How AI forecast the most valuable watch brands by 2025

 By 2035, the most sought-after watches from top-tier brands are expected to be the established iconic models that consistently hold their value and are defined by a blend of heritage, limited production, and classic design. These models will likely include: 

Rolex

Rolex is consistently the top brand for resale value and global recognition. Its most iconic professional models are expected to remain in extremely high demand due to brand mystique and tightly controlled supply. 

• Daytona: Especially the stainless steel versions, which are already highly collectible.
• Submariner and GMT-Master II: These timeless sport models have enduring appeal and a classic design that is expected to remain popular for generations. 

Patek Philippe 

Known for exceptional craftsmanship and its "You never actually own a Patek Philippe, you merely look after it for the next generation" philosophy, Patek Philippe timepieces are excellent long-term investments. 

• Nautilus and Aquanaut: These luxury sport models, especially the highly sought-after Ref. 5711 (though discontinued, its legacy continues) and the current 5811, will remain key collectibles.
• Grand Complications and Calatrava: Models featuring intricate mechanical movements and classic, elegant designs will always be highly valued by serious collectors. 

Audemars Piguet

The brand's flagship model, the Royal Oak, is expected to maintain its high status due to its innovative design and exclusivity. 

• Royal Oak (especially the "Jumbo" and Chronograph versions): The original luxury steel sports watch will remain a core focus of demand. 

Vacheron Constantin

As one of the oldest continuously operating watchmakers, its models are renowned for their artistry and rich heritage. 

• Overseas: The sporty and versatile Overseas collection is growing in demand and is expected to become a key long-term sought-after model. 

FP Journe

Though it is Not having long history of a watch company, very good workmanship, innovative design and beautiful polishing.

 

Other Noteworthy Mentions

• Omega Speedmaster Professional "Moonwatch": This model has a strong historical legacy that guarantees its lasting appeal and solid long-term value for collectors.
• Cartier Tank and Santos: These are classic, elegant designs that have been popular for a century and will likely remain popular as timeless pieces.
• Richard Mille: Select, ultra-exclusive, and innovative models are expected to remain highly desired by a niche, affluent market, though their market can be more volatile than traditional brands. 

The market in 2035 will continue to prioritize brand reputation, scarcity, provenance, and timeless design, and the models mentioned above embody these characteristics exceptionally well. 

AI

Aftermath, AI does not include FP Journe, That is what I added in.

Just for your reading pleasure

Paul

What Happened at the Auction for the F.P. Journe Watch?

The highlight of the recent Hong Kong spring auctions was the F.P. Journe Sonnerie Souveraine wristwatch. This remarkable timepiece hammered at HK$14.2 million, which is 3.7 times its initial estimate. After premiums, it sold for a total of HK$17.6 million (approximately US$2.3 million), making it the most expensive watch sold during this season's auctions.

Auction Details:

• Lot Number: 2291
• Brand: F.P. Journe
• Model: Sonnerie Souveraine
• Type: Stainless steel grande and petite sonnerie minute repeating wristwatch
• Features: Function selector, power reserve, and bracelet
• Manufactured: Circa 2008
• Case Size: 42 mm
• Estimate: HK$3,800,000 - 7,800,000
• Hammer Price: HK$14,200,000
• Sold Price: HK$17,557,000

About F.P. Journe

François-Paul Journe is widely regarded as one of the most influential watchmakers of our time. Since founding F.P. Journe in 1999, his watches have become staples at major auctions, frequently appearing alongside legendary brands like Patek Philippe and Rolex. Remarkably, F.P. Journe holds the auction record for an independent watchmaker, set by its Tourbillon Souverain, which sold for CHF 7.32 million (US$8.3 million) in 2024.

Journe's Journey: Born in Marseille in 1957, Journe found his passion for horology while living with his uncle, a vintage clock restorer in Paris. His obsession with mechanical innovation led him to create his first tourbillon pocket watch by the age of 20. In 1991, he designed a prototype wristwatch featuring a tourbillon and a remontoir d’égalité—an innovative constant-force mechanism.

In 1999, Journe launched the Souscription Tourbillon, offering early supporters a chance to purchase limited editions at half the future retail price. This initiative laid the groundwork for his brand, which focuses on complex precision chronometers, producing around 800 watches per year.

Market Presence and Pricing

F.P. Journe watches typically command 2.5 to 3 times their retail price on the secondary market, surpassing even Patek Philippe's Nautilus line and Audemars Piguet's Royal Oak.

