For some, purchasing a new timepiece is simply about design and functionality. While buying purely for aesthetics is completely understandable, for many of our clients at Banks Lyon choosing a new timepiece is about far more than telling the time. It is a carefully considered financial investment.
Watches from established luxury brands with strong heritage such as OMEGA, Cartier, Breitling, and IWC Schaffhausen, consistently retain their value better on the pre-owned market. Today, we are looking into the exact criteria that determine long-term value, the standout models performing strongest in 2026, and how part-exchanging can help you make the smartest investment.
Key Takeaways: The Best Investment Watches for 2026
- Top brands for value retention include OMEGA, Breitling, Cartier, and IWC
- Condition, servicing history, and original box/papers all significantly impact resale value
- Buying pre-owned can help avoid the steepest stage of depreciation
- Limited production models and iconic collections tend to hold demand more consistently
- Part exchanging your current watch can be one of the smartest ways to upgrade your collection efficiently
How Do You Know If a Watch Holds Its Value?
Firstly, it’s important to understand how a watch holds its value. A watch’s value is determined by several factors, such as:
- Brand reputation and prestige. Pieces from well-established luxury watch brands with a strong reputation for quality often hold their value better.
- Rarity and limited edition status. Limited edition and rare models are also more likely to appreciate in value.
- Condition and originality. Condition and originality play a huge role in how well a luxury watch retains its value over time. Generally, watches in excellent original condition, particularly those with minimal polishing, original components, and complete box and papers, will command the strongest resale prices. We highly recommend utilising expert watch servicing & repairs to keep your investment in peak condition with authentic parts.
- Demand among buyers. If more consumers are after the same watch, its value can increase.
- Age and historical significance. A watch is considered more valuable if it is older or has historical significance.
- Endorsements or celebrity associations. Fans of celebrities will be more interested in a piece if it is endorsed by famous faces.
A prime example of a timepiece with excellent value retention is the Longines Spirit Zulu Time Automatic 42mm. Rather than relying on passing trends, this piece holds its value due to its true GMT functionality, exceptional build quality for the price bracket, and Longines’ rich aviation heritage. It is available from Banks Lyon for £2,850 or just £24.00 per month on 0% finance.
Which Aesthetic Features Make a Watch Valuable?
There are specific aesthetic features that drive a watch’s value, such as:
- High-quality materials, such as precious metals or gems.
- Classic design, meaning the watch is timeless and will never go out of style.
- Attention to detail, with intricate styling.
- Aesthetically unique watch designs are also more valuable, as it means they are more original, making them stand out.
- Recognisable design features, such as Hublot’s screwed bezel, can be seen in the watch pictured here. This is the Hublot Classic Fusion Titanium King Gold Watch 33mm and is available for just £7,100 here at Banks Lyon, or only £59.16 per month on 0% finance.
Which Brands Are Best To Invest in Throughout 2026?
As mentioned, brand reputation and prestige are important factors in knowing when a watch might increase in value. We offer a wide range of brands here at Banks Lyon that are known as being some of the best watch brands to invest in; let’s take a look.
OMEGA
Our OMEGA watches are a great choice for those looking to invest in quality craftsmanship in 2026. Take the OMEGA Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M 42mm, for example. Sports models like the Seamaster are heavily sought after and have an incredibly strong secondary market, making them a fantastic choice for retention. Pick it up today for £7,200 or just £60.00 per month on 0% finance.
IWC Watches
IWC watches are a great choice for those looking for a watch that will hold value due to its rich and fascinating history. Founded in 1868, IWC watches are designed with their history at the forefront of their aesthetics. For example, this is the IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XX 40mm. It is a highly desired, historically significant luxury pilot watch that retains excellent value. This piece is available for £5,500.
Cartier Watches
Cartier watches are famous for their elegant style and luxurious design. They are a world-famous brand and have had numerous celebrity endorsements over the years, making it more likely that a Cartier timepiece will hold its value. For example, this is the Santos De Cartier Large Model Automatic. The large size, combined with Cartier’s interchangeable strap system, is incredibly popular in the current market and commands strong value retention. It is available from Banks Lyon for £9,550 or just £79.58 per month on 0% finance.
Breitling Watches
Breitling deserves a dedicated spotlight when discussing value retention. Models like the iconic Navitimer and Chronomat boast rich aviation heritage and highly recognisable designs, hitting all the criteria for a strong investment. Their robust build and historical prestige ensure they remain in demand.
Should You Ever Part Exchange Your Watch?
There are plenty of reasons to consider selling or trading in your watch, for example:
- You no longer need it or wear it regularly. If you find that you’re not reaching for a particular watch anymore, but you know it is highly valuable, it might be time to sell.
- You’re looking for a way to make money. Watches, if looked after, can be a great investment, so if now is the time you need money more than one of your watches, check if it has retained its value. Often they increase, which could go a long way toward helping you financially.
- The watch’s value has significantly increased. If you’re lucky enough to have purchased a watch at the right time and its value has recently increased, now is a great time to sell and find your next piece.
- You’re interested in upgrading to a different watch. Of course, personal preferences and design choices change, so understandably, you may wish to use the money for your old watch for a new timepiece.
If your watch has held its value, and you agree with one or more of the above points, part-exchanging your watch might be the best option. Instead of simply selling an old watch, our part-exchange service allows you to leverage a watch that has held its value against a brand new investment. When looking for your next timepiece, Banks Lyon offers an extensive range of brands to choose from, such as Breitling watches and TAG Heuer watches, so you’re sure to find your next investment with us.
Visit our Lancaster showroom today or get in touch to find out how we can help.