market, it became evident that this specific shade of blue may not appeal to all tastes. In 2020 and the following years, Patek Philippe introduced the green-dialed Nautilus 5711, which seemed to shift the trend towards green as the new "it" color. The green Nautilus became the talk of the town, with many enthusiasts declaring that "green is the new blue." 

Alongside the color trends, the market has also seen a growing preference for more elegant, simplified dial designs. Dress watches have become increasingly popular, with models like the Cartier Tank and the Crash finding their way onto the wrists of both men and women, even for formal occasions. Furthermore, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Mini is Big News for Small Watch Lovers, Royal Oak Mini Frosted Gold, a trio of watches coming in at a perfectly petite 23mm.

In 2024, the latest color trend appears to be a shift towards salmon and pink tones. Recent releases, such as the Tudor Black Bay Chrono 41mm in pink steel, have been highly sought after, indicating a growing appreciation for these warm, sophisticated hues.

Additionally, there seems to be a preference for smaller watch sizes, with 35-38mm becoming the sweet spot for many men. Pieces that may have been overlooked a decade ago are now being reconsidered and worn with confidence.

Finally, the Rolex King Medias, with their timeless elegance and beauty, have seen a surge in demand, reflecting the ongoing appreciation for classic, well-crafted timepieces.

Overall, the watch industry has navigated a dynamic landscape of color trends, size preferences, and a renewed focus on both dress watches and iconic designs. As the market continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how these trends unfold and shape the future of the industry.

 在過去的十年裡,腕錶行業在錶盤顏色和錶款尺寸方面出現了一些引人注目的趨勢。從2010年到2016年,藍色錶盤的勞力士腕錶是主流選擇,藍色錶盤在品牌的全線產品中需求最高。 

然而,2019年Patek Philippe引入了深受追捧的Tiffany Blue 蒂芙尼藍限量版鋼款Nautilus,掀起了一股對蒂芙尼藍美學的新熱潮。同年,勞力士也推出了自己的蒂芙尼藍以及綠色、黃色和粉色版本的「水手型恆動」系列。這些大膽、引人注目的色彩立即受到歡迎,41毫米蒂芙尼藍「Oyster Perpetual」甚至在市場上飆升至50萬港元,儘管現在價格已穩定在13萬港元左右。 

儘管蒂芙尼藍熱潮吸引了市場關注,但這種特殊藍色可能並不符合所有人的品味。在2020年及以後,Patek Philippe推出了綠色錶盤Nautilus 5711型,似乎將趨勢轉向將綠色視為新的「爆款」色調。綠色諾蒂樂斯成為話題焦點,許多愛好者宣稱「綠色是新的藍色」(Green is the new Blue)。 

除了色彩趨勢,市場也出現了對更優雅、簡約錶盤設計的偏好。正裝腕錶越來越受歡迎,卡地亞Tank和Prasha列等型號已經出現在男女佩戴正裝場合的腕上。此外,愛彼皇家橡樹迷你系列也為追捧小錶的愛好者帶來了新選擇,包括23毫米的迷你皇家橡樹冰鑽金系列。 

到2024年,最新的色彩趨勢似乎正朝著三文魚色和粉色調發展。如Tudor Black Bay計時41毫米粉鋼款的新款備受追捧,顯示市場對這些溫和、高雅色調的青睞。 

此外,35-38毫米似乎成為許多男士的最佳尺寸選擇,過去可能被忽略的錶款現在受到青睞,佩戴者也更加自信。 

最後,勞力士王者系列凝聚了永恆的優雅美學,需求也呈現上升趨勢,反映了人們對經典、精心打造腕錶的持續欣賞。 

總的來說,腕錶行業經歷了色彩趨勢、尺寸偏好以及正裝腕錶和經典設計重拾關注的動態格局。隨著市場的不斷演進,這些趨勢的發展將是令人矚目的。

Which Rolex model we should consider purchasing 2024?

Introduction I was wondering which Rolex model we should consider purchasing, as many of my friends and followers on my watch blog have inquired about this. 

Rolex CEO Jean-Frédéric Dufour recently spoke with the Swiss newspaper NZZ ahead of the Watches and Wonders industry trade show in Geneva, which he co-founded and serves as president. When asked about the current state of the industry, Dufour acknowledged that 2024 would be a "challenging" year for watch manufacturers.