Insights from Collectors

Here are some interesting comments from collectors regarding the F.P. Journe experience:

1. "Rob a bank then go to an AD to buy…"
2. "You're going to need a strong purchase history—over $250,000—just to get noticed."
3. "Good luck with the hunt!"
4. "Buying from a private seller or the gray market might be a better option than dealing with ADs."

How to Purchase an F.P. Journe Watch

If you're interested in acquiring an F.P. Journe watch, consider registering your interest at the Prince Building boutique in Central, Hong Kong. They don't require occupation details, unlike Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet, which can make the process slightly easier.

It's essential to act quickly—given their limited production and high demand, you might hear back in 2-3 years regarding your desired model.

Final Thoughts

If you love F.P. Journe watches, I recommend registering your interest as soon as possible. With patience and a bit of luck, you might just secure one of these exceptional timepieces.

Cheers,
Paul Ip

 

Risk on buying and selling watch

If you don't trust your watch dealer, you risk buying a counterfeit, a watch with non-authentic parts, or a watch with issues like a voided warranty or even stolen watch , which can lead to expensive repairs and trouble. For selling, you may receive a lower price and face the risk of dealing with scammers or receiving a fraudulent payment. 

Risks when Buying

 

• Counterfeit or fake watches: An untrustworthy dealer increases the chance you'll unknowingly purchase a fake timepiece, often with non-original parts, to make a profit.
• Warranty issues: Buying from unverified sources, including "grey market" dealers, can void the manufacturer's warranty. This means you may be responsible for the full cost of repairs.
• Stolen or mis-advertised watches: The dealer could sell you a watch with a stolen serial number or advertise a watch they don't actually have in stock.
• Improper servicing: A non-authorized dealer may have used inferior or non-official parts during a previous service, compromising the watch's performance and reliability. 
• Scammer: if that say Carousell site guy has been just registered a few days or even a few months with no trace of good comment or trade record, stay away from them.

• Through watch finder: they are I fact dealer with good connection to the dealer, in a short period to e time , he can tell you the price that you want to buy, before the purchase, you can set up a deal on the finder’s fee.

Finder’s fee is normally from 2%-10% depending price of the watch,

Risks when selling

• Receiving a low price: Dealers who are not reputable will likely try to buy your watch for less than its true market value, as their goal is to make a profit on resale.
• Dealing with scams: You risk encountering scammers who might try to defraud you, for example, by sending a bad check or switching the watch with a fake one during the transaction.
• Stolen inventory: You could be unknowingly buying or selling a watch from a dealer who is involved with stolen goods, putting you at risk.
• Lack-of-transparency: A dishonest dealer might not be transparent about the valuation process, leaving you with a poor deal without you realizing it. 
• At Certain trading site such as Carousel; :- if someone not asking for price reduction and give you the price you want, check his trading record, likely he may be a scammer who my take your watch by paying tricks of bank cheque or sending someone to loot your watch, of even take your watches without payment. Many real cases have been happened in HK.

 

Conclusion

There must be certain value for the middle man, Dealer to give you buying and selling service, sometimes it is more comfortable for selling through dealer, unless you are yourself a dealer

If you watch is a collectible item, go for middle man first and if he can’t find the right buyer, and if you can wait, go for auction, note that there is charges in selling your watch at auction.

• Through dealer that you know, they know the watch and because of commission is based on your watch value, he would like to sell higher price for you.

HK Snob

Rolex Day Date Oyster Quartz 19018 yellow gold in Birch dial

 

A Rare Gem: 19018 Rolex Day-Date Oyster Quartz with Unique Birch Dial

 

Let’s take a brief step back in horological history first. 

Between 1977 and 2003, Rolex produced a total of 25,000 Oyster Quartz watches — a bold move at a time when the Swiss watch industry was still reeling from the "Quartz Crisis". Among these, the yellow gold models with birch dials are exceptionally rare. In fact, it’s estimated that fewer than 200 were ever made. Over the past decade in Hong Kong, I’ve personally seen no more than five — and three of them are in my collection. 

Today, I’m offering one of the two I’m looking to part with — a truly beautiful Rolex Day-Date Oyster Quartz 19018, featuring an absolutely stunning birch-coloured dial. 

This is not your average beige or champagne dial. The birch tone on this particular example is remarkably brighter and more “orange-toned” compared to others I’ve encountered. When viewed alongside the crisp white Day and Date apertures, the contrast is striking — a visual detail that truly comes alive in person (unfortunately, my photos can’t quite do justice to it due to reflections). 

