Why the Pre-Owned Watch Market Is Thriving While Retail Prices Continue to Climb

As luxury watch brands continue raising prices, more buyers are turning to the pre-owned market and for good reason. It offers better value, access to rare and discontinued models, and a more stable buying environment.

Gabe Arik, co-owner of Happy Jewelers, says the shift toward pre-owned luxury watches has only grown stronger in recent months.

"We're seeing a big increase in demand," Arik explains. "Buyers are smarter than ever. They know they can get an authentic luxury watch, often a discontinued or hard-to-find model, at a much better price than buying new."

That demand is coming at a time when Swiss luxury brands like Rolex are preparing to raise prices again. The increases are tied to rising gold costs and a 31% tariff placed on Swiss imports to the U.S. In response, exports from Switzerland to the U.S. skyrocketed by more than 149% in April, according to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry.

While retail brands are racing to get ahead of tariff deadlines, U.S.-based pre-owned sellers like Happy Jewelers are staying steady. Because the company sources most of its inventory domestically, it's less affected by international trade disruptions.

Pre-Owned Watches Are a More Stable Investment

About 90% of Happy Jewelers’ pre-owned watch inventory consists of discontinued models from top luxury brands. That gives customers access to unique pieces that are no longer produced, with pricing that remains competitive even as the new market continues to fluctuate.

"Because we buy from collectors and sellers across the U.S., we’re able to offer a wide selection without the added cost of international supply chain issues," Arik says. "And we're not under pressure to hike prices due to tariffs or gold prices."

Though some private sellers may start expecting higher payouts if retail prices rise, Happy Jewelers continues to focus on transparent pricing, fair offers, and customer trust.

Young Buyers Are Driving the Shift

One of the most exciting trends in the watch world is the interest coming from younger buyers. Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly steering away from disposable fashion watches and toward long-lasting, high-quality timepieces.

"They're not just buying a watch to wear for a season," Arik says. "They're thinking long-term. A luxury watch can be an investment that holds or even grows in value over time."

Instead of spending hundreds on a fashion brand watch, more young professionals are choosing to invest in pieces that carry both craftsmanship and legacy.

Why More Buyers Trust Happy Jewelers

For anyone shopping the pre-owned market, trust and transparency are everything. That's where Happy Jewelers truly stands out. With years of experience, a strong reputation, and thousands of satisfied clients around the world, the company has built a name buyers can rely on.

Here's why customers keep coming back:

• Authentic pre-owned watches from top luxury brands at wholesale pricing

• Unmatched warranties that protect your investment and give you peace of mind

• A trusted family-owned business known for integrity, service, and expert guidance

Whether you're purchasing your first Rolex or adding a rare model to your collection, Happy Jewelers makes the process easy, personal, and secure.

Thousands of watch enthusiasts worldwide already trust Happy Jewelers. Find out why for yourself and make your next timepiece one you’ll treasure for years to come.