After years of skyrocketing inflation, prices for pre-owned Rolex watches are finally falling. This trend, confirmed by a recent report from Morgan Stanley, could well mark a turning point for fans of the brand with the crown.
A second-hand market in full transformation
The Morgan Stanley report reveals several key trends:
- Overall 2.1% drop in prices on the second-hand market in the 2nd quarter of 2024
- Pre-owned Rolex watches fall by 7.2%
- Ninth consecutive quarter of price declines
These figures contrast sharply with the situation in previous years, when Rolex seemed immune to market fluctuations.
The reasons for this drop in prices
Several factors explain this new dynamic:
- Increase in production of new Rolex watches
- Reduction in the number of Rolex models available on the gray market
- Reduced wait times for some popular models
- Potential influence of Rolex’s certified pre-owned watch program
A phenomenon that affects the entire luxury market
The price drop is not limited to Rolex:
- Patek Philippe : -10,7%
- Audemars Piguet : -12,5%
- Vacheron Constantin: -15.3%
Conversely, some more affordable brands are seeing their prices increase:
- Montblanc : +2,4%
- Hamilton : +2,2%
Is this a good time to buy a Rolex?
The current situation offers different opportunities:
- For a new watch: acting now might be wise, as recommended retail prices are likely to increase in the future
- For a second-hand watch: waiting a few months could allow you to make substantial savings
An uncertain future for the Rolex market
Several factors could influence future price developments:
- Rolex’s production strategy
- The Long-Term Impact of the Certified Pre-Owned Watch Program
- The general evolution of the luxury market
This drop in prices for pre-owned Rolex watches potentially marks the end of an era of rampant speculation. For watch enthusiasts, this may be an opportunity to finally make the purchase of a long-coveted model a reality. However, caution is still advised, as the market could see further developments in the months to come. Rolex enthusiasts will need to remain vigilant to seize the best opportunities, whether for a new or pre-owned watch.
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