I had the battery replaced just last week on 4 October at CWR, so you’re getting a fully serviced, accurate timepiece ready to run for approximately two more years. 

Now, why is this watch interesting beyond its rarity? 

Many modern watch enthusiasts and critics have noted that the design language of the Rolex Oysterquartz — particularly its clean, integrated bracelet and bold dial layout — may have subtly influenced the later Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master (or even the newer Oyster Perpetual "Land-Dweller" concept). Speaking of which, the newly launched Rolex Oyster Perpetual 40mm "Land-Dweller" (Ref. 127334) in stainless steel with a white dial is currently retailing (or reselling) in the open market for around HKD 270,000. 

So here’s a thought:

Why not consider a solid 18k yellow gold Rolex Day-Date, with a rare and vibrant birch dial, powered by Rolex’s own highly engineered quartz movement, all for roughly half the price? 

It’s accurate. It’s elegant. It’s historically intriguing. And it’s definitely a conversation starter. 

This is one of the two I’m listing on Carousell — if you’ve been searching for something truly unique in the quartz world from Rolex, this might be your moment.

 HK Snob

Story behind IWC 's fish crown logo

 

One of the cool details in IWC’s new Big Pilot'  s Watch Edition Black Carbon is the return of the “fish "   crown — a small logo used by IWC from the 1950s to the 2000s to show a watch is water-resistant. It' s not just on the crown, but also on the case back. 

This little fish symbol was once a quiet favorite among fans, but it was later replaced by the more official “Probus Scafusia” logo. Its comeback is actually tied to a funny and surprising trademark battle in Switzerland. 

Here'  s what happened:

Richemont (IWC'  s parent company) tried to register the fish logo in 2016, but Swiss officials said no — because it looked too much like the ichthys, an ancient Christian symbol of a fish that stands for “Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior.” They worried it might offend religious feelings.

 Richemont appealed, saying the logo wasn't meant to be religious and wouldn't   upset most people. After some back and forth, a higher court agreed in 2018. They said the fish logo wasn't clearly the ichthys, and that the symbol wasn't central to Christian worship like, say, the cross or the Virgin Mary. Plus, similar designs were already being used in business without issues.

 

So, IWC won the right to use the fish logo — and now, thanks to the new Black Carbon edition, it's making a comeback on watches!

HK Snob

Your Watch Reflects Your Personality

 Your Watch Reflects Your Personality

A timepiece is more than just an accessory—it’s a reflection of your identity, taste, and lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to timeless elegance, bold innovation, or reliable functionality, the watch you wear speaks volumes about who you are. Here's how different watch brands align with distinct personalities—from luxury icons to beloved everyday companions:

 

 Audemars Piguet – The Discerning Enthusiast

Known for its refined craftsmanship and understated luxury, Audemars Piguet appeals to those who seek high quality and exclusivity without the need for ostentation. It’s the watch for the sophisticated minimalist with a taste for the exceptional.

Cartier – The Style & Jewelry Aficionado

Blending luxury with iconic design, Cartier watches appeal to those with a passion for beauty, fashion, and the artistry of fine jewelry. It’s the choice of those who see their watch as an extension of their personal style.

 Casio – The Functional & Fun Personality

From rugged G-Shock watches to sleek digital styles, Casio is loved for its versatility, affordability, and bold functionality. It’s the choice of the practical, active, and tech-savvy individual who values performance and personality in equal measure.

 

HUBLOT – The Modern & Fashion-Forward

Bold designs, striking colors, and cutting-edge innovation make Hublot the choice for those who express their individuality through contemporary style and trendsetting aesthetics. It’s for the trendsetter who isn’t afraid to stand out.

 

Jaeger-LeCoultre – The Watch Lover with a Taste for Design & Uniqueness

Celebrated for its artistic complications, elegant innovation, and technical mastery, Jaeger-LeCoultre attracts those who cherish distinctive design and mechanical ingenuity. It’s for the curious mind and the creative soul.

 

Longines – The Elegant Classicist

Known for its refined Swiss elegance, timeless designs, and strong heritage, Longines appeals to those who appreciate classic beauty with a modern sensibility. It’s the choice of the graceful, sophisticated individual with a love for understated luxury.

 

Omega – The Explorer & Achiever

Renowned for precision, innovation (especially in space and sports), and iconic models like the Speedmaster and Seamaster, Omega appeals to adventurers, achievers, and fans of timeless performance. It’s for those who chase excellence—on Earth and beyond.

