Is an expensive watch worth it?

If you are like me, there is at least one watch that you see in the jeweller’s window that you cannot help but stare longingly at. But, if you could afford it, would you buy it and, more to the point, is it worth it?

So, why do those privileged enough to have that option choose to buy a timepiece that can, in some cases, cost more than a car, or even a house?

Accurate Time

Is it just about how it looks, or do we actually want a watch that is accurate to one hundredth of a second. Of course a watch needs to tell you the time but, let’s face it, most watches will do this to a fairly decent standard. Watches at the top end of the market are manufactured by master craftsmen and the care and detail that is involved in this mean that they can take months, or in some cases years, to build.

On the flip-side, the cheaper, mass-produced watches will still tell you the time, but can you rely on them to be correct even six months down the line? A quality watch can give one pleasure for many, many years.

Is this the reason, though? I don’t think so!

Investment and Legacy
A top quality watch can be considered as an investment and, in many cases, a very considerable and lucrative investment. This could be simply because of the materials from which they are made and the increase (or you could say fluctuating) value of said materials. Or, more likely, it will be the perceived value of the watch to an avid and affluent collector. These collectors are always on the lookout for that mint, vintage timepiece. Much like wine collectors, their search for the holy grail continues!

Also, because of the quality and reliability, the watch can be handed down as a family heirloom, as well as a treasured memento of a loved one. This could lead to a whole new generation of watch lovers!

Is this the reason why we buy expensive watches? Sometimes, it may well be, but largely not!

Status Symbol

Now I think we are getting to the crux of the matter.

In the image-conscious, materialistic world in which we live, luxury watches, much the same as a designer suit or an expensive car, are recognized and greatly respected by those who appreciate the finer things in life. Are these are the people we are looking to impress? Often, yes!
The watch can definitely be considered as a status symbol. Whilst a Ferrari or Bentley, etc are a blatant flaunting of a person’s wealth, a luxury watch is a much more subtle indication to the informed that the wearer has made a success of their life.

Summary

Whatever the reason for buying a luxury watch, it is a personal choice. You may find that any or all (or none) of the above reasons apply to you but, in my view, the look and feel of having that quality timepiece adorning your wrist is hard to beat. Never mind the envious looks from others!