Luxury watches are that special kind of accessories that we want to pass down from generation to generation. This is not only because of their material value – they have become a symbol connecting generations. The most artful and renowned models are objects of capital investment. Those with exceptionally high investment potential are sold to strictly selected customers, and the demand for them is so high that you have to wait even several years for your own copy.
Why are luxury watches expensive?
For many, the question probably arises, why do watches from top manufacturers cost so much? Let’s look at the question using the example of one of the most desirable and recognizable brands, which is certainly the already legendary Rolex. The prices of models of this outstanding Swiss company have reached up to several million dollars at auctions. If you thought that these figures are daunting for customers, nothing could be further from the truth! Interest in rare pieces continues to grow. Watches included in the top ten most expensive Rolexes have been bought over the past ten years.
Price record holders include the Cosmograph Daytona ref. 6264. This is an 18K gold model, which has been given an unusual color version. It refers to Formula 1 racing, more specifically, the colors of Lotus cars from the 1970s. The record price that fell for it in the UK is due to the uniqueness of this variant: according to experts, there are only 10 copies of the Daytona in gold and with a black dial, unlike the others in the series, which have a stainless steel case.
Among the most famous Rolexes in history is also the “Bao Dai” ref. 6062, created on the order of the last emperor of Vietnam. In accordance with his wishes, the most valuable and rarest Rolex of the time was made for him. If someone following in the emperor’s footsteps is looking for the most expensive model at retail price, he will have to spend nearly half a million dollars. Namely, we are talking about the diamond-studded Rolex GMT Master II Ice.
A symbol of luxury
Not so long ago, wristwatches simply fulfilled the function of a tool with which we checked the time. Their mass production was made possible by the quartz revolution. As a result, the renowned Swiss manufacturers of mechanical models, displaced by cheaper competition from China and Japan, were on the verge of collapse. Rolex, however, found a way to survive. The company realized that some customers, even if they no longer needed a timepiece, simply wanted one. So it focused on producing exceptionally high quality goods. In this way, an exclusive brand was created, whose products have become a symbol of prestige. Today they are considered works of art that are admired in museums.
What affects the price of Rolexes?
All Rolex watches – from the smallest screw to the exposed elements of the luxurious case, dial and bracelet – are handmade. It can be said that the highly
skilled workers of this company are not only masters in their craft, but true watchmaking artists. High-tech automation is used for some sections of the operation, for example, when issuing parts from the warehouse, and attendance at some jobs is confirmed by fingerprints. In Rolex’s scientific laboratories, innovative watch mechanisms are designed and new materials and lubricants are developed.
The production process of unique models produced in this way takes up to about a year.
The value of watches is, of course, also due to the price of the raw materials from which they are made. Only the best are used to make Rolexes. Gold and platinum for their production are melted down in a foundry owned by the company. The bullion and precious stones alone are extremely expensive. On top of that, they are composed together using sophisticated decorating techniques to create a one-of-a-kind, original design.
The finished product is subjected to a multi-stage testing system. They are carried out in specialized laboratories. In the resistance control chamber, the specimen’s resistance to high pressure is tested, and in a special tank – its water resistance.
A watch that meets the stringent requirements receives a certificate.
Exclusive watches in Poland
High-end watches are also available in Poland. In the online store
Lesabre we offer a wide selection of models of the most outstanding brands: Rolex, Omega, Longines, Cartier, Tag Heuer, Breitling, Chopard, Eberhard, IWC, Jaeger Lecoultre, Maurice Lacroix, Piaget or Ulysse. Exceptional people deserve uncommon watches, and our desire is to share our passion with you and to infect you with a love for the beauty of watchmaking.