 

Patek Philippe – The Classic with Timeless Value

Synonymous with heritage, precision, and enduring elegance, Patek Philippe represents sophistication and long-term value. It appeals to collectors and connoisseurs who deeply appreciate tradition, masterful horology, and the art of fine watchmaking.

 

Richard Mille – The Bold & Sociable Statement-Maker

With avant-garde designs, vibrant colors, and cutting-edge materials, Richard Mille watches reflect the dynamic, outgoing personality of those who enjoy standing out in elite social circles. It’s for the high-energy, high-net-worth individual who dares to be different.

 

Rolex – The Practical Achiever

A symbol of reliability, success, and prestige, Rolex is favored by ambitious individuals who value durability and a timepiece that complements a driven, professional lifestyle. It’s the watch of doers and dreamers alik 

 

Seiko – The Reliable Everyday Hero

Celebrated for exceptional value, durability, and innovation (especially in dive and mechanical watches), Seiko is the go-to for practical, no-nonsense individuals who value reliability above all. It’s the watch of the everyday adventurer and watch enthusiast who appreciates craftsmanship in all forms.

 

TAG Heuer – The Ambitious Trendsetter

With a sporty, performance-driven image and a strong connection to motorsports and chronographs, TAG Heuer attracts ambitious, energetic individuals who value style, innovation, and a touch of athletic edge. It’s for go-getters with a love for speed.

 

Tudor – The Balanced Traditionalist

Offering a perfect blend of heritage, value, and modern reliability, Tudor is ideal for those who appreciate classic watchmaking with a contemporary edge. It’s for the individual who seeks prestige without the luxury price tag, yet still desires exceptional quality.

 Vacheron Constantin – The Connoisseur of Craftsmanship & Heritage

With deep respect for artisanal detail, historical significance, and timeless storytelling, Vacheron Constantin resonates with admirers of refined elegance and legacy. It’s chosen by those who value heritage as much as horology.

Which watch matches your personality?

Whether you lean toward luxury, heritage, innovation, or everyday reliability—your watch is a personal statement. Choose one that not only tells time but tells your story.

HK Snob

What next prestige watch that I possibly could buy at Boutique at MSRP?

After acquiring high-demand pieces from Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Rolex, your next move for boutique purchase and potentially more exclusive access might be to target brands with smaller production, like Breguet or brands focusing on different segments, such as A. Lange & Söhne, Cartier, or Moser. The answer is often F.P. Journe itself, emphasizing its unique artisanal production. 

In 2018 May after I left my name card  at Patek Philippe shop for a Nautilus 5712, after two weeks I got it at MSRP at about HK$290K, That was one of my first one to get a prestige collector’s dream watch. After that I have not been able to et any Audemars Piguet though I left my card at IFC AP boutique for a white idea 15400.. I know as by that time 2022. Audemars Piguet market price is almost at its historical high. By right they have no right to give a walk in client. though I knew the manager in charge.

It it time now for going a FP, Journe as for reason I love their hand design, case , dial colour and an unique iconic look of their watch, another reason is that they produce only 700-800 watches a year, comparing with 1 million Rolex, 60.000 Patek Philippe, 50,000 Audemars Piguet and 35,000 Vacheron Constantin a year.

I am expecting to get one after 2 years, I intend to give it to my daughter as her birthday gift.

HK Snob

摩羅街：香港古董集中地的寶藏傳奇

 摩羅街：香港古董集中地的寶藏傳奇

 

摩羅街，是香港一個傳統的古董集中地。早在1970年代末至1990年代，許多人（包括我自己）都喜歡到摩羅街走走看看。那裡不僅充滿懷舊氣息，更蘊藏著不少有趣又令人驚嘆的故事。

 

其中一個經典故事，是關於一隻被「發掘」出來的古董手錶。

 

話說，有一位猶太人（坊間常稱他為「猶太仔」），在摩羅街遊逛時，無意中看到一只搪瓷表面、表盤上鑲有 獨特圖案的Patek Philippe金手錶。當時，這隻錶被擺放在街邊的某間小店舖中，看起來並不起眼。

 

那位猶太人覺得這隻錶有點特別，於是詢問價錢。店主開價 二萬五港元。要知道，在當年的香港，二萬五元絕對不是一筆小數目！

 

然而，這位猶太人還是決定買下它。後來，他將這隻錶轉售給了喬大羽，他是一位在鐘錶界極具分量的人物。這位買家出價 五萬港元，也就是比原價高了一倍。

 

