Rare & Collectable

What are the most in-demand luxury watches?

The most in demand luxury watches right now include the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Collection, Patek Philippe Nautilus and Rolex’s sports models in stainless – including the Rolex Submariner, Cosmograph Daytona and GMT II. For some of these waiting lists are measured in years not months! Why? Simply, these watchmakers are at the top of the pile when it comes to workmanship, quality materials and design – and demand often outstrips supply.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Collection

With its unique ‘porthole’ design Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak collection is the ultimate sports watch – and it doesn’t hurt it was conceived by legendary Swiss watch designer Gérald Genta.  Production numbers are reportedly in the range of 45,000 – 50,000 watches per year, and by revenue it is the sixth-largest Swiss watchmaker (2020). There is high demand for stainless steel Royal Oak’s, and models that use precious metals sell for significantly more. The most sought-after model is the Jumbo Extra-Thin 15202ST, as well as the sportier Royal Oak Offshore.

Patek Philippe Nautilus Steel + Aquanaut Steel

The Patek Philippe Nautilus – another Gérald Genta design – in stainless steel is easily the most in-demand watch from this uber luxury brand. It’s secret? Masterful craftsmanship and an inspired design that makes it able to be both elegant and sporty at the same time. In terms of specific models, the Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 5711 in stainless steel – now discontinued is where the queue’s are the longest. The sport model that people can’t get enoough of is the Patek Philippe Aquanaut, which is more affordable, and sportier version than big brother Nautilus. The Aquanaut ref. 5167 in stainless steel is one of the most popular models.

Rolex Submariner + Daytona Stainless Steel

Rolex’s iconic Submariner is another model that is highly sought after, which is a surprise as the brand reportedly produces around 1 million watches a year. Get in line for the Rolex Submariner No-Date (ref: 124060)
and the Rolex Submariner Date (ref: 116610LN), which are the current models. If you are after a vintage model be prepared to pay significantly more. Other high demand Rolex Submariner models include the Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610LV ‘Kermit’, Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610LV ‘Hulk’
and Rolex Submariner 116613LB ‘Bluesy’.

Stainless steel Rolex Daytona models are also hot property, specifically the Rolex Daytona ref. 116500LN2016 with a Cerachrom (ceramic) bezel, released in 2016 – but be prepared to pay for the privilege! Available in white and black dial, with the white dial marginally more popular.