First Timers' Guide to Luxury Watches: 3 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying a Luxury Watch

“An expensive watch doesn’t just tell you the time, it speaks of your time as well.”

Luxury watches have long been a symbol of status, wealth and accomplishment. Buying your first luxury watch, therefore, is more than just a hefty purchase. It speaks volumes about one’s journey - it becomes a part of your story. A significant purchase such as this naturally warrants deeper consideration. Before you get overwhelmed by all the world of horology has to offer, consider these 3 questions:

What is your budget?

Choosing your first luxury watch is all very exciting, but simplify your decision-making process with a practical question - how much are you willing to pay for your first timepiece? For an entry-level luxury watch, you’re looking at below the $3,000 range like the Tudor 1926. For those looking for a mid-range luxury watch like the Rolex Submariner ND or Rolex GMT-Master II Rootbeer, $10,000 to $20,000 is your sweet spot. Finally, for those who want to go big or go home, a budget of $30,000 and over will set you nicely for a coveted Rolex Solid Gold Daytona Oysterflex.

Tudor 1926

Source: Tudor

Depending on your budget, it may go on to dictate the brand, style and even features of your future watch - making your decision making process more efficient.

Does the watch you want match your lifestyle?

You might already have an ideal watch in mind. Before you take the plunge to purchase, consider how the watch would complement your lifestyle. After all, you are spending a considerable amount of money on what would be on your wrist for years to come.

Think about your wardrobe colours, your motivations for a new watch, and whether the watch captivates you enough to last. Are you looking for a watch fit for everyday use? Or something to wear for formal occasions? Or simply something to start a conversation?

For those seeking an everyday watch, something in the Datejust category would be up your alley. For those looking for a more formal watch for events, a simple and elegant timepiece like the Rolex Cellini will serve its purpose. For those seeking to engage, the new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42 equipped with calibre 3235, a new-generation movement developed and manufactured by Rolex, will certainly spark conversation.

Rolex Datejust

Source: Rolex

Why do you want a watch?

Perhaps the most important question of all, what is the purpose of buying a luxury watch? Are you celebrating a milestone in your career? Are you interested in its investment value? Are you knee-deep in the world of horology? Understanding the purpose behind your purchase will not only help make ‘the one’ clearer, it will also make your first timepiece all the more meaningful. After all, your first luxury watch is the ultimate token of your time.

So take your time to find the one that tells your story, and have fun in the process!

Disclaimer: Views expressed in this article are solely the opinions of the writer and does not reflect the view of Kee Hing Hung Pte Ltd.