喬大羽不僅是亞洲首位成功製作陀飛輪腕錶的鐘錶師傅，同時在鐘錶界擁有極高的地位與影響力。他看中了這隻錶的潛力，後來更將其送拍，結果在拍賣會上以 五十 萬港元 成交！

 

換句話說，這隻原本在摩羅街街邊小店擺賣、看似平平無奇的手錶，從 二萬五最終超過 五十萬港元，實現了驚人的價值飛躍！

 

這就是摩羅街的魅力所在 —— 一個充滿機會的地方，即使是最不起眼的角落，也可能藏著價值連城的寶藏。

 

當然，時代不同了。現在資訊非常發達，市場透明度也高，大家都很容易查到甚麼東西值錢、誰是買家、誰是賣家。因此，想要像以前那樣「撿漏」或「低買高賣」，確實變得更加困難。

 

但，這並不代表機會完全沒有了。摩羅街依然是一個有可能「撿到寶」的地方，只是需要更多的眼光、知識，以及一點運氣。香港除咗摩羅街之外，其實仲好多地方可以執到嘅我去過嘅地方係深水埗鴨寮街都買過幾隻錶賺咗幾倍嘅利潤。純粹考眼光啫。

 

 我認識橋大羽，去早期到香港時就攞住百幾萬現金買樓，我去過我屋企飲湯睇錶，佢喺環球商場環球錶行打理業務，而家仲有間表店喺度佢家人打理。佢2007年中風2020年離開我哋好可惜！好感嘆！

後記關於嗰隻拍得philip嘅資料好朦朧數字可能有原本嘅價錢有所不同，所以大家唔好見怪，尤其是表界前輩錢輩！

附圖不是原文所述的那個表.

HK Snob

一隻勞力士潛水錶的怪事

錶鏈斷的怪事：

 

十二年前曾經買過一隻勞力士潛水表安歷士腕錶16618全金嘅，冇記錯應該係十七萬元。 賣俾我嗰個人係一個好朋友佢都係同一個老人家買返嚟嘅，咁我都帶咗一段日子大概都有四個月囉，咁有一日突然間嗰個錶就停咗，咁我搵吓Classic Watch Repair 去修復, CWR 冼生嚟同我講原來條鏈斷咗喎。佢已經同我換咗條新鏈啦，當然就修復好啦，咁傾閑偈同我老友講我隻錶啱啱停咗咁修復好啦，原來斷咗鏈，佢話哎呀咁邪嘅：- 啱啱嗰個錶主就上個星期就過咗身!!

 咁樣呢隻錶再大咗半年就賣咗比一個美國嘅汽車進口商佢有一隻同型號嘅青金石面所以佢就襯成一對，我記得當時買咗三十五萬！

 後註：- 點樣分一隻潛水錶面係onyx 面啊? Onyx 面呢個日曆窗會鑲左個金框的.

HK Snob

Vintage Rolex collection

 Rolex vintage watches are actually really fun. Each series has no official records—players just keep their own logs to compare versions, which often involves splitting them into sub-models. The gray areas between these awkward "periods" lead to endless disputes, making it a hassle. Rolex service centre and dealers refuse to authenticate them, leaving everyone guessing. Collectors obsess over completeness: this part has to match that period, like how a slightly longer middle stroke on the "E" in the GMT text can change the price—you see that? Ugh, and you need papers, original boxes... It’s easier said than done. At the end of the day, what matters is that you love it. 

The truth is, buying is hard, selling is harder. Might as well stick to new models instead. There are so-called "experts" all over the internet, but how do you get certified? Just because you own a lot doesn’t make you an expert. The real experts are Rolex themselves, but they refuse to publish these details—they’re scared of backlash. Rolex makes so many watches, with varying hands, dials, printing materials, suppliers, and production periods. The combinations are endless, which is why it’s such a headache. Plus, auction pieces need a story—they have to be "worn by a celebrity" to fetch high prices. Regular watches rarely sell for much; breaking even is a win. 

So over the past six or seven years, the vintage Rolex market has been declining. Of course, there are still plenty of collectors worldwide, but the community is shrinking. Younger generations, especially, don’t wear watches much—they just strap on cheap digital Fruit Watch. Naturally, the market is shrinking. When demand drops, prices can’t climb. It’s frustrating… 

Of course, this is just my take. Have any of you seen those stunning vintage Rolexes at a shop 10 years ago? They’d sell out in days. Now, many stores have Rolexes sitting unsold for two years. Why? I’m just throwing this out there to spark a chat—feel free to share your thoughts and discuss🧐

Example shown here is a Long E GMT Master  Long "E".