Dufour cited several factors contributing to this challenge, including increased material prices, such as the cost of gold. "Rolex produces everything here at Swiss costs. The Swiss franc is a challenge," he noted. "The cost of raw materials has also risen massively. A kilo of gold was 18,000 francs, now it is 66,000 francs in Switzerland. " Dufour also mentioned that rising interest rates and the geopolitical situation are affecting consumer sentiment and spending. He emphasized, "I don't like it when people compare watches to stocks. It sends the wrong message and is dangerous. We make products, not investments." 

Bob's Recommendation, coincidentally, a recent article from Bob's Watches, a reputable source with over two decades of experience in the luxury watch industry, covered this topic. The Bob's Watches Editorial Team stands at the forefront of watch expertise and insight. As they are not based in Hong Kong, their perspective on the best models for the local market could be particularly interesting.

Submariner Models to Invest in: 

Ref. 116610LN, Ref. 16610, Ref. 14060, and Ref. 16613 are suggested as potential investment pieces. The newer models starting with Ref 12XXXX are 1mm larger, and the Ref. 16610, with its T25 dial, may offer better value and the potential for a more beautiful patina compared to the Ref. 116610. The Ref. 14060 no-date model is also a consideration, though the Ref. 16613 two-tone Submariner may be less popular in Hong Kong, as steel tool watches are currently more sought after by influential individuals. 

Oyster Perpetual Models to Invest in: 

Ref. 124300, Tiffany Blue and Green models are considered good collectibles, but their current prices, often exceeding HK$130,000, are quite high. However, the 39mm Oyster Perpetual models are expected to hold their value well in the future due to their limited production. 

Explorer Models to Invest in: 

While Bob's Watches recommends Ref. 14270, Ref. 214270, Ref. 16570, and Ref. 216570, I have a slightly different perspective. I believe the Ref. 16550 "Cream Rail" dial Explorer II and the Ref. 16570 white dial are noteworthy options, as the Ref.16550 can be quite expensive at around HK$240,000 for a well-preserved example, while the Ref. 16570 remains more affordable. 

GMT-Master Models to Invest in: 

I agree with Bob's assessment that the vintage Ref. 16750 GMT-Master offers a similar look and feel to the more expensive Ref. 1675, often at a significantly lower price point. Additionally, the Ref. 16760 "COKE" with its black and red bezel, also known as the "Fat Lady," may be worth monitoring, as its limited production run of just a few years could make it a desirable option if Rolex reintroduces a retro model in 2024. 

Date Just Models to Invest in: 

While the Date Just is an iconic Rolex model, particularly popular in the 70s to 90s, I personally favor the Ref. 1601 with its pie-pan dial and acrylic crystal over the later Ref. 16013, Ref. 16233, and Ref. 116233 models. 

Day-Date President Models to Invest in: 

 The Rolex Day-Date, often referred to as the "President's Watch," is the brand's flagship line and a highly sought-after model. Gold Rolex watches have recently gained relative value on the secondary market, and the Ref. 1803 is a top choice, particularly those with unique dial variations, such as the "Stellar" dial or precious stone accents. An example of a Ref. 1803 in white gold with a "Tiffany Blue" Stellar dial could potentially fetch around HK$500,000 on the market. 

Recommended Rolex Models to Invest In: 

Date Models: Ref. 1503 Ref. 1507 Ref. 15037 Ref. 15238 I don't have a strong interest in Rolex Date models. 

Sea-Dweller Models: 

Ref. 1665, especially the rare "Double Red" variant, which is considered the best Sea-Dweller model, though now very expensive Ref. 16660 Ref. 16600 Ref. 116600 

Air-King Models: 

Ref. 5500 Ref. 14010 Ref. 114200 Ref. 114234 I don't collect Air-King watches as it is the most basic Rolex sport model. 

Ladies Rolex Models: 

Ref. 69173 Ref. 69138 Ref. 169622 I don't collect ladies' Rolex watches. 

The Most Important Rolex Model: 

The Daytona My Preferred Daytona Models: 

Ref. 116508 "Green John Mayer" in yellow gold, which I believe is one of the best investment pieces, having risen to over HK$1 million in 2022 and currently available around HK$600,000, a price I expect will increase rapidly 

Ref. 16528 (with either black or white dial) powered by the Zenith movement 

Ref. 16520 "A" or "U" series with a patinated dial 

 Ref.116520 with a creamy dial (found only on "P, K, Y" series models) 

While the iconic Paul Newman Daytona (Ref. 6241) is the "King of Daytonas", it is more of a collector's item than a daily wearer. 

