Much like a beautiful piece of art, a luxury watch will occasionally need repair and refinishing. While it’s a bit nerve wracking to think of your Rolex Submariner in another person’s hands, when it’s in the right hands, a bit of spiffing up can go a long way in protecting the value of your investment. Our watch enthusiasts offered some guidance on this topic. Continue reading to see what they had to say:
Hassan Said
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ToggleYes, As Long As Restoration Preserves Original Character, Quality
A luxury watch can indeed retain its value even after being serviced and restored, and sometimes, it may even increase in value. It all comes down to the quality of the restoration and the reputation of the service provider. If the restoration is done professionally and meticulously, it can bring a watch back to its original glory, enhancing its value.
However, if the service is not up to par, it might negatively affect the watch's value. So, it's a bit of a double-edged sword. It's like restoring an old painting; if done right, it can breathe new life into it, but if done poorly, it can ruin it. But in the grand scheme of things, I believe that a well-serviced and restored luxury watch can definitely hold its value. The key is to ensure the restoration preserves the original character and quality of the watch.
Chris McGuire
Yes, When Restoration Uses Original Parts
In general, a luxury watch can still hold its value even after being serviced and restored, but several factors come into play. The condition, authenticity, brand reputation, rarity, and market demand for the specific watch model all influence its value. A luxury watch undergoing professional servicing and restoration can positively impact its value if done correctly and by authorized service centers or reputable watchmakers.
Proper servicing ensures that the watch functions optimally and maintains its original specifications, which can appeal to collectors and enthusiasts. Restoring the watch to its original condition, including refinishing the case or replacing worn-out parts with authentic components, can enhance its value.
However, it's important to consider that over-servicing or improper restoration can affect a luxury watch's value. Excessive polishing or replacing original parts with non-original ones may diminish its collectability and authenticity, negatively impacting its value. The market conditions and the desirability of the specific watch model within the luxury watch market can also influence its value. Trends and preferences among collectors and buyers can shift over time, affecting the demand and, subsequently, the value of certain watch models.
Fred Hoffman
Yes, If Done By a Skilled Craftsperson
A luxury watch is a symbol of elegance, status and craftsmanship. These timepieces are often considered as investment pieces due to their high value and the potential for increased value over time. However, with regular wear and tear, a luxury watch may require servicing or restoration in order to maintain its functionality and appearance.
The answer to this question is not a straightforward yes or no. It ultimately depends on various factors such as the brand, model, rarity, and condition of the watch before and after servicing/restoration.
In most cases, high-end luxury watches from reputable brands tend to hold their value even after being serviced or restored. This is due to the quality of materials used and the skilled craftsmanship that goes into creating these timepieces. The brand reputation also plays a significant role in maintaining the value of a luxury watch.
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