The demand for pre owned watches is surging, and if you’ve been thinking about adding one to your collection, now might be the perfect time to act. Recent headlines around potential tariffs on imported luxury goods have triggered a buying frenzy, especially among collectors in the United States and United Kingdom.
Here’s what’s driving the market and why more buyers are turning to pre-owned watches to stay ahead of pricing shifts.
Watch Collectors React Quickly to Tariff News
In early April, former President Donald Trump proposed new tariffs that could impact a wide range of imported goods, including Swiss luxury watches. The reaction from collectors and investors was swift. With concerns that these potential tariffs could cause price hikes, buyers turned to the secondary market to lock in deals while they still could.
Subdial, a popular online platform for trading luxury watches, reported a 160% spike in sales, well beyond the typical end-of-month increase that usually hovers around 112%. U.S. and U.K. buyers in particular were driving the surge, taking action before any changes take effect.
Swiss Watch Exports Surge Before Potential Tariffs
The reaction wasn’t limited to the secondary market. In Switzerland, global exports of watches jumped dramatically. Over 1.3 million timepieces, worth nearly $3 billion, were shipped in April alone, an 18% increase compared to the same month last year.
Even more striking, exports to the United States rose by 149% as retailers and distributors worked quickly to stock up before potential tariffs made luxury watches more expensive for American buyers.
In contrast, exports to other countries fell by 6.4%, reinforcing the idea that the spike was largely driven by tariff concerns, not by a global increase in demand.
Pre Owned Watches Gain Value Again
Luxury timepieces like Rolex and Patek Philippe saw a drop in value in 2024, hitting their lowest point in three years after peaking during the pandemic. But things are already turning around.
According to Bloomberg’s Subdial Watch Index, prices for pre owned watches have risen 5.3% through May, bringing them back in line with levels last seen in late 2023. Gold Rolex models in particular are regaining popularity and outperforming many other models on the secondary market.
This resurgence suggests renewed confidence in pre owned watches as both investment pieces and timeless accessories.
Why Now Is the Time to Buy Pre Owned Watches
Given the combination of potential tariffs, rising prices, and increased demand, now may be one of the smartest times to buy a pre owned watch. The window to purchase before the market shifts again could be closing quickly, and savvy collectors are taking notice.
Whether you're looking for a classic Rolex, a refined Patek Philippe, or a unique timepiece from another top-tier brand, the pre-owned market offers an unbeatable combination of value and selection if you know where to shop.
Why Happy Jewelers Is the Best Place to Buy Pre Owned Watches
If you're ready to enter the world of pre owned watches or expand your collection, Happy Jewelers is the trusted destination for collectors and first-time buyers alike. With a curated selection of certified pre owned timepieces, transparent pricing, and unmatched customer service, Happy Jewelers helps you shop with confidence.
In a market where timing is everything, it pays to work with a team that knows watches inside and out and who puts your needs first. Whether you're buying for investment, celebration, or everyday style, Happy Jewelers offers quality you can trust and service you'll appreciate.
Explore the best selection of pre owned watches today at Happy Jewelers and stay ahead of the curve.
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