As watch values rise, you might be tempted to join the luxury market. While you’re advised to do your research based on brand, features and price, those starting this investment-related hobby are recommended to explore entry-level luxury watches.
These are gateway timepieces but that doesn’t mean quality is secondary. Whether you’re interested in a watch from TAG Heuer, Breitling or another manufacturer, these models reflect the brand’s heritage craftsmanship and attention to detail but have fewer features and are not part of a limited-edition series. As you dive into this endeavor, here’s what you should consider.
What Defines a Luxury Watch?
Beyond practical quartz-powered timepieces, the watch market features two distinct sectors: authentic luxury brands and luxury-inspired ones. Whereas something luxury-inspired will mimic the appearance of a classic Swiss timepiece using quartz movement, a true luxury watch does not replicate.
It reflects the past century of Swiss craftsmanship and uses automatic or mechanical movement. Purists will further claim the movement should be crafted in-house, rather than developed by a third-party.
Characteristics of an Entry-Level Luxury Watch
Entry-level is not synonymous with luxury-inspired watches. It represents lower-level models from classic luxury brands, in terms of design and price. Generally, this means:
- High-quality craftsmanship, movement and materials often identical to the brand’s more expensive, heritage or limited-edition models.
- Looking and feeling luxurious, while appearing simple and straightforward. You’ll notice this in the details, components and finish.
- Reflect this construction in its durability and movement.
- Something more affordable, compared to the brand’s most sought-after watches.
Construction of an Entry-Level Luxury Watch
With these factors in mind, look out for the following characteristics regarding watch construction:
- Materials: At a minimum, your entry-level luxury watch needs to use 316L stainless steel and sapphire glass. Preferably featuring ceramic and a more precious metal, like gold or silver.
- Finish and Shape: If you can spot transitions and clear shapes between components, more attentive craftsmanship went into the timepiece.
- Movement: At a baseline, Swiss quartz movement should be at the heart of a luxury brand’s entry-level offerings. Considering all the components, you find something mechanical or automatic. For reference, mechanical watches are hand-wound and built to last decades. Automatic, a type of mechanical watch, uses your wrist’s motion and gravity to power the movement.
Looking for your first luxury watch? Start exploring entry-level timepieces at Hannoush Jewelers. View all brands offered online, then visit one of our Connecticut stores to learn more.