The models I've recommended here all feature sapphire crystals and can be comfortably worn every day. 

You may ask how about Ice Blue Platinum, well if you have extra money and you don't mind the 286 gram of weight. Go for it. 

In summary, my Rolex preference ranking is: 

Daytona, Day-Date GMT Submariner Deep Sea Sea-Dweller Explorer Date-Just Oyster Perpetual, 1908/Cellini Yacht-Master Sky-Dweller Air-King Date Ladies' Date-Just 

 HK Snob

When Watch price will start rising up again?

Certainly, let me dive deeper into the potential future dynamics of the watch industry and market: The luxury watch sector faces a complex challenge in reconciling strong macroeconomic indicators with the public's more pessimistic sentiment toward the economy. 

This disconnect could significantly impact consumer spending, especially on high-end discretionary items like luxury watches. One key factor to watch will be how brands adapt their strategies to this shift in market conditions. 

Swiss watchmakers may need to reevaluate their retail network, potentially closing some underperforming boutiques and relying more on direct engagement with loyal customers. 

Selective discounting or promotional offers could also help broaden their customer base beyond the most affluent collectors. The middle-class watch buyers, who make up a significant portion of the market, may become increasingly cautious in their purchasing decisions. 

They may adopt a wait-and-see approach, holding off on purchases until they perceive prices starting to rise again. Brands will need to carefully monitor this segment and find ways to reignite their interest without devaluing their products. 

 The role of supply and demand will be crucial in determining the timing and trajectory of the market's recovery. If brands can strike the right balance - not overproducing, but making sought-after models readily available - they may be able to rekindle consumer enthusiasm. 

However, attempts at a "hunger sales" strategy could backfire if handled poorly. Beyond the global dynamics, the specific challenges facing the Hong Kong market are noteworthy. 

As a former top destination for Swiss watch exports, Hong Kong has seen a significant decline in luxury buyers, particularly mainland Chinese tourists. This has led to store closures in prime shopping areas, further exacerbating the industry's challenges in the region. 

The South Africa Rolex office had been running for 76 years are closed. Ultimately, the watch industry's path to regaining momentum by Summer 2025 will depend on its ability to navigate these complex and interrelated factors. 

Brands that can effectively adapt their strategies, engage with customers, and manage supply and demand may be better positioned to weather the current storm and emerge stronger in the years to come. 

HK Snob

讓我進一步探討手錶行業未來的動態與挑戰

一個關鍵因素是品牌如何調整策略以適應這種市場環境的轉變。

瑞士手錶製造商可能需要重新評估他們的零售網絡,關閉一些表現不佳的精品店,

勞力士剛剛關閉運作了七十六年南非辨工室了，而需要更多依賴與忠實客戶的直接互動。

選擇性的折扣或促銷優惠也可能有助於擴大他們的客戶群,而不僅局限於最富裕的收藏家。 

中低端手錶買家群體,佔據市場的重要份額,可能會在購買決策上變得更加謹慎。

他們可能會採取觀望態度,等待價格開始再次上升後再進行購買。

品牌需要密切關注這一細分市場,設法重新點燃他們的興趣,同時不會貶低產品價值。 

 供給與需求的平衡在決定市場復蘇的時間和軌跡上至關重要。

如果品牌能夠掌握好這一平衡 - 既不過度生產,又能確保熱門型號充足供應 - 他們或許能重燃消費者的熱情。然而,如果採取"餓賣"策略處理不當,也可能適得其反。 

 除了全球動態,香港市場面臨的特殊挑戰也值得關注。作為連續十年瑞士手錶最重要的出口目的地之一,香港已經看到奢侈品買家,特別是來自中國大陸的遊客,大幅減少。

這導致了主要購物區的商店關閉,進一步加劇了該行業在該地區的困難。 

 總的來說,手錶行業到2025年夏季重拾動力的道路,將取決於其調整策略、吸引客戶以及管控供需平衡的能力。那些能夠有效應對這些複雜而相互關聯因素的品牌,可能會更好地渡過當前的風暴,並在未來幾年中強勢崛起.